THE RE-OPENING OF BUFFALO & WNY HAS BEGUN! BUT COVID-19 IS STILL HERE!
Please continue to follow the health guidelines to help keep the virus from spreading. Wear A Mask. Wash Your hands. Practice Social Distancing. STAY SAFE! STAY POSITIVE! USE COMMON SENSE!
May 27, 2020 | FREE |
LIGHTING UP THE PATH TO FREETHEM
Kelly Diane Galloway Takes Her Fight To Raise Awareness Of Human Trafficking To Another Level With Visionary “FREETHEM WALK” From Virginia To Buffalo. Page 3
ROCHESTER
Mayor Warren Pleads for Street Fighting to Stop Page 2
CULTURE
Juneteenth 2020: From Jefferson Avenue, to MLK Jr. Park, to the Worldwide Web! Page 8
VOICES
Baba Eng: The Black Community In Crisis and Under Seige Page 9
A LOOK AT 8 OF THE WORST PANDEMICS IN HISTORY Page 8
PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID BUFFALO, N.Y. PERMIT NO. 164
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INSIDE ROCHESTER
Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
Mayor Warren
Mayor Warren Pleads for Street T Fighting To Stop!
Freedom Gardens In The Age of COVID BY GAIL WELLS
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ayor Lovely Warren pleaded with residents of Rochester to stop the street fighting and violence that plagued the community over the past weekend where large crowds gathered for parties that ended in violence. Last Friday nearly 300 people congregated for a party near Boston Street and Joseph Avenue when fights broke out. Rochester Police Department Chief L’lRon Singletary has warned that the department will not tolerate the violence. Mayor Warren issued her plea and condemnation from her personal facebook page. It read: “All weekend the parties, the fights and shindigs. Each one trying to out do the other. For what? For your grandparent, parent or child to contract the virus? “You must like what people say about our community. Calling us fools and spewing hateful rhetoric and other names. It breaks my heart to constantly hear...lock them up, throw tear gas on them, treat them like animals...put them in cages. “Social Media fame is so important that you would risk exposing your family to a virus that could possibly kill them. “Our children deserve to see adults in this community acting better. The trauma they’re experiencing today will be with them for life. I’m not asking you to act better for me. I’m asking you to do better for our children. We will reap, what we sow.” On Sunday, several fights broke out simultaneously resulting in two people being hospitalized after the large fight led to a stabbing on Weyl Street and a man was stabbed on South Clinton Avenue. Police also dispersed crowds on North Clinton Avenue early Monday morning. "There are no excuses for the nonsensical spate of behavior that some exhibited in our community,” Chief Singletary said in a statement. “The fights and the disruptive behavior that occurred are intolerable in nature and those involved should be embarrassed of the behavior exhibited.” “Arrests and citations alone will not solve this problem,” he continued. “It is up to individuals to decide to act in a manner consistent with the values of our society.”
his current COVID -19 pandemic has revealed inherent inequities in our current food systems that requires a reworking and reimagining of the cultural assumptions that undergird capitalism, democracy, our relationship with land/mother nature and the way we build community. The crisis can be a blessing in disguise because in an effort to save ourselves is an opportunity to start anew. If we can recreate indigenous ways of knowing and being we can bring ourselves in balance with the universe and nature. Our food and herbs were grown and cooked to heal and nourish our bodies and minds…hence the name “Soul Food.” We believed growing our own food was a long-term sustainable solution to improving our health, increasing wellbeing and creating a sustainable and responsive community. We worked the land for our benefit and we are seeking to do that again! Most if not all African Americans have roots in the south. My ancestors were forced to work Mississippi land. And like many, my family fled Mississippi during the Great Migration and traveled north to find employment and a better life. My grandparents took their knowledge of farming and being self-sufficient with them. My grandma, Nana, taught me how to garden, usContinued Page 8
Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
AREA BRIEFS
Lighting Up The Path To "FREETHEM"
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Kelly Diane Galloway Takes Her Fight To Raise Awareness Of Human Trafficking To Another Level With Visionary “FREETHEM” Walk From Virginia To Buffalo.
By Jennifer Earle Strickland
CONGRATULATIONS! Community activist and former Fillmore District Council candidate Tina Sanders and granddaughter Tynashia Simmons (inset) are all smiles following Tynashia’s “ride along” for her graduation from Performing Arts High School with an Advanced Regents Diploma. Congratulations to the graduate and her proud grandmother!
Summer School Online: September Opening Still Not Decided Gov Cuomo has announced that schools will not reopen for summer school, but distance learning will continue for students attending summer sessions. The Gov. has yet to decide whether school buildings and college campuses will open this fall .
New York Now Allows Gatherings Of Up To 10 People New York will allow all gatherings of up to 10 people with proper social distancing after a civil liberties group filed a lawsuit last week challenging the state's prior ban. Now, up to 10 people will be allowed to meet for birthday parties, barbecues and any other nonessential gatherings for "any lawful purpose or reason," provided people keep six feet of distance and adhere to the Department of Health's cleaning and disinfecting protocols, according to Cuomo's new order.
Legislator Howard Johnson Provides Masks to Erie County Holding Center In response to a request from the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, Erie County Legislator Howard Johnson recently delivered 1,200 masks to the Erie County Holding Center. Johnson was responding to a letter received from the Superintendent of the Jail Management Division of the Erie County Sheriff’s Office requesting masks for prisoners in the Holding Center and the Alden Correctional Facility. “As soon as I received the letter, I personally drove the masks to the Holding Center and presented them to Superintendent Thomas Diina,” said Legislator Johnson. “I was surprised by the Sheriff’s letter requesting masks for prisoners. We are two months into this pandemic, and although we have not had a single case of COVID-19 diagnosed in a prisoner in Erie County’s jails, we need to ensure that both prisoners and workers are protected as a matter of public health.”
Exuberant, exhilarated, excited, exceptional, and extraordinary, are just a few of the alliterative adjectives that describe Kelly Diane Galloway. This motivating force behind the fight against human trafficking has masterminded yet another vehicle to deliver consciousness to the global community about the heinous crime that exploits women, children, and men, worldwide. Kelly Diane Galloway / illustration by Edreys Wajed Ms. Galloway, the visionary and organizer of orphanages in Guatemala, India, and Nepal; a school in India, where she teaches literacy; and Mona’s House, the refuge where victims of trafficking become victorious, is still on the move, in spite of current limitations, courtesy of Covid-19. Her goal is to raise awareness of this other pandemic that, according to 2020 estimates provided by the International Labor Organization (ILO), involve approximately 25 million victims, and generates about $150 billion in annual profits. Galloway estimates that the number comprising this population of modern-day slaves is more likely closer to 40 million, and desires for the world to know the signs, symptoms, effects, and solutions, to this ongoing travesty that is taking a drastic toll against society. Currently Galloway and her team are planning "THE FREETHEM WALK,” where they will lead the pedestrian journey from Lynchburg, Virginia to Buffalo, NY. She will honor the God-Given vision that “THE FREETHEM WALK” will follow the path of the Underground Railroad, the secret route of passage for enslaved Africans to escape to freedom, in Canada. Her objective is to, with 100 volunteers, travel this journey and share with those along the way, the comparison of the despicable and indistinguishable characteristics of current day human trafficking to the African ancestral history of the slave industry that provided the financial foundation for this country. Galloway remembers that it was on June 19, 2019 that she had the epiphany for the 902 mile* walk, when she was angered at the realization that so many don’t know the history and significance of the commemoration of that date, and the parallel aspects of human trafficking of the 21st century. The official date of the first Juneteenth celebration, is June 19, 1865, when Texas became the last Confederate state to declare freedom to the enslaved. However, unlike the enslavement of Black people, modern day human trafficking disregards ethnicity or community. Originally scheduled to begin in May 2020 and end in Buffalo, just before the Juneteenth Festival, due to the safety of its participants amid the impact of the coronavirus, the walk is postponed until further notice. Galloway’s eye-opening documentary “Sold Next Door” will be part of the 2020 Juneteenth virtual experience. The film shares the stories of victims of human trafficking, responses of law enforcement officials, and explores the heinous crime will be shown through internet streams. Galloway and her team are still doing what’s necessary, physically, mentally, and spiritually, to prepare for what might, at points, become a tedious journey, and will announce the new dates, via the Challenger, as soon as they’re determined. She is also kicing off THE FREETHEM CHALLENGE June 1 through June 18 inviting people (individuals or teams) to walk, ride, swim, skate or run 902 miles collectively in effort to raise funds in support of Project Mona's house as part of the virtual Juneteenth Celebration. Details for the challenge can be found on Instagram @thefreethemwalk and on thefreethemwalk.com. What’s next for Kelly Diane Galloway? “Mona’s Cottage”: a housing facility that will be equipped with resources that will accommodate and support the restoration of 125; and the “FREETHEM” concert. Continue to monitor projectmonashouse.com and thefreethemwalk.com for more information, to support, or to volunteer your time and energy to any of the causes championed by this awesome woman. – Peace and Love -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
According to Ms. Galloway, these are some of the signs and symptoms of someone who may be a victim of human trafficking: •Night walkers, or “hanging on street corners” •Truancy from school, or employment •Instant wealth (the trafficker’s way of gaining trust) •Untreated injuries •Timidity (one person speaks for all others •Participation in pornography •**Victims may include runaways, and bias according to gender or sexual orientation**
The Tulsa Race Massacre (Also Known as the Tlusa Race Riot)
Before the Tulsa Oklahoma Race Massacre where the city’s Black district of Greenwood was attacked by a White mob, resulting in two days of bloodshed and destruction, the area had been considered one of the most affluent African American communities in the United States for the early part of the 20th century. It is said within Greenwood every dollar would change hands 19 times before it left the community. For two days beginning May 31, 1921 to June 1, the White mobs set fire to hundreds of Black-owned businesses and homes in Greenwood. More than 300 Black people were killed. More than 10,000 Black people were left homeless, and 40 blocks were left smoldering. Survivors recounted Black bodies loaded on trains and dumped off bridges into the Arkansas River and, most frequently, tossed into mass graves. The event remains one of the worst incidents of racial violence in U.S. history, and one of the least-known. News reports were largely squelched, despite the fact that hundreds of people were killed and thousands left homeless. Now, as Tulsa prepares to commemorate the massacre’s centennial in 2021, a community is still haunted by its history.
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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
BUILDING COMMUNITY AMID Positive Examples of Working Together Within Our Communities To Support Ourselves And Our Neighbors During The Covid-19 Crisis
Connecting Businesses to Resources Mayor Byron W. Brown and The City of Buffalo Office of Strategic Planning have launched Reopen Buffalo as an online resource for businesses and the community. Reopen Buffalo will enable businesses and consumers to see critical reopened business information, including hours of operation, services offered, contact information, etc. Additionally, Reopen Buffalo will serve as a communication tool between businesses and City Hall, providing businesses with the latest information about the COVID-19 emergency and the City of Buffalo’s response to adequately restore economic activity swiftly and responsibly. You can find Reopen Buffalo at www.buffalony.gov Business Assistance: There is also a Business Assistance tab on the City’s COVID-19 website to provide you with business-related resources and guidance during this difficult time. Business owners are encouraged to reach out to Westminster Economic Development Initiative (WEDI), LISC WNY, Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at SUNY Buffalo State, Pursuit Lending, that are are providing various types of business assistance and guidance during these troubling times. You can find the city’s COVID19 website at covid19.buffalony.gov
WE ARE WOMEN WARRIORS ON THE CASE! The We Are Women Warriors' recent East Ferry Street Personal Protective Equipment (PPEs) Give Away held in front of Grant's Variety Shoppe on May 20 was a great success. Former Erie County Legislator Betty Jean Grant and We Are Women Warriors partnered with Cornell Cooperative Extension, Fillmore District Councilmember Mitch Nowakowski, Masten District Councilmember Ulysees O. Wingo, County Legislator Howard Johnson and Brett Begley, ABC Hardware, to give away hundreds of masks, hand sanitizer, gloves and a lunch tote filled with fresh fruit and bottled water, to the eastside community. Betty Jean Grant is a also continuing to deliver the daily message by way of her PPE/ SUV public address sound system throughout the community: Stay at home if possible .Start wearing a mask. Stand 7 FT away from others. Stop socializing in large crowds!
Beverly Gray Business Center: During the ongoing pandemic, the Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center will operate virtually to assist our small businesses on Buffalo’s East Side and throughout Western New York. You can contact the Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center by email: mrevere@nextsteet. com and by phone: 716342-3620.
Support The Black Cross Nurses
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HAND SANITIZER INITIATIVE!
he Universal African Black Cross Nurses Hand Sanitizer Initiative is growing! We would like to thank all those who have purchased sanitizer or donated to the mission. This act of group economics has allowed the local Black Cross to provide sanitizer to youth and elders around the city. You can now support by donating via CashApp: $Buffalo433, ordering online at Melanatedgreats.com or purchasing from The Ink Spot at 1440 Jefferson Ave, Buffalo, NY 14208. These times are proving that "we are all we got!" Hopefully, on the other side of this pandemic we will be stronger as a village unit. One God, One Aim, One Destiny!
eat to live
BETC: Although some businesses have closed, others are experiencing a labor shortage. The BETC continues to provide career and referral services to our customers. We welcome inquiries from all Western New York job-seekers and employers. The BETC has established a virtual office! Access to job counselors are available via telephone at 716.856.5627
Free Mask, Food and Testing
OPERATION COVER UP MASK DISTRIBUTION was held May16 at seven locations in the city. Participating in the giveaway was the Paramount Lodge and Iconic Lodge #88, pictured above in the Jefferson Plaza. Other sites included True Bethel Baptist Church on East Ferry St.; Delelvan Grider Community Center; BPS BUILD Academy; Friendship Baptist Church, New Direction Fellowship and the Broadway Old K-Mart Parking Lot. Challenger Photo
The Hispanic Heritage. Council announces a free mask, food and testing giveaway curbside pickup to be held on Saturday, May 30 starting at 12 noon until supplies last at the corner of Niagara and Hudson, the home of the Hispanic Heritage Cultural Institute. The G-Health Enterprises Mobile Unit will also be on hand for Free Testing and contact Tracing.
RWJF-26554-Community_Paper_Banners | Buffalo Challenger | Trim Size: 10.25” x 1” | NO BLEED | 4C
H E L P I N G O U R R E A D E R S S T AY E D U C A T E D, S A F E , A N D H E A L T H Y For up-to-date information, visit our COVID-19 Information Portal at TheChallengerNews.com
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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
Guidance for Cancer Patients During COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted nearly every aspect of our lives in Western New York. While there is hope that we may return to some form of normalcy in the coming months, the situation can change rapidly, so it's important to stay up to date with guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), and the New York State and Erie County Departments of Health. Additionally, cancer patients and their loved ones may be looking for guidance when it comes to navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. Here are answers to some of the questions most often asked by Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center patients and caregivers. Q: As a cancer patient, will I be affected more severely if I get the virus? Right now, we don't have enough information to know if this is the case. We do know that cancer patients who are in treatment have weaker immune systems than healthy people, and other viruses tend to hit harder in people who are immunocompromised. That's why you should follow precautions very carefully. Q: Should I wear a mask when going out in public? Yes. Everyone is now required to wear a mask in public in any situation where it's not possible to maintain physical distancing of at least 6 feet from others. The CDC recommends this practice for everyone across the country. Remember that even when you are wearing a mask, hand washing is your best defense against infection. If you do not have a mask, you can use a scarf or other fabric to cover both your nose and mouth. Q: Should I still go to the hospital for my appointments? You should speak to your care provider on how your treatment should proceed during the pandemic. It will depend on your diagnosis, types of treatment, current disease status and other medical conditions. When it comes to cancer care, it is important that you make an informed decision about how to proceed with your care. “Very few of our cancer cases are considered elective,” says John M. Kane III, MD, FACS, Chair of Surgical Oncology at Roswell Park. “We’re a cancer center. We have to treat cancer. It doesn’t go away in a pandemic, just like heart attacks and heart disease and trauma don’t go away. And we have the necessary precautions in place to do it safely.” At Roswell Park, instead of coming to campus for a traditional face-to-face appointment, you may be eligible for a virtual visit with a Roswell Park provider via video chat. Next Conclusion: Keeping Patients & Staff Safe
Fitness In The Parks: Home Edition Free, Live, Virtual Exercise Classes All Summer!
LIVING STRONG! Ankh wedja seneb “Be alive, strong& healthy!”
Exercise to Strengthen The Immune System Even moderate exercise seems to have a beneficial effect on strengthening the body's immune function, to help fight disease and viruses. Aim for at least 30 minutes of physical activity three days a week. This can include walking, biking, yoga, swimming, or other low impact workouts. Exercising, such as walking, also has an extra benefit – it allows your body to naturally convert Vitamin D from sun exposure. Vitamin D also helps strengthen the immune system. For seniors, a short 10-minute walk around the block may be a good way to start or try yoga and Tai Chi for improved flexibility and a boost to mental and emotional health In addition to exercise and staying active, other lifestyle choices for all ages include eating a healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables (including immune boosting foods such as citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, garlic, ginger, spinach, yogurt, almonds, sunflower seeds, tumeric, green tea, papaya, kiwi) , lowering your stress level, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking and cutting back on sugar.
Independent Health is once again teaming up with the YMCA to offer free fitness classes this summer with Fitness in the Parks: Home Edition! Through Facebook Live, a series of virtual fitness classes will be offered each week for the community to take part in from the comfort of their own home. All classes will continue to be led by certified YMCA instructors. The Following classes are now being offered: • Mondays at 6 p.m. – Boot Camp • Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m. – Kickboxing • Wednesdays at 9 a.m. – Fusion • Thursdays at 5 p.m. – Yoga • Saturdays at 9 a.m. – Cardio Kick With the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic, you can simply join the live-stream class offered at the scheduled time from the Facebook page of either YMCA Buffalo Niagara or the Jamestown Area YMCA. For more information,go online at www.independenthealth.com/fitpark
Bank digitally anywhere, anytime, any way you want. Easily manage your family budget. Keep track of all your accounts in one place. Pay all your bills.
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Blanc Photographie
The Community’s Portrait & Event Photographer. 716.319.8979 • Facebook: Blanc Photographie • Instagram: @blanc_photographie
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FAITH & FAMILY
Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
Celebrating The End of Ramadan- Eid al Fitr
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GROUP Ministries, Second Chance Ministries Mask Giveaway
By Imam Fajri Ansari Masjid NuMan
his was an historical month of Ramadan for over 1 billion Muslims around the world. For the first time in our lifetime a worldwide pandemic has impacted one of our basic pillars of faith (fasting) and the many virtues of Ramadan. Muslims have just completed a month of abstaining from any food or drink each day from sunrise to sunset. At sunset, each day of Ramadan, Muslims traditionally frequent the Masjid (Mosque) to share a meal and offer prayers together with their Muslim brothers and sisters. During Ramadan Muslims are accustomed to visiting the Masjid and are active in community, trying to earn special blessings by performing acts of charity. With Covid-19 most of the traditional Muslim activities at the Masjid have been suspended and fasting activities has been spent at home or through virtual contact with family/friends and others. The focus of Ramadan is primarily about strengthening one’s personal relationship with Allah (G-d) while registering the hunger and suffering of many people in the community. There are too many human beings who are homeless, have no knowl-
edge of where their next meal will come from or just struggling to make ends meet. Spending more time at home with your family these past months has certainly put life in perspective for all people around the world. These are serious times we are living in. Scriptures in all Holy Books speak of the wrath that human beings bring upon themselves when we forget simple acts of kindness. The golden rule Matt. 7:12 “do unto others as you would have them do unto you” is applicable in Al-Islam. Prophet Muhammad says, “Want for your brother/sister what you want for yourself.” One simple solution to be helpful to one another is to demonstrate more humility and stop looking for praise. Our vanity has been covered with face masks around the world. People of faith say “Praise the Lord” Muslim say Alhamdu li-llah (all the praise belongs to Allah) yet so many are looking for praise and attention. So much so, that they would mistreat anyone including their own family to get it! Malachi 3 “Will a man rob G-d?” He certainly keeps trying. Not just of tithes, but by looking for praise that belongs to Him. You praise G-d
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GROUP Ministries and Second Chance Ministries, Arthur H. Boyd Pastor/Teacher, will be giving away masks each Monday and Friday at GROUP Ministries, 1333 Jefferson Ave. at E. Utica between 12 noon and 2p.m. while supplies last.
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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
SUBSIDIZED HOUSING FOR SENIORS
COVID-19 CONTROLLED!
An extensive and rigid cleaning protocol has been implemented by our Maintenance Staff to limit exposure to the coronavirus.
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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
“Free and Clear: The Evolution of Juneteenth” A Look Some of the from Jefferson Ave. to Martin Luther King Park, Worst Pandemics in History to the Worldwide Web
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Lorna Hill Artistic Director & Founder Ujima Company
#ArtThatHeals Deadline Extended
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ear Friends of Ujima, Ujima Company is extending the submission deadline for our #ArtThatHeals Variety Show to Saturday, June 6, 2020. We’re encouraged that those of you who can, will submit a performance piece to help uplift our Founder & Artistic Director Lorna C. Hill in her time of healing. If Lorna has touched your life and you would like to help us celebrate her legacy, please submit a video up to 10 minutes by 11:59 PM on June 6, 2020. Visit ujimacoinc.org for more information on the project and submission requirements. #LornaCHillLove
hen one considers the hurdles that people of color have endured for generations, it seems that we’re always working harder to gain wealth, to catch up, and too often fail to close the disparate gaps in education, and the American dream of success. For the 45th consecutive festival, Juneteenth Buffalo’s Board of Directors, committees, sponsors, and community supporters are not trying to “catch up,” but we are being original, innovative and creative with our plans for the 45th consecutive, and first ever, virtual festival. Buffalo’s annual outdoor event has been designated as the third largest in the nation, and is said to be one the largest Juneteenth Festivals of all those hosted in these United States. The hope for Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo 2020, Online: “Free and Clear; the Evolution of Juneteenth,” is to deliver a quality festival, via non-traditional formats. Beginning Friday, June 5, you’ll find specific festival-related content on the following platforms: Facebook (Juneteenth of Buffalo Festival); juneteenthofbuffalo.com; Instagram; YouTube (Juneteenth of Buffalo Festival); Tic Tok; Twitter; and BWNY News. With respect and consideration of our vendors, who’ve brought to the Festival, the best-tasting food; unique merchandise; and community support services, since the festival’s inception in 1976, there is absolutely no charge to ‘vend’ or advertise, in the midst of the virtual festival. It’s not too late to forward your pictures, and/or, audio-video content to juneteenthfestivalinc@gmail.com. Include your contact information with your submission. So, power up your phones, tablets, laptops, and any other devices you use to connect to the rest of the world; and enjoy this year’s festival. Juneteenth of Buffalo 2020, Online Festival Schedule Fri., June 5, 2020, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. - Liberation flag-raising at Juneteenth Buffalo Headquarters, 1517 Genesee St. at Moselle – (traditionally held in Niagara Sq., but due to current restrictions, we’re moving to our parking lot, and will honor the recommendations of physical/social distancing, and wearing PPE.) Mon. – Fri., June 8 – 12, 2020 – 6:00 p.m. - Sankofa Days; Educational and enriching content that will provide information that focuses on faith, finances, healthy-living (self-care), and other issues that impact the African American community. Sat., June 13 and Sun., June 14, 2020 – The ‘Official’ Festival Days •10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. – Prayer, Praise, & Worship w/Pastor Anita Williams •11:00 a.m. – The Parade – Join Chair, Patrick Cray, as he spearheads this year’s opener. (Remember, it’s not outdoors on Genesee St.) •12:00 noon– The History of Juneteenth – Journey from the Festival’s Jefferson Avenue beginnings, in 1976 to 2020, and make a lot of stops along the way. – Various speakers •1:00 p.m. – Arts and Culture ‘Stage’ – Chair, Ron Draffin, brings dynamic artists, to the stage, to share their stories through music, spoken word, and other creative means. •2:30 p.m. – Children and Youth – Activities and easy-to-make projects, hosted by Chairs, Miata Wright and Taminka Jones •3:30 p.m. – Edutainment Stage – Chair, Goodne$$’ stage will showcase new artists and we’ll see and hear this “Queen of the Art of Spoken Word” ‘bring IT’. “Get ‘Em” •5 p.m. – Entertainment Stage – Check out this year’s artists, in the comfort of your own home, and feel like you’re sitting before the mainstage, in MLK, Jr. Park. Chair, Louise Clyburn, has done it again, delivering some of the best mellow music masters to our Buffalo stage. •6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. - Live Zoom party! The link to access (your ticket to join the party) will be in the June 10, 2020 edition of the Challenger. Capacity is limited to 100 guests! ***NOTE: These events do not constitute the entire festival. The times are extremely flexible, and don’t currently include the live performances or content submitted by many other hard-working Juneteenth committees and festival supporters. Peace and Love!
HIV/AIDS PANDEMIC (AT ITS PEAK, 2005-2012) Death Toll: 36 million. Cause: HIV/AIDS
ASIAN FLU (1956-1958) Death Toll: 2 million Cause: Influenza originated in China in 1956 and lasted until 1958. The World Health Organization places the final tally at approximately 2 million deaths, 69,800 of those in the US alone. FLU PANDEMIC (1918) Death Toll: 20 -50 million Cause: Influenza. Infected over a third of the world’s population and ended the lives of 20 – 50 million people. FLU PANDEMIC (1889-1890) Death Toll: 1 million. Cause: Influenza. Originally the “Asiatic Flu” or “Russian Flu” as it was called. THIRD CHOLERA PANDEMIC (1852–1860) Death Toll: 1 million Cause: Cholera. Third Cholera Pandemic originated in India, spreading through Asia, Europe, North America and Africa and ending the lives of over a million people. THE BLACK DEATH (1346-1353) Death Toll: 75 – 200 million. Cause: Bubonic Plague Ravaged Europe, Africa, and Asia. PLAGUE OF JUSTINIAN (541-542) Death Toll: 25 million Cause: Bubonic Plague. Thought to have killed perhaps half the population of Europe. the Plague of of Byzantine Emperor Justinian Justinian left its mark Mosaic and supporters. The plague was named on the world, kilT- after him. ing up to a quarter of the population of the Eastern Mediterranean and devastating the city of Constantinople, where at its height it was killing an estimated 5,000 people per day and eventually resulting in the deaths of 40% of the city’s population. ANTONINE PLAGUE (165 AD) Death Toll: 5 million Cause: Unknown. Affected Asia Minor, Egypt, Greece, and Italy. This unknown disease was brought back to Rome by soldiers returning from Mesopotamia around 165AD; unknowingly which would end up killing over 5 million people.
FREEDOM GARDENS continued
ing pots that she put outside on our Harlem fire escape. Together we can to sustain health, wellbeing, connection and beauty! The Freedom Garden initiative builds on African American cultural strengths, our desire to be free and our quest for self-reliance. Please email Gail V. Wells at yourfreedomgarden@gmail.com to share your great migration story and why a freedom garden is meaningful to you. All stories will be shared on the Buffalo Freedom Garden and Food for The Spirit website.
OPEN FOR TAKE OUT!
FRIDAY & SATURDAY 11AM - 6PM • SUNDAY 11AM - 4PM TO PLACE YOUR ORDER CALL (716) 253-2100 or ORDER ONLINE at mannacarryout.com 633 Northland Ave. (Between Fillmore Ave. & Grider St.)
VOICES
Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
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THE BLACK COMMUNITY IN CRISIS Message Urging Blacks Not To Vote If The VP Is Not A Woman Of Color Is Reckless And Unsettling! Demand More! AND UNDER SEIGE
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he normal human response is to come together to fight back in order to stop or resolve being in crisis and under siege. The problem though is that we, as a people, have been under siege and in crisis for so long that the fight, flight, or freeze mechanism is so embedded that if we ain’t actually fighting or running we are freezing; meaning that we just stand frozen and don’t do anything, like deer caught in the headlights. The problem with that, of course, is that we know from experience that deer end up in the back of pickup trucks, are left in the middle of the highway, or like other Black men , dragged behind or chased by pick-up trucks. We cannot let that be the outcome that continues to play out over and over again in Black communities across the country where Black men, women and even children are victimized by White folks abusing the authority given to them by systems and institutions that were not created to serve and protect Black people from the very beginning. Institutions like law enforcement that was born out of the plantation system in America, where their sole responsibility was to protect the interest of White owners of enslaved Africans, which meant that they had to keep Blacks terrorized and frightened into submission. We know that is the history and we have not taken steps to correct or change that institution since the Emancipation Proclamation and the enactment of the Thirteenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States. That seems to be why, on May 19, 2020, two White police officers from the Buffalo institution of law enforcement that is ostensibly headed by a Black police commissioner who reports to a Black Mayor, nevertheless, felt empowered to abuse the authority given to them by their uniforms and terrorize a Black youth, Ali Akono, in front of and on the property of his Black Father, Jomo Akono, for no reason other than the fact that these were Black men in a Black neighborhood in the Black of night still doing the work of serving our community. The fact that this was done on the Birthday of Malik El Hajj Shabazz, Malcolm X, notwithstanding, should be a wake up call, actually a clarion call, for the Black community of Buffalo New York; a call to realize that the dynamics of racism and oppression have not let up because of the threat of COVID-19 that does not discriminate between Black or white, age or class. Even while we fight back against this virus we must also fight back and be prepared to come to the aid of our brothers and sisters, and our children who are under attack in our own communities. We must fight back by calling on our Mayor and our Police Commissioner to do what is right by not only disciplining these two officers, but by also initiating a department wide anti-racism training and counseling with follow-ups in Restorative Justice counseling and training by licensed and qualified Black professionals with track records of speaking truth to power.
CELEBRATING THE END OF RAMADAN continued by your offerings of service to those in need. We need G-d and He does not need us! Qur’an: 107 “Woe to the worshippers who are neglectful of their prayers, those who (want to be seen of men) but refuse to supply (even) neighborly needs.” We concluded Ramadan this year by sharing bags of groceries with our neighbors near the Masjid and any who came by. We thank all those who contributed to purchasing supplies; Access of WNY and private donors. We want to thank all community volunteers including members of Nation of Islam who helped bag and distribute food. Completing the fast is a victory of
“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
FEEDING THE COMMUNITY: Pictured in top photo left to right: Baba Eng, Imam Ansari, Bro. Don Patterson, Legislator Howard Johnson. Inset: Bro. Dwight and Bro. Ellijah from Nation of Islam serve a grateful resident. Challenger Photos
discipline over our appetites. We pray that our fasting will be accepted, and a renewal of
our innocent human nature will be more present in our
daily lives!
Challenger Community News P.O. BOX 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 advertising@thechallengernews.com
P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053
Dear Editor: For several weeks, I’ve read an unsettling and reckless paid political advertisement in the Challenger that essentially tells our community to not vote for The Democratic Presidential nominee if he does not select a person of color for Vice President. We don’t have a choice because the alternative is unthinkable and dangerous. Right now, our civil liberties are being systematically and illegally stripped away every day through rogue policies and practices of the current administration. As Maya Angelou so eloquently wrote “ When someone shows you who they are, believe them the first time.” Based on the wisdom given to us from the teachings of Ms. Angelou, don’t be deceived by what you are witnessing. Trump has shown us who he is: A lying White Nationalist wannabe dictator, who is greedy and mentally dysfunctional. His dangerous rhetoric and superiority complex is a threat to the planet. Another term in office will afford him the power to continue his vicious assault on the media, endanger our voting rights, embolden right wing domestic terrorists, support and encourage armed militias to publicly intimidate and threaten our safety, and reverse every protected freedom our ancestors fought and died for. So, my people, let’s not be too concerned about the color of the individual selected for the position of Vice President. If the Democratic Presidential nominee selects a Unicorn for a running mate, then we must vote for the Unicorn! On Tuesday November 3, 2020, VOTE for the Democratic Presidential nominee. Otherwise, the 2020’s will feel like the 1880’s. Sam Herbert's "No Black Vote, No Black VP" message essentially equates to No Black freedom! DEMAND MORE! -Ruth Nelson ( Note: A real time example of why we must vote: The New York Times recently reported that although Donald Trump won Georgia by just 211,000 votes in 2016, some 900,000 eligible Black people stayed home! You do the math…!)
dear editor
Forced Out of My Home by A Community That Does Not Care Dear Editor, At the age of 67 I am finding myself feeling very sad because I am being “forced” to sell my home and move out of the City of Buffalo. I have lived in Buffalo ALL of my life and Buffalo has been very good to me. The reason why I must move is because AT 67 there is a certain “quality of life” that I MUST have. I MUST have Peace. The block I live on has always been known as the “Good Bloc.” Unfortunately, a few of the homeowners who cared about their property have died or moved out. Absentee landlords have bought the houses and are renting them to anyone who has the money. AT 67 I don’t want to live around people who have “Ghetto” mentalities. AT 67 I don’t want to live around people who do not maintain their homes or even cut their grass. When I asked a neighbor to cut their grass, that neighbor literally said to me, “I don’t care about outside my house, I live inside.” AT 67 I don’t want to have suspected drug deals reported to me by my neighbors. AT 67 I don’t want to live near people who cannot control their children and have “brawls” in the middle of the street. AT 67 I don’t want to have to tell grown men to stop speeding their motorcycles up and down my street and gunning their motors. AT 67 I don’t want to call the police and not know whether or not they are going to show up. AT 67 I want to know why it is a well known FACT that none of the “quality of life” issues I just mentioned go unchecked in other parts of the city and the suburbs. I have been told that the reason why the suburbs have such great resources is because they pay more taxes. That explanation is acceptable, but what about the City of Buffalo? Do the residents of North Buffalo pay more taxes than the residents in the University District? I have put a lot of work into my home and I have it exactly like I want it. I have everything in place to make life comfortable for me as I age. It’s a good house and I know it’s going to sell fast. The problem is, once it sells, where do I go? -Dorothy Wagstaff
dear editor
• Published every Wednesday • News Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. • Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. • Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.
We respectfully submit that the opinions expressed on the editorial pages of this newspaper are not necessairly those of Challenger Community News Corporation or its advertisers.
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10 REAL ESTATE Hawwao Wajed
Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
National Briefs
First Black Renting and Buying Tips Princeton’s Valedictorian During COVID19 Canadian student, NichoGreetings We have an unexpected "Season" of change all over the world. As we strive to focus on each Hawwao Wajed moment, let us all live safely together. Here are some inspiring ideas to support our initiatives. This includes first and foremost our families. Also, reach out to friends and associates. Stay in communication with them, even if it's a handwritten note, telephone call, technology connection or a text to let them know you are thinking of them. Coming from a place of contribution as a Realtor, let me share some information that applies to this universal journey for all. If renting or purchasing a home, before entry wear gloves and a mask. You can also cover your shoes with booties. Make sure the mask covers the nose and mouth. It's best not to handle the mask until it is no longer in use. If handmade, clean with vinegar, hot water or with your selected soap. For the booties they should be discarded after use. "Continue being focused. " * Next more on Real Estate: "Preparing to Market Your Home" Hawwao Wajed / Real Estate Salesperson~Notary Keller Williams Realty / Buffalo Northtowns askhawa@kw.com 716~867~4377 (Cell)
las Johnson 22 of Montreal, has made history after becoming Princeton’s first Black valedictorian in the university’s 274 years. FREEDOM... On May 24, 1993, Eritrea achieved independence from Ethiopia after a 30-year civil war.
In Loving Memory of EDWARD J. DREWITT In Loving Memory of former Buffalonian who passed away on April 6, 2020 in Denver Colorado. Known as Jerome to friends and “Bill” to family, he was fun, loving and a true gentleman who was adored by all who knew him. An avid and passionate photographer, he never missed documenting any Family gathering. He also loved filming landmarks, especially in his hometown of Buffalo, a city he loved and missed. He served our country as an Honorable enlisted member of the United States Air Force. He will be sorely missed by all who loved him. I will forever miss you my brother. Your Loving Sister, Ellyne R. James
Reality Check… New figures released by an independent research organization reveal that more than 20,000 Black Americans have died from the COVID-19 disease, confirming indications that African Americans have been disproportionately impacted by coronavirus.
EMPLOYMENT
“HIP-HOP” MAYOR KWAME KILPATRICK GRANTED EARLY RELEASE FROM PRISON
Former Detroit Mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick, has been granted early release and will be freed 21 years earlier next month to home confinement, according to the Detroit Free Press. Kilpatrick, 49, was originally sentenced to 28 years in federal prison.
Texas Grandmother, 90, Shields Grandson As Police Point Guns At Him 'You Ain't Black' Tee Shirts In a dramatic video, a After Biden Comment 90-year-old Black woman is seen trying to protect her 21-year-old grandson from police who approached him with guns drawn in Midland, Texas.
The Trump campaign is fundraising with new "#YouAintBlack" T-shirts based on controversial comments by former Vice President Joe Biden.
The African American Cultural Center (AACC) is a not for profit multipurpose arts organization dedicated to promoting, sponsoring and developing an appreciation of and alliance to African American Heritage, is seeking an
Executive Director The Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the administration, programs and strategic plan of the organization. Other key duties include fundraising, marketing, and community outreach. Applicants may submit a Letter of Interest along with your resume and references to: African American Cultural Center, P.O. Box 503, Buffalo, NY 14215 The African American Cultural Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer
LEGAL NOTICE BID
Colston Mobil Auto Repair WILLIAM COLSTON
ASE Certified Technician
It's Summer Car Maintenance Time!
Phone: 716.896.3910 • 720 E. Ferry St.
Diagnostic Testing, NYS Inspection, Towing Service T ire Repair, Brake Repair, Air Conditioning Service
COUNTY OF ERIE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY & EMERGENCY SERVICES 45 ELM STREET BUFFALO, NY 14203 County of Erie, New York Request for Proposals The Erie County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Services is seeking proposals from qualified firms (“Consultant”) to provide an updated Multi-Jurisdictional All Hazard Mitigation plan. The RFP# 2020-027VF can be found at: http:// www.erie.gov and a complete copy of the package can be obtained by contacting Greg Butcher at 716-3419273. All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with Greg Butcher. Prospective proponents, or their representatives, shall not make contact with or communicate with any representatives of the County, including employees and consultants, other than the designated person in regard to any aspect of this proposal. Final sealed proposals are due to the Erie County Department of Homeland Security & Emergency Services at 45 Elm Street, Buffalo, NY 14203 by 3:00 pm (EST) on June 12, 2020. Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality. Daniel Neaverth Jr. Commissioner of Homeland Security & Emergency Services
LEGAL NOTICES
May 13,20,27 June 3,10,17
May 29, 27 June 3,10,17,24
JOBS
Buffalo Employment and Training Center /BETC 716-856-5627
www.workforcebuffalo. org
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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 5/17
MID-6-8-3
3-WAY
advertising@ thechallengernews.com
ATTORNEYS LAW OFFICE OF DARIA L. PRATCHER, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574 PRATCHER & ASSOCIATES Franklin Muhammad (Pratcher) Attorney 1133 Kensington Avenue (716) 838-4612
BOOKS ALIVE CHRISTIAN BOOKSTORE 2275 Fillmore Ave. (716) 837-1118
AUTO BEN’S Downtown Tire
50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483
BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS
A-1 Bail Bonds 855-2514 or 854-2128
ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330
FLORISTS MAUREEN’S Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600
WIN 4 TAKE 5
TUES 5/19
WED 5/20
EVE-6-1-5
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10-19-20-27-37
05-11-16-21-31
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LOTTO
MID-1-0-8
THURS 5/21
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03-05-06-12-20
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FRI 5/22
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13-18-23-46-47-54 #08
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TAILORS ANN RHOD’S Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633
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Challenger Hits MIDDAY 2-5-7 Luckie Duckie, Capricorn (box) Gemini (straight) 7-5-5 Grandma’s Doubles (box) 0-5-6 ZR (box) Pisces (straight) 1-8-2 ZR (box) May Vibes (straight) 6-2-5 ZR (box) EVENING 6-1-5 Aquarius (box) New Outlook (straight) 7-2-1 ZR, Quick$ (box) 9-7-2 Quick$(box) 5-5-8 Ma Ruth (box) 9-8-2 Aries (box) 743-133-202- 335 -2015-4444-1871134-431--143-
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community calendar Upward Bound at Buffalo State Health Wellness and Success Series
Upward Bound at Buffalo State invites the community to join them Thursday May 28, at 6 p.m. for their Health, Wellness and Success series. The presenter will be Dr. Alvin Turner, Clinical Psychologist. He specializes in forensic psychology, holistic health, African American psychology, and the impact of trauma on the human spirit..Hiis topic: Coping during the Covid 19 Pandemic Please access any one of the following formats: Facebook- Upward Bound Buffalo State College Instagram- Upward Bound Buff_State
Legislator Howard's Mask Giveaway Wednesday, May 27 William-Emslie YMCA 10 am – 2 pm 842-0490 for information
Group Ministries and Second Chance Ministries Mask Giveaway
GROUP Ministries and Second Chance Ministries will be giving away masks every Monday and Friday at 1333 Jefferson Ave. between 12 noon – 2pm while supplies last.
DEMOCRATS! NO BLACK VP
NO BLACK VOTE 2020! Samuel A. Herbert -A Paid Announcement-
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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 27, 2020
Charter School of Inquiry
Charter School of Inquiry (CSI) – A Kindergarten through Grade 6 School The Charter School of Inquiry is an innovative school where children achieve breakthrough outcomes by pursuing questions, thinking creatively, and learning together as a culturally empowered community.
• Two Educators In Every Classroom • Special Education Programs To Meet The Needs Of All Learners • Free Extended Day Program (3:30 – 5:20 PM) • Free Bus Transportation • Students explore African-American history and culture…all year long
Charter schools are public schools. There is no tuition. All children are welcome!
EVEN THOUGH WE'RE CLOSED, COMMUNITY ACCESS SERVICES IS STILL HERE FOR YOU Call us at 716.852.5969 to learn more
NOW ENROLLING K-6
For Information Call (716) 833-3250 Charter School of Inquiry (CSI) 404 Edison Street, Buffalo, NY 14215 www.CharterSchoolOflnquiry.org info@csicharter.org