2 INSIDE ROCHESTER Mandela: the History:
Peace Has Finally Come for Nelson Mandela
F
ormer South African President Nelson Mandela has died at age 95 of complications from a recurring lung infection. The anti-apartheid leader and Nobel Peace Prize laureate was a beloved figure around the world, a symbol of reconciliation from a country with a brutal history of racism. Mandela was released from prison in 1990 after nearly 30 years for plotting to overthrow South Africa’s apartheid government. In 1994, in a historic election, he became the nation’s first black leader. Mandela stepped down in 1999 after a single term and retired from political and public life. History Born Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela in Transkei, South Africa on July 18, 1918, he was one of the world’s most revered statesmen and revolutionaries who led the struggle against apartheid in South Africa. A qualified lawyer from the University College of Fort Hare and the University of Witwatersrand, Mandela served as the President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. His political career started in 1944 when he joined the African National Congress (ANC) and participated in the resistance against the then government¹s apartheid policy in 1948. In June 1961, the ANC executive approved his idea of using violent tactics and encouraged members who wished to involve themselves in Mandela’s campaign. Shortly after, he founded Umkhonto we Sizwe, the armed wing of the ANC and was named its leader. In 1962, he was arrested and convicted of sabotage and other charges, and sentenced to five years of rigorous imprisonment. In 1963, Mandela was brought to stand trial along with many fellow members of Umkhonto we Sizwe for conspiring against the government and plotting to overthrow it by the use of violence.
Jailed for life On June 12, 1964, eight of the accused, including Mandela, were sentenced to life imprisonment. His statement from the dock at the opening of the defense trial became extremely popular. He closed his statement with: “During my lifetime I have dedicated myself to the struggle of the African people. I have fought against white domination, and I have fought against black domination. I have cherished the ideal of a democratic and free society in which all persons live together in harmony and with equal opportunities. It is an ideal which I hope to live for and to achieve. But if needs be, it is an ideal for which I am prepared to die.” Mandela served 27 years in prison from 1964 to 1982, spending many of those years at Robben Island Prison, off Cape Town. While in jail, his reputation grew and he became widely known across the world as the most significant black leader in South Africa. He became a prominent symbol of resistance as the anti-apartheid movement gained momentum in South Africa and across the world. On the island, he and other prisoners were subjected to hard labor in a lime quarry. Racial discrimination was rampant and prisoners were segregated by race with the black prisoners receiving the fewest rations. Mandela has written about how he was allowed one visitor and one letter every six months. Free and fair In February 1985 President
PW Botha offered Mandela his freedom on condition that he unconditionally rejected violence as a political weapon but he rejected the proposal. He made his sentiment known through a letter he released via his daughter. “What freedom am I being offered while the organization of the people remains banned? Only free men can negotiate. A prisoner cannot enter into contracts,” he wrote. In 1988 Mandela was moved to Victor Verster Prison and would remain there until his release. Throughout his imprisonment, pressure mounted on the South African government to release him. The slogan ‘Free Nelson Mandela’ became the new battle-cry of the anti-apartheid campaigners. Finally, Mandela was released on February 11, 1990 in an event streamed live across the world. After his release, Mandela returned to his life’s work, striving to attain the goals he and others had set out almost four decades earlier. In 1991, the first national conference of the ANC was held inside South Africa after the organisation had been banned in 1960. President Mandela Mandela was elected President of the ANC while his friend Oliver Tambo became the organisation’s National Chairperson. Mandela’s leadership and his work, as well as his relationship with the then President FW de Klerk, were recognised when they were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993. South Af-
DECEMBER 11, 2013
rica’s first multi-racial elections, held on 27 April 1994, saw the ANC storm in with a majority of 62 per cent of the votes and Mandela was inaugurated in May 1994 as the country’s first black President. As president from May 1994 until June 1999, Mandela presided over the transition from minority rule and apartheid, winning international respect for his advocacy of national and international reconciliation. Honors and personal life Mandela has received many national international honors, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, the Order of Merit from Queen Elizabeth II and the Presidential Medal of Freedom from George W. Bush. In July 2004, the city of Continued Page7
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DECEMBER 11, 2013
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WNY AREA BRIEFS
Nelson Mandela
Local Tribute to Nelson Mandela Includes Movie, Open Mic & More “A Tribute to Nelson Mandela: Gone But Never Forgotten” will be held on Wednesday, December 18 from 5:30 to 7:45 p.m. at the Merriweather Library, Jefferson at E. Utica. Hosted by Legislator Betty Jean Grant and We Are Women Warriors Community and Family Empowerment Group, the event will feature a movie, open mic and more. It is free and open to the pubic. Come out and celebrate the life of one of the world’s most brilliant leaders! For more information contact Legislator Grant at 602-5877.
Attorney Green
Attorney Beth Green Named to NYC Mayor Elect’s Inaugural Committee New York City Mayor Elect Bill DeBlasio has named Attorney and Buffalo native, Beth Green, to his Inaugural Committee. Beth, an early supporter, will serve with notables such as Harry Belafonte and Russell Simmons, to name a few. She is the daughter of the Honorable Samuel and Mrs. Ernestine Green. Congratulations Beth!
The 2014 Erie County budget approved by the Erie County Legislature last week, with no tax rate increase, was officially put in place when County Executive Mark C. Poloncarz issued his budget statement and stated he would issue no vetoes. Because of this action, County Legislature Chairperson Betty Jean Grant (D-Buffalo) cancelled the budget override session scheduled for Tuesday, December 10. “We are providing the services necessary for the proper and efficient operations of county government that our constituents support, and without raising the tax rate,” County Legislature Chair Betty Jean Legislators Grant (left) and Hogues Grant (D-Buffalo), said. “The budget provides for public safety, economic development, infrastructure work, social services and our cultural organizations.” The $1.39 billion budget includes $467,000 in amendments, matched dollar-to-dollar in spending cuts and restorations, proposed and approved by the Democratic Majority. The amendments addressed needs in the Department of Social Services, Department of Environment and Planning, Parks, Recreation and Forestry, the Olmsted Parks, Erie County Medical Center Corporation and other departments. One amendment approved allocates $25,000 for the Department of Social Services to fund a study of chronic child neglect in Erie County, which will give the department guidance on how to proactively address this serious issue Continued Page xx
Peoples-Stokes to Host Tree Lighting in MLK Park
Glenwood Avenue Block Club/CAO Toy Drive The Glenwood Avenue Block Club along with the CAO and the Board of Block Clubs will host a toy giveaway and holiday celebration for the Martin Luther King Park area families on December 23 from 5-7 p.m. Toys will be distributed for children ages 2 to 12 at 1423 Fillmore Avenue. Fifty families will be selected in a drawing to participate (lottery style). No Toy Guns! Please come in and sign up now! Donations may be dropped off at 1423 Fillmore or call for pick up: Irene @ 247-9681 or Larry @ 465-3513.
Grant, Hogues Discuss 2014 Erie County Budget Features, Services
TO ANNOUNCE:
Recent Black Achiever honoree Buffalo Attorney Philip Dabney, Jr. will announce his candidacy for City Court Judge on Friday, December 13 at the Metropolitan Entertainment Complex. Donation is $50. For more information call 444-3016.
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As the holidays draw near, Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes is hosting the 3rd Annual “’Tis the Season to be Jolly” Tree Lighting Ceremony in MLK Park on Saturday, December 14, from 4pm-6pm. This is a great opportunity for families to draw near and enjoy the holiday spirit. Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes invites the community, especially the children, to enjoy the sounds of a local choir singing holiday songs and watch the lighting of the Christmas tree, adding a glow of love and warmth to MLK Park . In addition, she is requesting that people bring an unwrapped toy that will be donated as part of “A Mission for the City” toy drive. The toys will be donated to children and families at the Cornerstone Assemblywoman Manor and the City Mission. Peoples-Stokes “This an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate the holidays, in the spirit of peace of love. There is so much negativity going on everyday; so young people need to see that you can celebrate the holidays peacefully with others in a beautiful park on the eastside of Buffalo . It will be a joy to see their faces light up just like the Christmas tree,” stated Assemblywoman Peoples-Stokes. “We would like to thank the Buffalo Olmsted Parks and the Men in White choir for their participation in this event.” If you have any questions, would like to volunteer or donate, please call the district office at716.897.9714.
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Do You Have Any Information About Any of These Recent Murders? According to police there have been nine homicides in the City of Buffalo dating back to Oct. 1. They all remain unsolved. Anyone with information about any of the following crimes is urged to call or text the city police confidential Tip Line at 847-2255. • Oct. 1 – Perry Turner, 35, found fatally shot in 600 block of Riley Street. • Oct. 5 – Rashad Patton, 30, shot repeatedly in the upper body in a drive-by in the 400 block of Cambridge Avenue. • Oct. 28 – Dartrell Terrell, 26, shot on Stockbridge Avenue near Bailey Avenue. • Nov. 30 – Carl Robinson, 42, shot as he drove his car on Oakmont Avenue. His passenger, a 32-year-old man, was wounded but was released after hospital treatment. • Nov. 30 – Sylvester Buttrom, 18, shot on Lonsdale Road at about around 2:15 a.m. A man who was with him was critically wounded. • Dec. 1 – Michael Flores, 32, found fatally shot in the yard of a vacant house on Sanford Street. A relative had reported him missing earlier in the day. • Dec. 2 – Tavonne Taylor, 29, shot outside a residence on Niagara Street near Hertel Avenue. *Dec. 7 - Brandon Cahee, 28, shot dead in an apartment on Ericson Avenue. Cahee’s car was left idling in a driveway outside the building where he was shot. * Dec. 8 - Samuel L. Smalls, 22, shot and killed Sunday night in the vicinity of Shirley Avenue and Suffolk Street.
“From Homicide to Healing” The National Action Network is sponsoring a “From Homicide to Healing” event at True Bethel Baptist Church, 907 E. Ferry Street, Saturday, January 4 at 12 noon. This event is open to family members and friends of those loved ones who have been lost to homicide. Immediate family members of homicide victims are especially being urged get in touch with the Buffalo-Niagara Chapter so that they can be acknowledged and assisted in their healing process. For more information, or to identify yourself as an immediate family member of a homicide victim, please contact the Buffalo-Niagara Chapter of the National Action Network at (716) 299-8299 or bflonan@gmail.com.
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National/International NEWS
DECEMBER 11, 2013
“A Giant of History” World Leaders Join South Africa to Say Goodbye to Nelson Mandela
BY STEPHEN A. CROCKETT JR. The Root -- On a rainy day in South Africa, a raucous 90,000 gathered inside Johannesburg ‘s FNB stadium to begin its goodbye to their beloved son, Nelson Mandela. Because of the rain, the sheer number of celebrities, royalty and some 90 to 100 heads of state in attendance creating a massive security slow-up, the four-hour service started an hour late as guests continued to stream into the stadium, where Mandela delivered his first major speech after his release from prison. The atmosphere was a festive one with people dancing, singing songs and blowing “vuvuzela” the noisemaking plastic trumpet of South African soccer. Many carried banners with Mandela’s picture, wore tshirts with the great leaders face or held signs with Mandela’s traditional clan name, “Madiba” scrawled on them. Others carried the South African flag or draped their bodies in the green, yellow and black colors. Singer Kirk Franklin brought the crowd to its feet with a stirring gospel number before President Obama took the stage stressing how difficult it is to eulogize such a great man. “It is hard to eulogize any man - to capture in words not just the facts and the dates that make a life, but the essential truth of a person - their private joys and sorrows; the quiet moments and unique qualities that illuminate someone’s soul. How much harder to do so for a giant of history, who moved a nation toward justice, and in the process moved billions around the world,” the president said.
Before his speech, President Obama was shown shaking hands with Cuban politician, Raul Castro the brother of Fidel Castro. While much will be made about the president’s handshake with Cuban president Raul Castro, Fidel Castro’s brother, it is best to put this scene in context. The president was greeting all of the speakers who were seated in the same area. Raul Castro is slated to speak at Mandela’s memorial and it would have awkward had he ignored the younger Castro. While the United States and Cuba have not had diplomatic relations since the communist revolution led by Castro’s brother Fidel, a handshake is not a political sit-down. President Obama’s gesture showed that this moment is bigger than politics and that even in his death, Mandela continues to bring people together. -Funeral ServicesThe funeral itself will take place on Sunday December 15, but the country has already declared a 10-day period of mourning. The funeral cortege will make its way through the South African capital of Pretoria for three consecutive days ahead of his funeral. Mr. Mandela’s body will be buried at a family plot in his boyhood home of Qunu. -Ordinary FuneralEven though he is a member of the AbaThembu royal family, late former president Nelson Mandela will receive an ordinary funeral. AbaThembu Chief Mfundo Mtirara tsaid in a recent interview that Mandela’s funeral will be a normal one, but that he will be accorded certain Xhosa cultural rites. “The AbaThembu do not have traditional (isiko) cereIf you or a loved one have been diagnosed with MESOTHELIOMA or another monies which are conducted during funerals, so uTata ASBESTOS-RELATED DISEASE you may be able to file a legal claim against Mandela will be buried like the asbestos industry and collect significant financial compensation. Call the any other normal person,” Mtirara said. law firm of Lipsitz & Ponterio, LLC at 716-849-0701. In Xhosa culture, when a person dies away from his ALL CONSULTATIONS ARE FREE AND CONFIDENTIAL. birthplace, his family, which includes the elders of the family, has to come and fetch his spirit where he died. New York’s Leading Mesothelioma Attorneys This means Mandela’s remains will be taken back to his Houghton home before being transported to Qunu. www.lipsitzponterio.com When the family arrives at the scene they have to speak 135 Delaware Avenue • 5th Floor • Buffalo, New York 14202 to the person’s spirit and tell Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. them that they have come to
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fetch him to take him home to the land of his ancestors. This is done so that the person’s spirit doesn’t wander around. After this is done the family prepares for the funeral, explains Mtirara. After the funeral, the King of AbaThembu will do ukukhahlela kathathu (which is giving praise to Madiba) because of Mandela’s royal lineage. A week after the funeral, the family will do ukuhlanjwa kwemihlakulo (washing of spades). His family will have to prepare umqombothi (traditional beer) as part of the ritual. At this ceremony, Mandela’s clothes may be distributed among his family. According to tradition, Mandela’s wife, Graça Machel, is expected to wear black for a whole year to show she is in mourning. “After a year the family will do (izila), which is the grieving period,” Mtirara said. Thousands of people are expected to flock to Qunu on Sunday to pay their last respects to the icon that not only changed South Africa, but the whole world, with his ideals.
Inmates Sentenced Prior to the Fair Sentencing Act Not to Benefit from New Reduced Sentencing Structure Court Rules Fair Sentencing Act Not Applicable to Inmates Sentenced under Prior ‘Crack Cocaine’ Law
A sharply divided U.S. Court of Appeals for the Sixth Circuit ruled Dec. 3 that the Fair Sentencing Act (FSA), which reduced the unfair, unjustified, and racially discriminatory crack cocaine/powder cocaine sentencing ratio from 100-to1 to 18-to-1, does not apply to thousands of individuals who are currently incarcerated pursuant to sentences imposed under the discredited 100-to-1 regime.Seven judges concluded that the FSA should apply to those serving sentences under the 100-to-1 federal sentencing structure, but ten judges declared that it should not.
DECEMBER 11, 2013
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HEALTH MATTERS
Natural Cold And Flu Remedies Prevention Magazine suggests that these immuneboosting supplements are among the best to help fight colds and flu: *Omega 3s : Take it All season long. If you don’t like or eat a lot of fish, pop an omega-3 supplement daily to reap the fatty acid’s impressive immune-fortifying properties. Omega 3s increase the activity of phagocytes—cells that fight flu by eating up bacteria—according to a study by Britain’s Institute of Human Nutrition and School of Medicine. Other research shows that omega-3s increase airflow and protect lungs from colds and respiratory infections. *Astragalus :Take it All season long. This Chinese root is shown to stimulate the white blood cells that fight infection, says Prevention advisor Andrew Weil, MD. A pilot study suggests that the herb may boost immunity in people. However, astragalus may take 6 to 8 weeks to reach its full effect. *Vitamin D:Take it All season long. This power nutrient may effectively boost immunity and help prevent colds, a Harvard study shows. People with the lowest vitamin D levels were 36% more likely to have upper respiratory infections, compared with those with the most D. (Asthma patients with low levels of D were nearly 6 times as likely to get sick as those with the greatest amounts.) Adequate amounts of D help produce cathelicidin, a protein with virus-killing qualities. If it’s tough to get enough from sunlight or diet (fish and fortified dairy are the best sources), you’ll need a supplement to attain optimal levels, says study author Carlos A. Camargo Jr., MD. Aim for at least 1,000 IU daily.
Eat To Live
76269_Fuel_HEAPPrintPhase1 / 8”w x 10”h / B&W PUBS: Buffalo Challenger
It’s nice to know we can get help
paying our heating bills.
Act now! HEAP is open. If you need help paying your heating bills, or know someone who does, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) can help. Applications are now being accepted. However, funds are very limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Don’t delay, apply now. A little help can make a big difference. For more information, or to see if you qualify, visit HEAPhelps.com, call 1-877-443-2743 or apply online at mybenefits.ny.gov.
HEAPhelps.com // 1-877-443-2743 mybenefits.ny.gov Grant amounts vary and will be provided only while HEAP funding remains available. Additional assistance may be available for those with a heating emergency. The maximum Regular HEAP grant for customers that use natural gas to heat their homes is $450. HEAP grants are immediately posted to customer accounts when they are received from New York State.
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“It’s A Celebration!!!!”
FAITH BASED
The Zion Missionary Baptist Church cordially invites the community to join them as they celebrate their PastorElect, Rev. C. M. Jenkins II on Friday, December 13 at 7 p.m., as he is officially installed as Pastor. Put on your dancing shoes because it’s a celebration!!!!!
DECEMBER 11, 2013 Challenger Community News •
Jesus Christ Is No. 1 In Top 10 Most Significant Figures In Human History, According to New Ranking Jesus Christ has been named as the most significant person in human history ever, according to a new rankings system that based its listing on Wikipedia data. The list was created by analyzing the impact a figure has had on people’s opinions over history.
Napoleon Bonaparte came in second;William Shakespeare third; TheProphet Muhammad number four, ahead of U.S. presidents Abraham Lincoln and George Washington, who came in at fifth and sixth respectively.
DECEMBER 11, 2013
Mormons Denounce Past Theories on Skin Color The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints posted an official statement on Friday denouncing its previous theories that black skin color is a sign of a divine curse, or that Black people are descended from the biblical figure Cain, and said that its past ban on Black priests stemmed from an announcement from former church president Brigham Young in 1852.
7 Monica Manney is Miss Gospel Music Workshop of America ChallengerCN.com
Challenger Community News •
Enter In Ministries to Celebrate Founder’s Day Enter In Ministries FGBC celebrated Founder’s Day on Sunday, December 8 at 5 p.m., at 1761 Genesse St. The Provision FGBC from Rochester, N.Y. where Rev. Johnny Harris is pastor will be the guests. Also, on Sunday, December 15 at 5 p.m., the guests will be God’s Tabernacle, with Overseer Lee Collins. Host Pastor is Rosetta Swain.
MANDELA
continued frompage 2 Johannesburg bestowed its highest honour by granting Mandela the freedom of the city at a ceremony in Orlando, Soweto. In 1990, he received the Bharat Ratna Award from the government of India and also received the last ever Lenin Peace Prize from the Soviet Union. In 1992, he was awarded the Atatürk Peace Award by Turkey. He refused the award citing human rights violations committed by Turkey at the time, but later accepted the award in 1999. Also in 1992, he received of Nishan-e-Pakistan, the highest civil service award of Pakistan. Mandela’s autobiography, “Long Walk to Freedom,” was published in
1994. He had begun work on it secretly while in prison. Mandela and his wives Nelson Mandela’s love life has seemingly run parallel to his political one — and can be divided up into three key eras. The young activist married his first wife, Evelyn Mase, in 1944. The couple, who had four children, divorced in 1958 — shortly before Mandela became an outlaw with the banning of the ANC. Mandela’s second marriage — and probably his most famous — largely coincided with the time he spent locked up at the hands of the apartheid regime. In 1958 he walked down the aisle with Winnie Madikizela, who stood by his side and actively campaigned to free him from prison. Winnie became a powerful figure in her own right while Mandela was imprisoned but a series of scandals involving her led to the couple’s estrangement in 1992, her dismissal from his cabinet in 1995, and their official divorce in 1996. The couple had two children. Winnie was also later convicted of kidnapping. His third marriage, to Graca Machel — the widow of former Mozambique President — came on his 80th birthday as entered his role of world statesman. VISIT THE NASH HOUSE MUSEUM
The 2013 Gospel Music Workshop of America was held in Cincinnati Ohio this summer and the Western New York Chapter under the direction of Mrs. Ella Robinson came away with another winner! Debutant winner Monica A. Manney will wear the crown as Miss Gospel Music Workshop of America for the next year. Monica also won categories of Miss Talent, Miss Charm, Miss Congeniality and was voted Miss Personality by her peers in the competition. Monica, a standout contestant, attends Nichols School where she is active in many extra curriculum activities. Monica is a member of Durham AME church where Rev. George Woodruff is pastor. For the competition she performed a very strong story telling praise dance. Monica’s presentation left the judges speechless. Her bow was done with grace and elegance. Monica was supported by her parents, family members, chapter members and friends. Many made the trip just to support her. The Western New York Youth also performed. They received a rousing ovation for their performance. The Western New York Chapter is truly proud of Monica and the Western New York Chapter Youth for representing our area. Monica was already a winner to Western New York and now she is representing Gospel Music Workshop as the national winner. Monica is an illustrious young lady who will reign for the next year as Ms. Gospel Music Workshop of America. The Workshop will be held next year in Atlanta. Thank you to Monica and the Western New York Chapter Youth for a job well done, in representing Western New York. Congratulations. Submitted by Ms. Ora REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECTURAL/ENGINEERING SERVICES The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority requests sealed proposals to provide all professional Architectural/Engineering Services necessary or incidental to provide site investigation, design services, preparation of plans and specifications and clerk of the works services for the bidding and implementation of the following project: Architectural / Engineering Services to Facilitate Improvements at Shaffer Village, Kowal Apartments, Elmhurst Apartments and Kenfield Homes, BMHA Job #AE-13-20 The Request for Proposals may be obtained at the BMHA Capital Improvements Office located at 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, New York 14204. Sealed proposals must be received by 3:00 PM, local time, on January 16, 2014, at the Capital Improvements Office, 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, New York 14204. Proposals received after this time will not be accepted. Perspective offerors are strongly encouraged to attend a pre-submittal meeting. The pre-submittal meeting will be held on January 7, 2014 @ 10:00 AM @ 320 Perry Street 14204.
The Nash House Museum 36 Nash Street*856-4490 www.nashhousemuseum.org
Historic home of the late Rev. J. Edward Nash and Frances Jackson Nash. Open by appointment November - January
The contract for professional services will only be awarded to a single professional firm; no joint ventures. The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority reserves the right to waive irregularities and to reject any and/or all proposals submitted. Date: December 11, 2013
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ENTERTAINMENT
DECEMBER 11, 2013
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
Ishmael Reed's New Play, 'The Final Version” Opens in New York City During its 40th anniversary season, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe in New York City will present the world premiere of acclaimed writer and Buffalo native Ishmael Reed's new play "The Final Version.” Reed's poetry, prose and plays have been honored with fellowships from the MacArthur and Guggenheim Foundations and the National Endowment for the Arts; his work has also been nominated for the Pulitzer Prize and National Book Awards. "The Final Version" stars Rome Neal as Lee Ransom. Neal, who has been recognized with an Obie and multiple Audelco awards for his theatrical work, also directs the production. The play, set in 1939 and 1965. explores the complex intersections between racial identity and liberal ideology, and examines how New York City's leftist culture has changed since the 1930s. "The Final Version" opens Thursday, December 12 and runs most Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights and Sunday afternoons through January 19 (23 total performances) at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe (236 East 3rd Street, between Avenues B and C in Manhattan). Thursday, Friday and Saturday performances start at 7PM; Sunday performances start at 3pm. Admission is $20 in advance, $25 at the door, and $18 for students and seniors at the door. Tickets and directions are available at www.nuyorican. org or by calling 212-780-9386. Ishmael Reed's plays, poetry, essays and novels have earned him international acclaim and numerous awards. His satirical writing has also generated significant controversy. His novels include The Freelance Pallbearers, Mumbo Jumbo and The Terrible Twos. Many of Ishmael Reed's previous plays have been staged at the Nuyorican Poets Cafe and directed by Rome Neal; these plays include Mother Hubbard, Savage Wilds, Hubba City, The Preacher and the Rapper, The C Above C Above High C, and Body Parts. Over the last 40 years, the Nuyorican Poets Cafe has served as a home for groundbreaking works of poetry, music, theater and visual arts. A multicultural and multi-arts institution, the Cafe champions the use of spoken word and music as means of social empowerment for minority and underprivileged artists.
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See you at the events
DECEMBER 11, 2013
ENTERTAINMENT
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
AROUND TOWN Marnetta Friday, December 13th, Friday Night Laughs… The Tralf featuring ‘Faizon Love’ hosted by Comedian Rob Stapleton…two shows…7:30 $20adv/$25day of show 9:30 $25adv/$30day of show more info tralfmusichall.com Tuesday, December 31st, New Year’s Eve on The Lake…Templeton Landing 10pm – 3am...featuring 3 rooms….three levels of entertainment….DJ Iceberg, DJ Papa Trini….and live music from Trinity Band… tickets available at The Oakk Room, Doris Records and New Style Records… more info online at
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Line Dance Classes
ON STAGE The Beautiful Music Band
featuring “Peaches,” December 21 (Christmas Party) & Dec. 28 at The New Humboldt Inn, E. Delavan & Humboldt Parkway. Muhammad School of Music Presents Classical Stars Recital 2013 Save The Date! Sunday, December 15 at 2pm, Burchfield Penney Art Center, Buffalo State College. $10 General Admission(Presale)/$15 General Admission(Recital Day) $5 for Children (Presale)/$10 for Children(Recital Day) (12 years of age and younger)
*Urban Line Dance classes by Cheri, 716-2009702 will be held: Monday’s at the 600 Club, North & Fox 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at New Humboldt Inn, 8-10 p.m.; the last Tuesday of each month Ballroom classes. Wednesdays at St. Phillip’s, 15 Fernhill from 6 to 8 p.m. *Miss Barbara Tuesdays at St. John Baptist church Family Life Center,184 Goodell St. 6 pm: Instructor Barbara Glover *Willa J. Line Dance, Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10:30 a.m., Martha Mitchell Center, 175 Oakmont; Thursdays Schiller Park Center, 60 and Better! 10:30 a.m.; 444-2046
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Jack and Jill to Host Fundraiser Breakfast for Aloma D. Johnson Charter School On Sunday, December 15 Jack and Jill of America, Inc., Buffalo Chapter will present an Applebee’s Flapjack Fundraiser, “Breakfast with Santa.” The tickets are $5 and a percentage of the proceeds will be donated to the ALOMA D. JOHNSON CHARTER SCHOOL. During the breakfast there will be baskets raffled. The fundraiser will be held from 8 to 10 a.m. at Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 2656 Delaware Ave. For tickets and information, please contact (716) 830-7408. Jack and Jill of America, Inc. is an African American organization formed in 1938. It was created by African American mothers with the idea of bringing together children in a social and cultural environment. Since then, it has evolved into one of the best known family organizations in the nation. Deirdre Roper and Ingrid Johnson-Jacobs are President and Vice President of the local chapter.
Community Afriacab Drum and Dance Class A Community African Drum and Dance Class with Jama Jama African Drum and Dance is being held at the Gateway Longview Family Resource Center at Ferry near Jefferson on Mondays from 6:15 to 7:15 p.m. for all ages. For further information contact AniT:10.25” sha at 491-3311.
Why not? Start the New Year right by picking your plan. Enroll by December 23rd to start coverage on January 1st. With more than sixteen health insurance carriers to choose from, and financial assistance available, you can own a good, low-cost health insurance plan.
*Urban Line Dance classes by Cheri, 716-200-9702 Monday’s at the 600 Club, North & Fox 7-9 p.m. Tuesdays at New Humboldt Inn, 8-10 p.m.; the last Tuesday of each month Ballroom classes. Wednesdays at St. Phillip’s, 15 Fernhill from 6 to 8 p.m. *Miss Barbara Tuesdays at St. John Baptist church Family Life Center,184 Goodell St. 6 pm: Instructor Barbara Glover *Willa J. Line Dance, Tuesdays & Wednesdays 10:30 a.m., Martha Mitchell Center, 175 Oakmont; Thursdays Schiller Park Center, 60 and Better! 10:30 a.m.; 444-2046
Find your plan at nystateofhealth.ny.gov or call 1-855-355-5777. Today’s the day.
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DECEMBER 11, 2013
INVICTUS: Nelson Mandela
Winnie and Nelson Mandela after his release from Robben Island.
The Woman Behind Mandela:
The Critical Role Winnie Mandela in South Africa’s Liberation Struggle “During the two decades I spent on Robben Island she was an indispensable pillar of support and comfort to myself personally. She endured the persecutions heaped upon her by the government with exemplary fortitude and never wavered from her commitment to the struggle for freedom. Her tenacity reinforced my personal respect, love and growing affection. It also attracted the admiration of the world at large. My love for her remains undiminished.” (Nelson Mandela’s public statement at the announcement of their mutual separation in 1992, two years after his release. They divorced several years later in 1996.)
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evered South African leader Nelson Mandela wasn’t the symbol of the anti-apartheid movement until his wife Winnie Mandela made him one, a former secret agent revealed in a October interview. Jean-Yves Ollivier the subject of a documentary called “Plot for Peace,” said that in 1978 Winnie Mandela changed a slogan of the African National Congress from “Death to Apartheid” to “Free Mandela,” and catapulted her imprisoned then-husband to become the face of the movement. “For 17 years the name of Mandela was ignored,” he said. “…Winnie Mandela…who gained extraordinary position in the ANC, came in 1978 with an extraordinary idea. She said, ‘Why don’t we change the slogan of the ANC from a negative approach – Death to Apartheid – to a positive approach: Free Mandela?’” He went on: “She created the slogan. ...’” In the 1980s, the imprisoned Mandela became the preeminent symbol of the black South African liberation movement. Artists, musicians and activists around the world adopted Mandela’s name and image in demanding that the white-led regime change its racist policies. Mandela was released in 1990 after 27 years of captivity and went on to be elected the president of the country. He is often called “the father of the nation.” Their marriage has been described as one of the great partnerships in the history of liberation politics. The 77-year-old, known as “Mother of the Nation,” is a towering -- yet controversial -- public figure in her own right, as she was married to Nelson Mandela throughout the entirety of his 27-year imprisonment, and she was imprisoned for 18-months in solitary confinement in a South African prison by authorities who wanted to suppress her political activism. Like her husband, Winnie Mandela -- the shortened moniker by which many people refer to her by to this day -- was a leading voice in the anti-apartheid movement alongside her
By Joan Simmons
INVICTUS (1875) by William Ernest Henley is said to have been Nelson Mandela’s favorite poem. I have read it many times and after Mr. Mandela’s recent transition, I decided to read it again. In fact, I re-read it many times. You see, it became one of my favorite poems also. This time though, I read it, unashamedly, through a veil of tears and with heartfelt sadness. More importantly though, I read it with a profound sense of pride and joy! I think I understand why it was his favorite poem. The word INVICTUS in Latin means,”unconquered”,”undefeated”. I believe the poem INVICTUS truly gives an honest insight into the very heart, character and soul of this magnificent man named Nelson Mandela. I wiped away my tears, straightened my shoulders and lifted my head high, because in spite of enormous odds and extreme cruelty, Nelson Mandela remained to the end, “unconquered” and “undefeated”. I didn’t know Mr. Mandela personally, but I feel extremely privileged to have shared the same world with him. INVICTUS by William Ernest Henley Out of the night that covers me, Black as the pit from pole to pole, I thank whatever gods may be For my unconquerable soul. In the fell clutch of circumstance I have not winced nor cried aloud. Under the bludgeoning of chance My head is bloody, but unbowed. Beyond this place of wrath and tears Looms but the horror of the shade, And yet the menace of the years Finds and shall find me unafraid. It matters not how strait the gate, How charged with punishments the scroll, I am the master of my fate: I am the captain of my soul. husband. When Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1964, Winnie continued to engage in political activities throughout his imprisonment. In 1986, after Winnie’s home was firebombed and burned down, the Reagan administration offered her $10,000 to rebuild it. She refused. “This why our people are angry at the Reagan and Thatcher administrations in particular,” Winnie Mandela said. “[They] continue to condone the activities of the South Af- Winnie (right) with President rican government. If they had Mandela and wife Graca Maany feeling for the downtrod- chel. den and oppressed majority of our country they would end their policy of gentle persuasion. It appears their interests in this country far outweighs their so-called abhorrence of apartheid.” Despite the controversy over Madikazela-Mandela’s radicalism and her violent rhetoric, she remained one of the most important people in Nelson Mandela’s long life, and she was often by her husband’s side in his Johannesburg home during his final days and acted as a liaison to the press at times, passing on information about the beloved leader’s condition and shooting down incorrect rumors.
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Crocodile Tears: It was the CIA that helped jail Nelson Mandela
By Brian Becker On Nelson Mandela’s 95th birthday, there were crocodile tears from the U.S. government about Mandela’s poor health. Imperialist diplomacy with all of its sugar-coated phrases is nothing more than a form of historical perjury. Nelson Mandela’s arrest in 1962, which led to 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment on Robbins Island, was based on the work of the CIA. The CIA and National Security Agency worked as partners with the racist, apartheid regime’s vicious military and intelligence services. Mandela was a leader of the African National Congress (ANC) that organized civil resistance and an armed struggle against South Africa’s white racist apartheid regime. The United States and the other western capitalist governments supported the racist, fascist apartheid regime. Mandela was labeled a terrorist by the United States. So was the entire ANC. Even as late as 2008 the U.S. State Department had to pass special waivers so that Mandela or any ANC leader could visit the United States because he and the ANC were still on the “terrorist watch list.” The ANC’s struggle for Black majority rule and the liquidation of apartheid received critical support from Cuba, the Soviet Union and other socialist countries. The ANC had an active alliance with South African Communist Party in the struggle for Black majority rule. Even after the fall of the apartheid government ANC members applying for visas to the USA were flagged for questioning and forced to ask for waivers to enter the country. Former ANC chairman Tokyo Sexwale was denied a visa in 2002 In an act of shameless duplicity, the various leaders of the U.S. imperialist government have pretended that they were always opposed to Mandela’s imprisonment. In 2007, Barbara Masekela, South Africa’s ambassador to the United States until the year prior was denied a visa to visit a dying cousin living in the United States. U.S. Imperialism was the enemy of African Liberation The CIA and NSA spy services—with the full collaboration of such transnational corporations at IBM, Kodak and many others—worked at all levels and for decades for Continued Page 11
The Need For Reform Of The Public Educational System(s)Throughout America Conclusion We must also implement a multicultural curriculum that ends with the reality that all peoples and all cultures have contributed and have a rightful place in the organization of human society that is equal to all others. This must be taught in the truth of our human reality, which says that there is, Brother in fact, no ”Other”, within the human BABA ENG family. We are all merely representative of all of the different shades and qualities of a human potential that is infinite. In all of our teaching, the pre-eminence of a new Human ethos must be promoted. It must be promoted in the schools, in the mosques, in the synagogues, the temples and in all of our social institutions. In all of our civic and social organizations the idea that we are truly but one human family, whose destiny is inescapably tied to each other, must be promoted. Parents and youth, this belongs to YOU! Thank you for your patience in reading my thoughts on this very important issue.
DECEMBER 11, 2013
OPINIONS
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
CROCODILE TEARS continued from page 10
“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
South Africa, Through the Eyes of an Afrikaner BY TED KIRKLAND
apartheid and against the African National Congress activists who were routinely murdered, tortured and sentenced to life terms in the hell holes of South Africa. The ANC was labeled and treated as a terrorist organization and pro-communist by the CIA and successive U.S. administrations, Democratic and Republican alike. Congress, too, was an enthusiastic cheerleader for this vile partnership with the planet’s most disgustingly racist regime. The House of Representatives only voted to call for Nelson Mandela’s release from prison in 1986 when it was clear that the fascist apartheid regime’s days were numbered, leading the United States and Britain to abruptly shift course and broker a negotiated end to the white supremacist system. A mass worldwide anti-apartheid movement had completely isolated South Africa. Dick Cheney voted against the House resolution in 1986, pointing out that the U.S. government was still retaining the ANC on the official U.S. “terrorist list.” The U.S. and Britain knew the end had finally come for the usefulness of the apartheid government when its seemingly invincible military was decisively defeated by the Angolan army and thousands of Cuban volunteers in the historic battle of Cuito Canavale. As Mandela said, “When Africa called, Cuba answered.” -Shameless DuplicityIn an act of shameless duplicity, once Mandela was released from prison, each successive U.S. administration has pretended that the United States was always opposed to Mandela’s imprisonment and stood with him against apartheid. After getting out of prison, Mandela came to the United States to meet President George H.W. Bush on June 25, 1990. He was being touted as a hero and a champion in the fight against racism. The U.S. government, working through propagandists in the corporate-owned media, tried to instill a society-wide case of amnesia about the fact that they were the defenders of apartheid and directly responsible for Mandela’s imprisonment. But one reporter had the gall to ask an unscripted question. Bush’s press secretary, Marlin Fitzwater, was asked in the days before the June 25 meeting with Bush whether the president would apologize to Mandela for the U.S. role in his arrest. Fitzwater was angry and caught off guard. He said, “I just don’t like it when people question our motives on Blacks or on Mandela because of an incident that happened 20 years ago in another administration.” On Mandela’s 95th birthday when the U.S. government celebrated Mandela, did any of the corporate media expose the bloody role of the CIA, NSA and other U.S. intelligence services in their war against the African liberation movements? Nelson Mandela is a beacon for the oppressed. He is a hero and he will be remembered as such. Not true for the CIA and NSA which worked as the spy service for the racist, apartheid regime as it hunted down and captured Mandela and captured or killed his comrades. (This article was published in July 2013
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(Author, activist,social commentator Ted Kirkland visited South Africa in 2007. Following is Part I of a reprint of that journey.)
Advertised as a Relief Mission and Tour of South Africa, my wife Winona, and I agreed to take this trip because: the “relief mission” was of interest to us; the price was right; we had never been to South Africa; we
Beyond Mandela’s Dream Many Black South Africans have made gains, but poverty persists in Soweto and elsewhere He led a party that had fought an armed insurgency against the apartheid government, yet when he emerged from prison he preached forgiveness and harmony. Stripped of bitterness, Mr. Mandela negotiated a peaceful end to white rule, giving birth to the rainbow nation. But racial equality at the ballot box has proved much easier to achieve than social and economic equality. Since the end of apartheid, the government has built well over two million homes, brought electricity to millions of households and vastly increased the number of poor people with access to potable water. The average annual incomes of Black-led households almost tripled from 2001 to 2011, according to census figures released late last year, and a growing percentage of the adult Black population has gone to high school, with an increasing sliver going to college. But Black South Africans are still very far behind Whites, and by some measures falling further back. In 2001, Whiteled households typically earned close to $17,000 more than their Black counterparts, at current exchange rates. By 2011, that disparity had grown to nearly $30,000. And while the nation has made headway in reducing the number of Black people with no education or only a few years of primary school, very few Whites have that barrier to overcome; to the contrary, they have advanced to college and beyond at higher rates since apartheid ended. The nation remains deeply divided in social spheres as well. According to the SA Reconciliation Barometer, a survey of racial and social attitudes, less than 40 percent of South Africans socialize with people of another race. Just 22 percent of white South Africans and a fifth of Black South Africans live in racially integrated neighborhoods. Schools remain heavily segregated, too: Only 11 percent of white children go to integrated schools, and just 15 percent of Black children do. During his presidency, Mr. Mandela helped keep decades of oppression and imbalances from boiling over. He encouraged Blacks to be patient about acquiring the material goods and services that even lower-class Whites took for granted. He asked Whites to have faith in multiracial democracy and not flee the country. But through the long years of his declining health, many asked what would become of South Africa’s relative racial comity once he was gone.
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had friends going; and we wanted to go. A local church in Buffalo was the sponsor. We made our payment, had our valid passports, and necessary inoculations in preparation for two weeks in South Africa. We departed the states on January 10, 2007. It was a diverse group, consisting of six whites and 19 Blacks; the oldest member, a Black woman, in her early 80s; the youngest around 30, give or take a few years either way. Excitement was in the air as most had never been to the continent of Africa. My wife and I had the advantage of having previously visited North, East and West Africa in the countries of Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Kenya, The Gambia, and Morocco; visiting Ghana and Senegal on more than one occasion. But we were also excited in anticipation of another great experience. The church South African Relief Mission and Tour group of 25 arrived in Cape Town on January 11, 2007; Eddie Woolls, our tour guide from SmarTours met us at the airport. White, middle age, over six-three, blond, dressed in khaki shorts, khaki shirt, and a pair of low cut suede boots, Eddie was an Afrikaner, a descendant of the Dutch that had arrived in South Africa centuries earlier. Because of their seniority in South Africa, they perceive themselves as much African as the natives, or more so. The British and the Dutch colonized South Africa’s Black population with violence and their most deadly weapon, the gun. I wondered if our sponsoring court realized they had contracted with an Afrikaner. Although, white supremacy began immediately after the first Europeans set foot on South African soil, it wasn’t until after World War 11 that the Afrikaners rose to power and legislated Apartheid laws like the Jim Crow laws of the United States. These
• 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.
Kirkland
laws disenfranchised the 90 percent that wasn’t white, denying them civil rights, free passage, competitive education, equal employment opportunity, and freedom from police abuse, right to live in peace, job opportunities, and health care in their own country. Subjecting them to abject poverty, the Sharpeville massacre, police state, police murders, long prison sentences for ANC members, and the police murder of Steve Biko and others, all of which were supported by the United States and England until late in the 20th Century, after labor unions, college students, civil rights organizations throughout the world, socialist countries, and others that valued human rights demanded a change. With this turn of events, combined with the internal arm struggle by the African National Congress (ANC), the United States, England, and other capitalistic countries, were forced to place sanctions against the Apartheid government which was finally toppled in 1994. The ANC (political party) was voted into office giving the Black majority control of government and ushering in Nelson Mandela as South Africa’s first Black president, succeeded by Thabo Mbeki, the second Black president, and the President in office at the time of our arrival in South Africa Although Blacks through the vote had gained control of the government, the wealth and the economic power, that made government function, remained in the hands of the whites. To Be Continued
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Mandella Market is One Man’s Tribute to South African Leader Although he spells it with two L’s , Mandella Market located on the corner of Jefferson and E. Ferry Street is Ahmed Selah’s personal tribute to the late South African freedom fighter and world leader Nelson Mandela. The sprawling enterprise, which opened six years ago, brought new life to a decades long neglected corner in the heart of the Black community. “I named it Mandella Market in honor of Nelson Mandela,” said owner Ahmed
HO M E I M PR O V E M EN T
Selah. “He was a special person.” Unlike many African leaders, said Ahmed who hails from Eritrea*, Mandela did not seek to “stay in power forever.” He served one term and in the interest of unity and true democratic reform, allowed a new election and a new leader to follow him. “He was a rare leader,” continued Selah, “ a healer… a gifted person. After 27 years in prison he came out and said to the people who harmed him and put him in jail, let us have peace. He was a great man.” And thanks to Ahmed Selah’s Mandella Market, East Buffalo has a permanent, daily reminder of this amazing individual. In addition to the bright Africaninspired outdoor sign, inside the store are photos of Nelson Mandela. Every year the market sponsors a community birthday celebration at
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LEGAL NOTICE Legal Notice COUNTY OF ERIE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING 95 FRANKLIN STREET BUFFALO, NY 14202
APARTMENTS FOR RENT Four (4) apartments are available for rent by Fillmore Leroy Avenue Residents, Inc. for lowto-moderate income individuals. All apartments are 1-bedroom, newly renovated, and located at 146 Jewett Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214 near Fillmore Avenue. Please call FLARE, Inc. at 716-838-6740 if you are interested. You must be income eligible and provide references. EAST SIDE APARTMENTS AVAILABLE *Two and Three Bedroom Apartments starting at $395 plus security. Apartments Section 8 Ready. Call 836-8686.
ATTORNEYS
DJ’S
LIQUORS & WINES
Pratcher & Associates 1133 Kensington (716) 838-4612
DJ Kenny Kutz (716) 400-7358
Bellamy’s Liquor Store 405 E. Ferry * 884-4066
DOG TRAINING
ONE STOP
Colslton Mobile Auto Repair 720 E. Ferry * 896-3910
Dogman Jo Dog Trainer 1963 Fillmore * 807-8163
BAIL BONDS
EATERIES
Mandella Market & Citgo Gas 272 E. Ferry cor. Jefferson 716-882-0288
A Bail Company Inc. Ken Thomas (716) 867-0073 Judy Bunk (716) 830-1512 Southtowns (716) 570-0849 Rochester (585) 749-7879
The Corner Store Deli & Grill 1733 Genesee * 895-2009
AUTOMOTIVE
the location in honor of Mr. Mandela. “Every July 18th we celebrate his birthday,” concluded Ahmed. “We have been doing that since we first opened six years ago and we will continue to honor him in that way.” *(Eritrea is located in the Horn of Africa with its capital at Asmara. It is bordered by Sudan in the west, Ethiopia in the south, and Djibouti in the southeast. It is about the size of England.)
County of Erie, New York COMMUNITY HOUSING DEVELOPMENT ORGANIZATIONS RFP# 1336VF The Erie County Department of Environment and Planning is requesting proposals from Community Housing Development Organizations (CHDOs) for HOME Investment Partnership funds. The County will make available HOME funds for CHDOs organizations to use to develop, sponsor or own housing for low and very low-income households. The housing developed with the HOME funds must be located in the Erie County HOME Consortium which includes all municipalities in Erie County except the City of Buffalo and Towns of Amherst, Cheektowaga, and Tonawanda and the Villages therein. The RFP can be found at: http://www.erie.gov and a complete copy of the package can be obtained by contacting Diane Cadle at 716-858-6927 or www.diane.cadle@erie.gov. All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with Diane Cadle. Prospective proponents, or their representatives, shall not make contact with or communicate with any representatives of the County, including employees and consultants, other than the designated person in regard to any aspect of this proposal. Final proposals are due to the Department of Environment and Planning at 95 Franklin St, Room 1053, Buffalo, NY 14202 by 4:00 pm (EST) on January 17, 2014 Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality. Maria R. Whyte Commissioner of Erie County Department of Environment and Planning
DECEMBER 11, 2013 Challenger Community News •
BARBER SHOPS Klassic Kuts 1471 Kensington 836-3260 Master Touch 1283 E. Delavan 901-5909 SOLO Unisex Salon 3081 Main St. 833-2553
BOOK STORES
Tomatoes 1393 Kensington*835-3663
ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC 716-634-0330
HAIR SALONS Althea’s Hair To Go Natural 727 Main St. (716) 883-2000 www.hairtogo.com
Zawadi Books 2460 Main St.* 903-6740 holleykenneth@yahoo.com
Anointed Hands African Hair Braiding 369 Trenton Ave. 939-5077 (Macy)
CAR WASH
Chanel’s 2462 Main Street * 563.9575
Fast Eddie Hand Car Wash 1736 Fillmore* 891-5575
Woody & Manuel’s AFRO STYLES 862 E Delavan * 896-9386
CHILD CARE
Karen’s Salon & Spa 413 Jefferson Ave. 812-9666
Cookieland Group Day Care 24 Barthel Miss Cookie*893-0590 Dean’s Day Care 61 Montana Ave. 716-896-1751 Debbie’s Little Scholars 484 Hickory St. (716) 304-6820 First Impressions Day Care 847 Walden Ave. 716-533-8075 Kim’s Building Blocks Day Care 1479 E. Delavan Ave. 895-8693
DELI / VARIETY Grant’s Variety Shop 1055 E. Ferry St. 893-0704
Miracle Tranition 2 3339 Genesee * 481-1321 Serenity Hair Boutique 221 Jefferson Ave. (716) 812-0663
HAIR SUPPLY Main Hair & Beauty Supply 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247
INSURANCE Able Insurance Jeff Moore/Broker 1798 Main St. (716) 883-5212 Joseph Burch Insurance 4180 Bailey Avenue (716) 830-3417
PHONE SERVICE Boost Mobile 1286 E. Delavan (716) 551-0304 360 Eggert Rd. (716) 939-3900 Town Gardens Plaza (716) 768-3887
PHOTOGRAPHY Princess Photography (716) 563-0994 wagwill411@aol.com ICU Photography 716-578-3462 Garland Studios LLC 716-471-2476 www.fgarlandstudios.com
PROPERTY INSPECTION Majadi Enterprises, Inc. Willie A. Price CSI 716-316-7776
PRINTING Totem8 Design + Print (716) 404-9258
SHOES
Shoe Heaven 1455 Broadway St. Cor. of Swinburne St.) 716-818-6639
TAILORS Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633
WINDOWS Priced Right Windows USA 710 Kensington Ave. (716) 833-2500 578-7873TAILOR
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DECEMBER 11, 2013
CLASSIFIED
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LEGAL INDEX NO.: 800164/13. Filed Date: 11/04/2013. SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS AND NOTICE. MORTGAGED PREMISES: 537 LASALLE AVENUE A/K/A 537 LA SALLE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NEW YORK 14215. (SBL #: 79.73 – 5 – 8). Plaintiff designates Erie County as the place of trial; venue is based upon the county in which the mortgaged premises is situate. STATE OF NEW YORK. SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF ERIE. HSBC BANK USA, N.A., Plaintiff, -againstERIKA L. HARRISON A/K/A ERIKA HARRISON, if living, and if dead, the respective heirs at law, next of kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignors, lienors, creditors and successors in interest, and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendant who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or otherwise of any right, title or interest in and to the premises described in the complaint herein, and their respective husbands, wives or widows, if any, and each and every person not specifically named who may be entitled to or claim to have any right, title or interest in the property described in the verified complaint; all of whom and whose names and places of residence unknown, and cannot after diligent inquiry be ascertained by the Plaintiff, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, MARK CARNEY, ATLANTIC CREDIT & FINANCE, INC., Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANTS: YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the attorneys for the Plaintiff within 20 days after the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after service is complete if this Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECT of the above captioned action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure $ 56,150.00 and interest, recorded in the Office of the Clerk of Erie on July 23, 2004, at Book 13175, Pg. 9603, covering premises known as 537 LASALLE AVENUE A/K/A 537 LA SALLE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NEW YORK 14215 – SBL #: 79.73 – 5 – 8. The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above. The Plaintiff also seeks a deficiency judgment against the Defendant and for any debt secured by said Mortgage which is not satisfied by the proceeds of the sale of said premises. TO the Defendants ERIKA L. HARRISON, the foregoing Summons is served upon you by publication to an Order of the Hon. SHIRLEY TROUTMAN of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, and filed on October 22, 2013, with the Complaint in the County of Erie, State of New York. The property in question is described as follows: ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the City of Buffalo, County of Erie and State of New York, Being part of Lot No. 46, Township 11, Range 7 of the Holland Land Company’s Survey, according to map filed in the Erie County Clerk’s Office under Cover Map No. 998, is known as Subdivision Lot Number 496. Dated: New Rochelle, N.Y. November 4, 2013. McCABE, WEISBERG & CONWAY, P.C. By: /s/________________ Jonathan Pollack, Esq. Attorneys for Plaintiff 145 Huguenot St., Ste. 210 New Rochelle, NY 10801 p. 914-636-8900 f. 914-636-8901 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE. The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877-226-5697 or visit the Department's website at www.dfs.ny.gov. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to "save" your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner's distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services.
REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS
The NFTA is issuing this Request for Proposals (RFP) for BNIA – Gate 19 Passenger Boarding Bridge Replacement, Project No. 25BT1321. Proposals are due by 4:00 p.m. on January 9, 2014. www. nftaengineering.com BIDS
NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid
4365 - BUS ALTERNATOR AND STARTER PARTS Download Bids from www.nfta.com
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EM P loyment
Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Serving the Buffalo Niagara Region
Chief Financial Officer Job # 174-13-N Responsible for the strategic financial plan, the administrative financial management work directing the financial activities and internal controls of the Authority. Plans, administers, manages, and coordinates the accounting services, financial planning and analysis, cash management, grants and governmental affairs, procurement and central services. Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance or related field and ten (10) years experience in financial administration, including four (4) years of high level supervision of financial activities, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. CPA and/or CGFM certification preferred. Send application, resume and cover letter specifying the job number to: NFTA Human Resources/ Job # 174-13-N 181 Ellicott Street Buffalo, NY 14203 Please visit our website www.nfta.com for more information Application deadline: January 3, 2014 NFTA is an EOE
BID CAO of Erie County, Inc. Youth Services Department 70 Harvard Place Buffalo, NY 14209-1399
CAO of Erie County, Inc. is soliciting bids from food service vendors. Program needs include the following: Days of operation: M-F / 1/3/14 – 1/3/15 Vendor Requirements: •Must adhere to Child Adult Care Food Program (C.A.C.F.P.) guidelines •Must provide a monthly menu of snack and supper •Must be a hot meal every evening •Meals must be free of pork and nuts •Meals must be delivered to 4 sites. (Buffalo & Angola) Sealed bids will be received at the Community Action Organization of Erie County office at 70 Harvard Place Buffalo, NY 14209 until 1pm on Tuesday, December 17, 2013 for meal catering in Erie County. Specification for 170 snacks and 170 dinners may only be obtained by contacting Kathy Washington at the Community Action Organization between 9-5 pm at (716)88155150 Ext 4312. All work will be open conducted in strict accordance with bid specifications. Bids will be opened and read on December 17, 2013 at 1 pm. MWBE encouraged to apply. COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS For Ralph Wilson Stadium Asbestos Abatement Project No.: JZ-13-43 Sealed bids for: Asbestos Abatement work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 2:30 PM local time on December 23, 2013 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw Dated: December 11, 2013
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DECEMBER 11, 2013 Challenger Community News •
NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS
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Reflections on the Bills BlowOut By the Buccaneers and the Bills Coaching Staff… It got ugly early in Tampa, as teams are figuring out that
Bills line backer Kiko Alonso is allowing running backs to MID-822 MID- 828 MID-283 MID- 656 MID-164 MID-236 MID-022 on huge runs. It was his fault for allowing a journeyman go 3-WAY running back to run for an 80 yard touchdown on the second EVE-793 EVE-983 EVE-264 EVE-505 EVE-184 EVE-631 EVE-887 play of game. It happened twice last week against the Atlanta
Falcons that resulted in long touchdown runs (the Bills were out-coached again resulting in a heartbreaking 34-31 loss). This shows you what can happen with WIN 4 good players and a very poor coaching MID-0544 MID-5854 MID -0554 MID-6458 MID-0160 MID-7208 MID-5303 staff. Doug Marrone (Bills head coach) EVE-8042 EVE-4923 EVE- 9756 EVE-5329 EVE-7149 EVE-9391 EVE-3388 has lost his team after a very stupid move of cutting veteran running back Tashard Choice before practice on Wednesday. No TAKE 5 4-16-20-22-35 3-6-10-14-36 19-29-30-33-39 7-13-15-18-38 4-30-32-35-39 15-19-23-28-38 7-15-21-30-35 one knows what exactly happened, but C.J. Spiller and Fred Jackson both wore Choice’s jersey in practice on Wednesday afternoon. Tashard Choice was picked LOTTO 34-42-43-44-48-55#45 5-13-31-33-38-39#26 up on Monday by Indianapolis Colts and By GEORGE will be an asset to their playoff drive. E.J. RADNEY Manuel can be a good quarterback with proper coaching, but going up against the famous Tampa cover two defenses was not a fair match. E.J. HOT TIP needs better coaching, and must be allowed to roll out of the pocket in order to have an option of pass or run. He’s a much better passer on the run rather than sitting in the pocket. African American quarterbacks must be able to move out of pocket and make plays when things break down. All quarterbacks can see the field better once they roll out of the pocket. Coach Marrone said: “We had penalties, we had turnovers, we had misreads, we had missed tackles, It hit all at once in this game.” 486-625-967-806-079-657-236-671-678-340-726-970-430Yes, it did but coaching staff still refused to make changes 968-086-609-705-563-435-978-265-780-104-657-569-478like bringing in their best quarterback on the roster. Thad Lewis 630-359-763-946-019-757-684-908-695-785-959-678-219could have changes momentum for the second half and allow 576-605-246-806-675-380-100-435-768-685-209-359 E.J. to watch and learn how to succeed against the cover two defense. Thad should have started the Pittsburgh Steeler games LEGAL as well. It’s like this coaching staff will not make in-game CHRISTMAS - 508-3824 LUCKIE DUCKIE personnel moves until the fol- NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME lowing week. It’s time to start COURT COUNTY OF ERIE 134-431-143 M&T Bank, Plaintiff, against at tackle J.J. Unger and An911-1927- 298- 123 -133-067-850 648*123*104 toine McClain at guard to help John J. Jones, Heir to the Esof Rosie B. Jones, Laquetta booster a unit that was once tate Jones, Heir to the Estate of 980-422-809 again manhandled by an oppo- Rosie B. Jones, Niles Jones, 981-989-970-990-080-800 nent’s defensive line. Tampa’s Heir to the Estate of Rosie B. Gerald McCoy and teammates Jones, Xavier Jones, Heir to 390-196-102-581-752-319854-214-894-190-547-124had a field day against Erik the Estate of Rosie B. Jones, 408-378-352-126 Pears, Kraig Urbik, and some et al., Defendant(s). Pursuant quick money $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK 189-444-886-202 guy named Doug Legursky. to a Judgment of Foreclosure 189-809-444 322-522-412-432-421-423 These sorry Bills linemen and Sale duly dated 10/7/2013 886-980-422 the undersigned Referee will could easily be grouped with I, sell at public auction at Fore322-522-355 the worst linemen in the entire closure Alcove, at Erie Coun3-Way Winning Numbers this Time Last Year 800-592-390 NFL. It’s been brutal watching ty Hall, State of New York these guys get pushed around on 01/07/2014 at 10:00AM, 394-833-924 and run over by opposing line- premises known as 212 Breck12/20/2012 Evening 7-8-0 127-909-418 men all season long. You will enridge Street, Buffalo, NY 12/20/2012 Midday 0-4-9 927-313-466 not be able to judge E.J.’s true 14213 All that certain plot 12/19/2012 Evening 3-0-0 124-550-525 ability until you get him be- piece or parcel of land, with the 12/19/2012 Midday 8-7-9 buildings and improvements hind a good offensive line. 583-269-508 12/18/2012 Evening 2-6-1 erected, situate, lying and being The Bills travel to Jackson12/18/2012 Midday 7-7-4 in the City of Buffalo, County ville Florida for a date with of Erie and State of New York, 12/17/2012 Evening 9-0-4 Jaguars and something tells SECTION: 99.26, BLOCK: 6, grandma’s DECEMBER pics 12/17/2012 Midday 7-2-4 me more players will jump off LOT: 26. Approximate amount 12/16/2012 Evening 4-1-1 coach Marrone’s ship. Predic- of judgment $25,682.06 plus 12/16/2012 Midday 4-4-0 interest and costs. Premises tion: Jaguars win 31-21 12/15/2012 Evening 2-4-8 will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index# 12/15/2012 Midday 3-5-0 3713/10. Sunil Bakshi, Esq., 12/14/2012 Evening 7-6-7 Referee FRENKEL LAM12/14/2012 Midday 7-4-6 BERT WEISS WEISMAN & Visit 12/13/2012 Evening 4-5-3 GORDON, LLP Attorney for 12/13/2012 Midday 2-5-1 HOLIDAY SPECIALS! Plaintiff, 53 Gibson Street, Bay challengercn.com 12/12/2012 Evening 2-5-0 Shore, NY 11706 Dated: No394-164-870 vember 4, 2013 1069056 11/27, 12/12/2012 Midday 9-9-6 12/4, 12/11, 12/18 /2013 12/11/2012 Evening 0-4-9 2291-0067-2309-7391-6073-1146
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Billy Bye Bye Sez:
660-2191 * 487-4372 *396-3612 *381-3039 * 380-3800 *864-1072
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DECEMBER 11, 2013
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
EVENTS CALENDAR
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Wednesday December 11
Saturday December 14
Sunday December 15 (con’t)
Family Fun Bowling Day: Every Wed. Kerns Bowling, 163 Kerns, 5-8 p.m. Hosted by Buffalo United Front.
Niagara Falls Links Emerald & Ivory Gala: 6:30 – midnight, Conference Center, 101 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls NY; for tickets & info. (716) 464-2524
Santa”: Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, 2656 Delaware Ave., $5. For tickets call 830-7408. (See page 9)
Durham’s Central City Baby Café: Every Wednesday & Thursday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., free supper; experienced moms and certified counselors available; bring the kids; for info call 885-6348. Buffalo Board of Education Meeting: 5:30 p.m., Buffalo Academy for Visual & Performing Arts, 450 Masten. Safe Neighborhoods Initiative Committee Meeting: 3 p.m., The Merriweather Library. Dorie Miller Rifle & Pistol Club Meeting: 6 p.m. Merriweather Library. Friday December 13 Philip Dabney Jr. to Announce Candidacy for City Court: Metropolitan Entertainment Complex; 4443016 (See page 3) SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!
Annual Christmas Tree Lighting: MLK Park 4-6 p.m.; family fun! (see page 3). Eye On History Legends & Legacies: Film, The Temptations, 3-5 p.m., Merriweather Library, host Eva Doyle. Zion Dominion Legacy Bookstore Holiday Gift Fair: 11 a.m. – 4 p.m., Zion Dominion Family Center Gym, 895 North Forest Rd; 2507040 x122 Dorie Miller Rifle & Pistol Club Christmas Party: 6-10 p.m., Arthur’s Pub. $10 National Wreaths Across America Day Ceremony: Pine Lawn Cemetery, 2957 Harlem Road, 12 noon; free and open to the public. Sunday December 15 Jack & Jill Flapjack Fundraiser “Breakfast With
Monday December 16 Dorie Miller Rifle & Pistol Club: Home on the Range, Wolcott Gun Center, 3052 Walden Avenue, 6 p.m. Wednesday December 18 Family Fun Bowling Day: Every Wed. Kerns Bowling, 163 Kerns, 5-8 p.m. Hosted by Buffalo United Front. Durham’s Central City Baby Café: Every Wednesday & Thursday, 5:30-7:30 p.m., free supper; experienced moms and certified counselors available; bring the kids; for info 885-6348. New Film on Political Prisoner Mumia Abu-Jamal: 7 p.m., Burning Books, 420 Connecticut St. “A Tribute to Nelson Mandela”: 5:30-7:45 p.m., Merriweather Library, free & open to the pubic; 602-5877 (see page 3).
2013 Canalside Holiday Celebration & Tree Lighting! Friday Dec. 20 & Saturday Dec. 21 Where: The New East Canal at One Canalside (Next to the Erie Canal Harbor Station on the NFTA Metro Rail near the corner of Washington and Scott Streets)
Fre Eve e nt
• FREE Kids Activities with Explore & More and the Public Library • Holiday Music and Sing-Alongs • Tree Lighting at 6 pm Friday • Food Trucks Friday and Saturday • FREE Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides (Sat.) • Santa’s arrival on Rudolph The Metro Rail Reindeer
Complete schedule of events at:
www.CanalsideBuffalo.com/Holiday2013
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IMAGES OF US
THE FINAL CALL! Pictured (l-r) are brothers Shawn 3X, Shawn 2X, Jordan X and
Shawn X selling the Final Call newspaper (the official voice of the Nation of Islam) at their post at Walden at Genesee St., the site of Muhammad Mosque No. 23’s ambitious redevelopment project which includes a mosque school and community center. The photo was taken in October after the Mosque’s “Afternoon of Grace” fundraiser. Congratulations to Minister Dahveed Muhammad and the workers of Muhammad Mosque No. 23 for a successful event!
SO LONG SUMMER! I think we can all agree that Buffalo enjoyed a great summer, but it’s definately over now! See you in the park next year!
DECEMBER 11, 2013 Challenger Community News •