Challenger Community News April 15, 2020 by Challenger Community News

IT AIN’T OVER ‘TILL IT’S OVER!

Please Stay Home As Much As Possible • Practice Social Distancing • Cover Your Mouth and Nose With A Cloth Face Cover • Wash Your Hands Often • Clean & Disinfect Frequently Touched Surfaces

April 15, 2020 | FREE |

“LET’S GO!”

Barack Obama Endorses Joe Biden For President. Addressing Global Coronavirus Pandemic, He Calls For Leadership “Guided By Knowledge, Experience, Honesty And Humility.” Are You Registered To Vote? Page 10

INTERNATIONAL

ROCHESTER

#COVID While Black in China: Africans Harassed, Racially Profiled Page 9

Rochester Assistant Principal in Need of Life Saving Transplant Page 2

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

VOICES Betty Grant: A Call For Mass And Targeted

LOCAL

Educating Our Children In the Midst of the COVID19 Crisis Page 8

Testing For COVID 19 On The Eastside Page 8 Jesse A. Doyle: Man vs Corona and the Death Of “Big P” Page 9

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April15,2020

Rochester Assistant Principal in Need of Rochester Area Schools Life Saving Transplant UPDATE

Not Likely to Re-Open This Spring Says County Executive WELCOME TO THE WORLD!

Rochester area schools will unlikely reopen this spring according to Monroe county Executive Adam Bello. "We need to be preparing ourselves for the fact that we need to be engaged in ... remote learning at home," he said during a media briefing Monday. The schools were closed March 14 in response to the coronavirus pandemic.

Pretty little 2-week old Nalah Radney recently celebrated her first Easter. She is the adorable daughter of Julian Radney and Lalah Butler and granddaughter of proud grandparents George and Delores Jackson Radney of Rochester. Welcome Nalah!

The Baobab... For our latest information and updates on upcoming programs and events, please continue to check our website, and follow us on social media channels: Facebook and Twitter. baobab.center@yahoo.com https://www.baobabcultural. org

Monroe County Department Of Public Health Recommends The Following Basic Steps To Protect Yourself From Covid-19

•Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds (the length of the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end, twice). If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. •Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. •Avoid close contact with people who are sick. •Stay home when you are sick. •Cover your cough or sneeze with your sleeve or a tissue (then throw the tissue in the trash). •Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.

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ochester native and assistant principal of the Children’s School of Rochester, Shawn Walker, has a rare type of leukemia and in need of a life- saving transplant. Shawn Walker is currently in bone marrow failure which means her bone marrow can no longer produce enough oxygen-rich red blood cells to keep her alive, making her completely reliant on blood transfusions. Shawn Walker A mother of two, Shawn is a dedicated Rochester native and educator of 34 years in the Rochester City School Distric. She has positively impacted many young lives working her way up to assistant principal at the Children’s School of Rochester. Four years ago Shawn was diagnosed with leukemia and a recent doctors visit revealed that none of the medications they have been trying are working. The only thing that will save her life is a bone marrow or stem cell transplant. That means she has to find a living donor who is a match, however a match is beyond just matching blood type. The DNA markers on a donor’s cells must match Shawn’s in order to work. Most matches are found within the same ethnic group or race so if you are African American and reading this you may be able to help save Shawn’s life by checking to see if you are a match. You can register with Be The Match at www.bethmatch.com or another called DKMS at www.dkms.org to find out if you are a match. It’s Important to also note that these experts also find that younger donors have the highest success rate so people between the ages of 18 –-55 are good candidates however each registrar is different so it’s important to go to their websites for more details.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April 15,2020

AREA BRIEFS Duncan Kirkwood to Train Along With Miss Universe and Miss USA

LaVonne Ansari, Ph.D

Dr. Ansari Named Chair of State Community Health Care Association Members of The Community Health Care Association of New York State (CHCANYS) named LaVonne Ansari, Ph.D., as their new board chair on March 1. Dr. Ansari is currently the CEO/ Executive Director of the Community Health Center of Buffalo. She addressed the hundreds of advocates gathered in Albany March 2 at the CHCATYS annual Advocacy Day, reminding them that community health centers deserve the funding they are requesting. Dr. Ansari is known for her advocacy work in the areas of health education and human rights. She is an experienced educator, administrator, recreation therapist and manager with more than 20 years combined experience in the areas of equal employment opportunity/affirmative action compliance; workforce development, higher education; and community based health care and hospital administration. She along with the newly elected board members will serve two-year terms ending in 2022.

ARE YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE?

Duncan Kirkwood will be doing resilience training at the Euth Foundation Global Launch Pad conference April 15-17 alongside Miss Universe Zozibini Tunzi, Miss USA Cheslie Kryst and a dynamic group of worldwide change agents. This free conference is designed to inspire young leaders to create solutions for equity issues of all kinds. Mr. Kirkwood is hosting a FREE resilience workshop on April 20 at 6 p.m. The focus of this workshop will be resilience and letting go of the past. Use the following link to RSVP: https://www.eventbrite. com/e/this-is-your-momenttickets-102007146120

Higgins Announces Nearly $2.6 Million in Federal Funding to Help WNY Health Clinics Respond to COVID-19 Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) has announced new federal resources to help federally qualified health clinics in Western New York respond to COVID-19. Three local clinics will receive a total of $2,589,795 in new emergency federal funding authorized by the House of Representatives. The awards are asfollows: •Neighborhood Health Center $915,515 •Community Health Center of Buffalo $875,375 •Jericho Road Ministries $798,905 TOTAL: $2,589,795 The three Health Centers operate clinics in Niagara Falls, Cheektowaga, Blasdell, Hamburg, Lockport and various sites in the City of Buffalo.

Johnson Secures Release of Non-Violent Offenders from Erie County Jails Concerns expressed about health and safety during COVID-19 spurs action

Legislator Howard Johnson, Chair of the Legislature’s Public Safety Committee, announced that the Erie County District Attorney has agreed to release from custody, 17 non-violent prisoners serving their sentences in the Erie County Correctional Facility to help reduce the risk from the COVID-19 virus. The District Attorney engaged in this action after Legislator Johnson sent a letter to, and spoke with District Attorney John Flynn inquiring about the status and possible release of non-violent offenders or detainees in Erie County’s Holding Center and Correctional Facility due to the COVID-19 Legislator Johnson crisis. Legislator Johnson expressed his support for the District Attorney’s action in which 17 prisoners with less than 45 days remaining on their sentences for nonviolent crimes have all been released early in order to help avert a COVID-19 outbreak in the jail. “I am grateful to the District Attorney for his consideration and conversation on this very important topic. The public health of all our Erie County residents is imperative during this time of crisis. This was the right move to make to ensure the safety and well-being of prisoners and jail staff alike and prevent or slow the spread of COVID-19 ,” said Legislator Johnson. The District Attorney has been individually reviewing all bail applications made and will continue to do so for the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic. Added Johnson, “I know the District Attorney and his staff have been working diligently along with many dedicated defense attorneys who have filed motions for their clients to serve out their sentences in the safety of their homes. I thank them for their support in this and I hope everyone stays home and stays safe.”

Baskin Provides Update on COVID-19 Response, Sets Priorities for This Week Advocates for creation of an East Side COVID-19 drive through test location pursues racial demographic date from the New York State Department of Health; Asks NFTA to curb abuse of free travel on public transportation with creation of essential worker pass Last week many members of the East Side Community reached out to Erie County Legislature Chair April N.M. Baskin with their COVID-19 concerns. During last Thursday’s meeting of the legislature’s Health and Human Services Committee, she pushed for answers from the Erie County Department of Health. She also forged partnerships with local Physicians of Color, and spread the word about the healthcare disparities plaguing our community. “It is clear that our community has to take the initiative to protect ourselves and our loved ones from COVID-19,” said Legislature Chair Baskin. “But our institutions must still play a role. I am asking that leadership at our local and state levels step up their efforts to save lives.” Her priorities for this week include: •Identifying and confirming a testing site for essential workers on Buffalo’s East Side. Chair Baskin submitted a formal resolution demanding we prioritize the essential workers in zip codes highly impacted by COVID-19 positive cases. “I am calling for the creation of a drive-through testing site on Buffalo’s East Side, which is home to a large number of first responders and health care employees,” said Baskin. “We must have a site that is easily accessible to the essential employees who live in the 14215, 14211 and 14208 zip codes.” •Securing New York State's release of specific COVID-19 racial impact data. New York State maintains racial demographic data as it applies to COVID-19. Chair Baskin sent a letter to the Governor and State Health Department requesting that they make this data available to the public on a regular basis. Baskin asked, “How can we prove our impoverished community’s dire need for testing and plan for better healthcare measures without the current data? I am asking New York State to provide this information on a regular basis. Poor and low income communities are on the frontline of this fight and information is the key to saving lives.” •Creation of essential worker pass for public transportation. Staying home saves lives. With this in mind, Chair Baskin submitted a formal resolution requesting the NFTA create Continued Page10

African Americans, Public Health and the 1918 Influenza Epidemic During the 1918-1919 Influenza Pandemic, there was a belief among some health professionals in the United States that the death rate among African Americans was much less than the death rate among Whites. There was also blame for the epidemic toward African Americans and immigrants. And, there were researchers who claimed the number of deaths among African Americans and other groups were underreported and undercounted. When the 1918 influenza epidemic began, African American communities were already beset by many public health, medical, and social problems, including racist theories of Black biological inferiority, racial barriers in medicine and public health, and poor health status. To address these problems, African Americans mounted efforts such as establishing separate hospitals and professional organizations and repudiating racist scientific theories. Contradicting prevailing theories about African Americans' increased susceptibility to disease, it appears that during the 1918 epidemic the incidence of influenza was lower in African Americans. Although the epidemic had a less devastating impact on African American communities, it still overwhelmed their medical and public health resources. Overall, 675,000 Americans were killed by the Spanish flu. This number surpasses the total of U.S. soldiers killed in World War I, World War II, the Korean War and Vietnam War combined. Current day estimates put the death toll from the outbreak between 80 to 100 million worldwide.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April15,2020

Congressman Higgins Announces Over $204,000 for Michigan Street Baptist Church

Local Historic Landmark Receives National African American Civil Rights Grant Congressman Brian Higgins (NY-26) has announced $204,845 in federal funding for the Buffalo Niagara Freedom Station Coalition for protection and rehabilitation of the Michigan Street Baptist Church. The funding is provided through the National Park Service’s African American Civil Rights Grant Program. “This award recognizes the Michigan Street Baptist Church as a site of national significance and provides federal resources to preserve the building and expand opportunities for people to learn more about the critical role the Church played in America’s history,” said Congressman Higgins. Lillie V. Wiley-Upshaw, Chair of the Buffalo Niagara Freedom Station Coalition said, "Our board is so pleased to receive this grant. The Michigan Street Baptist Church is a national treasure and her story is integral to the AfricanAmerican story that is told in cities across this country. First, as a home for freedom seekers before, during and after the Civil War and then as an incubator for progressive movements in the City of Buffalo, New York. The Michigan Street Baptist Church has stood as a beacon in the storm for 175 years. The African-American Civil Rights Grant will help us restore elements of the Church's original construction and design to continue to tell the story of the Church and her members to future generations." Built in 1845, Buffalo’s Michigan Street Baptist Church, has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1974. The site served as a stop on the Underground Railroad and a central meeting place for civil rights leaders. In 2018, the Michigan Street Baptist Church was added to the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom, a coordinated effort to preserve America’s historic treasures and educate the public. The longtime pastor of the Church was Rev. Dr. J. Edward Nash. Congressman Higgins recently visited the Nash House residence and spoke about the work of Rev. Nash and the Michigan Street Baptist Church on the floor of the House of Representatives. The Michigan Street Baptist Church was one of just 51 recipients sharing just over $14 million nationwide, and the only grant recipient in New York State.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April 15,2020

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FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April15,2020

"Let The Horns Say Amen"

Bishop Pridgen above, holding Bible.

t times the sound was almost deafening as believers “shouted” Amen from behind the wheels of their cars by blowing their horns. Welcome to Easter Sunday Service in the age of the Coronavirus Pandemic in Buffalo, New York. And leave it to Bishop Darius A. Pridgen, pastor of True Bethel Baptist Church, to successfully organize and conduct such an alternative – if not controversial – event in the church parking lot. Bishop Pridgen, who battled COVID19 along with three of his children who are all healing, was a living testimony to God’s grace and mercy. It was not, he acknowledged, "your typical worship service." But Easter Sunday was never one that was easy or pretty, he added. His Easter outfit as he spoke from the outdoor stage, was complete with a surgical mask and gloves, as were the ushers and members who joined him. Attendees remained in their vehicles. Preaching from Matthew 28:1, his message of redemption and the awesome power of God, who during this crisis he said, is ushering “a new day in the Earth,” was electrifying and profound. “God will never fail you,” he intoned at one point. Challenger Photos “Somebody blow your horn..."

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April 15,2020

What Effect Will COVID-19 Shelter-In-Place Shopping: Crisis Have on the Holy Beyond Toilet Paper: Retailers Are Having Trouble Month of Ramadan? As 1.6 billion Muslims around the world prepare to celebrate the holy month of Ramadan, which begins next week (Thursday evening April 23 – May 23* ), many are wondering how the coronavirus will effect the month-long observance marked by personal introspection, prayer and fasting. Observing the call for soImam Ansari cial distancing is already taking place locally. “ We have been conducting Friday Jumah (prayer) services on Facebook live from the mosque for the past three weeks,” noted Iman Fajri Ansari of Masjid Nu’man in Buffalo. It can be viewed at masjidnuman.org At the end of the 30-day fast is Eid al-Fitr (Festival of Breaking the Fast), when there is much feasting and celebration. “I can’t see us congregating by the end of May” he told The Challenger. “ We will probably conduct Eid Prayers the same way for the end of Ramadan (Facebook Live) . It’s definitely a different experience ,” he shared. The bright spot, he added, is that they have able to reconnect with a lot of families, former Buffalonians and friends around the country. (*Dates may vary as the month of Ramadan lasts 29-30 days depending on the sightings of the crescent moon.)

Keeping A Few Other Unexpected Items In Stock

ince the start of New York State Governor Andrew Cuomo’s shelter-in-place order to combat the spread of the deadly coronavirus disease, it is becoming commonplace to walk through many retail stores to confront the sight of bare shelves. Toilet paper was the first thing to go, as people feared the possibility of an eventual full out order of confinement. Any item related to cleaning and disinfecting was also made hard to come by in the frenzy. Retailers are having trouble keeping a few unexpected items in stock too. Consumer Affairs manager for Wegmans Buffalo, Michele Mehaffy, reports that one item the stores can’t seem to keep in stock is, surprisingly, yeast. “Anything that has to do with baking,

By Nanette D. Massey

whether it’s yeast, cake mixes, frosting or flour, people are grabbing those items from the shelves.” David Christopher, general manager at Tops Supermarket on Jefferson near E. Utica, reports something of the same predicament. Flour, sugar, yeast, vanilla extract, and vegetable oil all fly out the door. Christopher surmises that with so much time on their hands, people are experimenting a bit more

in the kitchen. Cookies, brownies and the like also make engaging projects to do with kids who are home from school. Christopher is also seeing hot dogs, sausages, and some other traditionally grilled meats go with an unusual briskness.”I think people are sick of eating the same old thing and they’re looking for alternatives. They also want to take advantage of the break in the weather we’ve been experiencing, people just want to get out of the house.” That idea bears out given the charcoal and mini-grills selling at the Family Dollar store just across the street from Tops. Aluminum cooking pans don’t stay in the store either. Deodorant is a hot seller, and anything that has to do with enjoying music; headphones, earbuds, speakers and DVD players. Wegmans’ Mehaffy notes that “garbage bags are also in demand, but we’re not exactly sure why.” An April 9th CNN.com story backs up her assertion, reporting that waste management companies nationwide are indeed battling a startling uptick in volume for household trash. Republic Services, with garbage collecting accounts nationwide, projects seeing a 30% increase before the shelter-in-place orders are lifted.

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

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April15,2020

Educating Our Children In the Midst of the COVID19 Crisis A Message To Our Valued Students, Their Families and Our Community

By Sharon Belton Cottman, President, Buffalo Board Education

reetings. This article is in support of our valued students, their families, and our community. During these times of change and uncertainty, the Buffalo Board of Education, along with the entire Buffalo School District, stands committed to assisting our students in the continuity of education. Under the leadership of Superintendent Dr. Kriner Cash, The Education Bargain is still in place and staff is working endlessly during this pandemic. The Education Bargain is between the District, the students and parents. It states: “… that the District will guarantee pathways to Sharon Belton opportunity that will lead to achievement and success in exchange for hard work, COTTMAN commitment, and collaboration of our students and parents.” As part of our ongoing efforts to assist our families, we have provided tools such as: telephoning, video calling, emails, video conferencing, social media and a BPS website www.BPS.org. As a result of our relationship with Community Partners, concerns regarding legal and mental health issues are being addressed. Looking at the District’s website provides continuous information concerning community supports, comprehensive educational material, numerous resources for parents/students including educational games and fun activities. In addition, the website provides information concerning the Coronavirus 19 and additional community supports for families struggling. A 24-hour HELP Hotline, phone

the Community. Teachers and Students’ interactions during the school closure should consist of teacher office hours virtually (online), via video conference and/or phone. Teacher’s student check-ins, virtual (online) and or by phone. Al-

though there have been rumors that children will not return to school this school year, only the governor has that authority. Regardless, students will be required to complete their assignments. Our students cannot afford to lose any momentum. Therefore, not completing assignments is not acceptable. If you are struggling or have concerns or need help please call the HELP Hotline (716) 861-7100 We are aware that within our district many children struggle with varying factors which require supports. We acknowledge that in many cases, this COVID 19 pandemic has heightened the need for more supports and resources. The

lack of access to resources such as smart phones, telephones, computers, social media, and the internet access affords additional hardships and challenges. Some parents cannot read or struggle with the Eng-

lish language and have difficulty assisting children. Many families suffer with health and mental health concerns. The District’s data is reflecting that our ‘interpretive services’ have experienced increased usage from parents who struggle with the English language. With the help of David Rust and the staff of ‘Say Yes to Education,’ Community Partners, and several regional colleges, an action plan is being developed to ad-

number (716) 861-7100 to address the concerns and needs of the students and parents is also active. At

dress the digital divide concerns. It is our hope that within the next month, we will see more Wi-Fi and internet access for our students and community. It

Second round assignments and personal tablets will be distributed to over 14,000 students in grades 3 – 8 starting April 14. To date the Buffalo Public School

More than ever there is a need for parents and guardians to become engaged in the education of our most valuable assets, our children! A few more things

the onset, high school students were sent home with their computers and assignments of which students and parents are responsible for.

District (BPS) has distributed over 322,500 nutritional breakfast and lunches; free to all of Buffalo’s students. It is apparent that the delivery of the educational experience has dramatically changed. More than ever before, our student learners’ educational access and success, depends on their support systems which exist in their homes and communities. Under the Bargain, it is expected that the guardian/parent’s share is the responsibility of placing a high premium on education. What is needed NOW is the assurance

that each student’s support systems are working to the best of their ability and students are completing assignments. A very important part of the learning process,

results in creating a learning environment suitable for student engagement and focus. To be successful students must be able to concentrate and allot time to complete the learning assignments required for this academic year.

The Buffalo Public Schools cannot do this alone, we need the HELP of the Parents, Guardians and

is important that each of our Community Partners, and our Parent Congress understand that we appreciate their trust and support.

you can do to assist are, to consider joining one of our five parent groups which makes up our Parent Congress. Reach out to your Principals and become a part of your child’s School Base Management Team. Also you can participate by listening to our School Board’s workshops (5:00pm) and meetings (5:00pm) on the first 3 Wednesdays of the month. Rest assured that the members of the Buffalo Board of Education, the Superintendent and the entire Buffalo Public Schools family are committed to making sure our students continue to learn and that our students and staff are safe in our schools. Family members and community members can assist children who are struggling. Know that the Buffalo Board of Education members are determined to support our students and will continue to adapt to the growing needs of our 32,000+ student population.

It is our desire to support our school community and their families during this perilous time. Together we will make it through, because we are Buffalo Public Schools Strong!

THE MESSENGER! Former Erie County Legislator and community activist Betty Jean Grant of We Are Women Warriors is taking her "Protect Yourself Against the Coronavirus" message to the streets. Armed with bull horns on top of her car, anti-bacterial wipes, gloves and masks, she rides around the community urging residents follow three recommendations: Stay at home if possible; practice social distancing; and cover your mouth and nose with a mask, a kerchief or any type of cloth covering. Great work Sis. Grant!

A Call For Mass And Targeted Testing For The Coronavirus On The Eastside Of Buffalo

he president of the United States and the governor of New York State have acknowledged that African Americans are dying of Coronavirus, also known as COVID19, at a disproportionate rate compared to any other ethnic group. They also recommended mass testing to determine the rate of infection among the populace of urban areas that have experienced the death rate of Black people around three or four times higher than the general population.

In Chicago, where African Americans are 32% of the city's population, 70% of COVID19 deaths have been Black people. In GRANT Detroit, Michigan, New Orleans, LA and Boston, Mass. the disparity between the number of deaths attributed to the Coronavirus among Blacks and the rest of the city is similar to the numbers detected in Chicago. Betty

Some of the reasons cited for these disparities have been underlying conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, kidney disease, inadequate immune system due to poor diet and social choices like smoking, high drug use or high level of alcohol consumption. All of these factors may be true due to neglect, racism, discrimination and lack of resources directed to impoverished areas such as the eastside of Buffalo. We will not know for sure the extent of this pandemic's damage in our community until Erie County and its department of health immediately initiate a program of mass and targeted testing for the Coronavirus on the Eastside of Buffalo! The Erie County's zip codes with the highest levels of Coronavirus include 14211, 14208 and of course 14215, which has been designated the zip code with the highest level of COVIL 19 infections in all of Erie County!

The Challenger 's Lonnie B. Harrell Poetry Edition originally scheduled for April has been rescheduled to appear in the June 3 edition. Thank you for your patience!

As of this writing, of the 1,600 cases of the Coronavirus in Erie County, there have been 606 cases and 61 deaths, a disproportionally number of them being African Americans in the City of Buffalo. With no mass or targeted testing for the virus on the highly impacted eastside, we have no idea how high or deadly the numbers are. If the President of the United States and the Governor of the State of New York can see the value of mass and targeted Coronavirus tests for a vulnerable and at-risk minority population, surely our local elected leaders can see the need as well!

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April 15,2020

BATTLE ON THE HILL By Jesse A. Doyle

National/International Report

Man Vs Corona And The Death Of “Big P”: What We Gotta Do Until This Demon Is Under Control

Africans Racially Profiled, Harassed In China Due To Coronavirus Africans living in China are reporting increased harassment allegedly due to coronavirus fears. As the Asian continent reopens two months after the coronavirus was first detected in the city of Wuhan, African nationals in Guangzhou are saying they are being targeted, CNN reported. According to CNN, Africans have been illegally evicted, forced to undergo COVID-19 testing and quarantine. After seeing video and hearing accounts of the treatment of their countrymen, the African media has denounced China in newspaper reports and on TV in several countries. This is despite the increasingly cozy relationship between African nations and China, resulting in $208 billion in trade between the two in 2019, according to China’s General Administration of Customs. “ If they are not handled properly they can result in far larger consequences than people sleeping on the street,” British/ Kenyan entrepreneur Hannah Ryder, the CEO of a Kenyan owned company in Beijing told CNN. “They can have repercussions on international relations, trade and even diplomacy.”

#COVID While Black in Miami: Doctor Handcuffed for No Apparent Reason Miami Police Chief Jorge Colina announced last weekend that his department was investigating an incident in which a Miami-Dade police sergeant handcuffed and detained a Black doctor in front of his own home. Dr. Armen Henderson, 34, who was wearing a mask, says he was loading up his van with supplies he planned to take to the city’s homeless to help them weather the coronavirus epidemic. He said the officer, who wasn’t wearing a mask repeatedly got up close to Henderson, put his health at risk. “I feel like I should get tested, honestly,” Henderson told ABC News. “Most likely I will because he definitely was spitting in my face. I could feel it while he was yelling at me.” Henderson was arrested and eventually released. “He didn’t apologize. He just got in his car and drove away,” Henderson told ABC News.

“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

at Corona…. She slick. They call her C19. She seems to be running rampant in the town. I feel like this is a battle between Black men and C19. I understand men, women, seasoned saints, and infants have been infected. I offer prayer to every household that’s been infected by this demon. But through this social distancing, I can only speak to the situation of the men I see. Social distancing keeps me on the east side of Buffalo. We live in a segregated county. So, it seems to be an assault on Black men. I was a 70’s baby. Growing up my thought process was getting married, having kids, having grandkids, and passing on due to a mature age. The 90s hit. Crack strategically appeared on the streets of the eastside. The then thought process was "hope I don’t get killed, shot, or go to prison over the influx of drugs." Now 20/20 hit. Her name is Corona. The problem with her is she strikes fast and we’re not sure of her origin. We’re not sure who is next. We’re not sure if or how long it’s been carried around the community. We’re not sure why it effects Blacks four times more than everyone else. The question becomes. Is this another assault on Black men, AGAIN? Jesse A. I think local leadership is doing well with what they have. I think leadership has been visual. I applaud Mayor Brown for implementing the DOYLE good neighbor’s network door to door. We certainly must see about our neighbors, especially the elderly. I applaud my friend and University District Councilmen Rasheed Wyatt for being accessible and keeping us informed on the community level. I applaud Erie County Legislator April Baskin for providing the community honest information about C19 in the 14215 community. You can see literature on her Facebook page. I have a lot of respect for Governor Cuomo. Everyday looking into a camera he seems to be totally transparent of the status, his thought process, and his vision to fight this demon. Why did I feel the spirit to write this? Why did I feel like I needed to reference the above? Sometimes my thought process overwhelms me. Especially when I think about “the people.” I’m one of the people. When I reference the people I’m referencing the hood. The eastside. The strongside. The voiceless. When I hurt and I get overwhelmed for the people, my pen bleeds all over a piece of paper. I lost a good friend the other morning to COVID19. His name was Paul Kennon (EDP). The hood called him Big P. Everyone loved Paul. He was a good man. A God-fearing man. Wasn’t on drugs, well spoken, and worked security full time. Always a positive spirit in the room. He was an honorable man. If he says he’s with you – you can bet he’s with you. The above political mentioned people can only do so much. They need more help from the Federal government. That being said - in my opinion I say this as raw as I can say it - HELP AINT COMING! People we must look in the mirror and be honest with ourselves from a hood standpoint. Until this demon gets under control we gotta stay indoors more, gotta stay out of jail, gotta quit running in packs, gotta stop sharing blunts, gotta stop sharing cigarettes, gotta stop sharing bottles, gotta stop hosting open door card parties, gotta keep a thermometer in the house, gotta start and end the day with temperature check, gotta stop sending our kids to everyone’s home, gotta wash counters, gotta wash hands constantly. Most of all gotta pray. I believe prayer works. So, when the demon enters our body at least the Lord is in us to fight the battle. I purposely used slang words in this article. The people I need to reach understand every word I wrote. I need them to gravitate to this message. It may save a life. Rest in peace Paul. jessedoyle8@gmail.com

dear editor Cuomo: Liberal Champion in Times of Crisis?

Dear Editor: New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has been playing the part of "liberal” champion and hero in this time of the COVID19 crisis. He's been so convincing that a few folks even want him to run for president. But what he’s done away from the cameras is another story altogether: using $2/hour prison labor to rebottle hand sanitizer; proposing a massive bail reform reversal; refusing to release elderly and sick incarcerated persons from Riker’s Island (the first detainee to die from Coronavirus complications, a 53-yearold Black man, was sadly jailed for parole violation ); and planning to enact a budget that cuts billions of dollars a year from the state’s Medicaid system and other social programs rather than raising taxes on the 0.01 wealthiest New Yorkers (there’s been a delay on the cuts until after the pandemic crisis passes then the dirty work will continue.) So much for heroes… -J. Tillery

ARE YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE?

The 2nd Amendment in the Age of Covid19 Dear editor: In these challenging times, our personal security, which is always at risk, may soon become even more challenging with the outbreak of the COVID19 pandemic. We must be prepared to defend ourselves, our families and homes. This becomes even more urgent if unemployment escalates, consumer goods become scarce, homelessness increases and law and order breaks down, resulting in civil disorder. Struggling people may seek to acquire their needs through violent actions. In these circumstances, violence, regrettably, must be met with violence. Retreat will not be an option. When we are faced with violence, we must be prepared to stop the threat.

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We will need to have sufficient firearms, in good repair, ammo and training in personal defense inside and outside the home. This is what is required to fend off those who would attempt to take our survival needs to fulfill their own. Time is of the essence. We at the Dorie Miller Rifle and Pistol Club, under the leadership of Aquil Qadir, offers training in personal security, safety, and political education. We always welcome new membership to join us in our efforts to raise our community’s understanding of self-defense and community engagement. Our meetings will resume at a later date to be announced. -Brent Rollins

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •April15,2020

Barack Obama Endorses Joe Biden For President. Addressing Global Coronavirus Pandemic, He Calls For Leadership “Guided By Knowledge, Experience, Honesty And Humility.” Are You Registered To Vote?

ormer President Barack Obama endorsed his former vice president, Joe Biden, on Tuesday, throwing his full support at Biden’s bid for the White House. “I’m proud to endorse my friend JoeBiden for President of the United States. Let’s go,” Obama captioned on Twitter along with a video message. Addressing the global coronavirus pandemic that has brought the country to a standstill, Obama expressed the need for leadership “that is guided by knowledge and experience, honesty and humility; empathy and grace” during such a national crisis. “That kind of leadership doesn’t just belong in our state capitols and mayors offices, it belongs in the White House,” Obama said. “And that’s why I’m so proud to endorse Joe Biden for President of the United States.” Obama’s endorsement comes after Biden’s opponent, Sen. Bernie Sanders, suspended his presidential campaign, making Biden the de facto Democratic presidential nominee. Showing party unity on Monday, Sanders also publicly endorsed Biden during a joint virtual message to voters. “I am asking all Americans, I’m asking every Democrat, I’m asking every independent, I’m asking a lot of Republicans, to come together in this campaign to support your candidacy, which I endorse,” Sanders said. -Biden and the Black VoteBlack voters are playing a key role in this Democratic primary season; carrying Joe Biden to huge victories during Super Tuesday. Joe Biden's campaign was struggling until he secured a crucial victory in South Carolina, where there was a big African American turnout. Biden won 63% of Black voters in Virginia, 72% in Alabama, and about 60% in Texas and North Carolina, according to exit polling. The former vice president won 61% of Black voters in the South Carolina primary.

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Theodore R. Johnson, senior fellow at the Brennan Center for Justice told NPR in March: “Most of America knows Joe Biden as the vice president to the first Black president in history. And Black voters especially look at President Obama and say if Biden is good enough for Obama to trust, then who am I to sort of question that? The other thing is Biden presents as the most electable. He's certainly had some dips but has sort of recaptured that, largely thanks to Black voters. And so for an electorate where the most important thing is beating Donald Trump in November and Trump's disapproval rates among African Americans is exceptionally high - Biden presents as the person that can do that not just because of his ability to win the African American vote." -Not Without ControversyBiden’s record on racial justice was re-examined when he entered the 2020 race for the Democratic presidential nomination. It will more than likely resurface again during the upcoming presidential election. Biden has since addressed and expressed regret for some of his actions as a young senator. Although a supporter of civil rights in other arenas, he sponsored a bill that would limit the power of courts to order school desegregation with busing more than four decades ago. He has since taken responsibility and offered an apology for his role as chairman of the committee handling Anita Hill’s sexual harassment testimony against Justice Clarence Thomas in 1991. And Biden drafted the infamous 1994 crime bill, signed into law by former President Bill Clinton, that many have cited as one of the driving factors behind mass incarceration and the disproportionate imprisonment of people of color. Explaining Blacks current support for Biden despite past events, Johnson told NPR: “In the last 10 years, Biden has been Obama's vice president. And so that tends to override whatever policy decisions he made four decades ago.”

(Source: The Griot & NPR)

LEGISLATOR BASKIN continued from page 3 an essential worker pass to limit public transportation travels to only those who are deemed essential and requested a meeting with the NFTA leadership.

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL NOTICES -Legal NoticeNotice of Formation of a Limited Liability Company Sunshine Vegan Eats, LLC ﬁled Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on the 3rd day of July, 2019. Ofﬁce location: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served upon him or her to: 893 Jefferson Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14204. Purpose: Any lawful act or activity. March 18, 25, April1,8,15,22

-Legal NoticeWEIGHTS OF GLORY, LLC. Art of Org filed with the SSNY on 02242020. Office: Albany County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 125 Galleria Dr. Unit 1803 Cheektowaga NY 14225. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. March18, 25,April 1,8,15,22

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4944 - POLICE UNIFORMS Download Bids from www. LEGAL NOTICE BID

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid 4949 - JANITORIAL SERVICES Download Bids from www.nfta.com -LEGAL NOTICENotice is hereby given that a license, number "pending” for beer and wine, has been applied for by the undersigned to sell beer and wine at retail in a restaurant under the Alcoholic Beverage Control Law at 1633 Hertel Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216, Erie County for in premises consumption. Gwen Ingram Je Ne Sais Quoi

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Keep Your Thoughts Positive and Your Prayers Will Be Answered!

As we continue to stay connected and celebrate Jazz Appreciation Month... Here are a few more selections for your listening pleasure while staying safe at home: Open The Door: Betty Carter https://youtu.be /EIVe8eJdYKM Live in France: Charles Lloyd https://youtu.be/DU5nzjci1gA REST IN PEACE.... BILL WITHERS: Lean on Me https://youtu.be/nHSOVEqqm44 ONAJII ALLEN GUMPS: Dolphin Dance https://youtu. be/5uidJLiDFMg BE SAFE!!! Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective (pmljazz.com)

COVID-19 and Beyond: Nutrients To Fight Viruses It's Important to take care of yout immune system. Of course a diet rich in fruit, vegetables and healthy liqids and exercise is vital. However you may want to incorporate the following nutrients/supplements into your diet especially during this caronavirus crisis if you have any symptoms: 1.Vitamin C 2.Vitamin D (when possible spend some time in the sun) 3.Magnesium - important for optimal health 4.Quercetin found in plant foods – fruits vegs, nuts, seeds, apples, onions, veggies etc. beans, broccoli (onions have highest leve of quercetin)

STAY WELL!

Challenger Community News â&#x20AC;˘ t hec hallengernews.com â&#x20AC;˘April15,2020