Challenger Community News August 26, 2021 by Challenger Community News

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August 26, 2021 | FREE | thechallengernews.com | Community News

FUNK FEST! Annual Tribute to the King of Punk-Funk Rick James Page 8

Unity and Togetherness is Theme of East Side Mural Page 5

Garth Fagan Dance, Eastman School of Music Anniversary! Page 2

Martin Luther King Was a Democratic Socialist Page 10

VFW Bennett Wells Post Honors Retirees Page 12

LINKS 2021 SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS

Page 9

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

SPORTS: BILLS UPDATE

By George Radney & Kevin Cheek

Bills Blast Bears in Blow Out 41 – 15

Garth Fagan and his dancers.

Garth Fagen Dance Will Mark 50 Years, Eastman School of Music 100, During Collaborative Anniversary in Kodak Hall The Eastman School of Music, of the University of Rochester, together with Garth Fagan Dance, are proud to announce A Collaborative Celebration: Eastman School of Music 100th Anniversary and Garth Fagan Dance 50th Anniversary, Friday, October 1, at 7:30 PM in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre. Garth Fagan Dance, together with the Eastman Percussion Ensemble, directed by Michael Burritt ('84, '86 MM), and the Eastman Saxophone Project, directed by Chien-Kwan Lin ('07 DMA), join forces for an incredible evening of music and dance, including the world-premiere of a composition written specifically for these groups by Eastman alumnus, Baljinder Sekhon ('08 MA, '13 PHD), titled Dreamer. As a special addition to the evening, Garth Fagan will be honored and presented with Eastman’s Luminary Award. This award recognizes individuals who have given extraordinary service to music and the arts at the community and national levels. Fagan will be only the tenth recipient of this honor. “I am honored and thrilled to receive the Luminary award,” shares Garth Fagan. He adds, “I am looking forward to receiving the award on October 1, 2021, when my company will perform excerpts from my work, The North Star (2018), and Norwood Pennewell’s new work with music by Baljinder Sekhon, performed by the Eastman Percussion Ensemble and Eastman Saxophone Project, continuing the long history of creative collaborations between The Eastman School of Music and Garth Fagan Dance.” The first half of the program will feature Eastman’s two ensembles, including two additional world-premieres.The second half will begin with Garth Fagan Dance performing excerpts of The North Star choreographed by Garth Fagan in 2018. The evening will finish with Sekhon’s Dreamer, performed in collaboration by all three groups.

In Remembrance of Benjamin Williams, Cartoonist Benjamin Williams (Cartoonist) was born on August 2, 1955 in Rochester N.Y. and passed on June 29, 2021. Ben was kind, caring, considerate and respectful of others. He was an encourager to many and a mentor to children and adults in the arts as well as education and journalism. He attended John Marshall H.S. and competed on the Wrestling Team and was a student in the Upward Bound Program. Following his graduation he attended St. John Fisher College and majored in Journalism. He held positions at the Democrat & Chronicle which inspired his animation , "The Daily Woo "and at About Time Magazine where he was a Cartoonist. Ben also contributed to The Challenger in the 90's. He was a member of the Association of Black Communicators and the United Cartoonist League of America (UCLA) where he was instrumental in organizing the first annual Cartoon Festival. Ben created the comic strip, "Glazed Jelly Donut Society" following the development of BW Comix. He enjoyed graphic arts, sports (a loyal Buffalo Bills fan), and was an avid reader who loved God. Ben is predeceased by his parents, Frank and Ida Williams (Newkirk) and sisters Francine, Rosemary and Diane Williams and is survived by his siblings Patricia, Janet and Jerome Williams, along with a host of nieces and nephews. Acknowledgement: The family would like to acknowledge the many family and friends who have gifted us with unconditional emotional, spiritual, financial and technical support. Your generosity is amazing and humbling. A special thank you to Ben's dear friends who have been a strong and inspiring foundation in his life. We are so grateful to you for your role as fellow brothers and sisters.. A private burial was held at Riverside Cemetery.

It was quite obvious from the start that The Chicago Bears were not ready to play but the Buffalo Bills could not wait to go Bear hunting. It’s amazing that Bears Head Coach Matt Nagy got his job because of being Offensive Coordinator for Andy Reid and for the last two years Eric Bienemy was Reid’s OC leading to a Super Bowl win and lost. Bienermy has not been hired for a Head Coaching job while Matt Nagy continues to do a poor job with the Bears. The Bills defense will be the strong suit this season with bigger rookie edge rushers Greg Rousseau, Efie Obada, and Carlos Boogie Basham sharing some time with veteran Jerry Hughes and Mario Addison. The line backers are coming along with the additions of Marquel Lee, and Tyrell Adams. I really like how Andre Smith is playing the inside linebacker position which gives the Bills plenty of depth. Bills safeties from starters Jordan Poyer, Micah Hyde, and now adding special teamer Jaquan Johnson, and Josh Thomas are making it very difficult to keep rookies Damar Hamlin and Tariq Thompson. The Bills did have injuries in the game with Harrison Phillips, Spencer Brown and Marquez Stevenson. Phillips seems to be snake bitten with getting hurt each year. Once again, it’s a knee injury to one of his surgically repaired knees. He could be put on Injured Reserve list with the possibility of coming back after eight weeks into the season. Bills rookie Greg Rousseau is being coached properly and beginning to use his hands in order to move past offensive linemen. He’s looking like a force to be reckoned with during the upcoming season. Boogie Basham is also playing quite well with 5 tackles, 1 sack and 1 hurries in the Bears beat down. He’s helping set the tone for a very physical defensive unit. The Bills defensive unit is noticeably larger in size along with being much more physical than last years edition. Bills edge rusher Darryl Johnson now wants to be known as “BAM” Johnson and he’s pledging to have a breakout season. Said Bam,” I’m learning a lot (at Training Camp) and trying to come out each day and get better by working on my craft. I’m starting to have a good feel for the defense and figure out ways I can help my team win. It’s year three and I’m feeling a bit faster and the game is slowing down for me.” Bam looks taller from two years ago and he has definitely been in the weight room bulking up in order to be the best edge rusher he can possibly be. This is his year to prove that Darryl BAM Johnson is a legitimate NFL starter and worthy of a second contract with the Buffalo Bills. Continued Page 14

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

AREA BRIEFS

Gun Violence is Topic of Town Hall Meeting

Governor Hochul

Hochul Sworn In As New York State's 57th Governor and First Female Kathy Hochul, a 62-yearold Democrat, was sworn this week as the state's 57th governor and as New York's first female governor, replacing Andrew Cuomo, who resigned amid multiple scandals. Hochul who was born and raised in the Buffal area, has been New York's lieutenant governor since 2015. As governor she promised to remake any toxic areas of the executive chamber she inherits, including ditching any aides found to be "doing anything unethical" by the recent state attorney general's report that found Cuomo had harassed 11 women. In his parting remarks as governor, Cuomo questioned the motives of the state Attorney General. The New York State Assembly forged ahead with an investigation into Cuomo’s misdeeds despite his resignation; that report has not yet been released.

A town hall meeting on gun violence will feature guest panelists who will pose solutions to gun violence on Thursday, August 26 from 5-8 p.m. at Bethesda Full Gospel Church, 1365 Main Street. Sponsors include MVP, Stop the Violence, UNIA-ACL, Mad Dads, Open Buffalo, the CAO and City Spotters and Brothers in the Community. Come and give your solutions to help make our community safe. There will be guest performers and light refreshments.

Johnnie B.Wiley Back Pack Giveaway On Saturday, August 28 the 3rd Annual Johnnie B. Wiley Backpack Giveaway will take place at 1100 Jefferson Avenue from 9a.m. – 1p.m. Every K-12 grade student will receive two free back Packs with supplies. Student must be present in order to receive his or her backpack, Masks must be worn at all times by adults, teenagers and children hand sanitizer will also be provided. Contact Latesha Wiley for info at lateshawiley81@gmail.com . The giveaway is sponsored by The Office of Erie County Legislator Howard Johnson, National Grid , Delta Sonic, African American Cultural Center , Buffalo PAL , Blue Cross Blue Shield. And The Teachers Desk.

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CELEBRATION! A community celebration for the Buffalo 5 took place last Thursday at The Hub on Pratt street. Heroine Cariol Horne was also celebrated at the gathering. STREET LEGACY PHOTO DARVIN ADAMS

Judge Vacates The Buffalo 5 Convictions, Indictments And Orders New Trial: Walker And Boyd Jubilant Justice. That is what the long and arduous journey to overturn the 1977 wrongful convictions of The Buffalo 5's John Henry Walker, Jr. and Darryl Boyd has been about. For the past 45 years, they have insisted upon their innocence and they have repeated time and time again, to anyone who would listen to them, that they had been falsely accused, and wrongly arrested, indicted, convicted, incarcerated, and subjected to parole conditions. New York State Supreme Court Justice Christopher J. Burns, the judge who has presided in Walker's and Boyd's legal proceeding to have their wrongful 1977 conviction and wrongful 1976 indictment overturned, has agreed with them. Justice Burns has VACATED Walker's and Boyd's convictions, he has VACATED their indictments. Burns has ordered a new trial, but Walker and Boyd say they have received assurance from Paul Cambria, their attorney in the natter, that the new trial is a mere formality and that the pair are well on their way toward the road to exoneration. To share what the next steps forward for Walker and Boyd will entail, the pair held a press conference inside Buffalo's MLK Park Wednesday, August 18, the day they got the news. It's been a long time coming, but a change has come for The Buffalo 5! Walker and Boyd's legal matter was represented by nationally renown criminal defense attorney Paul Cambria, a partner at Lipsitz Green Scime Cambria LLP, in Buffalo. For The Buffalo 5, this has been an exceedingly long, exceedingly traumatic, exceedingly arduous journey, and all of it, the entire time, has been about justice. That is what this has been about.

Walton Campaign Update

India Walton Receives Endorsement from Majority of School Board, Applauds Board on Adopting Gun Violence Resolution

Democratic nominee for Mayor India Walton has received the endorsement of five of the nine members of the Board of Education of Buffalo Public Schools: Dr. Kathy Evans Brown, East District; Hope Jay, North District; Jennifer Mecozzi, West District; Dr. Ann Rivera, Board Member-at-Large: Lawrence Scott, Board Member-at-Large:

TEAM INDIA: Democratic nominee for mayor India Walton (center) poses with (left) her Senior Policy Advisor De’Jon Hall and (right) her Campaign Manager Kartika Carr after Ms. Walton received the endorsement of State Assemblyman Jonathan D. Rivera recently.

The Chattahoochee Brick Company: Slavery By Another Name Douglas Blackmon, author of the awarding winning book Slavery by Another Name, has called the grounds of the Chattahoochee Brick Company a “death camp.” People of Atlanta and the nation are waking up to the horrific history of the ruthless and brutal use of African Americans as forced labor, utilizing the practice of the “Convict Lease” system employed throughout the southern states after Emancipation. Under this practice, thousands upon thousands of formerly enslaved Blacks were criminalized for minor offenses like vagrancy, imprisoned and then “leased” out by prison wardens to private companies to be worked as free labor – hence the characterization of this and similar practices by Blackmon as “slavery by another name.” The convict lease system extracted enormous wealth from free Black Labor, filling the coffers of States and private companies in the South, including the Chattahoochee Brick Company – which generated so much wealth from this brutal system that it opened the 4th National Bank, which evolved into the Wachovia Bank and eventually Wells Fargo. Untold numbers of Blacks, many of whom were in their teens and early twenties were worked to death on the grounds of the Chattahoochee Brick Company, never receiving a proper burial. As more and more informa-

tion is unearthed about the real legacy of a Company whose bricks were used to Continued Page 14

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc. to Host Dr. Siri Sat Nam World-Renowned Mental Health Practitioner

he Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc. (CHCB) is pleased to announce it will host worldrenowned, Los Angelesbased mental health practitioner Dr. Siri Sat Nam for a series of community meetings and workshops. Dr.Siri is also a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist (LMFT). He will also present a seminar entitled “Black Men, Who Are We?” Presently, Dr. Siri is featured in the newly aired television show, “The Therapist,” on Viceland Network. In his role, he conducts on-screen therapy sessions with celebrity musicians such as Katy Perry, Waka Flocka, Young M.A., Grammy Award winner Corey Taylor and many more. He is also the author of “The Pocket Guru: Guidance and Mantras for Spiritual Awakening and Emotional Wisdom.” Beginning Tuesday, September 7, 2021, Dr. Siri will conduct small group meetings with community leaders and state and local government members at the CHCB Buffalo site, located at 34 Benwood Avenue. The following public events will also be held: •Thursday, September 9, 2021 - 6 p.m., – “Black Men, Who Are We?” at CHCB, Inc., 34 Benwood Ave., Buffalo, NY 14214 (For more information, contact pciotta@chcb.net)

Dr. Siri Sat Nam •Saturday, September 11, 2021 - 7 p.m., – Book Signing: “The Pocket Guru: Guidance and Mantras for Spiritual Awakening and Emotional Wisdom” at Fitz Books and Waffles, 433 Ellicott St., Buffalo, NY 14203 (For more information, contact diaabmanagement@ gmail.com ) “As a people, we continue to confront and cope with structural and systemic racism that has been brought to the forefront by the pandemic, as a major public health issue that continues to manifest in widespread fear and distrust,”stated Community Health Center of Buffalo CEO Dr. Lavonne Ansari. “The ongoing COVID pandemic continues to cause great injury to the physical and mental health of people of color of all ages. Dr. Siri is a compassionate, trusted voice that will bring muchneeded guidance, and hope, to our ongoing healing efforts. He will help us better understand how to heal our communities.”

International Overdose Awareness Day A basket raffle and vendor fair will be held to raise money and support for WNY Mobile Overdose Prevention Services on International Overdose Awareness Day Tuesday, August 31 from 12-4 p.m., 800 Sycamore Street featuring Praise Dancing by Alvin Cribbs. For more information call (716)256-5221 or (716)290-3778 or email wnymobileops@gmail.com

CAO To Host Coffee and Conversation with Karl Shallowhorn The CAO will present “You’re Not Alone It Does Get Better” a coffee and c o n v e rsation e v e n t w i t h K a r l Shallowhorn, a mental Health professional who believes that mental health resources should be easily accessible to everyone. The conversations will continue on Thursday, August 26 at 10 a.m. and Friday at 10 a.m., JFK Community Center, 114 Hickory Street and Friday, August 27 at 6 p.m., Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street. To make reservations call or text (716)579-0238 or go to learn more go to caowny.org

Share Your Views About Food Access! Get a $25 Gift Card! Register at https://bit.ly/3cfGLOf

WALK OF HEALING: On August 13 and 14 the African American Health Equity task Force presented the IGNITING HOPE CONFERENCE. This free conference was designed to heal historical trauma from racists research, policies and practices and featured A Walk of Healing on Friday followed by a Virtual Conference that Saturday. The Walk of Healing was an in person walk that kicked off the conference. The walk started at Michigan and Broadway at the African American Heritage Corridor Archway and ended at the Freedom Wall where a community celebration was held. Pictured above, Pastor George Nicholas,left (holding the flag in middle photo) Chair of the African American Health Equity Task Force, leading the parade. Challenger Photos

Hearts & Hands is a WNY nonprofit that matches caring, reliable volunteers with older members in our community with essential needs, to aid them in living happy, independent lives.

Neighbors Helping Neighbors Volunteers are critical to our neighbor-helping-neighbor model, offering much-needed and appreciated human connection to some of the most vulnerable members of our community, at no cost to them.

As a volunteer, you’ll: Know in advance who you’re helping Know the exact needs you’ll be assisting Get to choose your own schedule Receive mileage reimbursement Receive supplemental insurance coverage

Si usted no habla inglés, llame a (716) 829-3782

(716) 829-3782 ‫اِس منرب پر رابطہ کرے‬

، ‫اگر آپ انگریزی نہیں بولتے‬

For more information contact Carol Ramos at (716) 829-3782

Want to learn more about becoming a Hearts & Hands volunteer? Call us (716) 406-8311 or visit volunteerhnh.org

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

Sadie Strong 5K Prayer Walk Bike Run For Breast Cancer Awareness

"The Bigger Picture": Unity, is Theme of East Side Mural

ne in eight women will be diagnosed with breast canA powerful message of social responsibility adorns the side cer in her lifetime. Early detection is key to survival. Sadie Strong strives to “create a world where women of the Styles of Man Unisex Barbershop on E. Delavan and Courtland Avenue. take control of their health.” The brainchild of Styles of Man owner Hakeem Hicks, On Saturday, August 28, Sadie Strong will host the 2nd Amanda Cruz, proprietor of Blow Out Guru Studios and a Annual Sadie Strong Prayer Walk Bike Run for Breast Cancer Awareness event from 8:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. talented young artist by the name of Althea Jones, the The kickoff will begin near Delaware Park at the St. mural, titled "The Bigger Picture," was unveiled last SatGeorge Parish Hall located at 2 Nottingham Terrace, fol- urday. There was also an opportunity for the community lowed by a 5K walk-bike-run or one loop around Dela- to participate in its completion. Everyone was invited to take ware Park and a post-party celebration back at St. George a simple pledge to work to see the community moving for- Pictured froml left: Lisa Hicks, Hakeem Hicks, Angia Gray, artist AlParish Hall. The Sadie Strong Prayer Walk Bike Run ward in unity. The pledge was signed by dipping one’s hand thea Jones and Rashika Hall . Also, Hakeem and Lisa’s adorable children Khadi and Halimah Hicks. Challenger Photo for Breast Cancer Awareness event will also offer mammo- in paint, and leaving a signature handprint on the mural The whole idea behind the project said Hakeem, “is to gram sign-up, COVID vaccines, health related resources, bring about unity and togethfood, fun, raffles and much more. erness.” Mobile Mammogram and Cancer Screenings: Hakeem, who has been in Sadie Strong Health and Wellness Expo will be held on Satbusiness over 20 years, is a urday, October 2 from 10 am – 2 pm at the Rev. Dr. Bennett W. Smith Family Life Center located at 833 Michigan Av- dedicated, civic minded young ma who joined the Buffalo enue, Buffalo New York. The Erie County Cancer Services Program (CSP) will pro- Fire Department six years ago, vide information about free breast, cervical and colon cancer but still maintains his commuscreenings and resources and education to eligible, unin- nity- based business. A group sured and underinsured men and women. CSP will also sign- of his “ brothers” from Engine 34 Ladder 7 were among those up women for mammograms. who attended and took the COVID Vaccines The Erie County Department of Health will be administer- pledge. “It was a great turnout,” Haing Moderna COVID vaccines from 8:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at the St. George Orthodox Parish Hall located 2 Notting- keem said. “I’m looking to do ham Terrace. You can register in advance at https://erievax. more of this sort of thing in the future." powerappsportals.us/ or walk up that day. Standing in front of the mural are firefighters from Engine 34 Ladder 7 located next to Bennett High Sadie Strong is a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit breast School, and Police officer Moe Badger. cancer support organization that promotes the early detection of breast cancer and inspires healthy lifestyles to women in the Buffalo Niagara region. We offer a variety of programs and services that provide awareness, support Lorna C Hill’s family-Amilcar Hill, Curtis Lovell, Rahwa and empowerment to women Ghirmatzion, Solace Hill - and Ujima Company members, affected by breast cancer. family and friends welcome the members of our beloved We also recognize and honor community to gather on Tuesday September 7, 2021 in breast cancer survivors and honor and celebration of Lorna C. Hill. The celebration will share inspirational stories take place at Asbury Hall, 341 Delaware Ave. Doors open at and messages of faith and 5p.m.A Photo Exhibit and Reception will be held from 5 to hope. Sadie Strong is a labor 6 p.m. followed by a Celebration which starts at 6:15p.m. of love inspired by Sharon “Sadie” Sanford’s journey Last June 2020 when Ms. Hill passed, we postponed this celwith breast cancer. For more ebration with the hope of getting past the “shut down.” Now information about Sadie over a year later, many are in a healthier and safer place but Strong or to register for the it is still the health and safety of our artists and guests that Sadie Strong 5K Prayer Walk remain our primary concern for the event. For everyone’s Bike Run, visit our website protection, admission will require proof of vaccination and a mask. Masks must remain on throughout. at www.SadieStrong.org. Doors open at 5PM to give people time to arrive and show proof of vaccination. We recommend using the Excelsior HOME Back to Pass on your phone https://epass.ny.gov/home

Lorna C Hill’s Celebration of Life

School Drive Thru BBQ

Housing Opportunities Made Equal, Inc. (HOME) invites the Western New York community, friends and neighbors to celebrate its Back-to-School DriveThru BBQ on Saturday, August 28, at their 1542 Main Street location from 12 noon to 3 p.m. Due to the on-going coronavirus pandemic, this year's event will be take-out only. It will feature a free back pack giveaway with school supplies, as well as free food home.

Photo Exhibit and Reception 5PM to 6PM Single serving refreshments will be served until 6PM, and we invite you to view a beautiful photo tribute to Lorna featuring the work of Frani Evedon and KC Kratt. Come early to view the photos, social distant visit with others and get a cool drink. Ujima Company will post a link on September 7 on our Facebook and Instagram to view the festivities online.

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

*CALL IN FOR PRAYER: (716) 715-1969 (716-603-9564 (716) 533-3807 ZOOM: 582 819 0042 PASS CODE: 835 667

Macedonia to Host Mac Fest 2021! Backpack, School Supply Giveaway and More!

Do You Know The Lord's Commandments? Exodus 20: Thou Shalt have No Other Gods Before Me; Love God With All Your Mind, Body, Heart Soul Spirit; Do Not Misuse The Name Of The Lord; Keep The Sabbath Day Holy; Honor Your Father And Mother; Do Not Murder/Kill; Do Not Commit Adultery; Do Not Steal; Do Not Lie; Do Not Covet! Lord, We Have Been Under Attack! We Are Praying, Fasting, Steadfast And Here To Do The Work Of The Lord! (Keep Praying For Us As We Pray For You; God, Sees All;He Knows All! Ezekiel; 22:30 Nlt God’s Watch-man On The Wall... Minister Wanda L. Strong Howard, Senior Servant; Minister Sister Barbara Johnson Kirk, Prophetess, Sis. Rhonda Mingo; Minister Tamara Lamb, Pastor Christine Lucas, Pasto Rudolphis Boans; Bro. Rashad Howard & More... ( Donations Go For Building The House Of The Lord: Back In The Park And Prayer Brunch Very Soon!)

Macedonia Baptist Church, located at 237 E North Street in Buffalo and lead by Rev. Julian A. Cook, Senior Pastor, is hosting Mac Fest 2021. The event will feature a backpack and school supply giveaway. In addition, there will be covid screenings, teeth cleanings, haircuts, ice cream, music, bounce houses a petting zoo, face painting, local vendors, community organizations and food trucks. At 11:30 a.m. there will be an outdoor worship service. Mac Fest 2021 will take place on Sunday, August 29, from 1 to 5 p.m. For more information, contact Macedonia Baptist Church at (716) 886-3489.

CELEBRATING OUR 19TH ANNIVERSARY ALL YEAR

" EVERY SETBACK IS A SETUP FOR A MIRACULOUS COMEBACK" OUR SIXTH MONTH OF NONSTOP PRAYER\PRAISE\PREACH\TEACH\WORSHIP FRIDAY, AUGUST 27 FROM 7 A.M. UNTIL SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 7 A.M.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

Buffalo Author, Shondra Brown Writes a Book to Help Blacks Navigate White Privilege in the Workplace By Jennifer Parker

es, there are "Karens" in the work place! Author Shondra J. Brown, a Buffalo, N.Y. nurse practitioner and blogger, has written her first book, “The Black Professional's Guide: How to Navigate White Privilege in the Workplace” based on real life experiences and observations. In an amusing and real talk approach Shondra speaks directly to Black and Brown employees entering the changing workplace. “As an African American supervisor Shondra J. Brown and corporate employee, I have witnessed many obstacles that I believe entry level employees of color can overcome if someone who has walked their walk, spoke with honesty and shared real life experiences about navigating the workplace. I wanted to share how I worked through the frustration.”, stated Brown The energy and personality of the writer is felt through her words when reading her book. She writes about how we have seen Barbeque Becky’s policing Black people for enjoying life. They police us in Corporate America too! Corporate Karen and Kevin question our intelligence and test our patience. Harry Human Resources uses vague corporate

verbiage to keep us in check. This guide is the urban professional’s checkmate. Shondra provides the reader with actual work experiences written with honesty and humor as a guide for Black employees to achieve success at work by learning the rules to navigate the corporate workplace. Race and culture, at the center of the experiences, are discussed candidly with guidance about how to successfully maneuver these explosive obstacles. Enjoy reading the stories behind chapters such as: •Stay Out of the Way •Know Your Worth •Mind Your Own Business •Get Up and Go to Work! •Racism? Sure, Now Prove it The book can be purchased on the author's website at www.shondrasplace.com or on Amazon Books. Jennifer J. Parker, is CEOof Jackson Parker Communications.

Our Homes:Get ready it's "Harvest Time "

Greetings to all! "Harvest" Here is a useful definition: A hobby including seeking, locating, acquiring, organizing, cataloging, displaying, storing, and maintaining whatever items are of interest to the individual collector. We've embraced our awesome "Summer" and now it's time to get ready for our "Harvest Season." That indeed means connecting with ourselves, family, friends, education, employment, good health and our home grown gardens....need I say more. Well let's include our homes . As the seasons bloom, there are certain steps we can take to get ready. Helpful information is available in my articles posted on the challengernews.com should you require more details. Here are some brief and valuable steps: ~Our heating systems : change the filter and dust off the furnace as needed for better heat distribution throughout ~ Clean and vacuum the heating vents in all areas of the home ~ Hot water tank should be flushed to remove any sediment ~ Use baking soda to clear sinks in the home and basement ~ Water softener if applicable (using salt ) ~ Check: smoke alarms ( on every floor and basement) ,carbon monoxide detectors (living location) and fire extinguishers and circuit interrupters(or GFCI~ circuit breaker shuts off electric power) ~ Faucet and shower heads cleaned to remove mineral deposits ~ Check electrical cords to make sure they are safely operable ~ Doors: make sure they are securely closed and durable ~ Clean all gutters and downspouts ~ Inspect roof for missing, lifted, loose, damaged shingles and leaks ~ Seal openings in windows, doors: caulk/weather strip/replace as needed ~ Sump pump have checked annually by a certified plumber Well that is all for now and I hope this was valuable information to you all. It is a pleasure to share knowledge with our community.Be safe and take care It's A Great Time to Market & Locate a New Home Hawwao Wajed / Real Estate Salesperson~Notary askhawa@kw.com / 716~867~4377 Cell Keller Williams Realty Office: 716~832~3300 5500 Main Street, Wlms., New York 14221 Suite#108 http://hawasellsnewyorkhomes. com

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

Point9 Mile Collaborative presents the SUN RA ARKESTRA September 2

P-Funk Connection Will Headline NICYO Funk Fest Rick James Tribute in MLK Park This Weekend!

The Fun Kicks Off Friday with the Jefferson Avenue Block Party from 5-10 p.m. Followed by The Buffalo Funk Fest Saturday when it Returns to MLK!

n August of 2004 following the funeral of Rick James, thousands of fans converged on MLK Park to pay tribute to his memory. That tradition has taken place every year since then, however in 2008, the venue was changed to LaSalle Park to accommodate the crowd as well as the performers. This weekend, Saturday August 28, the funk returns to Martin Luther King Park with a vengeance when headliners Patty Walker and the P-Funk Connection hit the stage! “It should be a really good time!” said NICYO Funk Fest promoter and co-founder Marnetta Malcolm. “We’re trying to do something good for Buffalo…and as long as we’re here we need and deserve a good time!” -Kick Off Friday With the Jefferson Avenue Block PartyThe weekend kicks off Friday, August 27 from 5-10 p.m. with the ever popular Jefferson Avenue Block Party (at E. Utica)- a classic reunion-type, dancin’ in the street-back-in-theday funky good time . When it was initially launched several years ago , Marnetta expressed the hope that it would serve as a “teaching moment” and positive experience to the younger generation who are having to grow up in a violent-prone society. --Saturday In The ParkThe NICYO Buffalo Funk Fest- a tribute to Buffalo’s own King of Punk Funk - starts at 4 p.m. and runs until 10. Marnetta reminds party-goers that no tents or grills are allowed. There will be plenty of vendors on hand. She said her team is taking as many precautions as possible to keep everybody safe. “You know COVID is coming to the concert too,” she quipped. “So we encourage social distancing, bring a mask, and use common sense!” The bottom line is, she added, “I wouldn’t give this festival if I knew it would hurt people… bring your mask please!!!” We can expect some great local entertainment including Delvin Payton and the Lyef Band Delivered, and DC and the Music Company. -The P-Funk ConnectionPatty Walker and The P-Funk Connection also has a Buffalo Connection! Patty, who started out in the music industry as a “Poplock Dancer” with the Parliament Funkadelic, was at one time also George Clinton’s hair stylist, responsible for his icnic rainbow colored braids. She also became Rick James hairstylist. Patty, always the entertainer and entrepreneur, eventually formed her own group, P-Funk Connection after departing Parliament Funkadelic. It was made up of talented musicians, that also included several P-Funk alumni and incredible musicians such as Michael Hampton, Kevin Shider son of the iconic guitarist, late Garry Shider and Scott Walker. Michael Johnson, also a member of the P-Funk Connection, was a finalist in THE VOICE competition. “The band is incredible,” said Marnetta. “Everything is free and open to the public! I’d like to thank everyone and anyone who played any part in making this happen!”(She issued a special thanks to Majority Leader of the NYS Assembly Crystal Peoples-Stokes, one of the event’s proud sponsors ) See you in the park!

The magnificent Sun Ra Arkestra with the great Marshall Allen on the left in red. photo by Sibylle Zerr

he point9 Mile Collaborative (a partnership between the Historic Colored Musicians Club and Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center) is proud to present the Sun Ra Arkestra on Thursday, September 2nd at 8:00pm in Buffalo’s magnificent Asbury Hall. The Arkestra has been hailed as one of the greatest big bands of all time. With a massive, joyous songbook and the kind of well-organized chaos that sees their legendary two-hour sets move deftly between rolling grooves, sing-along chants, and atonal blasts of mischievous brass, the Arkestra remain one of the most unmissable live acts today. Although the iconic Sun Ra left the planet in 1993, his cosmic legacy is proudly maintained by the interstellar sounds of the Sun Ra Arkestra, which now operates under the direction of the longtime alto saxophonist Marshall Allen. Allen has been a constant presence in the music of Sun Ra since 1958 as his pupil leading Sun Ra’s formidable reed section for the next 40 years. Allen, who is featured on over 200 Sun Ra recordings, is a pioneer of the Free Jazz movement of the early 1960s, having remarkable influence on the leading voices in the avantgarde and this year celebrates 97 years on planet earth! And still works unceasingly to keep the big-band tradition alive. The Arkestra has backed Solange and U2, inspired Lady Gaga to include “Rocket Number Nine” as part of her stage show, and welcomed artists like Kamasi Washington and Shabaka Hutchings to join in the fun, opening up the ears of new music audiences globally to a challenging and uniquely defined sound. For tickets go to hallwalls.org . General admission is $35, students/seniors $30 students/seniors and $25 for Hallwalls & CMC members. *Hallwalls staff will check proof of vaccination at the door, with masks optional for vaccinated individuals and mandatory for those unable to show proof of vaccination. Asbury Hall is large, spacious, air conditioned and well-ventilated.

Support The Arts!

Arnez J On Stage at The Helium This Weekend. The former host of BET’s “Comic View” featured on “Def Comedy Jam” and “The Mo’Nique Show,” and his most recent special, “Racially Motivated,” currently on Netflix. Thu, Aug 26, 8:00 PM Fri, Aug 27, 2021 7:00 PM & 10:00 PM Sat, Aug 28, 7:00 PM & 10:00 PM Sun, Aug 29, 7:00 PM

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

Get Ready for The 25th Annual Rochester Summer Soul Musicfest

Links Inc. 2021 Scholarship Recipients

The Summer Soul Musicfest will feature performances from 90s legends Boyz II Men, Tweet, E.U., Dana Dane, Monie Love and others. They will be performing in Rochester on Saturday, August 28 . The show will be held at Frontier Field, located at One Morrie Silver Way in Rochester. On Friday, August 27, there will be a tailgating event. Bundle tickets, for both days, are on-sale now and range from $69 for general admission to $129 for VIP. The two-day festival has been bringing big names to WNY for decades! Friday, August 27 Summer Soul Tailgate Music Experience 4 to 11 pm at Frontier Field VIP Lot Saturday, August 28 Community Block Party & Roc Royal Back 2 School Giveaway10 am to 4 pm Frontier Field VIP Lot Stone Soul Saturday 4:30pm – 11:30pm Frontier Field Stadium

THE SUN RA ARKESTRA THURSDAY SEPT 2ND

he Buffalo (NY) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated hosted a virtual Scholarship Awards Program June 13th. Over $10,000 was awarded and 14 scholarships were given overall. Nine Scholarships were awarded to graduating seniors who were outstanding in their academic achievements and who are entering college in the Fall of 2021. In addition to the scholarships that were awarded to area graduating seniors, there were also two recipients of the James Patterson Engineering Scholarship for graduating Seniors going into an Engineering Program or current College student majoring in Engineering. New this year was the Joan E. Sutton Memorial Scholarship, awarded to African Females age 21 & older interested in continuing education or a special activity/project. There were three recipients of this special Scholarship. Evelyn L. Kerney PhD., is President Buffalo (NY) Chapter of The Links, Inc. The scholarship winners pictured above top row l/r as follows:

1.Rickelle Jones- City Honors 2.Sydney Robinson - Cleveland Hill 3.Colin Tondreau - Sweet Home * James Patterson Scholarship Winner 4.Cyrstal Murphy - Frederick Law Olmstead 5.Danielle E. Burruss- G&G Empowerment Group *Joan E. Sutton Scholarship Winner 6.Dylan Williams - East Community 7.Esther Tuyizere - East Community 8.Jamal Harris, Jr. - Cleveland Hill 9.Jason Gadley, Jr. - WNY Maritime Charter School 10.Latajana Hall - Doctoral Student *Joan E. Sutton Scholarship Winner 11.Lisa Scott -Caregiver Retreat Day *Joan E. Sutton Scholarship Winner 12.Mohamad Osman - East Community 13.Mya Poissant- Williamsville North 14.Ivory Parker - City Honors * James Patterson Scholarship Winner Congratulations to All!

Let's Go! BEAU FLEUVE Annual Music Arts Celebration is August 29 Get Ready for the Ultimate Sunday Funday! The Beau Fleuve Music & Arts Celebration takes place Sunday, August 29 at Buffalo's Historic Central Terminal 495 Paderewski Drive celebrating all genres of music with 25 acts, 20+ dj's on multiples stages art & installations, silent disco, podcast stages, aerial acts, food trucks, vendors village, and more. ForTickets

showtimes info Visit BeauFleuveMusicArts.com

Blanc Photographie

8:00PM

ASBURY HALL 341 DELAWARE AVE BUFFALO, NY MORE INFO AT: 716.854.1694

WWW.HALLWALLS.ORG

The Community’s Portrait & Event Photographer. 716.319.8979 • Facebook: Blanc Photographie • Instagram: @blanc_photographie

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

Ghana Welcomes Return of Survivors of Tulsa Massacre

Martin Luther King Was A Democratic Socialist

Every January we honor Dr. Martin Luther King, a great civil rights leader. A man the majority of Americans view in a positive light. His birthday is a national holiday. His name adorns schools and street signs. In 1964, at age 35, he was the Viola “Mother” Fletcher youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize. and Hughes “Uncle Red” Van And he was a Democratic socialist... Ellis, sibling survivors of the

KENTE SASH HONOR: Bro. Dewitt Lee III recently presented the coveted Kente Sash Honor to Challenger publisher & editor Sis. Alnisa Banks (photo left) and Bro. Jabril Shareef (right).

Local Elders Honored During Emancipation Month

mancipation Month, which began 6 years ago in Canada, co-founded by Dewitt Lee III, has spread around the world and for the 2nd year in a row has honored local elders and ancestors in Buffalo, NY. on August 13th, which is referred to as RBG Day. It is called RBG Day because on August 13th 1920, the UNIA-ACL, led by the Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey founded the Red, Black, and Green flag. On this day the Emancipation Month committee chooses members of their community, those who are still with us, and those who have transitioned with a special tribute. Elders of the community receive a special handmade Kente Sash from Ghana which was produced by MACPRI International last year. This sash was commissioned by the Toronto UNIA-ACL division in 2020 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the UNIA-ACL flag. It was presented in a special ceremony at Johnnie B Wiley, last year to Mother Eva Doyle, Bro Kamau R.E. Fields and Sharon and Kenneth Holly. This year's recipients of the Kente Sash of honor was presented to Bro Jabril Shareef and Sis Alnisa Banks who received it during the Worldwide RBG Day celebration inside the African American Heritage Corridor just before the community marched down Michigan St. (Harriet Tubman Way) to the Freedom Wall on E. Ferry. The tradition during the week of RBG Day is to visit the gravesites of our ancestors and leave them a RBG Flag to honor them for their sacrifice and to show their family that they are not forgotten. This year we honored Queen Mother Rosa Montgomery and Harriet Tubman. Rosa Montgomery owned a salon in Buffalo, NY. Mrs. Montgomery was also in administrative roles in the Empire Sports Association and the National Hairdresser's Association. In addition, she was a member of Martha Washington Republican Club, she was among the first Black Committeewoman and a Garveyite. This year, will mark the first year that August 31st will be recognized as the International Day For People Of African Descent and the Emancipation Month Committee is looking to bring communities around the world together for this special moment. Please visit www.emancipationmonth.com for more details. -Submitted by Dewitt Lee III

visit us online at thechalengernews.com

1921 Tulsa Race Massacre, and their grandchildren were recently welcomed into Ghana to kick off a week-long visit to the African country. The trip was part of a government campaign to give African descendants an opportunity to come “back home.” Fletcher, 107, and Van Ellis, 100, arrived in Accra, Ghana’s capitol, to a crowd of onlookers and government officials waiting to receive them. “I had everything a child could need... But within a few horrible hours, all of that was gone,” said Fletcher. ”Now after all these years, I’m so happy to be fulfilling a lifelong dream of going to Africa and I am so pleased that [it] is to beautiful Ghana.” The Tulsa World reports that the trip all-expensepaid and is co-sponsored by Virginia-based social media platform Our Black Truth and the Diaspora Africa Forum, based in Ghana. The goal of the trip is to replace some of these horrific memories of Black Wall Street with some great memories.

Afghanistan: Another Unjust War... "The U.S. war in Afghanistan was never a war for democracy or for the liberation of women. Hidden behind empty rhetoric was a war that generated fabulous, un-scrutinized profits for military, oil and contracting corporations. Corruption at every level was an essential ingredient of the war. "The epic failure of U.S. imperialism in Afghanistan raises the immediate question of what this means for U.S. global corporate power. Especially, what will this howling defeat mean for the entire vast region where U.S. wars have created a vast wreckage?" —Sara Flounders, author of "War Without Victory"

t is important to remember that the civil rights icon Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was also a democratic socialist, committed to building a broad movement to overcome the failings of capitalism and achieve both racial and economic equality for all people. In Where Do We Go From Here, which calls for “the full emancipation and equality of Negroes and the poor,” King advocates policies in line with a democratic socialist program: a guaranteed annual income, constitutional amendments to secure social and economic equality, and greatly expanded public housing. He endorses the Freedom Budget put forward by socialist activist A. Philip Randolph, which included such policies as a jobs guarantee, a living wage and universal healthcare. He also outlines how economic inequality can circumscribe civil rights. While the wealthy enjoy easy access to lawyers and the courts, “the poor, however, are helpless,” he writes. This emphasis on poverty is not always reflected in contemporary teachings about King, which tend to focus strictly on his advocacy for civil rights. But Where Do We Go From Here and the final project of King’s life — the Poor People’s Campaign — show that King’s dream included a future of both racial and economic equality. “What good is having the right to sit at a lunch counter,” King is widely quoted as asking, “if you can’t afford to buy a hamburger?” In King’s view, the Greensboro lunch counter sit-ins, the voter registration drives across the South and the Selma to Montgomery march comprised but the first phase of the civil rights movement. In Where Do We Go From Here, King called the victories of the movement up that point in 1967 “a foothold, no more” in the struggle for freedom. Only a campaign to realize economic as well as racial justice could win true equality for African-Americans. In naming his goal, King was unflinching: the “total, direct, and immediate abolition of poverty.” The shortcoming of the first phase of the civil rights movement, to King, was its emphasis on opportunity rather than guarantees. The ability to buy a hamburger at a lunch counter without harassment did not guarantee that the hungry would be fed. Access to the ballot box did not guarantee anti-racist legislation. The end of Jim Crow laws did not guarantee the flourishing of African-American communities. Decency did not guarantee equality. For King, the only solution to America’s crisis of poverty was the redistribution of wealth. In a 1961 speech to the Negro American Labor Council, King declared, “Call it democracy, or call it democratic socialism, but there must be a better distribution of wealth within this country for all God’s children.” From his early letters to Coretta Scott until his final days, King put forward a vision of a society that provides equality for people of all races and backgrounds. This is the cause King spent his life fighting for. And it is one we should recommit to as we honor his legacy. (Excerpted from "In These Times" The Forgotten Socialist History of Martin Luther King Jr. King By Matthew Miles Goodrich)

"LOCKS & FROS" SATURDAY, AUGUST 28 • 1-4 PM •MANDELLA'S JEFFERSON & FERRY

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

COMMUNITY

WATCH DOG

"CAMPAIGN NOTES"

Byron Brown’s “Buffalo Party” Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown, a lifetime Democrat, has signaled his willingness to accept Republican support for his write-in campaign against Democratic nominee India Walton in the Nov. 2 general election. And he’s got it. The independent nominating petition he turned in to the Erie County Board of Elections Tuesday tells the tale: Among those gathering signatures last week in an effort to get Brown’s name on a ballot were suburban Republican Party officials, Conservatives, and at least one member of the region’s robust community of right-wing extremists. In fact, nearly one-third of the signature pages Brown turned in Tuesday were carried by members of right-leaning parties — most of them Republicans, most of them residing outside the city. As it stands today, only Walton’s name will appear on the Nov. 2 ballot. Because Brown, the incumbent, lost the Democratic primary in June, and didn’t pursue any other party nominations, his only recourse is a write-in campaign. However, earlier this week, Brown indicated he would try to create a new party line by filing an independent nominating petition. The deadline to do that was back in May, before the primary, but the Brown campaign has said it will challenge that deadline in court. Thus, Tuesday’s petition, aiming to create what the Brown campaign is calling the “Buffalo Party.” The petition comprises 257 pages containing more than 3,000 signatures — far beyond the 750 signatures required. All were gathered over five days last week, according to the witnesses who gathered them and swore to their authenticity. And who were those witnesses? According to the Walton campaign, 72 of those pages bear the signatures of registered Republicans. Nine pages were carried by registered Conservatives, one by a member of the right-leaning Independence Party and one by a member of the Libertarian Party. The witnesses to 18 more pages appeared to be unaffiliated with a political party or unidentifiable. The remaining 156 pages were carried by Democrats. Among the Republicans and right-wingers: •Jesse Prieto of Buffalo, executive director of the Erie County Republican Committee and an aide to Nick Langworthy, the state GOP chairman. •Frank Smierciak of Amherst, who nearly unseated Democratic •Assembly member Monica Wallace last year in a campaign notable for Smierciak’s harsh attack ads. •Robert Matthews, a former chairman of the Lancaster Republican Committee. •Brian Poliner of Clarence, a former GOP staffer for the Erie County Legislature. •Elias Cobti, chair of the Newstead Republican Committee. •Gay Thompson, an avid Trump supporter affiliated with far right-wing groups such as Freedom Fighters and Restore Constitutional Freedom to New York. Democrats carried and witnessed 156 pages of signatures. Among these were numerous City Hall employees, many of them members of Brown’s cabinet and executive staff. These included Donna Estrich, the finance commissioner; Kevin Helfer, the parking commissioner; Brendan Mehaffy, the director of strategic planning; Gladys HerndonHill, the human resources commissioner; Michael Marcy, the director of intergovernmental affairs; Michael Seaman, the city treasurer; Jessica Smith, a top aide in the mayor’s office; Mike Finn, the public works commissioner; and Oluwole McFoy, the not-very-transparent chief of the Buffalo Sewer Authority. Investigative Post is a non-profit investigative reporting center serving Buffalo and Western New York. To send tips to "Campaign Notes" email gkelly@investigativepost.org To read more go to https://www.investigativepost.org/

o 1 billion was poured into the Fruit Belt to demolish homes, close the Langston Hughes Center, foster gentrification, and create stress and havoc to build the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus. Four or five miles up the road in the suburb of Amherst, a healthcare "spine" has been created. Roswell Park Cancer Institute has a presence in Amherst now and Millard Fillmore was closed in favor of Amherst. Why was the BNMC built if the health services were all going out to the suburbs? Think of the families displaced in the city because of this "eds and meds" dream when those with access to medical care just wanted to have their care in the suburbs anyway....

A Look at Some of The Efforts to Stem Gun Violence...

n August 2, the US Attorney General announced VIPER'S results (Federal Violence Prevention and Elimination Response Task Force) in the Buffalo and Rochester district through July 30 (justice.gov). For Buffalo/Niagara Falls, there were 56 firearms related arrests, among 288 arrests. The seized firearms totaled 17. (VIPER was created on July 7.) Here's some background about VIPER from the Department of Justice's (DOJ) website: - The five strike forces "enable sustained coordination across multiple jurisdictions to help disrupt the worst gun trafficking corridors," stated the US Attorney General. - They are to provide a "60 day surge" aimed at removing violent gun offenders from the streets to enhance public safety. (Side Note: that timeframe seems stingy for the mission.) by Kat Massey - Each strike force region will be led by a designated US Attorney who will collaborate with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) along with state and local law enforcement partners. - They will use the latest data, evidence and intelligence from crime scenes to identify patterns, leads and potential suspects in violent crimes. - Those strike forces represent "one important concrete step in implementing the DOJ's comprehensive Violent Crime Reduction Strategy." Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is included. The DOJ additionally reported President Biden (June 23) announced the ATF would take steps to hold rogue gun dealers accountable for their actions. "FIREARM TRAFFICKERS PROVIDING WEAPONS TO VIOLENT OFFENDERS ARE AN ENFORCEMENT PRIORITY ACROSS THE COUNTRY." (US Attorney General) Recently, the White House has appropriately taken the lead. In New York State, the former governor declared a new State of Emergency around gun violence. A Public Health Crisis has been declared in Erie County for gun violence. Mayor Brown and Congressman Brian Higgins announced the City will use $5 million from the American Rescue Plan for it. Much is to be used for data collection to determine weapons hotspots and to effect removal of them. Hallelujah!

SPEAK OUT

Don't Believe the Hype: There's More to the Edmunds Judicial Appointment Than Meets the Eye... Dear Editor: Although I congratulate Attorney David Edmunds for his recent designation, Please, Please good people, don't be "hood winked," fooled, or have your intelligence insulted by this recent move, by a Mayor who is so desperate to try to get in good with Black Buffalonians, that he would pull any stunt in an effort to make it look like, "he cares" about us. With this recent appointment of Mr. Edmunds to the Buffalo City Court bench, he is attempting to do just that. But don't have your intelligence insulted. Byron Brown has held the office of Mayor, some sixteen {16) years now. Over that time period, he has had many opportunities to appoint qualified African Americans, and more importantly, a Black male to the City Court. Although he has had many opportunities, what has he done instead? Well, for those who may have forgotten, instead of an African American ... he appointed a Ms. Susan Egan. The same Ms. Egan who, rather than an African American, he also supported in her efforts to become a County Court Judge. He had another opportunity to appoint an African American, BUT NO, he appointed a Ms. Martoche, who he again, instead of a person of color, supported in her efforts to become a Supreme Court Judge. He had yet, another opportunity to appoint another African American, BUT AGAIN, no ... he decided to appoint Ms. Shannon Heneghan, former Counsel to Carl Paladino to the bench. And yet once more, he had an opportunity to appoint an African American to

dear editor

the City Court, and rather than do the right thing, he appointed a Mr. Peter Savage. So now, with this offensive track record, four months before he is out of office, in a desperate effort to curry favor within the Black community, he designates, for only a four month period, Mr. Edmunds. I say only four months., because it is my belief that it is too late for Mr. Edmunds' name to appear on the ballot, and another person has already been nominated and selected by the Democratic Party for the seat to which Mr. Edmunds now holds. In other words, we won't be able to vote for Mr. Edmunds, unless Brown tries to convince him also, to run as a write in candidate. Why didn't he appoint Mr. Edmunds' years ago?? Simple, he didn't need him then. He had the other man's support, and didn't need or care about us. Desperate times do call on desperate measures, and Byron Brown is attempting to pull out all of the stops. Mr. Edmunds would have been a great choice years ago. Mr. Edmunds would have been a great choice four appointments ago, when Black men should have been put on the bench, but now? Mr. Edmunds is a good man, but unfortunately, he has been sucked up by the, "we will try anything now to try and convince Black folk I care about them" efforts of the Mayor. I am insulted by this effort and we all should be. Mr. Mayor, too little, way too late! I am not fooled and you still won't have my vote. Your desperation is quite evident. Alonzo Jackson

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

Pictured (l to r) Charles Grant, Don Josey (seated), Charles Croom, Henry Jernigan, Helen Smith-Porter, Wilbert Lowe and Robert Stanton. The next luncheon listed in the article is Thursday, September 16.

Saluting Retirees at the Bennett Wells VFW Post

Summer Fun & Fitness for Niagara Falls Youth

By Renata Roney

Longstanding members of the Bennett Wells American Legion VFW Post 1780 are all smiles hosting a Retirees Luncheon. Coordinated by Don Josey, the monthly luncheon takes place every third rotating between the Post, 416 Williams Street and the Kerns Avenue Bowling Alley. Cost is $11 with a cash bar for good food and kind people with excellent stories. The next Retirees Luncheon takes place Thursday, September 16 at Bennett Wells, 1 p.m. For more information, call Don at (716) 432-7426. After World War II, over 100 African Americans retuning to Buffalo were not welcome to join existing American Legion posts.  Those veterans worked together to form the BennettWells American Legion Post, established in 1946 and chartered in 1954.  The Post is named in honor of the first two African American soldiers killed in WWII, Private James Bennett and Lieutenant Johnson Wells.  Located at 1356 E Delavan Avenue, the Bennett Wells VFW post offers information, education, and support for the community. The member-based organization also presents community service grants and activities that benefit veterans, active-duty service members, and their families. For more information, go to www.legion1780.org Renata Toney is a contributing writer, rrrenata@aol.com

Come One! Come All!

The First Fruits Food Pantry Is Open!

Offering Healthy Food Options Free To The Community

NEW TIME! Tuesdays 4-6 PM & Saturdays From 10 A.M. To 12 NOON Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, 641 Masten @ Northland No Forms To Fill Out, No Proof Of Income Or Residency Etc. Just The Blessing Of Good Food! While You’re There Check Out The Lincoln Memorial. Clothes Closet! “Fighting Food Insecurity & Meeting the Needs of The People.”

Sandi Williams U.S. Air Force 1978-1980 U.S. Army 1980-1987

Korean Defense Veteran Material Supply/ Administrative Clerk Attached to the historicHHB2/71st Air Defense Atrillery Battalion Last representative of the US HawkBattalion in Korea. She is a member of several veteran service organizations that advocate for veterans. In 2013 she attended the Inaugural Parade. Sandi is responsible for the name change of the Delavan Branch Library name change to Leroy R. Coles J.r Army Vet. Sandi is also recognized by Congressman Brian Higgins for her efforts in having the Central Park Post office name changed to Indiana Hunt Martin. Ms. Martin was attached to the 6888th WAC Central Post Directory Battalion, The all Black Lady army soldiers. Sandi was also vigilant in getting 3 Black ww2 veterans to go on the Honor flight to Washington D.C. to visit the WW2 Memorial and in that same year she arranged that two Black Korean War veterans go to the Korean War memorial in Washington DC. Sandi was influential in many veteran projects that positively affected fellow veterans.

A better YOU Lifestyle, Inc.. is a new nonprofit organization helping youth and families in the areas of physical, personal and financial development. Willie A. Price is the CEO and Program Director for the organization which is located in Niagara Falls.The organization kicked off its activities with two youth fitness and running programs .The first was sponsorship of the Niagara Track & Field Club which introduced and trained youth 3 – 12 years old to track and field as they learned various skills and improved in their overall fitness. The second activity was a partnership with The Connection Youth Center. Mr. Price coordinated and implemented a weekly, 11 session summer fitness and running program with the center staff and participants. Youth learned new running and fitness techniques and received a free pair of jogging shoes for participating in the program.For more information about the organization and upcoming activities, contact: Abetteryoulifestyle@gmail.com

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF ERIE DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE SECURITIES INC., QUEST TRUST 2003-X2, ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2003-X2, V. MARK LEWIS A/K/A MARK E. LEWIS; ET. AL. NOTICE OF SALE NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated October 20, 2020, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Erie, wherein DEUTSCHE BANK NATIONAL TRUST COMPANY, AS TRUSTEE FOR AMERIQUEST MORTGAGE SECURITIES INC., QUEST TRUST 2003-X2, ASSET BACKED CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2003-X2 is the Plaintiff and MARK LEWIS A/K/A MARK E. LEWIS; ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the "CLOSING ROOM" of the Erie County Clerk's Office located on the first floor of 92 FRANKLIN STREET, CITY OF BUFFALO, STATE OF NEW YORK 14202, on September 27, 2021 at 10:30AM, premises known as 4423 UNION RD, CHEEKTOWAGA, NY 14225: Section 91.12, Block 2, Lot 14: ALL THAT TRACT OF LAND, SITUATE IN THE TOWN OF CHEEKTOWAGA, COUNTY OF ERIE AND STATE OF NEW YORK, Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 816735/2018. Leroi C. Johnson, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES. August 26, September 2, 16, 23

JOBS

TERRENCE D. McKELVEY Attorney at Law 181 Franklin Street Suite #301 Buffalo, New York 14202

Buffalo Employment and Training Center / BETC • 716-856-5627

www.workforcebuffalo.org The BETC is here to help with your job searching

The Pike Company and LECESSE Construction actively encourage participation from M / WBE certified firms. Contact Kathy Rooney, Diversity & Community Engagement Manager, to discuss potential opportunities. 1.800.264.7453 | www.thepikecompanies.com | info@pikecos.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE RFP County of Erie 95 Franklin Street Buffalo, NY 14202 Department of Environment and Planning County of Erie, New York Request for Proposals The Erie County Department of Environment and Planning (ECDEP) (herein also referred to as “The County”) is seeking a Fee proposal for design and construction services to modify an existing stone planter on the outdoor plaza entrance to the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library to accommodate a new Trailblazing Women Monument. The monument will be procured through a separate artist RFQ process. Proposers interested are invited to respond to this Request for Proposals (RFP#2021034V). The RFP#2021-034V can be found at: http://www2.erie.gov/purchasing/ index.php?q=requests-proposalsamp-construction-bids All firms wishing to participate in this process must register electronically by sending an email to john.hood@ erie.gov. All further information and contact from Erie County will be sent electronically. All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with John Hood. Submission of the proposals shall be directed to: Department of Environment & Planning Deputy Commissioner - Division of Environmental Compliance Services 95 Franklin Street – Room 1053 Buffalo, New York 14202 Attention: Bonnie Lange-Lawrence by 2:00 pm (EST) on October 1, 2021 Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality. Bonnie Lange-Lawrence Deputy Commissioner of the Department of Environment and Planning

NAME CHANGE

Notice is hereby given that an order entered by the Supreme Court, Erie County, on the 2nd day of August, 2021, bearing Index Number 809245/2021, a copy of which may be examined at the office of the clerk, located at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY grants me the right to assume the name of Ashley Rose Adelaide Ferreira. The city and state of my present address are Clarence Center, NY; the month and year of my birth are July, 2002; the place of my birth is Williamsville, New York; my present name is Ashley Rose Ferreira Masci.

LEGAL NOTICE Bid Request for Proposal for Snow Plowing, Snow Removal & Salting Services for Various BMHA Housing Developments This Request for Proposals (“RFP”) seeks bids for snow plowing, snow removal, and salting services, for various Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority (“BMHA”) housing developments and BMHA office locations for a one-year term from November 1, 2021 to April 15, 2022. Proposals must be received no later than 3:00 p.m. (EDT, Tuesday, September 9, 2021. If you are interested, please contact Arnitra Chester at achester@bmhahousing.com for your request. Prospective bidders may schedule a site visit upon reasonable prior notice when requesting a RFP. A PreSubmittal meeting will be held on September 2, 2021, 10:00am.

LEGAL NOTICE RFP LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC NOTICE 30-DAY PERIOD FOR INCLUSION OF PREDOMINANTLY VIABLE AGRICULTURAL LANDS INTO EXISTING AGRICULTURAL DISTRICTS Per New York State Agriculture and Markets Law Section 303-b, the Erie County Legislature designated September 1 through September 30 as the annual thirty-day period during which landowners may submit requests to include predominantly viable agricultural land into an existing certified agricultural district. Copies of the application form have been provided to Municipal Clerks, Assessors, and Chief Elected Officials for distribution to interested landowners. The application is also available on the DEP website at www.erie.gov/agenrollment. The Erie County Department of Environment and Planning will accept applications from September 1 through September 30. Any questions on this process should be directed to the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning. A public hearing will also be scheduled at a later date to consider all inclusion requests and the recommendations of the Erie County Agricultural and Farmland Protection Board. CONTACT: Sarah Gatti, Senior Planner Erie County Environment & Planning 95 Franklin Street, 10th Floor Buffalo, NY 14202 Phone: (716) 858-6014 Fax: (716) 858-7248 Email: agriculture@erie.gov

NOTICE OF INVITATION TO SUBMIT A PROPOSAL FOR A THREE YEAR TERM PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERING SERVICES ASSISTANCE WITH AIR PERMIT REQUIREMENTS Proposals are requested by the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Division of Sewerage Management (DEP/DSM) for engineering consultant services to provide assistance with air permit requirements for the Southtowns Advanced Wastewater Treatnment Facility. The top rated respondent will be selected to enter into an agreement to provide the services. In accordance with Local Law No. 6, proposals are hereby invited for the subject project. Proposals are to be submitted in the exact format detailed in the request for proposals (RFP). Proposals will be due at 4:00 PM on October 14, 2021. Proposal shall be delivered to the DEP/DSM, Room 1034, 95 Franklin St., Buffalo, NY 14202. To obtain a copy of the RFP guidelines, please visit the following website, http://www2.erie.gov/purchasing/index.php?q=requests-proposals-amp-construction-bids. Alternatively, you may call (716) 858-8383 or e-mail DSM@erie.gov if you would like to request a hardcopy. This invitation does not commit Erie County, or its DEP/DSM to accept any proposal, nor does it obligate Erie County for any costs associated with preparing or submitting proposals. By:Joseph Fiegl, P.E., BCEE Deputy Commissioner Erie County DEP/DSM Dated: August 18, 2021 Published: August 26, 2021

FREE DENTAL CARE

The dental office at Good Neighbors Harvest House Ministries, 175 Jefferson Avenue, is offering FREE DENTAL CARE every second Saturday of each. month from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Dental extractions, fillings and advice will be offered. Care will be provided by UB Dental students in their final year of school and supervised by faculty. For more information or to make an appointment call (716)855-0654 ext. 223 or go to Harvesthousebuffalo.org.

NFTA Procurement

Invitation to Bid 210045 - PUBLIC WI-FI SERVICE Download Bids from www. nfta.com

NFTA Procurement

Invitation to Bid 210043 - HVAC SERVICE AGREEMENT Download Bids from www. nfta.com

EMPLOYMENT Youth Peer Advocate

Provide peer support to transition- Age youth with disabilities to all WNYIL locations. HS diploma or Equivalent req. Exp. w/any or all Forms of disabilities req. Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc. 3108 Main St. Buffalo, NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Vocational Peer Support Specialist

Educate individuals in the community About the benefits of using WNYIL programs. HS diploma & 2 yrs exp in vocational services req. Send resume and cover letter to WNYIL, Inc 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Health Homes Care Coor- Peer Support Specialist: dinator-HD Renewal Center Help enroll consumers in a Health Home. Help decrease costs of consumers being Served in a Health Home. Bachelor’s & 5 yrs exp. Req. Resume and Cover letter to WNYIL Inc 3108 Main St Buffalo NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Serve guests in overcoming immediate, emotional Crisis, of which may alternatively result in ER visits. HS diploma or equiv. Exp. with mental illness. Resume and cover letter to WNYIL, INC. 3108 Main St. Buffalo, NY 14214 employment@wnyil.org EEOC

FIND JOBS ON THECHALLENGERNEWS.COM/JOBS

LEGAL NOTICE RFP City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency Request for Proposal The City of Buffalo (“City”), through the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency (“BURA”), is seeking proposals through the federal HOME Investment Partnership Program to assist in the development of affordable housing projects in the City of Buffalo. Through this program, activities have been undertaken to enhance ongoing neighborhood revitalization efforts. For the funding period covered by this application the City will assess proposals received that address the goals outlined in the City's Consolidated Plan. Applicants must be incorporated for-profit or non-profit entities to undertake affordable housing activities within the boundaries of the City of Buffalo. It is the policy of BURA, that all local Minority/Women Business Enterprises (M/WBE’s) be encouraged to submit proposals. BURA continues to ensure that all locally owned M/ WBE’s are afforded the maximum opportunity to participate as Applicants or Sub-Applicants in the provision of goods and services for BURA. BURA encourages the award of at least thirty percent (30%) of the total dollar value of this project directly or indirectly to M/WBE’s. Proposal Submission Deadline: October 1, 2021 at 4:00 p.m. Request for Proposal submissions are due to: Yvonne C. McCray, Director of Housing City of Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency 65 Niagara Square Room-315 City Hall Buffalo, N.Y. 14202 RE: City of Buffalo HOME Investment Partnership Program RFP Submission (No. 2021-3H) A full copy of the Request for Proposal can be picked up in 315 City Hall or 920 City Hall, 65 Niagara Square Buffalo NY 14202, the Central Library, 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo NY 14203 and http://www.citybuffalo.com/BuraBids or http://www. city-buffalo.com/bids .

Seeking full time TEACHER positions. CAO has an URGENT NEED for the following positions: • Teacher II – A child development Associate (CDA) in infant development. This credential requires a GED/High School diploma prerequisite. • Teacher III – Bachelors or Associates degree in Early Childhood Education with 2-3 years’ experience teaching preschool age children. • Teacher IV – Masters or Bachelors in Elementary Education or Child Development with an early childhood concentration with at least 2 years of teaching exp.; one year working with pre-school age children 2-5 year olds or 0-3 (EHS).

Please go to our website to apply www.caowny.org

Church Musician

Grace Community Ministries located in Niagara Falls, NY is seeking a parttime Church Musician. Must have knowledge of church, Christian music and honor the Christian faith and worship experience.The individual must read music and have the ability and experience in developing a church choir. Salary is negotiable. All interested candidates please call Pastor Todd at 716-553-3926.

Director

Responsible for implementing The policy and procedure for the CDPAS program for the WNYIL Agency. Bachelor’s & 2 yrs of management exp req. Resume and cover letter to WNYIL,Inc. 3108 Main St, Buffalo, NY, 14214. employment@wnyil.org EEOC

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

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

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IMMUNITY SUPPORT VITALITY USA FREE CATALOG (716) 249-4800

FLEA MARKET 1870 FILLMORE (near Kensington) Thursday & Friday 12-5 pm Saturday 9-5 PM Sunday 12-5 PM JEFF MOORE (716) 361-4900 You Can Still Register To Vote Until September 30th for the November 2021 Election!

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THE BILLS continued

It’s going to be another fun and exciting season of Buffalo Bills football. In the next Edition I will give closing comments on Special Teams and predict the Bills record for the upcoming 2021 NFL season. Follow me on FACEBOOK, Instagram and Twitter at georgeradney@georgeradman, RADIO: Pro Talk Plus every Saturday morning at 7 AM to 8 AM on 105.5 FM The Beat of Rochester & Every Sunday morning 8 AM to 9 AM on Fox sports 1280 AM WHTK What’s Going on The Experience in Rochester.

BLACK HISORY continued construct hundreds of building in the Atlanta metro area, there is growing outrage and demand that the property/the grounds be consecrated as a Sacred Site. This past April, over the Easter Weekend, a broad-based coalition of community and interfaith, ecumenical faith leaders in Atlanta gathered at the Chattahoochee Brick Company to claim and declare the grounds a Sacred site to memorialize African Americans who died there working as forced labor.

IT'S FISH FRY FIRST FRIDAY TIME! FISH FRY 1st FRIDAYS, Friday September 3 (and every first Friday of the month) $12 At Dorothy J. Collier Community Center 118 E. Uticia St Phone: 716.882.0602 Dinner Includes 2 Sides, A Roll & Cake 11am- 6 Pm. Free Delivery On 5 Or More Dinners

Fun, Free Day at Canalside for Families Explore & More – The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Children’s Museum’s annual Touch A Truck event returns! The Western New York community is invited to come and join in the fun at Canalside on August 28th from 10 AM-3 PM.

ETHICAL ENERGY: SOLISTICE HELPS SAVE ON ELECTRIC BILL GUARANTEED At no extra cost and making a difference in the community Solistice helps you save money on your electric bill. The company partners with solar developers to build, and connect you to community solar projects in your area. Your utility buys the energy project and our technology applies savings to your monthly utility bill. It’s at no extra cost to you because we benefit when you connect to the project. Automatically save money and support local solar projects without installing anything on your property. Help erase carbon footprint. A handful of states have passed legislation that allows homes and apartments to share in the savings from remote solar projects. It is consolidated billing, no sign up fees, no contracts and no cancellation fees. Call or text Rhoda to lear more about the program and to sign up at 716-431-6156

for more information.

GRANDMA'S AUGUST DOUBLES

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021

OPEN

R E G I S T R AT I O N

CULTURE ALONG THE AVENUE! The culture was alive and well along Jefferson Avenue on a beautiful Saturday afternoon

recently . Pictured left, Daughters of Creative Sounds graced the community with rhythic drumming and plenty of knowledge (see Zawadi's ad his page). Meanwhile, less than a block away, in the photo to the right, Bro. Omnipotent Jahka (left) and Brother Shango were not only selling beautiful African inspired items, but sharing knowledge as well! The brothers, who are part of the Afrikan Consciousness Workshop, are also hosting a Buffalo Race 1st Rally this Saturday, August 28 at 1353 Jefferson at 2 p.m. A march from the Johnnie B. Wiley Stadium at Best and Jefferson (1 p.m.) will kick off the rally . For more informaion call (816)292-7192 or (716)400-8644. Challenger Photos

August 30-31

8 a.m. - 7 p.m.

• Apply and register in one day • Ask about available financial aid • Meet with an academic advisor Classes Begin September 7 www.ecc.edu/visit

2nd Annual Jump Rope Competition & Book Bag Giveaway The Confident Girl Mentoring Program Inc. will present the 2nd Annual Jump Rope Competition & Community Book Bag Giveaway Saturday, August 28 from 9 a.m.- 2 p.m. at Gerard Place, 2515 Bailey Avenue. Lunch will be provided at this family affair and there will be music by D King Shad. For more information go to support@confidentgirlmentoring.com or www.cgmpinc.org

COVID-19 Vaccination Pop Up Events

If you are interested in getting vaccinated against COVID-19, the Erie County Department of Health has the following pop-up vaccination events coming up: •Friday, August 27,Freedom Friday MLK Park near Fillmore& Parade,1:30 - 3:30 pm. •Sunday, August 29 Canalside (44 Prime St.) 11 am to 3 pm. •Saturday, September 4,Central Terminal 495 Paderewski Dr., 10 am to 12:30 pm. This vaccination pop-up is a part of the Second Annual Backpack Giveaway event hosted by Legislator Howard Johnson and Buffalo Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski. You can also get a vaccine at home by calling (716)8582929 or visit-ing http://erie.gov/vax, which is also where you can register for any of the pop-up events above.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •August 26, 2021