Challenger Community News April 20,2016 by Challenger Community News

CHALLENGER

SERVING BUFFALO, ROCHESTER, NIAGARA FALLS AND SURROUNDING AREAS

APRIL 20, 2016 • F R E E

INSIDE ROCHESTER

THE MAYOR’S

LOVELY BALL PG. 2

CELEBRATING SAMMY! Buffalo’s Own Eric Jordan Young Brings His Amazing One Man Broadway/Vegas Show to Kleinhans PG. 9 LOCAL

GENERATIONS

“Free But Not Free”

Harlem Nights Juneteenth Buffalo Fundraising Gala PG. 8

John Walker Reflects on End to Lifetime Parole

PG. 3

BOYS TO MEN Solo Launches New Mentoring Program PG. 12

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Around Town

Joi U s!n

Mayor Warren: “Our Future is as Bright as our Past”

THE MAYOR’S BALL

Pictured above are a few scenes from the annual Mayor’s Ball hosted by Mayor Lovely Warren (who by the way was stunning!). A good time was had by all who attended the gala black tie affair.

ROCHESTER, N.Y. -- She entered the stage with a full house on its feet at the Genesee Brewery, a place she said embodies the story of Rochester. Mayor Lovely Warren then got down to business on what she plans taking care of this next year. She highlighted her efforts to get body cameras on Rochester police officers. They’ll be deployed in July. Warren added the continual successful relationship between the city, the police department and Monroe County District Attorney’s Office will bring those responsible for the Genesee Street mass shooting to justice. She highlighted jobs, photonics, and continuing to develop downtown, Port of Rochester, College Town and then the Inner Loop. Warren announced she’s submitted an application to the Regional Economic Development Council for a $1 million grant to fund a study on filling that section of the Inner Loop. “We put in an application on that last year, it was not successful,” Warren said. “We put it back in because we think that it’s very important that we start on that project while we still have that momentum going on the southeastern side.” Warren said the

MEET AT FRONTIER FIELD

FREE

THEN CATCH THE GAME! Volunteers will receive:

• Breakfast & T-shirt • Game Ticket (Scranton/WB, 1:35 pm) • Hot Dog & Drink

SAT, APR

0 3

8a-12p

Free. Fun. For their future!

Continued Page 15

Around Town *REDISCOVERING FREDERICK DOUGLASS Experience a new film that documents the story of a newly rediscovery photo of abolitionist Frederick Douglass. All screenings are free and are followed by discussions/Q&A:• 4 to 6 p.m., Fri., April 29, Central Library, 115 South Ave.

RI C T ST

May 4, 2016 at 6:00 pm The Rochester Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta will host a talk back/discussion on the 2016 Election and the Black Lives Matter Movement. Baobab Cultural Center, 728 University Avenue, .Rochester, NY • 585-563-2145

HESTE OC

CI T Y SC

2016 Election and the Black Lives Matter Movement

If your child turns 3 or 4 by Dec. 1, enroll them in Rochester Pre-K today!*

I OL D

• Six-hour daily programs—classes start September 7 • Healthy breakfast and lunch • Language, social and self-help skills to be ready for school • Educational field trips • Indoor/outdoor play and naptime • Free monthly RTS bus passes for parents • Available at schools and community agencies across the city

262-8140 | www.rcsdk12.org/prek *Every city 4-year-old is eligible for free Pre-K classes. Space for 3-year-olds is limited and restrictions apply.

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

AREA BRIEFS Metro Bus to Serve New Walmart in Cheektowaga

Judge Katie Nichols Harrod

Attorney and Judge Katie Nichols Harrod Will Lead Free “Ask The Lawyer” Community Session Erie County Legislator Betty Jean Grant and We Are Women Warriors will host a free “Ask The Lawyer” session at the Merriweather Library on Wednesday, April 20 from 5:30 – 7:45 p.m. Mrs. Katie Nichols Harrod, an esteemed lawyer, administrative appointed judge, and Challenger columnist, will lead this free seminar and public forum where she will present valuable information that will help to empower and educate the community on issues from a legal perspective. For more information call 894-0914.

The Sly Green Interview Continues Part two of the exclusive interview with Donald Sly Green will air on April 23 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. on Mix 1080AM WUFO Radio. Tune in by Radio app, or via the internet at www.wufoam. com. The trial that convicted him was probably the largest in Western New York history. More than 26 years ago the eyes of the nation were focused on the outcome. Hear from Donald Sly Green himself 26 years later as he is interviewed by The Mighty O’Ba Pat Freeman on a Special Edition of The Message on Mix 1080AM WUFO radio.

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority has announced service to the new Walmart store in Cheektowaga. With a Metro Bus stop directly on Walmart property, bus passengers will not have to cross Walden Avenue to shop. Metro Bus Route 46 will stop at Walmart several times a day, seven days a week. The Metro Bus stop is located conveniently on site. Walmart is constructing a bus shelter to further convenience transit users and plans to have it completed in June of this year. Route 46, and all Metro maps and schedules, can be found online at nfta.com Walmart initially said it would ban buses from the new super store’s parking lot for “safety” reasons. NFTA had requested permission at least six months ago. Ellicott District Council Member and Pastor of True Bethel Baptist Church, Rev. Darius Pridgen was among those who expressed concern for residents who live in the city and rely on busses to get to suburban stores like Walmart. “I’m disappointed a large store that makes billions on the backs of struggling people will not consider a proposal to simply let people off at their store,” Pridgen told WBEN 930 Radio several weeks ago. He said he feared it would take another tragedy, like when Cynthia Wiggins was killed trying to cross Walden to get to the Galleria 20 years ago after she got off an NFTA bus.

Free Legal Advice The Free Legal Advice Clinic is free of charge and open to the public. Lawyers will be on hand to discuss issues at Our Lady of Hope Church corner of Lafayette and Grant, Thursday April 21- from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Any questions call Marshall at WNY COSH @ (716) 833-5416

“I’m free but not free”: John Walker Reflects on End to Lifetime Parole

n his way to report for parole in February, John Walker received a call. It was his parole officer telling him not to worry about reporting that day. His lifetime parole status, he was told, was over. John Walker was finally free. At least as far as being on parole. “I really don’t feel any change yet,” John told The Challenger, adding that being released from parole did energize him to continue his struggle for total exoneration. “I’m not on parole but I’m still a convicted felon…convicted of a murder I did not commit. I’m innocent,” he declared. John, who was released from prison and placed on lifetime parole after serving over two decades for a crime he has always insisted he had nothing to do with, will celebrate his 58th birthday on July 10th. “I did 22 years on the inside and 18 years (on the outside) on lifetime parole…. I don’t care how much time passes, I’ll still be fighting (to clear my record and my name.” He said that he was hoping to that a newly created panel in New York State which investigates wrongfully convicted cases, will now take a look at his case and help get him exonerated. In the meantime, his dedicated young 9-year-old son, John III (“Tray”), is happy about his dad’s new found “freedom.” “He told me, ‘You ain’t got to go in the house now dad…you can stay out!’ But my lifestyle is kind of set,” said the single parent. “At least I’ll get to go to my first family reunion in about 40 years in July in Atlanta. I’m free but not free.” -Nightmare on FillmoreOn January 2, 1976, four 16 year old African American boys were arrested and wrongfully convicted for the murder of a 62 year old White man on Fillmore Avenue, not far from the Golden Nugget. The first three had public defenders, the fourth a private attorney and was ultimately found innocent. John Walker was one of the boys wrongfully convicted. Spot Crime filed the following report a few years ago: “I often wonder what really happened that night,” said Walker, On January 2nd, 1976...in a driveway on Fillmore Avenue...62 year old William Crawford was viciously beaten and left to die outside his doorstep. John Walker Junior and three other teens were arrested for the murder...a murder Walker insists they did not commit. “There was never no evidence, no nothing that ever put us at the scene of this crime,” said John. According to testimony at the trial, the victim ( Crawford) had been at the Golden Nugget across the street...he was attacked while walking to his home, his face beaten with a pipe, and 300 dollars stolen from his wallet. “The first person on the scene was an ambulance driver that testified to the fact that there was only one set of footprints going up into the yard. Now if there was all of us plus Mr. Crawford that Continued Page 5

Conference on “Criminal Justice & Solitary Confinement” to be held in Buffalo On April 30 the Buffalo/WNY chapter of the NY Campaign for Alternatives to Isolated Confinement is leading a one-day conference from 9:30 am to 4 p.m. on “Criminal Justice &Solitary Confinement.” The conference will take place in the parish hall of St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 15 Fernhill Avenue. The purposes of the conference are: 1. For people in our region who are interested in criminal justice issues to learn about solitary confinement, the work of the various groups working on criminal justice issues, and the connections between issues 2. To take action on these issues, especially solitary confinement 3. To work toward a unified vision and strategy by which groups in our region can work together to remedy the injustices and irrationalities of our current criminal justice system Many of the groups working on these issues in WNY will be presenting workshops at the conference. The featured speaker will be Amy Fettig, lead attorney for solitary confinement with the National Prison Project, located in Washington, DC, of the American Civil Liberties Union. There will be workshops on Solitary Confinement ; Re-entry from Prison or Jail; Restorative Justice; Reforming the Parole System ;Community-Oriented Policing ; and Raising the Age of Criminal. Admission is free, lunch will be provided, and participants can park free in ECMC lots. For further information, contact Steve Hart at 716.903.9090 or sahartny@gmail.com

Emancipation Day Emancipation Day, a holiday marking the anniversary of an act of Congress that provided for the emancipation of people held as slaves in the District of Columbia, was be observed Friday, April 15, this year (April 16, the actual anniversary date, fell on a Saturday). It was on April 16 in 1862 that President Abraham Lincoln signed legislation that abolished slavery in the capital city of the United States. The Civil War had been in progress for a year, meaning that slavery was still legal in the capital of the Union while it was fighting a war in which slavery was a key issue. Though previous efforts had been made to eliminate slavery in the District of Columbia, it was a bill introduced by Sen. Henry Wilson late in 1861 that finally became a law. The measure, titled “An Act for the Release of Certain Persons Held to Service or Labor in the District of Columbia,” not only emancipated the slaves but also provided for compensation to owners of the slaves being freed. During the days preceding Lincoln’s approval of the bill, many slaves–-particularly those who would fetch the best prices at slave markets-– were taken out of the District. Either owners did not want to give up their slaves, or they felt that their monetary value was higher than what they would receive as compensation under the new law. Slaves were not freed automatically. There was a Continued Page 12

LOCAL + NATIONAL + WORLD

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

The Donald Gets it confused Report: Chicago Police Have ‘No Regard for the Sanctity of Life in Buffalo... Maybe Donald Trump should have stopped by a 7-Eleven to grab a cup of coffee before his Buffalo, N.Y., rally Monday. That way he would have been alert enough not to confuse the convenience store with 9/11. CNN obtained video of the blunder in which the GOP front-runner accidentally refers to “9/11” as “7-Eleven” on the eve of New York’s primary. “I wrote this out, and it’s very close to my heart,” Trump started. “Because I was down there and I watched our police and our fireTrump men down at 7/11, down at the World Trade Center right after it came down. And I saw the greatest people I’ve ever seen in action.” As with most things Trump, the businessman didn’t correct his mistake and instead just powered through his speech. This isn’t the first time Trump has made a big-time blunder during a speech. Just last week, Trump stunned crowds at Pittsburgh when he cried out, “How’s Joe Paterno?” A quick Wikipedia check would have shown that the legendary Penn State coach died in 2012 after being fired amid sex-abuse scandal, the New York Daily News reports.

Obama Administration Urged to Declassify Pages of a Report that Holds 9/11 Secrets (‘60 Minutes’) White House and intelligence officials are reviewing whether to declassify one of the country’s most sensitive documents -- known as the “28 pages.” They have to do with 9/11 and the possible existence of a Saudi support network for the hijackers while they were in the U.S. For 13 years, the 28 pages have been locked away in a secret vault. Only a small group of people have ever seen them. Former U.S. Senator (DFla.) Bob Graham: I think it is implausible to believe that 19 people, most of whom didn’t speak English, most of whom had never been in the United States before, many of whom didn’t have a high school education--could’ve carried out such a complicated task without some support from within the United States. (Source: CLG - Citizens for Legitimate Government)

Trial for Accused Charleston, SC, Church Shooter, Delayed Until January 2017 Judge J.C. Nicholson said that the state trial, which had been scheduled to begin July 11, had to be pushed back because defense lawyers said a doctor needs between two and six months to conduct psychiatric testing on the alleged shooter. The trial of Dylann Roof, charged with murder in the shooting deaths of nine Black churchgoers at the Emanuel African Methodist Episcopal Church in Charleston, S.C., last summer, has been delayed and is now rescheduled for Jan. 17, 2017, Reuters reports. Judge J.C. Nicholson said that he was obligated to once again delay the trial because defense lawyers said a doctor needed up to six months to psychiatrically evaluate the 22-year-old. The judge asked the defense why doctors were not hired six months ago and suggested that defense lawyers were using "delaying tactics." Roof, who is White, is accused of walking into a Bible-study session at the church, known as Mother Emanuel, on June 17 and opening fire on the small group, killing nine congregants, including the pastor, state Sen. Clementa Pinckney. Roof is facing nine counts of murder, as well as attempted-murder charges regarding three people who survived the massacre. The state is seeking the death penalty.

When It Comes to People of Color’

A four-month investigative study of the Chicago Police Department found that distrust of the police by Blacks and Latinos is warranted, with data showing that the department does little to discipline officers who violate procedure and that normal police encounters often turn deadly. A task force established by Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel after an outcry over police shootings has found that the Chicago Police Department has a history of using excessive force against minorities, perpetuates a code of silence and has “no regard for the sanctity of life when it comes to people of color,” according to a report viewed by the Associated Press. The Task Force on Police Accountability, chaired by Lori Lightfoot, found that distrust of the police force by Blacks and Latinos is justified, with data concluding that the department does little to discipline officers who violate procedure and that what should be considered normal police encounters often turn deadly. According to AP, “74 percent of the hundreds of people shot by officers in recent years were African-Americans, even though Backs account for 33 percent of the city’s population.” The report, which was conducted over a four-month period and included hundreds of interviews, cited a history of police misconduct dating back to the 1960s and the killing of famed Black Panther Fred Hampton. The report also noted the allegations of torture from 1970 to 1990 and the highly contested stop-and-frisk practices in the early 2000s. “Reform is possible if there is a will and a commitment,” the report said, according to AP. “But change must start with an acknowledgment of Chicago policing’s ‘sad history.’” The task force report also noted that police unions have “essentially turned the code of silence into official policy,” citing one such contractual bylaw stating that officers can wait 24 hours before providing a statement after a police shooting, presumably

DO YOU REMEMBER…

giving officers enough time to work through a unified retelling of an incident. The contract also prohibits any officer from filing an anonymous complaint against another officer. Not only are complaining officers required to list their name, but officers listed in a complaint are also notified of who has filed the grievance against them. “The pain and the anger and the frustration that people across this city have articulated to us ... is something that has to be understood, has to be respected,” Lightfoot said.

Humboldt Parkway before the construction of the Kensington Expressway?

ROCCBuffalo.org (716) 883-0529

HEALTH MATTERS

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

April is National Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD) Awareness Month Erie County has the highest rate of new gonorrhea and chlamydia infections among the 8 Western New York counties: STD Testing Available at 608 William Street (Buffalo) Clinic

pril is National Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) Awareness Month and Erie County Department of Health officials want to draw attention to the high number of STDs diagnosed in Erie County, particularly among young people, ages 15-24 years old. Too many people want to avoid the topic altogether, but public health data show us that there is a hidden STD epidemic in this nation. In fact, CDC estimates 20 million new STD infections occur each year in the United States, costing the healthcare system nearly $16 billion in direct medical costs. There are also now more than 110 million total sexually transmitted infections in U.S. men and women. For the first time in nearly a decade, rates for three of the most common STDs (chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis) all increased at the same time in the United States. Erie County has the highest rate of new gonorrhea and chlamydia infections among the 8 Western New York (“WNY”) counties. These infections can threaten immediate and long-term health and well-being. Untreated STDs can lead to reproductive complications such as infertility (inability to get pregnant) and ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb). They can also increase a person’s risk for getting and giving HIV. Although STDs affect individuals of all ages, STDs take a particularly heavy toll on young people. CDC estimates that youth ages 15-24 years old make up just over one quarter of the sexually active population, but account for half of the 20 million new sexually transmitted infections that occur in the United States each year. Gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (MSM) represent an incredibly diverse community. However, these men are disproportionately impacted by syphilis, HIV, and other STDs. Some racial and ethnic minorities are also disproportionately affected by STDs. “Knowing your STD status is a critical step to stopping STD transmission. If you know you are infected you can take steps to protect yourself and your partners,” said Dr. Gale Burstein, Commissioner, Erie County Department of Health. “” Many STDs can be easily diagnosed and treated. STDs ARE Preventable! Here are some steps you can take to keep yourself and your partner(s) healthy: *Practice Abstinence: *Use Condoms: *Talk with your partner *Get tested The most common STD can be prevented by the HPV vaccine. The Erie County Department of Health offers confidential STD testing and PrEP (HIV Pre-exposure prophylaxis) to prevent HIV infection at the Jesse Nash Health Center at 608 William Street in Buffalo. For more information, please call (716) 858-7687.

Healing Juice Drinks

reshly made juice is packed with nutrients and vitamins and can help you self-heal naturally. From preventing high blood pressure to helping you hear, juicing is an amazing way to bring nutrition and health to your life for many long years. -Just Juice It!Be sure to make the juice fresh before drinking, as nutrients are lost the longer the juice sits around. Also, blenders do not separate the juice from the plant fibers, and this means that, aside from making the juice chunky, the fibers may lock some of the nutrients and prevent them from being absorbed by the body. A juicer will separate the juice from the fiber, allowing the body to easily absorb the nutrients, as they have been released from the fibers. Of course, you should not miss out on the health benefits of juice just because you don’t have a juicer. A blender will work in a bind. Also, these days, there are several health stores and cafes that can make any fresh juice you want while you wait. 1. Celery Juice to Lower High Blood Pressure: High blood pressure is often the root cause of stroke, heart disease, and kidney failure. A time-tested Chinese remedy for this condition is celery juice, which can be made with a blender or a juicer. Two to three 8 oz glasses a day for a month can help prevent high blood pressure or restore it to normal. Additionally, celery is known to prevent gout and other arthritic conditions. Studies have found that this stalk is packed with over a dozen anti-inflammatory agents, including apigenin, a cox2-inhibiting compound similar to some anti-inflammatory drugs. Get the benefits without the side effects! 2. A Juicy Hearing Aid An ancient remedy for improving hearing is made from garlic and onions, carrots, and parsley. Put 2 oz of water in a blender with 1 medium-sized chopped onion, 2 chopped carrots, and a generous bunch of parsley. Take out the pulp and keep the juice. Press the raw garlic to get garlic oil, and add to the juice. The garlic will help to increase blood flow to the auditory nerve, and the carrots and parsley are rich in vitamin and C, and niacin, which naturally help improve your hearing function. Drink this juice on a daily basis for a month. If you prefer a more liquid juice,

feel free to water this mixture down or add it to other juices. 3. Bright Eyesight Essence An age-old Chinese folk remedy for clearing the vision is a blended juice made from celery, peppermint, and Chinese parsley. Research has caught up with this wisdom, and we know that luteolin, an antioxidant bioflavonoid found in many herbs and foods, included the three ingredients to this juice has been found to provide the best protection of cell DNA from radiation. Evidence shows that luteolin helps protect the eye from UV radiation damage, as well as from glycation, a process in which sticky sugar molecules bind up protein, which can cause damage to the retina. Luteolin also promotes healthy blood sugar levels and regulates insulin sensitivity. Blend together celery, peppermint, and Chinese parsley in a blender with a little water or a juicer. 5. Heartburn Helper Juice one medium raw po-

tato in a juicer or a blender, put through a strainer and mix the juice with a cup of warm water. Drink this on an empty stomach in the morning when you first wake up. It will coat and sooth your stomach, as well as reduce acid. -Dr. Mao Benefits of Carrot, Apple Juice Carrot Juice-Carrot juice is a delicious and very valuable alkalinizing juice. It is a good source of vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K, as well as calcium, magnesium, Iron, phosphorus, sulphur, silicon and chlorine. It is recommended for pregnant women, nursing mothers and small infants. It aids in liver and intestinal diseases, ulcer and cancer treatments and helps to normalize the whole body. Apple Juice-Apple juice is a natural blood purifier and is helpffor skin and liver disorders. It can be a great aid in losing weight as it aids in digestion and acts as a laxative. Best when eaten in season.

JOHN WALKER continued would be several sets of footprints,” said Walker. The only other footprints Walker said, were at the scene. They came through the backyard....from a neighbor’s house...a neighbor who had been at the bar earlier that night with Crawford...who may have left evidence at the crime scene. “I remember it like it was yesterday only because it stayed in my mind all these years,” said James McLeod. McLeod is now a Buffalo City Court Judge. In the 70’s he was a defense attorney who represented Floyd Martin in the murder trial, the only suspect acquitted in the case. “It was physical evidence that clearly demonstrated that one person and one person alone committed this crime. A person who was much taller and much bigger than any of the young men involved.” Walker said, “The footprints showed the guy had to be wearing a size 12 and from the impressions in the snow it was determined that he had to weigh at least 200 pounds. None of the boys fit that description “Not even to this day,” said Walker. Among the evidence used against the teens was the testimony of Tyronne Woodruff, a friend who said he saw the other teens kill Crawford. Woodruff later recanted saying he felt pressured by police to lie. And there was an inmate at the Holding Center who claimed to have overheard two of the suspects talk about the murder. “He went and made a deal and got five years probation for coming to testify against us,” said Walker

FAITH & FAMILY

Missions Week at New Mt. Ararat Temple of Prayer

Missions Week at New Mt. Ararat Temple Of Prayer Church,971-983 Jefferson Ave, takes place April 27-29, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. and April 30, from 10 a.m.-12 noon

Mother’s Board Revival Welcome! Be blessed! Acts 2:4 John 3:16 Read Psalm 49 A Four-Day Revival will be held Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday & Friday May 10 – 13 at 7 p.m. nightly at Cold Spring COGIC 107 Verplank Street where Joseph L. Wallace is Pastor. Please come for repentance and saving of souls. Bishop Gerald Drayton is in charge. Mother Brant is President of Mother’s Board.

GOD IS GOOD!

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

The Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church Annual Spring Revival The Humboldt Parkway Baptist Church annual Spring Revival will take place Monday, April 25, through Thursday April 28. Our evangelist will be Reverend Dennis Lee, Pastor of the Hopewell Baptist Church. The revival starts nightly at 7 p.m. at 790 Humboldt Parkway @Woodlawn. Reverend John T. Hilliard is Pastor. The public is invited to attend.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church Celebrating 4th Pastoral Anniversary

astor Frank Bostic, of Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, located at 665 Michigan Avenue, where “Keeping Jesus First is our goal,” has announced that the church is currently celebrating its 4th Anniversary and conference. For three nights April 20-22 at 7 p.m. nightly, the special guest will be Pastor William T. Glynn of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Fort Worth, Texas. There will be teaching and lecture sessions April 19 and 20 from 5-6:30 p.m. prior to Pastor Glynn’s appearance. Those sessions will feature Pastor Dr. Dennis Lee of Hopewell Baptist Church (adult class for men); Pas- Pastor Bostic Pastor Glynn tor Kinzer M. Pointer of Agape Fellowship Baptist Church (adult class for women); and Pastor Marquitta Whitehead, Pastor D.I.V.A.S. for Christ (youth workshop). On Sunday, April 24 the guest Pastor for the 11 a.m. Worship Service will be Rev. Moshiu T. Knox of Turning Baptist Church in Grenada, MS. The guest Pastor at the 3 p.m. service will be Pastor William Gillison of Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Buffalo. Activities kicked off last Saturday, April 16, with a musical with Elder George Davis & Friends featuring gospel guests Half Mile Home of Detroit, The Billups Family Singers and True Bethel Adult Choir. The guest preachers earlier in the week included Pastor David Wade of Mt. Calvary Baptist, Mensa, Arizona; Pastor Tim Brown of Mt. Zion Baptist, Church, Niagara Falls; Pastor Dr. Johnnie Green Jr. of Mt. Neboh Baptist in Harlem, N.Y.; Dr. C.S. Gordon of New Orleans, LA; and Bishop T. Anthony Bronner of Elim Christian Fellowship in Buffalo. Congratulations Pastor Bostic and the Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church family!

The Young People’s Congress of the Western The Lutheran New York Conference, The African Methodist Church of Our Savior JAM Cafe Episcopal Zion Church Convenes in Buffalo After hosting a successful Buffalo District Conference on April 13-15, 2016 at the St. Luke A.M.E. Zion Church, 314 E. Ferry Street, the momentum is still high as the members of St. Luke prepare to host the 88th Session of the Young People’s Congress

A P P R E C I AT I O N :

An Appreciation event for Carol A. Milhouse will be held on April 29 at 7 p.m. at Antioch Holiness Church, 1461 Michigan Avenue. The event is being presented by the Friends of Carol A. Milhouse. For more in formation contact David Allen at (716) 238-2381

(YPC), April 28-30. The YPC is unique to the A.M.E. Zion Church in that the Western New York Conference is the only Conference in the denomination with a YPC. Young people ages 13-21 are given the opportunity to meet and fellowship in an organized manner and learn leadership and other life management skills as disciples of Christ. There will be daily sessions/workshops, evening worship services, election of new officers and service projects, all conducted and/ or organized by and for the young people. Inclusive in the event will be activities for younger children, young adults and adults. Mr. Nicholas Irion, Local Preacher, of St. Luke is the current YPC President; Ms. Sarlyn Tate is the WNY Conference Director of Christian Education; The Rev. Cary L. Beckwith, Host Pastor; The Rev. G. Michael Tydus, Host Presiding Elder and The Right Rev. Dennis V. Proctor, Presiding Bishop. Everyone is invited to join us for a spirit-filled time of fellowship and fun. Daily activities begin at 9:00am and evening services at 7:00pm. The YPC will close on Saturday, April 30th with a Quadrennial Banquet Luncheon in honor of our Presiding Bishop, The Right Rev. Dennis V. Proctor.

The Lutheran Church of Our Savior JAM Cafe invites senior residents to enjoy fun social activities in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Daily activities in our welcoming environment provides an outlet for seniors to socialize and participate in an array of artistic, educational, recreational and spiritual activities that inspire and stimulate. Handicap Accessible. We Welcome All Seniors.

REVIVAL Experience Macedonia Baptist Church 237 East North St. is hosting a Revival Experience Wednesday, April 4 thru Friday April 29 at 7 p.m.nightly. Rev. Herman Alston, Jr., is Pastor.

Evangelistic Temple & Community Church 94th Anniversary The community is invited to attend on April 24 to the 94th Church Anniversary of the Evangelistic Temple and Community Church Center, Inc., located at 92 Hedley Place (between Jefferson & Meech) This year’s theme is “Exercising Our Faith Walking With The Lord” 2nd Corinthians 5:v7. Our celebration will begin on Friday, April

22nd starting at 6p.m. with a fantastic Haddock Fish Fry followed by the movie entitled War Room, which will begin at 7 p.m. The donation for the dinner is $10. The weekend will conclude on Sunday, at 9:30 a.m., with R.I.S.E. ( Religious Instruction on Sunday for

Everyone) followed by our morning worship service at 10:30 a.m. Immediately following morning service will have light refreshments in the Lewis W. Hall. If you are a former or present member please call the Church at 882-1432 . George W. DuBois is the Pastor.

Jordan Grove Baptist Announces 5-Day Anniversary Celebration Jordan Grove Baptist Church, 1264 Kensington will be celebrating their 61st Church Anniversary during the week of April 18-22. The Evangelist for the week will be Pastor Kemp Burley Jr., Pastor of Jerusalem Baptist Church, Vicksburg Mississippi. Services will begin nightly at 7 p.m. Everyone is cordially invited to help us celebrate this momentous occasion as we lift up the name of our risen Savior. Truly, We’ve Come This Far By Faith. Rev. CC 29953 Cox Jr. isJustBreathe Pastor. Ads.qxp_Challenger (5.105x5.5) 4/11/16 11:51 AM Page 1

BECOME TOBACCO FREE FREE CLASSES: MONDAYS, 12:00-1:30 pm or 6:00-7:30 pm at Roswell Park Cancer Institute

The Guest Evangelist will be Burnice Green of Rochester, N.Y. Refreshments will be served Wednesday and Thursday & nights at 6PM . On Friday there will be Pizza and wings after the Revival. Sermons *Wednesday “SUIT UP” there’s a war going on *Thursday “FAITH” your ultimate defensive weapon *Friday “THE WORD OF GOD” conquers all

CALL 1-877-ASK-RPCI (1-877-275-7724) TO SIGN UP

Entertainment/Lifestyles

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

ON STAGE

RODNEY

TAYLOR

*An Evening of Jazz and R&B with E Life 7, Buffalo Music Hall of Famers Ron Walker and Michael Pennick from the legendary R&B Band the Exoutics, Performing hits from the CD Miked Up on April 24th at the Historic Colored Musicians Club 145 Broadway 6pm, Featuring Pennick on Bass, Walker on Guitar Tim Webb on Drums, Charley Crymes on Keyboards and Rodney Spears on Keyboards.

EXHIBIT:

The opening reception for the Rodney Taylor: Grey exhibit will be held on Thursday,  April 28 from 6-8 p.m. at Eleven Twenty Projects, 1120 Main Street. The exhibit will run thru May 29.   Eleven Twenty Projects is pleased to present the exhibition of the artist’s most recent black and white paintings.    In these new paintings, Taylor’s form of abstraction incorporates landscapes, often invisible at first, resembling windows or grids into another realm:  Grey is Taylor’s first solo exhibition since his 20-year survey Impure Abstraction at the University at Buffalo Center for the Arts Gallery in 2014.    Born in Buffalo in 1969, Rodney Taylor moved to New York City at the age of 20 where he studied, lived and worked for 16 years.    Exhibition Hours: Thursday – Saturday 11a.m.4pm or by appointment.  Gallery will be open until 9p.m. on First Friday May 6.

Aaron Moss

Paul Robeson Theatre At The African American SCRATCH NIGHT Cultural Center – Presents “Detroit 67” AT THE

he Paul Robeson Theatre (PRT) closes its 48th Season with a powerful play that unfolds an explosive moment in our history “DETROIT 67” – the race riots that ravaged the city of Detroit in 1967. “Detroit 67” written by Dominique Morisseau and directed by Aaron Moss takes the audience on a journey to 1967, in the City of Detroit. “Detroit 67” is winner of the Edward M. Kennedy Prize for Drama Inspired by American History. Director Aaron Moss is delighted to make his directorial debut at the Paul Robeson Theatre. He has worked as a NYC and LA based actor, appearing in over a dozen national commercials and recording voiceover narrations for books and film. For film/TV Aaron received a Golden Globe Award for Best Movie, (American Hustle) and 10 Academy Award nominations. He regularly narrates with the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and can be seen as architect, John E. Brent in the documentary “Through These Gates,” recently exhibited at the Burchfield Penny Art Center. Aaron serves as an Assistant Professor of Theater at SUNY Buffalo State, where he’s directed “The Brothers Size’ and “The Mother F**ker with the Hat”. Professor Moss has assembled an outstanding group of thespians – Annette L. Christian, Heather Reed, Candace Whitfield, Shabar Rouse and Gary-Kayi Fletcher. “Detroit 67” will open May 6 – May 29, Friday & Saturday at 8:00pm and Sunday 4:00pm, with talkbacks on Sunday after the show. THERE WILL BE A SPECIAL MOTHERS DAY DINNER ON SUNDAY MAY 8th $50.00 PER PERSON DINNER AT 4:00 SHOW AT 6:00PM CALL FOR RESERVATION AND MENU. Special rate with coupon $20.00 per person on May 7, 13, 22, visit website www.aaccbuffalo.org or for more information contact Paulette D. Harris, Artistic Director at paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com

Juneteenth ‘Harlem Nights’ Fundraiser Gala Pays Tribute To Buffalo’s Legendary Anna Montgomery

ack in the day, New York City had its Cotton Club, Chicago its Grand Terrace, but in Buffalo, the preeminent place to experience great jazz during the Great Depression was Anna Montgomery’s Little Harlem. The Little Harlem, 496 Michigan Avenue, was part of the “jazz triangle” that included the nearby Club Moonglo, Vendome, and still-active Colored Musicians Club—a few of the dozens of jazz clubs that once existed in Buffalo. On Friday, May 15, Juneteenth proudly presents its second annual gala event, “Harlem Nights Gimme that Swing 2016!” from 5 to 11 p.m. at the Statler City Ballroom, 107 Delaware Ave. Admission is $75. Harlem Nights will be the most talked cultural event of the year, where an atmosphere that is all about the renaissance will be re-enacted. Dress up in your favorite 1920’s era outfit and travel back in time during a funfilled fundraising gala for Juneteenth 2016. This year’s 1920’s themed gala will honor Anna Montgomery, Queen of a Good Time and Matron of the historic Little Harlem Hotel and Night Club. Enjoy cocktails, dinner, live music by the Colored Musicians Big Band, dancing, a special guest comedian, fabulous auction items and more! Buffalo’s very own “Community Daughter” Solar J. Ingram will host the evening. Tickets are $75 per person or $100 for VIP Admission. VIP Tickets include 2 hours of Open Bar, and all night access to “Mr. Brown’s Room.” Play games of chance and be the first to bid on auction Items. Proceeds benefit the 2016 Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo. For more information or to purchase place an ad in the gala’s journal, individuals, organizations and businesses can visit our website at juneteenthofbuffalo.com or call (716) 891 - 8801. Tickets are also available at Doris Records.   All of our sponsors will be acknowledged as supporters who help keep Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo, Inc. alive and growing for yet another 40 years. Your contributions is a lasting symbol that you are part of building a stronger foundation for the future. All proceeds go towards expanding the largest African American Festival in America to the date.   Donations for the Silent auction are still being taken, by TEXTING #Pick Up Donation to( 716) 605-4455. Please include the date, time and address of your pick up!

ROBESON

The last Monday of the month is coming up and the place to be is at the African American Cultural Center’s Scratch Night at the Robeson. The program is an opportunity for artists to come out and present their talent whether it is theatre, dance, music, poetry, comedy, storytelling, writers, indie film and worksin progress let your creative juices flow. Vendors are welcome. Our community needs to know the resources that are available from our own. Scratch Night at the Robeson is held the last Monday of every month from 7:30-9:30 p.m. on April 25, May 30, June 27 and July 25. The MC is Buffalo’s own Edreys Wajed. There is a cover charge of $5; vendors $20 (tables provided). Individuals & vendors who are interested should send a request to paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com – Networking opportunities close out the night.

*Anthony Hamilton and Fantasia: Shea’s Theatre April 21 . Showtime 7:30 PM$88, $78, $58, $48.

*Fragrance of YAH presents The Jazz Embassy Cafe

April 24, from 4- 8 p.m. at The Parkside Lodge @ Delaware Park (84 Parkside Avenue)! General Admission is free. Tickets for food and unlimited drink $10- $30. Fragrance of YAH, John Campfield Jr., Victor Johnson Jr., Einat Agmon, MahoganeyJaz. Tickets for food and unlimited drink $10- $30. Call 716-253-1404, email atfragranceofyah@gmail.com Fragrance of YAH will also release her new EP "Vulnerable"!

*Little Anthony and The Imperials: 8 p.m. April 29, Riviera Theatre, 67 Webster St. North Tonawanda. 692-2413. Tickets $53 - $68. *Soul Superstars Featuring The Drifters and The Contours, May 14, 7:30 p.m. at the Riviera theatre. www.RivieraTheatre.org

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Entertainment/Lifestyles

ON STAGE *Faith Evans. 112, Carl Thomas, and Total, Canalside, Friday, June 17, www.canalsidebuffalo.com *Marsha McWilson Friday, May 27, Buffalo Convention Center, 7 p.m. donation is $30. For tickets or info 8327542 or 741-1908. SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

Buffalo’s Own Eric Jordan Young Brings His Amazing One-Man Show to Buffalo!

n April 30, Eric Jordan Young returns home to give his first performance in Western New York since “Sammy and Me,” as he makes his Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra debut with “Celebrating Sammy” in Kleinhan’s Music Hall at 8 p.m. As a child growing up in Buffalo, Eric remembers the feelings he had watching his favorite entertainers on television. “I was drawn to their energy and dynamism. I remember watching all of them, along with the Jackson 5, Carol Burnett and Benny Hill. I was always happy when I saw them and wanted to give other people the same feeling,” he says. Young started early. He sang in church, in school, and in the Buffalo Arts & Music Youth Chorale under David Hilliard. He performed at Artpark with the Upstage Theater Company and recorded a public service announcement for PBS. Like any young artist, Young continually drew inspiration from his role models. Above all others, Young admired Sammy Davis Jr. As he grew up, graduated from Ithaca College, and went on to a successful career performing on Broadway, in Las Vegas, and in national touring shows, his admiration only grew. In 2006, he performed the world premiere of his one-man show, “Sammy and Me,” at MusicalFare Theatre. The show is a deeply honest tribute, lifting up the legacy of Sammy Davis Jr. while grappling with the racism that dogged his career. “I grew up as an African-American person living in predominantly White areas. In the show, I play Sammy, plus over 20 other characters. I basically parallel his life with mine. It’s told as a coming-of-age story, about the relationship that I -- as an artist -- have had with Sammy Davis Jr. and how he inspired me,” Young told The Buffalo News at the time. Young also rekindles the singer’s songbook legacy. A legacy that has been largely forgotten in the 20 years since the singer’s death. “I feel a responsibility to help get this material back out there,” Young explained during an interview a few years ago. “Yes, Sammy was man of his time. But he was also a pioneer and somebody has to stand up for him. When I can get the audience to just fly with me on any given night in this show, I know Sammy is up there, working right along side me.” The show earned sterling reviews and went on to success at the National Black Theater Festival and at the Alliance Theatre in Atlanta. It received an Artie that year, and also the Syracuse Area Live Theater Award. Young has been busy since that time. His solo album, “Once in a Lifetime,” was released in 2010. In 2012, he joined the cast of “Vegas – The Show!” and performed nightly at Las Vegas’ Saxe Theatre. He’s performed in “Chicago” on Broadway alongside such household names as Bebe Neuwirth and George Hamilton, and appeared in a Lincoln Center revival of “Ragtime.” “Celebrating Sammy,” is part of the Bank of America Pops Series. Tickets to the show are available at bpo.org or by calling (716) 885-5000.

Pine Grill Jazz Reunion Update

Buffalo Community it time to GET READY for the 27th year of the Annual African American Cultural Center’s Pine Grill Jazz Reunion I & II. On Sunday, August 7 & 14 the Martin Luther King, Jr. Park will come alive with the jazz sounds of the old Pine Grill Night Club. Come out and meet, greet old and new friends for a rousing, foot stomping, hand clapping good time. THIS YEAR THE CONCERT WILL BEGIN AT 3:00PM Any musical groups preferably jazz who are interested in performing, send a press packet to Paulette D. Harris e-mail address pauletteharris12@gmail.com For more information the African American Cultural Center at 884-2013.

Job Fair & Entrepreneurship Conference to Benefit Stop Bullying Film Campaign A Job Fair and Entrepreneurship Conference to benefit a Stop Bullying Campaign will be held on Saturday, April 23 from noon to 5 p.m. at the Edward Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Avenue. The event, which is free and open to the public, will cover such topics as: 1) Get a job on the spot 2) Starting your own business 3) Passing your business down to your children 4) Building a National Business Platform 5) Getting Grants for your business This will be a great opportunity to re-educate, make money, network, and build new joint partner relationships. FOR VENDING INFORMATION CALL 716-563-5515.

Challenger Community News â&#x20AC;˘ April 20, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ www.thechallengernews.com

VOICES 11

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

A Review of The Issues...

The Struggle Continues...

his week’s column offers an update on several hot button issues that I’ve written about this year: Opt Out - Over the last few weeks the subject of high stakes standardized (NYS ELA and Math) tests and the Opt Out Movement has occupied much of my thought, actions and writings. As of last Friday, those tests have come and gone, but the debate continues. However, this week I won’t dwell solely on the arguments opposing these “meaningless” tests (the Governor’s word, not mine although I agree with him). I also want to update readers on a few related issues of note. Last week I recounted some of the reports I received from parents and teachers about the strategies being used to convince, cajole or intimidate parents, students and even educators into “opting in” to these tests. Unfortunately, we were not unique as similar incidents occurred all over the state. It’s a sad state of affairs Barbara Seals when educators either buy into or are forced into supporting a system that proNevergold motes activities counter to sound educational practices, violate parents’ rights and foster intimidation of students by the adults, who should be their role models. To be fair, many educators did speak up to support parents and students in spite of the bureaucracy and threats of retaliation. Last year, nearly 240,000 or 20% of New York State’s student population opted out of the tests. The numbers are not all in, but indications are that this number will hold steady and may even increase this year. In the meantime, advocates are raising a number of important questions about the tests and the changes the Commissioner said would improve them. The New York State Education Department supposedly operates on data, which it uses to make decisions re: policy for example. The Department had a number of opportunities to collect important axillary data related to test administration. 1) How are the test results impacted by children who “opt in” to the tests but are absent one or more days during the testing cycle (the ELA and Math tests are offered during a three day period); so how are the tests scored? Do those children receive a proficiency ranking? And how are the results factored into the final accountability statistics for each school? And consequently for a District? How will the accountability of schools and Districts that exceeded 5% opt outs be impacted? 2)This is the first year the tests are not timed; in other words students were able to take all the time they needed to complete the exams. And some did; reports are that some students worked ALL day, e.g. from the beginning of school until the end of the school day. What is the impact of removing the time limits? Will that improve test performance in general? The timed tests were 90 minutes, however what was the average time taken by students to complete the tests? What was the impact on staff time to monitor the tests? How will the Department collect, analyze and employ this data? There are concerns, however that the Department did not collect any data associated with question two, specifically. We’ll see when the report on the test results is released, perhaps in August. Disparate use of ELA/Math Tests Results in Admissions Criteria for City Honors/Olmsted – This is an issue I’ve been addressing since last December. The ELA/Math tests are part of the admissions criteria for these schools. Students whose parents opted out of these tests in 2015 and applied for City Honors or Olmsted were given a score of zero out a potential maximum of 9 points. After extensive questioning of District Staff, Dr. Keresztes disclosed that applicants from private schools, which do not give the ELA/Math tests, did not receive a zero for this missing score. Instead the administration doubled their score from the cognitive test, a practice which has been going on for some time. This inequitable treatment of Buffalo Schools’ student applicants to the criterion schools as documented is unacceptable. The Superintendent agreed to develop a remedy for this problem, which impacts 95 Buffalo School students. After more than two weeks, we are still waiting for a resolution. Parents are concerned and they are impatient. And so am I. All students deserve to be treated fairly. This situation must be resolved immediately. The School Board Candidate’s Debate or One out of Two Is Bad – On Tuesday, April 12th, the Buffalo Association of Black Journalists held a candidate’s debate at the Burchfield Penny Gallery. Only the candidates from the Central and East Districts were fully represented. With the exception of Dr. Harris-Tigg and Ms. Belton Cottman, none of the incumbents showed up. It’s worth noting also that Ms. Belton Cottman is running un-opposed. Debates offer an opportunity for candidates to (re)introduce themselves to the community, state their experience and competencies to fill the position, expound on their core issues, and differentiate themselves from their opponents. This was the first general debate. Future debates are scheduled and one would hope that all candidates will engage in these events. School Board member is an elected position and as such voters have the right to expect that all candidates, including the incumbents, will honor the system and provide their constituents with comprehensive, which includes face-to-face, information so voters can make an informed decision.

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

received some good news last week. I was elated to learn that John Walker is no longer on lifetime parole. At first, I was in total shock. John’s life had been totally relegated, for nearly two decades, by a system that basically ignores the humanity of formerly incarcerated people. I called John immediately to confirm what I had heard and he verified for me that his life on lifetime parole was over. I have spent a week, remembering the many times that John was a guest speaker at our PRP2 meetings. I recalled numerous occasions where I had heard him speak at rallies, forums, speak-outs, teach-ins, panel discussions, and conferences over the years at schools, colleges, churches and other public spaces. His call for justice was always strong, clear, humble, and correct. The need to overturn Indictment #41-413 has been a rallying cry that many have heard and, unfortunately, many have ignored, failing to recognize the fact that injustice for one is injustice for all. John Walker will be our guest speaker at this month’s Prisoners Are People Too meeting. He will talk about being wrongfully convicted of murder and Karima sentenced to 17 years when he was 16 years old in 1977. He will talk about AMIN what happened to his co-defendants. He will describe the 22 years that he spent behind bars in three New York State prisons. John was released on lifetime parole in 1998 and for 18 years he has been in a fight to reverse his conviction and clear his name. A sitting judge, the Honorable James A. McLeod (who was a lawyer in 1977) has publicly stated that there is evidence to prove that John Walker and his friends could not have committed murder on a night in early January of 1976. I plan to invite Judge McLeod to this meeting. His perspective and the reasons for it are important. I am also extending an invitation to Judge Timothy J. Drury who was the District Attorney at the time of John Walker’s trial. Perhaps he will come or send someone from his office who can explain why the Court has been so unwilling to consider exoneration for John Walker. For 40 years, John Walker has been punished for a crime he did not commit. His struggle continues. This meeting will be held on Monday, April 25, at the Pratt-Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street, in Buffalo, from 7:00 – 9:00pm. For more information: Karima Amin, karima@prisonersarepeopletoo.org, 716-834-8438; BaBa Eng,g.babaeng@yahoo.com, 716-491-5319.

Family Matters

his column, which is focused on families, parents and children; even grandparents, has garnered a ton of interest over the past few months. Many encouraging calls and emails have come in and I hope you don’t mind if I share just a few with you. One woman called to remind me that my brothers and I would sometimes attend her church where her husband has just recently retired from teaching Sunday School for the past 50 years. I was stunned and overjoyed! I Remember fondly that little church around the corner from us. On those few occasions when we did not attend our church, Lincoln Memorial, Mom would let us walk down the street and around the corner to Oak Grove and Hughes (I think; wait I can Google it). We learned how to pass by the corner store (with all that delicious penny candy....my grandma would say, “ you youngins don’t know nothin’ ‘bout that!!) and place our pennies in the offering plate. The Deacons and Mothers would keep order in a loving but firm way. ( “Talking Back”??...Don’t Even THINK about it, my friend, they Katie wasn’t having it!). There; at Zion Church of God (I Googled it!) we would HARROD hear wonderful, intense sounds that reminded us of that moving music and the joyful shouts from my grandfather’s (Rev. AC Carter) Baptist Church in South Carolina. How this upbringing affected our lives in such a positive way is unquestioned. The discipline of being taught the principles of God and the Bible and the priority of respecting our elders is greatly missed in today’s society. Those of us who are determined to hold on to the Word of Truth and pass it on to our next-generation are already experiencing the fruit of that labor. It’s not easy and for SURE no two children are exactly alike. What I mean by that is you can have five children grow up in the same household, on the same street, with the SAME parents, and the same set of rules, regulations, love, food, comforts of life and great expectations...but one or two of those knuckle-heads....I mean children...turn out to be completely incorrigible But so long as we, as parents, consistently teach the value of respect for authority and honor for our elders we allow a powerful strength to come into our families. The foundational Corner Stone of wisdom and authority for families is Jesus; His Word leads and guides us. As we turn back to these basics within our family units, we will see tremendous change and blessing. The other Elder that I had the privilege to speak with last month (he gave me permission to mention him in my column) was Mr. Bill Webb. He will be 91 in June. To say he is wise and rich in understanding is quite an understatement. We met when he came to Makowski School to vote a couple years ago and we stayed in touch. He was born and raised here in Buffalo and was one of the Famous Tuskegee Airman under General Benjamin O. Davis! His family raised some tough men during a difficult period in our nation’s history. He told me about his brothers, and Mr. Continued Page 13

“We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us.” - John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal. 1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

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

• • • •

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 a d ve r t i s i n g @ t h e c h a l l e n g e r n ew s . c o m or a l n i s a 3 3 @ ya h o o . c o m

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

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

COMMUNITY

Jan Peters Leaves Legacy of Boys To Men: Solo Announces New Caring, Advocacy and Impact Mentoring Program

ixty-two percent of the City of Buffalo’s population is living under some sort of economic, social or psychological conditions that could hinder their optimum development. For many Buffalo area youth, the results could be a diminishing desire to learn, inability to adapt to change, confusion about goals, alienation from school and community and antagonistic attitudes toward society. Although growth and direction should begin at home it is also the responsibility of the community to present positive alternatives for youth; hence the emergence of the Solo’s Boys to Men Mentoring Program. “The mission of the Solo’s Boys to Men Mentoring Program is to encourage and build young people’s character and self esteem, specifically males Tony Hearst Wih His Sons. between the ages of 13 and 17, with the goal of providing mentoring relationships,” states Solo’s Chairman Tony Hearst of St. John Lodge #16. “We look to instill teens with the empowering tools necessary to approach any situation with confidence and success.” Young teens will receive among other things, training in speech and etiquette; leadership training; nutrition education; drug awareness, teen pregnancy prevention and counseling , career guidance and tutorial services. “We are currently seeking sponsors for the Solo’s Boys to Men Mentoring Program. This initiative is also in need of goods and services such as transportation, T-shirts, workshop supplies and field trip fees.” For more information about available sponsorships and patronage opportunities contact Bro. Hearst at 499-SOLO (7656). The proprietor of Solo’s Unisex Salon on Main Street in Buffalo, Bro. Tony has been heavily involved in his community by offering jobs, services and charitable donations. His salon houses several barbers and beauticians and has been in operation for 15 years. Tony hosts a yearly “back to school” supply give away where he hands out over 700 supply filled book bags to children in the city. Solo Unisex Salon also offers $5 haircuts for children returning to school. He subsequently hosts a turkey giveaway before the holidays and hands out about 300 turkeys along with side dishes. For Christmas Tony will dress up as Santa and donate toys to underprivileged children.

BLACK HISTORY continued process to be followed, which was handled by a commission of three men, known as the Emancipation Commission. As with any undertaking by the government, administration of the emancipation law involved procedure and paperwork. Owners were to report to the office of the Emancipation Commission in the City Hall, preferably with their slaves. The commissioners would determine the value of each slave, and that amount would be paid to the slaveholder as compensation. Owners also had to provide evidence from two witnesses in order to assure the commissioners that they had title to the slaves they claimed to own, and also to testify to the owners’ loyalty to the Union (rebel owners were not to be compensated). The process was involved enough that attorney John M. Binckley placed ads in Washington papers offering, at moderate fees, his services in drawing up and presenting applications to “loyal owners” seeking “compensation for freed slaves.” In the end, former slaves were given certificates of freedom, and owners received checks. (Excerpted from the artiacle, Emancipation Day: The End of Slavery in the Capital of a Free Nation by David Fiske)

Former Executive Director of the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers for Almost Four Decades, Former Buffalo School Board Member, Makes Her Transition

anice (nee Boone), 69, known as Jan, and affectionately as “Miss Jan” and “Ms. Peters” throughout the community, passed away on April 10, 2016.

A homegoing celebration will be held Friday April 22 at 10 a.m. at St. John Baptist Church, 184 Goodell. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Jan Peters Scholarship Fund, c/o Lisa Boone Reddick, 8021 Morning Lane, Fort Worth, TX, 76123. Jan Peters was born in Augsburg, Germany. She moved at an early age with her family to Long Island, New York, where they lived for four years, followed by a family move to Rome, New York, where she completed middle school and graduated from Rome Free Academy High School. In 1968, Peters earned her Bachelor’s Degree in History from the University at Buffalo. She went on to complete a Master’s Degree in Urban Studies at Occidental College, Los Angeles, CA. She was selected as a National Urban Fellow in 1974 and interned for one year as an executive assistant to Coleman Young, former Mayor of Detroit. Following graduate school and her work in Detroit, Peters returned to Buffalo, New York. In July 1977, she was hired as the director of the Neighborhood House Association, located at 97 Lemon Street in Buffalo’s Fruit Belt neighborhood. The organization was a settlement house founded in 1893. In 1981, Peters successfully implemented the merger of the Neighborhood House Association and Westminster Community House, another Buffalo settlement house founded in 1894. The resulting not-for-profit human services corporation was called the Buffalo Federation of Neighborhood Centers, Inc., or “BFNC.” Under her leadership, BFNC grew from a $400,000 annual operation to become an influential organization that continues to serve thousands of individuals annually across Erie and Niagara counties with a $6 million budget. Over four decades, Peters, her staff, boards and volunteers forged BFNC’s position as a leading human service agency offering second, third and fourth chances to some of Western New York’s most at-risk, challenged, in-need, underrepresented and often misunderstand populations. She believed in the potential within every individual and in “guided” empowerment. At the helm of BFNC, Peters developed and led community-based programs, including city-, county- and state-funded programs for those with severe and persistent mental illnesses and/or developmental disabilities. During the early and mid-1990s, as New York State’s de-institutionalization programs expanded, Peters grew BFNC’s offerings to fill a niche expertise need in serving dually diagnosed and chemically/drug addicted individuals in a culturally appropriate/respectful service delivery approach. Additional BFNC programs under her watch included the Buffalo Adolescent Pregnancy Prevention Services (BAPPS/CAPP) program; an Alternatives to Incarceration program; and an annual community Thanksgiving dinner; and an annual Holiday food basket program that served more than 1500 households. Perhaps the most known BFNC location and service developed by Peters is the Moot Senior Citizens Center, located at 292 High Street, adjacent to the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. “The Moot” continues to be a hub of support, daily hot lunches, socialization, integrated programming and is a neighborhood meeting place symbolizing the past and future of the Near East Side community. Affectionately called “Miss Jan” and “Miss Peters” by nearby residents of the Fruit Belt, she was known for her constant open-door policy. Her office door and phone were available

Dr. David Anderson of Rochester, “Sankofa,” will present an introductory workshop

Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of WNY to hold annual storytelling festival, “Tell Me A Story”

radition Keepers: Black Storytellers of WNY will hold its annual storytelling festival, “Tell Me A Story – 8” on Saturday, April 23, 2016 from 12:30. – 4:00 p.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Branch Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14208. The featured storyteller will be David A. Anderson, Ph.D., “Sankofa” who is a founding member of Blackstorytelling League of Rochester, and, holds a LIFE membership in the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. As one a founding members of Rochester’s AKWAABA, the Heritage Associates, he is active in interpreting the Underground Railroad as re-enactor and tour guide. During the “Tell Me A Story” program, Dr. Anderson will present an introductory workshop and a storytelling concert later in the afternoon. Two workshops will be offered by members of Tradition Keepers: Telling Personal Stories (for adults) and Creative Telling for Children All events are FREE and open to the public. For more information contact: Sharon Holley jordanholley@aol.com 716886-1399. to anyone. She regularly helped neighborhood residents find work, support or a listening ear—regardless of her busy days and nights as a Buffalo leader. In 1995, while continuing to lead BFNC, Peters was elected to the Buffalo School Board. She faithfully represented the families and children of the Central District and chaired various Board committees including Budget and Audit and was a designated representative to the Joint Schools Construction Board, which led and managed the construction of new schools in the district. Peters was also instrumental in creating an Assistant Principal position at Herman Badillo School, in the naming of a public school in honor of Dr. Lydia T. Wright, and in the creation of the Parent Ombudsman function within the Office of the Superintendent. Outside of her BFNC and School Board commitments over the years, Peters very active in the community. Shewas a founding member and the first president of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Buffalo Chapter; and was an active member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She was the recipient of numerous honors and awards. Peters retired in 2013 from BFNC, having been known by leaders from across Western New York as a tough, committed colleague, peer, partner and/or adversary. Her kindness, intelligence and steadfast advocacy on behalf of those needing a voice made her an unforgettable Buffalo personality and presence. To her employees, volunteers, consumers and neighbors/communities, Peters was a mentor, guide, friend, mother, aunt and sister figure they could depend on to stand up for their rights and interests, and to encourage their successes, in whatever form those achievements might take. May her brilliant and beloved soul rest forever in the Eternal fields of Peace.....

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

FAMILY MATTERS continued Webb spoke so proudly about them. His brother Clyde was a soldier aboard the USS Arizona and was killed during the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941. You may be aware that there is some speculation about exhuming the USS Arizona warship but Mr. Webb is not in favor of the idea. He considers it a sacred burial place. Another brother, Alfonso, was with the Triple Nickel. Mr. Webb asked me if I knew what that was. (As a pretty sharp history buff, I thought I knew it all...but), I didn’t know. He said it was the 1st Black ParaTrooper Regiment trained at Fort Bragg. What a terrific opportunity it was to speak with him about all these important events. I was honored. Our 9 year old grandson did a project in 2nd grade on General Davis, so he cant wait to meet Mr. Webb! Elder Henry Williams. Curtis III is working on connecting him with other veteran groups. Let me know through an e-mail if you have other suggestions. I asked him one last question; “what is your secret to a long, healthy life?” He shared that he goes to church on Sundays at Faith Bible Church on Humboldt, he believes in Jesus as his Lord. Mr. Webb might consider anyone 75 and under to be a “young person”, so young people, follow the wisdom and advise of Buffalo’s Tuskegee Airman. Developing our spiritual life is so essential. We must teach our children this truth. Our Elders are especially good at helping children understand they are not the centers of the universe. In order to incorporate the great value of our older generation to our younger ones we should cultivate and strengthen relationships with that generation. The courageous men and women who served in the World Wars, the ones who bravely lived through Korea, Vietnam and the recent battles in the Middle East. They have so much to share. Those men and women who treasure our nation, our families and our children! You can find some in your neighborhood,

Mr. Bill Webb proudly displays his “Triple Nickles.”

some are in senior centers or nursing homes. My own grand parents were so important to us growing up. Seek out your Elders. Also, don’t allow for excuses as you are bringing up your children. Excuses are the currency of cowards (I made that up myself). But I’m sure Mr. Webb would agree with me. I remember a classmate in elementary school who almost never had his homework. After he had exhausted the usual tired, lame-brained excuses like... the dog ate it, baby sister threw up on it, it flew out the window in the snowstorm he started opening his note book and...get this...he would leaf through the empty pages of his three-pronged notebook for a good 10 minutes looking for homework that we ALL know, simply did not exist. I’m still devising ways to redeem the time he wasted with that non-sense! If only his Mom or Dad had said “No Johnny (not his real name) you can’t go play outside until you finish your homework.” Let’s raise strong sons and daughters. It takes effort, it takes relying on the strength of the Lord, it takes listening to our Elders who have gained wisdom and it WILL make a difference in the lives of our children and families. Until next time.... Be Blessed! You can reach me at The Challenger Community News. com;Katieharrodlaw@yahoo.com or (716) 352-4396.

PUBLIC INFORMATION MEETING Public Information Meeting Elmwood Avenue Pedestrian/ Bicycle Improvements Village of Kenmore Project 5761.03 Erie County/Village of Kenmore public information meeting May 5, 2016, 6pm to 8pm in the Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 2919 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore, NY to discuss improvements on the east side of Elmwood Ave. within the Village limits within the right-ofway. Comments due by May 19, 2016 at 5pm EST. Details on Erie County website at: http://www2.erie.gov/dpw/index. php?q=elmwood-avenue-pedestrian-bicycle-improvements or call 858-2079.

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid

4573 - TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT PLANNING Download Bids from www.nfta.com

LEGAL NOTICE BIDS COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS For BUFFALO NIAGARA CONVENTION CENTER BNCC 2016 TOILET ROOM RENOVATIONS, LOADING DOCK RAILINGS, AND SPRINKLER CONVERSION Separate sealed bids for: General Construction, Fire Suppression, Plumbing, and Electrical work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on Thursday, May 5, 2016 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/

LEGAL NOTICE Bids

INVITATION TO BID The NFTA is soliciting bids for Project No. 12BA1512. BNIA – runway 14-32 Rehabilitation, Bid No. E-523 on May 17, 2016.www. nftaengineering.com LEGAL NOTICE RFP Public Notice The Buffalo and Erie County Workforce Investment Board, (WIB) is accepting proposals for the following: Web and Mobile Site Design, Development and Hosting Services. Proposals submitted in response to this Request for Proposal (RFP) must be received by the WIB no later than 3:00 PM EST, on May 13, 2016 in order to be considered. View the complete announcement at www. becwib.org.

A dvertising Pays

LEGAL NOTICE

Bids

The Erie County Department of Mental Health (ECDMH) is issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) to provide Positive Youth Development Activities at a Community Resource Center in Erie County. RFP#A1527VF Qualified providers eligible to respond to this RFP are currently contracted providers with the ECDMH and have experience providing positive youth activities and supports to the target population as described in the RFP; or, a lead applicant who does not possess the experience with the target population may partner with one or more not-for-profit providers who can demonstrate such experience. The RFP and associated forms can be obtained at: http:// www2.erie.gov/purchasing/index.php?q=requests-proposalsamp-construction-bids. Responses must be received by May 23, 2016 prior to 3 p.m., and submitted per specifications delineated within the RFP.

LEGAL NOTICE

Bids

COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS Swift Mills Bridge Replacement PROJ# FA-255-2-16 PIN 5757.29 The Department of Public Works (DPW), Division of Highways, seeking sealed bids for bridge replacement project. Sealed proposals received at the DPW, 95 Franklin St, Rm 1400, Buffalo, NY at 10 am, Thursday, April 28, 2016. Bid deposit of $40,000.00 required. Apprenticeship and DBE utilization included. Pre-let meeting scheduled for Thursday, April 21, 2016 at 10 am, DPW, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY. Plans and additional bid submittal information on the Erie County website at: http://www2. erie.gov/dpw

N O VA TO S T. J U D E

EM P LOY M EN T EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

The City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency is seeking candidates to fill the positions of Accountant and Special Projects Manager.Details for these positions can be found at

http://www.ci.buffalo.ny.us/Home/City_Departments/BURA/ EmploymentOpportunities or by emailing bura@city-buffalo.com.

WANTED MBE CONSTRUCTION COMPANY

to do subcontracting work on a waterline project in the City of Buffalo. Must have experience and be certified as a Minority Business Enterprise. Email information to destrobros@hotmail.com or mail to 411 Ludington Street, Buffalo, NY 14206

Thursday April 21

Buffalo Employment and Training Center To Host Spring Career Job Fair! The Buffalo Employment and Training Center (BETC) will be holding its Annual Spring Job Fair at its headquarters, 77Goodell Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, on Thursday April 21st, 2016, 10:00am to 1:00pm. Over 70 Employers are looking to hire immediately for a variety of positions ranging from entry level to managerial; blue collar and white collar. For the first time in years, the unemployment rate is on the decline, and companies are hiring at a rapid pace. The BETC has aligned themselves with the companies looking to hire from the community. If you are looking for work or want to change careers, please attend the Spring Job Fair. Please dress appropriately, have a resume ready, and be well groomed to take advantage of this opportunity. If you need a resume, interviewing skills, dress for success instruction or free business wear; Job Preparation activities will be held Before the Job Fair from April 18-20. For more information, please do hesitate to contact the BETC at 856-JOBS.

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

MAYOR LOVELY WARREN: STATE OF ROCHESTER ADDRESS

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

3-WAY WIN 4 TAKE 5

LOTTO

HOT TIPS

continued study would give the cost of the project, for now no plans are SUN 4/10 MON 4/11 TUES 4/12 WED 4/13 THURS 4/14 FRI 4/15 SAT 4/16 in place to move dirt. During her address, Warren also placed a huge emphasis on MID-787 MID-133 MID-148 MID-688 MID-915 MID-065 MID-075 education, particularly on the failing schools in the district. She has a plan to help. EVE- 340 EVE-431 EVE-762 EVE-183 EVE-684 EVE-412 EVE-732 “Currently under the state’s receivership program, when you have a number of different schools that are under receivership, or some form of it, there could be the potential that 28 MID- 2134 MID -2724 MID -2132 MID-9598 MID -8580 MID-5417 MID-8536 schools could have a different receiver.” EVE- 4821 EVE- 8050 EVE - 6164 EVE-9290 EVE- 7213 EVE- 7524 EVE-8788 Warren announced she’s sent a letter to the State Commis sioner of Education, asking for her to have a say in failing schools here. “Being the mayor of this city and having to deal with issues of a failededucational system that you need someone locally 29-35-36-37-38 2-9-12-16-22 10-16-18-36-37 that has that authority to work with them to ensure accountability and responsibility.” 10-14-17-31-33 5-8-13-32-39 8-19-25-26-30 10-23-24-27-31 She was clear when saying it’s not a form of mayoral con trol. The troubled schools would be in their own district. Warren reiterated throughout her address that “our future is 12-23-25-29-42-46 #9 7-14-15-30-41-50 #47 as bright as our past.” She said for Rochester it can only get better.

4018

022

064

648

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR) 689-955-467-809-074-657-906-671-978-010-743-234-680468-089-902-325-561-635-278-435-780-108-657-562-178930-354-763-469-012-757-689-208-645-785-454-678-612579-905-436-809-675-680-100-535-768-985-324-354-184-

Billy Bye Bye Sez: 865-790-895-333-1954

“Sgt. Hyder’s Hits”

1928-1447-5780-9966-6888

APRIL Vibes 903-327-782-187678-890-347-036

“Its In The Stars”

Aquarius -496-235-165-579 Pisces - 056-362-237-694 Cancer - 482-372-895-718 Aries - 561-236-164-469 Taurus -258-231-026-695 Gemini-495-257-694-508 Leo-345-213-157-201 Virgo 385-291-431-170 Libra -247-723-179-501 Scorpio - 453-253-571-597 Sagittarius - 389-701-234-924 Capricorn:893-275-342-506

quick money $$$$ THE NUMBER BOOK 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-525 583-269-508

GAMMA’S APRIL PICKS 093-563-167-096-743-234 4-WayHot Tips

5767-8866-5252-7788-2018-1871-1303

101

Best Triple for Month of APRL- 444 Special Doubles - 778-335-881-883

NUMBER OF THE MONTH

Let go of things you can’t control and allow your thoughts to become more positive. Positive thoughs and this elevated vibe attracts all good things in your in your life.

996

515 140

Challenger Hits

Midday

075 Number Book (straight) (bx) 065 Pisces, Capricorn (bx) 688 Quick Money , Luckie Duckie (bx) 148 ZR , Quick Money (bx) 133 Quick Money (bx) Luckie Duckie (straight) 787 Special Doubles (straight)

Evening

732 April Vibes, Pisces, Cancer, Libra (bx) 412 Quick Money , Number Book , Luckie Duckie (bx) 684 Hot Tips, ZR, Luckie Duckie (bx) 183 Number Book (bx) 431 Virgo (straight) Luckie Duckie (straight)

ATTORNEYS Terrence D. McKelvey Attorney at Law 181 Franklin St. Suite 101 (716) 847-2606 Law Office of Daria L. Pratcher, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574 Attorney FritzGerald Tondreau 1133 Kensington Ave. /1610 Genesee

LUCKIE DUCKIE

133-202- 335 -2015-4444-1871-0978

134-431-143

648*123*104

980-422-809-981-989-970-990-080-800515-996-390-196-102-581-752-319-408378-352-126-189-444-886-514- 332-522112-432-421-423

3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year

04/28/2015 Evening 04/28/2015 Midday 04/27/2015 Evening 04/27/2015 Midday 04/26/2015 Evening 04/26/2015 Midday 04/25/2015 Evening 04/25/2015 Midday 04/24/2015 Evening 04/24/2015 Midday 04/23/2015 Evening 04/23/2015 Midday 04/22/2015 Evening 04/22/2015 Midday 04/21/2015 Evening 04/21/2015 Midday 04/20/2015 Evening 04/20/2015 Midday

2-9-1 7-7-2 4-3-7 0-3-1 3-9-0 3-4-6 8-0-0 0-2-1 8-5-0 9-4-6 7-7-2 2-2-5 1-0-9 0-0-1 3-6-0 1-4-2 2-0-8 7-3-6

2015

1-888-400-6811/ 716-222-9119 TondreauLaw.com

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

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

DOG TRAINING Dogman’s K -9 Obedience Training 1963 Fillmore Avenue (716) 807-8163

ELECTRICIAN Empire Electric (716) 634-0330

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

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

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES MEREA WORLD Transportation Service City To City State To State Safe & Dependable • Specializing in Round Trip & Over Night Trips Text or call 716 939-8892

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

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Challenger Community News • April 20, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Wednesday April 20

A Good Old Fashion Flea Market!” On Friday, April 22 the Marilyn A. Parker Scholarship Foundation, in conjunction with the Community Health Center of Buffalo is sponsoring “A Good Old Fashioned Flea Market”. The event will take place the Community Health Center, 34 Benwood Avenue in Buffalo in the first floor Community Room and will run from 9 am to 6 pm. This promises to be an exciting event with a diverse cast of vendors selling old, new and slightly used wares. Proceeds from the event will benefit the Marilyn A Parker Scholarship Fund. Join the Community Health Center as we partner to support this worthy cause. Admission is free. Vending tables are $25. To sign up or for more information call 570-5617.

Annual Grassroots Dinner is Saturday: 7 pm, The New Golden Nugget, 2046 Fillmore Avenue. Tickets $55 . msdryden@ gmail.com

“Ask The Lawyer” with Attorney Katie Nichols Harrod: 5:307:30 p.m., Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave., hosted by Legislator Betty Jean Grant and We Are Women Warriors. Free & open to the public.

Mary B. Talbert Civic and Cultural club Scholarship Gala: 6 p.m. Salvatore’s Gardens; 896-4203 for ticket info.

Public Meeting Notice: Westminster Community Charter School, 3 p.m. M&T Bank, One M&T Plaza - 19th Floor. Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. (after midnight), Channel 20. The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wed. and Thurs. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle. Dinner free! 885-6348. Line Dance Fitness For Seniors: Hustle For Health at the Gloria J Parks Community Center 3242 Main St 11am - 12pm age 50+ FREE Instructor Phyllis Caver 716 832 -1010 www. HustleForHealth.com Thursday April 21 BETC Spring Career Job Fair: 10 a.m. – 1 p.m., 77 Goodell St.. 856-JOBS. Catholic Charity Health Fair: 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Dorothy Collier Community Center, 118 East Utica St., vendors, food samples, 882-0602. The Free Legal Advice Clinic: 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Free of charge and open to the public, Our Lady of Hope Church corner of Lafayette and Grant. Questions? (716) 833-5416 Buff City Hoops Safe Summer Fundraiser: Metropolitan Entertainment Complex 1670 Main St. 6 – 9 p.m. for info. Leg. Grant @ 602-5877 or Murray Holman 597-2858. Friday April 22

EVENTS Mother’s Day Concert

The Larry Salter Soul Orchestra will feature Alissa Todd in concert for a Mother’s Day Tribute on Saturday, May 7 from 5-8 p.m. at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Center, 3001 9th St. Niagara Falls. Free admission. Seating is limited.

Gospel Jazz Concert

The P.E.A.C.E. Inc., (Parents Encouraging Accountability for Closure for Everyone), in collaboration with The Marshall Badger Band (Don’t Badger Me Productions) will present “Gone But Not Forgotten,” a Mother’s Day Gospel Jazz Concert on Saturday May 7 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Renovation church, 567 Hertel Avenue. Tickets are $10 and $15 at the door. Mothers who have lost a child to homicide will be honored. Tickets can be purchased at PEACE, Renovation Church and Doris Records. Call 8428700 for more information.

Saturday April 23

ECC Spring Arts Festival: All 3 campuses including Downtown; opening @ North Campus Gleasner Aud. 11 a.m. Free and open to public.

Free Business Seminar: Merriweather Library, 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m., 602-8930.

“A Good Old Fashioned Flea Market”: 9am – 6 p.m., The Community Health Center, 34 Benwood Ave. Admission free. Vending tables $25. To sign up or for more info 570-5617.

Job Fair and Entrepreneurship Conference to benefit a Stop Bullying Campaign : noon to 5 p.m. Edward Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Avenue. Sunday April 24 Delaware Avenue Baptist Church Spring Concert, 865 Delaware Ave., 3 p.m. Community and Family Restoration is Topic of M.O.T.I.C. Informational Session – Part II: 1:30 to 3 p.m. the Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson, free and open to the public; 875-7445. Monday April 25 King Center Charter School Summer Program Bazaar & Health Screening Event: 3-6 p.m., 156 Newburgh Ave. 891-7912 ext. 270 or 269 or email gstokes@kccs.org or bmcgrady @ kccs.org Grand Opening Je Ne Sais QuoiTaste Like Something Restaurant: 1-3 p.m., 893 Jefferson Ave.

Licensed Check Cashing Western New York Check Services Government - State - County - Payroll - Insurance Settlement Checks - Tax Refund Checks Maximum fee 2.01%

Nexis Card Direct Deposit

Licensed by the Superintendent of Banks Pursuant to Article 9-A of the Banking Law

675 Fillmore Ave - 1 Block South of Broadway Give us a call - 893-4193

Saturday April 23 Job Fair & Entrepreneurship Conference: Edward Saunders Community Center,2777 Bailey Ave., Noon – 5 p.m. Free and open to the pubic; hosted by Youth Prison Prevention Project; 563-5515.

Open 9:00 am - 4:30 pm Monday - Saturday

WE ALSO SELL BRAND NEW

NEW & USED

MATTRESSES Twin Set Full Set Queen Set King Set

119 99 $ 149 99 $ 179 99 $ 299 99

FURNITURE

LOWEST PRICES ANYWHERE!

1 ST quality mattresses & box springs

Delivery available

Bedroom Sets Bunk Beds Recliners Kitchen Sets Microwaves Mini Fridges and more!

Challenger Community News â&#x20AC;˘ April 20, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ www.thechallengernews.com