Challenger Community News December 2, 2020 by Challenger Community News

ORANGE MEANS REALITY CHECK! Covid-19 is still very much with us! Protect yourself and

others! Wear a Mask. Wash your hands. Practice Social distancing. Make safe choices. Stay well! Stay prayerful! Stay positive. “When it rains look for rainbows. When it’s dark look for stars.”

December 2, 2020 | FREE | COMMUNITY NEWS

Black Dollars Matter!

In the Spirit of Black Wall Street we Celebrate and Support Black Businesses and “Buy Black Buffalo Week” December 4 -11 Page 12

ROCHESTER

Mayor Warren’s Mother Dies With Covid-19 Infection Page 2

LOCAL

Baskin and Johnson Announce Millions in Funding for East Side Businesses Page 3

ENTERTAINMENT

“Typography of Women: I Am Not Invisible” Prepares For Debut! Page 10

JUSTICE DELAYED! AFTER 43 YEARS, John Walker, Jr. and

Darryl Boyd of “The Buffalo 5” finally get their new day in court only to see justice delayed once again. Page 15

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

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

Bills Blast Chargers 27 – 17

pictured l/r Mayor Warren, Elrita “Rita” McClary Warren and Yantise Jenkins.

Mayor Warren’s Mother Elrita McClary Warren, Dies With Covid-19 Infection The mayor wants her mother's death to remind the community to continue smart practices during the pandemic. Funeral arrangements pending. Rochester Mayor Lovely A. Warren announced last Friday that her mother, Elrita “Rita” McClary Warren passed away due to complications from congestive heart failure and a COVID-19 infection that she acquired while she was hospitalized. The elder Ms. Warren contracted COVID-19 while being treated in the hospital for her heart condition. She was 71 and a native of Kingstree, South Carolina. “Our family was my mother’s passion,” said Mayor Warren. “She was always guiding us, fighting for us and living for us each day. Her love for her children and grandchildren was boundless; and she had plenty of love left over. As my sister Yantise always said, ‘our mother never met a stranger.’ Whether in the grocery store or at church, our mother always had a kind word and she loved to grow her circle of friends.” Ms. Warren was known for her dedication to the geriatric patients she cared for during her career in health care. “My mom always wanted her patients to know that someone truly cared for them and that they were not forgotten,” said Mayor Warren. “She wanted them to know that they weren’t alone and that they were still valued. That was tremendously important to her.” Mayor Warren wants her mother’s passing to be a clarion call to the community to re-double our efforts to protect our circles and continue fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. “Due to her heart condition, my mother was tremendously careful about practicing behaviors to avoid catching the coronavirus,” the Mayor continued. “Still, she was infected by this insidious disease. This is a stark reminder that COVID-19 can infect anyone, at any age, at any time and that we all need to wear masks, practice social distancing and make smart decisions about where and how we gather. We will only end this pandemic when all of us start doing the right things to stop this spread.” Ms. Warren is survived by her two daughters; Yantise Jenkins and Mayor Lovely Warren; their spouses Bernard Jenkins and Timothy Granison; and five grandchildren; Christopher Jenkins, Collin Jenkins, Cayla Jenkins, Necollia Jenkins and Taylor Granison; and goddaughter Vanessa Stanley.

The Police Accountability Board Regular Board Meetings Announced All Police Accountability Board meetings will be held via Zoom in light of the pandemic. These meetings can be watched live on the Board’s YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbTkxcH8SQYccMC5DxTrKCw/. Thursday, December 3 6:30 PM - Regularly scheduled Board Meeting streamed live on YouTube. Thursday, December 10 6:30 PM - Regularly scheduled Board Meeting streamed live on YouTube. Thursday, December 17 6:30 PM - Regularly scheduled Board Meeting streamed live on YouTube. A full list of the City’s public meetings can be found at https://www. cityofrochester.gov/publicmeetings

ills blitzing defense forced LA Chargers QB Justin Herbert to make quick decisions and fortunately for the Bills his decisions were wrong. A rookie QB was no match for an experienced defensive front that came from all directions. Bills linebacker Jerry Hughes really benefited from a week off and put pressure on Herbert all day long. Bills defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier came with a very aggressive game plan to stop the LA Chargers. His defensive players really put consistent pressure on Herbert and slowed down the running game. Bills Head coach Sean McDermott has started two consecutive seasons at 8 – 3 for the first time since 1995 – 1996. He’s also 4 – 0 after the bye week. That’s an awesome accomplishment and getting to the next level will be difficult. The Bills are missing run stuffing nose guard Star Lotulelei, who opted out of this season due to COVID – 19. Bills General Manager Brandon Beane has showed his inexperience by over paying for bums like Tyler Croft, Trent Murphy, AJ Klein, and Josh Norman. It’s disgraceful how Brandon Beane has wasted money on veteran players that have seen brighter days. Beane still has not found a oneyear replacement for our nose guard and teams continue to run in between the tackles. Tre Davis White recorded his second interception of the season. Since 2017 White has had 15 second half takeaways, which lead the league. He’s the real deal and continues to shine bright. Josh Allen must protect the ball better and it’s not necessary for him to play heroes’ ball. Josh fumbled the snap and should have fallen on the ball, instead he tried to pick up the ball and make something happen but what happened was a turnover. Allen’s football IQ has always been my biggest problem with him. He continues to revert back to old habits like holding onto the ball way too long and taking unnecessary hits from defenders. He’s in his third season and when the pressure is on Allen tends to meltdown and make ridiculous errors. Bills General Manager Brandon Beane refuses to sign a quality backup Quarterback just in case Allen goes down with an injury. Bills wide receiver Gabriel Davis comments: “I’ve learned to have patience when I’m on the field. Before I was rushing things, the game is now slowing down for me.” I think Davis might be the best later round draft pick of the Brandon Beane ERA. Bills linebacker Tre Edmunds is getting healthy and his game is improving with quality defensive plays. Keep an eye on him because Edmunds will be a key player in the Bills defense game plan. He will have a stiff test this coming week when the Bills face the San Francisco 49ers. The Bills will be hard pressed to stop the outstanding 49ers run attack led by Raheem Mostert and Matt Breida. The Bills will be able to force mistakes by another young backup QB Nick Mullens. 49ers starting QB Nick Mullens has been turning over the football. Due to COVID – 19 restrictions in the State of California, the game has been moved to State Farm Stadium in Glendale, Arizona. Yes, that’s the site of the Bills devastating lost to Arizona Cardinals known as the “Hail Murray” game. The Bills must get a good running game going and hopefully Josh Allen will protect the football better and make some key plays in the second half of this game. The Bills should win 31 -28 in another exciting football game. Follow me on FACEBOOK, TWITTER: georgeradney@ georgeradman, RADIO: Pro Talk Plus, on 105.5 FM The Beat of Rochester, Every Saturday morning 7 AM – 8 AM, Live Call in show, 585 595 – 1055. What’s Going on The Experience, every Sunday morning from 8 AM – 9 AM, WHTK 1280 AM, Rochester, NY

Your Holiday Cheese Headquarters!

HONEY

Davis Honey

Local Raw Honey Retail / Wholesale Rochester Public Market 280 N. Union St. BLDG. B

SPECIAL HOLIDAY MARKETS Sundays – November 29, December 6 and December 13 from 8 AM - 2 PM Thursday, Dec 17 from 6 - 9 PM

www.davisnaturalhoney.com (315 )730-5780

BAKERY Taste of Supreme 100% Gluten Free Vegan Goodies Contact the Supreme Bakers

(585) 285 - 5496

www.tasteofsupreme.com Rochester Public Market 280 N. Union St. BLDG. B #44

SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS

WHOLLY

CHEESES and VarietSyimplyVDalue i vine t ’s a h T

Rochester Public Market 1 Railroad Street • Shed B3 Thursdays 7-1 & Saturdays 5:30-3 whollypublicmarket@gmail.com

Miriam Rivera Farmers Insurance

1038 Lyell Ave • Rochester, NY 14606 (585) 360-0094 (Office) (585)360-8658 (Cell) (888) 546-5157 (Fax) mrivera1@farmersagent.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

AREA BRIEFS

India Walton: From Community Activist to Mayoral Candidate The photo of India Walton (above) appeared on the cover of The Challenger this past May as a positive example of citizens working together to support ourselves and our neighbors during the covid-19 crisis. Just before the Thanksgiving holiday the news media reported the announcement of her intent to run for Mayor of the City of Buffalo in next year’s mayoral election. This accomplished young registered nurse and community activist, who serves as executive director of the Fruit Belt Community Land Trust, told WBFO she hoped her candidacy would also serve as a launching point for other activists to run for office. “…Those that are closest to the problem are closer to the solution. The number one priority for me would be to reinvest in our communities,” she said. Mayor Brown has not yet formally announced his intent to run for an unprecedented 5th term.

Tolbert for Sheriff? Among the top names which have emerged as possible candidates for the 2021 race for Sheriff of Erie County is Democrat Bernard “Bernie” A. Tolbert, who ran in 2017 and narrowly lost to Republican incumbent Timothy B. Howard. He (Howard) is not expected to seek a 4th term. The former special-agent-in-charge of the Buffalo FBI . Tolbert also ran for Mayor in the 2013 Democratic Primary but lost to Mayor Brown.

Central Terminal is Topic of Public Virtual Meeting The community is invited to join in a public virtual meeting regarding the future of the Buffalo Central Terminal and its neighborhood in the Buffalo Central Terminal online public forum series Wednesday, December 9 from 6-8 p.m. What would you like to see the terminal become? Your participation and input will help reflect the values of the community. Access the Zoom meeting at: buffaloterminalplan.org or call in at: 267.831.0333 Webinar ID: 821.4067 8607. (see their ad page 20)

Racial Equity Virtual Panel Discussion BUF Homecoming Speaker Series will host a “racial Equity” virtual panel discussion on Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 11 a.m. Panelists include Brenda McDuffie former President and CEO Buffalo Urban League; Shatorah Donovan, Chief Diversity Officer, City of Buffalo; and Glenn Jackson Chief Diversity Officer M&T Bank. Steve Finch, of AAA Western and Central New York will serve as moderator. Register at: bizjournals.com/ buffalo/event/166788

LIVE STRONG! Ankh wedja seneb : “Be alive, strong & healthy!”

Baskin and Johnson Announce Millions in Funding for Struggling East Side Businesses Erie County Legislators April N. M. Baskin and Howard Johnsonhave announced that several hundred businesses in their districts qualified for Erie County’s Back to Business funding. The program, which uses $20 million in COVID relief funding, was approved by the legislature in October. It provides direct financial assistance to eligible small businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The goal was to disburse funds to businesses with the greatest need. Fortyeight percent of the grants, totaling more than $9 million, are going to businesses within the city of Buffalo. Fifty-two percent of the grant recipients are in "distressed" and "highly distressed" ZIP codes. Thirty percent of the grant recipients are minority-owned businesses, who will receive more than $6.2 million in funding. “For too long, minority business owners have been ignored when governments provide relief,” noted Erie County Legislature Chair April Baskin. “This program was designed to emphasize diversity and need in the distribution of funds. Small business owners on the East Side were largely left out

1868

Legislator Howard Johnson

Legislator April N. M. Baskin

of the Federal Government’s Paycheck Protection Program earlier this year. I wanted to ensure that our program would prioritize those who did not receive COVID related aid as well as minority and women owned businesses.”

the relief where it will make a difference for their business.” A recent report from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce showed that two out of three (66%) of minority-owned small businesses are concerned about having to permanently close their doors due to COVID-19 related issues and that more minority-owned businesses expect revenue to decrease than do non-minorityowned enterprises. More than 5,000 businesses in Erie County applied for funding. A total of 1,366 grants will be disbursed in seven amounts ranging from $2,500 to $45,000. The funds will be distributed to businesses in December.

Erie County Legislator Howard Johnson emphasized the wide latitude given to business owners when it comes to deciding how to spend the funding. “The program also gives owners the ability to spend the funds in a number of ways, including operations, payroll, adaptations to meet COVID restrictions, rent and more,” said Johnson. “We trust business owners to apply

School Board Member Apologizes for “Offensive” Gesture; In Show of Support Leaders Hold Press Conference on Her Behalf

chool Board Member Paulette Woods called in to Bishop Michal Badger’s “Vision of Hope” radio broadcast on WUFO Power 96.5 last Saturday and publicly apologized for her actions during an online meeting November 18. "I want to start by publicly apologizing to the parents, students, my constituents, my fellow elected officials, office and staff, and the Western New York community at large for displaying offensive body language and fa- APOLOGIES:School board member Paulette Woods cial gestures during a very emotionally speaks at the Tuesday's press conference. charged board of education meeting a couple of weeks ago.” She then added, “I allowed my emotions to run over, and I acted in a way that did not represent my best self.” Going forward she said she would be mindful of her actions at all times. “The issue of our children’s education is too important for the media to be focused on 7 seconds at a board meeting,” she said. This past Tuesday a group of community leaders representing the Urban Think Tank, Concerned Clergy, NAACP, Buffalo Parent and community groups stood with Ms. Woods to show their support and express their concerns. Continued Page 8

1868—The 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution is ratified formally making former ensslaved Afriacans citizens of the United States. Many scholars consider this the most important amendment to the Constitution. In addition to making Blacks citizens, it contains both the Due Process Clause and the Equal Protection Clause. These clauses have been used to guarantee a wide range of rights for all U.S. citizens. The 14th Amendment was passed, in part, to overturn the “Black Codes” being adopted in many Southern states after the Civil War. The Black Codes were an attempt to give Blacks official second class status in America by, among other things, limiting their rights to vote, sue a White person or testify in court.

1919

1919—The infamous Chicago Race Riot of 1919 begins. It would last for several days and require 6,000 National Guardsmen to put it down. The Chicago disturbance was the bloodiest of 25 race riots which took place in cities throughout the country. In fact, the summer of 1919 became known as the “Red Summer” because of the wide spread number of racial conflicts. In Chicago, the rioting was started by White gangs harassing the large number of Blacks who had moved to the city for wartime jobs created by World War I. In addition to harassing and beating Blacks, the White gangs invented “drive-by shooting” as they drove through Black neighborhoods firing rifles and pistols. Young Blacks formed mobs of their own and began retaliating. When it was all over 15 Whites and 23 Blacks were dead; more than 500 people had been injured and another 1,000 left homeless.

BUILDING COMMUNITY AMID Positive Examples of Working Together Within Our Communities To Support Ourselves And Our Neighbors During The Covid-19 Crisis

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

Antiviral Foods To Add to Your Diet! GARLIC Contains powerful compounds—including allicin, diallyl trisulfide, and ajoene—that fight viruses, including influenza, rhinovirus, cytomegalovirus (a type of herpes virus), herpes simplex, HIV, viral pneumonia, and rotavirus. BLACK TEA Is rich in a group of pathogen-fighting compounds that can protect against a variety of viral infections. Tea leaves contain naturally occurring compounds that defend the plants against invading bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Research shows that black tea can almost completely inhibit the infectivity of influenza virus. . SHIITAKE MUSHROOMS Are loaded with beta-glucans, antiviral compounds that have been shown to inhibit viral replication and enhance immune function. In one study, people who ate shiitake mushrooms for four weeks showed improved markers of immunity, as well as reduced inflammation. Other studies have shown that shiitake mushrooms have significant antibacterial and antifungal properties, and protected against 85 percent of the yeasts, molds, and other organisms it was tested on. GINGER Has long been used in traditional medicine to treat colds and flu, and modern studies show that it has measurable antiviral benefits. In one study, fresh ginger protected against HRSV (human respiratory syncytial virus, a major cause of lower respiratory tract infections), by blocking the virus’ ability to attach to cells and stimulating the release of compounds that help counteract viral infections.

IT’S NICE 2B NICE : A big shout out to Dave, the manager of Top’s Market on Jefferson Avenue, for honoring my request of a donation of fifty 25-pound turkeys, to help some families who are going through hard times as a result of COVID-19! Special thanks also to Sheila Brown CEO WUFO 1080 AM/Power 96.5 FM for putting the word out over the airways. The turnout was great and the people really appreciated it! It’s Nice 2B Nice !Samuel A. Herbert

CINNAMON Has been used in herbal medicine for hundreds of years, and chemical profiling shows that its active compounds have antiviral, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects. In one study, cinnamaldehyde, the compound that gives cinnamon its characteristic flavor and smell, inhibited the growth of the influenza virus. Cinnamaldehyde also inhibits Listeria and Escherichia coli in foods, and protects against a variety of yeasts and fungi, including Candida albicans. -From betternutrition

BUFFALO AND ERIE COUNTY IS IN AN ORANGE ZONEWHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

FEEDING THE NEEDY: G-Health staff members work to prepare some 750 turkeys and food bags for residents during the Thanksgiving season. What a blessing!

Being in an Orange Zone the following takes place: •Non-Residential Gatherings: 10 people maximum, indoors and outdoors •Houses of Worship: 33% capacity or 25 people maximum •Mass gatherings: 10 people maximum, indoors and outdoors •Businesses: Certain high-risk non-essential businesses (eg., gyms, fitness centers and classes, barber shops, hair salons, personal care services) are closed •Dining: Outdoor dining, takeout or delivery only, four person maximum per table, and bars and restaurants close at 10 p.m. for on-premises consumption •Schools: full remote learning unless a district chooses to test out •Gov. Andrew Cuomo has ordered hospitals in Erie County to halt elective surgeries to ensure there are enough beds to care for COVID-19 patients. •The elective surgery ban will be effective Dec. 4. •"Erie County has the most critical hospital situation in the state," Mr. Cuomo said in a news conference Nov. 30.

Considerations for Gatherings Of Family and Friends Community levels of COVID-19 – Family and friends should consider the number of COVID-19 cases in their community and in the community where they plan to celebrate when deciding whether to host or attend a gathering. Exposure during travel – Airports, bus stations, train stations, public transport, gas stations, and rest stops are all places travelers can be exposed to the virus in the air and on surfaces. Location of the gathering – Indoor gatherings, especially those with poor ventilation (for example, small enclosed spaces with no outside air), pose more risk than outdoor gatherings. Duration of the gathering – Gatherings that last longer pose more risk than shorter gatherings. – Gatherings that last longer pose more risk than shorter gatherings. Being within 6 feet of someone who has COVID-19 for a cumulative total of 15 minutes or more greatly increases the risk of becoming sick and requires a 14-day quarantine. Raul and Toni Vazquez wish you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving Source: CDC.gov

Greater Buffalo United Community Based Organizations

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.” Rev. George Nicholas, Pastor, Lincoln Memorial UMC Rita Hubbard Robinson, Coordinator, First Fruits Food Pantry

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

Eye On History Radio Show Ends After 14 years Columnist and Retired teacher Eva M. Doyle has announced that the Eye On History Radio Show will end after 14 years on the air with its last broadcast on Saturday December 19 on WUFO Power 96.5. The show began in January, 2006 on station WUFO 1080. Dr. Doyle stated that she decided to end the show to pursue several new projects in 2021. The Eye On History Radio Show airs the first and third Saturday of each month from 11 to 11:30 a.m. “I would like to thank the Late Carolyn Salter- Glover when the show started and to Sheila Brown, current CEO and owner of the station,” stated Dr. Doyle. "I would also like to thank my many listeners for their support. Special thanks to Shelia Brown and Lee Pettigrew who have helped me to grow as a radio talk show host. I would urge people to tune especially on December 5th for a Marathon of Black History."

Afro-American Historical Association Dr. Monroe Fordham IS IT BLACK LIVES MATTER OR BLACK Speaker Series To Present Marcus LIVES SHATTERED? DuBois Watson Ph.D (A CHANGE IS COMING!) Project WITT Report

The

Afro-American Historical Association of the Niagara Frontier (AAHANF) Dr. Monroe Fordham Speaker Series will present a virtual lecture by Macus DuBois Watson Ph.D titled Welcome to My World: A Biographical Perspective on Criss-Crossing the African Diaspora on December 7 at 6 p.m. A question and answer segment will follow the talk. Dr. Watson is assistant professor of Africana Studies and InDR. WATSON dividualized Studies at SUNY Buffalo State. His research focuses on international development, digital technology, and social activism in South Africa, Ghana, and the United States. He has developed a critical theory called "half-connecting," which helps to explain the paradoxes of Western modernity from a Black Psychology perspective. Dr. Marcus DuBois Watson is a City Honors graduate. His undergraduate studies were at SUNY Brockport. He holds a Master's and Ph.D in Cultural Anthropology from Cornell University. He achieved tenure and promotion at the University of Wyoming before returning to Buffalo. Dr. Watson has lived for over seven years on the African continent including a Peace Corps assignment in South Africa. W.C. Brandy is the president of the AAHANF Association. AAHANF website www.aahanf.org LINK INFORMATION Webex Meeting 6p.m. December 7 Login: rebrand.ly/g6cl5

So, what is the hate that divides us? It is anger, ignorance, jealousy and pride! It leads to danger, death & destruction in our homes, schools and society. So, what is the love that unites us? An inner intrinsic motivation & emotion revealed to these young Kings (Queens too) when they joined our unique school program, Project W.I.T.T. (Wisdom In Troubled Times). The wisdoms revealed in the program has not only motivated them to improve their grades and change their attitudes, but they began to understand a life-changing principle, taught to them, that has the power to impact their future for the rest of their lives! We call it, “Speak life twice” (to yourself – and to others). An old proverb says: “Death & life is in the power of the tongue and they that love it shall eat the fruit of it.” They no longer want to eat the “fruit of death,” they want to live! They began to witness for themselves something Rev. Coplin & staff repeated often: “You can change your life, by changing the words coming out of your mouth. You can change someone else’s life, by the words coming out of your mouth!”

These young Kings have made a covenant! “The love that unites us is greater than the hate that divides us” WE PUT TOGETHER “101 THINGS TO SAY TO SPEAK LIFE INTO YOUR DAY” (request a free copy) Here is the love that unites them that we are thrilled and excited about! They have made a covenant agreement not to argue, fight or be disruptive between each other in school or out of school! “If we have a beef (problem) we solve it behind closed doors as Kings, its time to be a positive example! We fight to lead and succeed; we don’t fight to bleed. We been bleedin' too long!” Asst. Principal Danielle Womack’s Report on W.I.T.T. is as follows: “The project W.I.T.T. program serves as a strong example of how strengthening our relationships with our communitybased programs is needed now more than ever! Rev. Coplin,

your programs have had an enormous impact on the students at MST High School. Because of this dynamic partnership we were able to decrease both long-term and short-term suspensions and to increase our graduation rate! The graduation rate at MST High School during 2017-2018 school year was 53.6%, in the 2019-2020 school year the graduation rate jumped to 64%! I thank you and your staff of Project W.I.T.T. for your dedication to our students!" With your help and financial support, “The faith that unites us will be greater than the fear that divides us.” For more information on Project WITT contact Rev. Gene Coplin www.projectleeinc. org – 716-906-0375 –

The African American Health Equity Task Force Presents Its Response to COVID-19 A conversation with the key leaders in the African American Health Equity Task Force (AAETF) and Buffalo Center for Health Equity will take place on Mon- Rev. Nicholas Rev. Pointer Dr. Underwood day, December 7 during a ZOOM event from: 5:45–7:00 p.m. To REGISTER: bit.ly/buffalo-health-equity ZOOM: bit.ly/health-equity-zoom [ID: 943 2128 9075, Passcode: 008329] A distinguished panel will share the history of this community partnership and the novel strategies they used to respond to the disproportionate impact of COVID-19 on the African American, Latinx and other communities of color in Buffalo. Speakers will discuss the impact of social determinants of health on outcomes among African-Americans in these communities. Speakers include Rev. George Nicholas, Senior Pastor Lincoln Memorial UMC Reverend Kinzer M. Pointer co-conveners of the African American Health Equity Task Force and Dr. Willie Underwood, III, MSC, MPH, FACS,iExectutive Director, Buffalo Center For Health Equity. Susan Grinslade, PhD, RN, Clinical Professor (School of Nursing); Associate Director, UB Community Health Equity Research Institute will serve as moderator.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING

‘Social Distancing Cannot Replace Spiritual Clarity’

by James A. Washington

Back when we could assemble in church, I was blessed to hear the pastor try to address the fears many of us might have gone through these tough times with the economy and the uncertainty which permeates the world today. He talked about famine, fire, terrorists, recession, the mortgage crisis, and the like; all of those worldly issues that might keep you up at night. Let me add COVID-19 to further emphasize my point.

I was moved at an analogy he made regarding how we go through life and how we all ultimately leave it. The pastor spoke of a man that he knew who had acquired a great deal of stuff in his lifetime only to have to get rid of some of it as age forced him to move into an assisted-care living facility. The man was moved into a nursing home and then again finally into a hospice care center. Each time the man had to get rid of more and more of his stuff. His children early on in the process sometimes had garage sales to rid them-

selves of “Dad’s stuff;” those things they didn’t want. They, of course, kept some things, and more often than not, as the man grew sicker and time went by, his children threw more and more of this man’s stuff away. One day, the pastor went to visit him in the hospice center only to see the sum total of the man’s possession neatly kept into a garbage bag to certainly be thrown out when the man died. The pastor was struck at how little the man had left as the pastor personally remembered how much stuff

the man had accumulated at one time, which was indeed substantial. And you know what? When the man died, he didn’t even get to take his garbage bag full of stuff with him. The pastor’s point, as is mine, is that we spend an awful lot of time trying to accumulate stuff and then more time worrying about

losing it, when in fact, we worship a God who does not give us this worry or accepts this fear. There is joy in knowing, or at least there should be, in knowing that the God we serve does indeed supply all of our needs. Now, this doesn’t mean that our day to day struggles aren’t real. We know they are. But how we deal with them was the point of the sermon. I have come to believe 2 Corinthians 12: 9-10. God shows out in our times of weakness. If we recognize and understand our stuff is really not all that important, then God shows up with ample supply; our manna for the day

if you will. If you’re honest with yourself, He has up until this point in your life. The angst of today’s problems should be replaced with the peace of mind that when the world is out of control, God isn’t. Now, where do you choose to put your energy, circle your wagons, demonstrate your faith? In the world? Or, in God? Social distancing cannot ever be a substitute for spiritual togetherness. That question where you put your focus in times of trouble is only of importance if you continued pg 7

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

Passport to Wellness Event Offers Free $10 Gift Card and Free COVID-19 Masks The Near East and West Side Task Force will host its 10th annual Holiday Passport to Wellness on Friday, December 4 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Broadway Market, 999 Broadway. The first 75 registered individuals who complete their Passport to Wellness by meeting with wellness and education vendors and participating in free health screenings will receive a $10 gift card and a free COVID-19 cloth mask. VNA flu shots are also available from 10 a.m. to noon. Participants must be 18 years of age or older to qualify for the free gift card and mask.

SPIRITUALLY SPEAKING continued from page 6 are unsure of the answer. Worry comes with the world. And, the world, by design is chaotic. Peace of mind comes with the Lord because the Lord is anything but. “Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Do you not realize that Christ is in you unless, of course, you fail the test? And I trust that you will discover that we have not failed the test.” (2 Corinthians 13:5-6) Now with the knowledge that Christ is in you, take another look at the chaos and devastation the world is going through. Please let go right now and let God. The stuff in your garbage bag is going to be left behind anyway. When you arrive in heaven, you will not have any luggage. May God bless and keep you always. (James A. Washington is a father, husband, Christian, writer, entrepreneur and owner/publisher of t he Dallas Weekly.

BEYOND THE PULPIT:Bethesda World Harvest International Church, where Bishop Michael A. Badger is Pastor, hosted a two-day coat giveaway at the church recently. Beautiful new and gently used coats were available to the community. First Lady Joyce Badger thanked supporters and donors and acknowledged special thanks to Hobson’s Dry Cleaners on Delavan Ave. that so graciously cleaned all the coats at no charge! She also announced Bethesda’s annual Toy Give Away December 18,19 and 20.Children must be registered and present to receive toys. Call Bethesda to register and for CFGB-25161 Get Ahead of Lead Challenger Quarter Page Ad | 5.105”W x 5.5”H more information before Dec. 14 at 884-3607.

| CMYK | No bleed

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

Get the AARP® Medicare Advantage Plan from UnitedHealthcare *Doctor Coverage *$0 copay for preventative care

*Prescription Drug Coverage *$0 copay for Contact: Tanya Mulvaney/ Liscensed Sales Agent lab services *$0 or low copay *Routine Vision Coverage

717-435-9339 tanya_m_mulvaney@uhc.com

Colston Mobil Auto Repair WILLIAM COLSTON

ASE Certified Technician

• IT'S FALL TUNE UP TIME!

Phone: 716.896.3910 • 720 E. Ferry St.

Diagnostic Testing, NYS Inspection, Towing Service T ire Repair, Brake Repair, Air Conditioning Service

CFGB-25616-1 GetAheadofLead_BuffaloChallenger_5.105x5.5_M.indd 1

10/5/20 11:27 AM

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

"The Selection of Your Code Blue and New Landlord Incentive Program To Help Homeless Dream Home Begins"

“Code Blue” is the City of Buffalo and Erie County’s emergency weather safety plan that provides outreach, transportation, shelter and a warm meal to individuals experiencing homelessness on nights when temperatures or wind chill fall to 32 degrees or below from through April 30 2021.

o let's get started. Here is my short story on how a home came to me. I was an Erie County Savings Bank Customer Representative. T h e thought of owning a home for my f a m ily was evident, and on the very day of acknowledging this, a real estate salesperson approached my desk and so it happened! Oh the cost was $11,000 for a single family back in the mid 70's. Moving onto 2020, the horizon is indeed different. Prices now range from, affordable to luxury pricing. This relates to homes requiring rehabilitation,existing homes in good condition and those with modest improvements. The entire methodology on locations of homes are changing daily with regards to : Available housing, inco me,employment,relocati ons,businesses,diversity/ equity,education,growth of popula-

Tao Te Ching -43The gentlest thing in the world Overcomes the hardest thing in the world. That which has no substance Enters where there is no space. This shows the value of nonaction Teaching without words, Performing without actions: That is the Master’s way.

tion,seniors,conveniences and transportation. Inquire with your Agent for guidance. Also local and community newspapers will always have some valuable details for you. Viewing a home in person is great and highly recommended! As a result of all of the changes in 2020, technical options via digital, google face-time and on-line are now the latest additional choices. As mentioned in the previous articles, your Real Estate Agent will be well prepared for the journey with you. Now what do I desire as a Homebuyer: Share those thoughts with your agent. With this, they will determine the "best home search," be it in person or as mentioned above. ~*Affordable price to mortgage (referring to the pre~approval)* ~ Move in condition, Aka "Turn Key" ~ Rehabilitation ~ Size for the number of individuals to occupy the residence ~ Number of bedrooms,baths and other spaces ~ Location : conveniences, education,medical facilities,employment etc. These are just a few desires I've listed and I am sure there are more for each purchaser. "Be Prepared, Have Realistic Goals and Enjoy the Journey" "Be Safe and stay Focused" " It's A Great Time to Market & Locate a New Home " Hawwao Wajed / Real Estate Salesperson~Notary a s k h a w a @ k w. c o m 716~867~4377 Cell Keller Williams Realty Office: 716~832~3300 5500 Main Street, Wlms., New York 14221 Suite#108 http://hawasellsnewyorkhomes.com

This year’s Code Blue Shelters are located at: Holy Cross at 412 Niagara Street, the Lincoln Field House at 10 Quincy Street and the Rural Outreach Center, 765 Olean Road, East Aurora. Day Time Warming Center services, which are available when the temperatures or wind chill fall below 32 degrees, will be available at the Lincoln Field House and the Rural Outreach Center. You can call 211 to find out if a Code Blue Event has been called. You can also sign up for text alerts by texting codebluebuffalo or codebluesouthernerie to 898-211. On Novemeber 13, Mayor Brown also announced the launch of a new Landlord Incentive Program for Homeless Individuals, asking City landlords to consider renting units to residents who are experiencing homelessness. The new Landlord Incentive Program for Homeless Individuals is a collaboration between the Homeless Alliance of WNY, Belmont Housing and the City of Buffalo. For more information about the program, please contact Landlord Outreach Specialist Dan Hanssel at (716) 884-7791 ex. 129

Dr. Kunle Odunsi is Honored Roswell Comprehensive Cancer Center Deputy Director Kunle Odunsi, MD, PhD, FRCOG, FACOG was recently honored by the Society for the Immunotherapy of Cancer. The award highlights the impact researchers made alongside the renowned late Dr. Lloyd Old. Doctor's. Odunsi and Old worked on Cancer Vaccine Collaborative. Dr. Old , who Kunle Odunsi, MD mentored Dr. Oduni , was Internationally recognized as one of the founders of the field of modern tumor immunology.

Roswell Wants To Clear The AIR on Lung Cancer Risks Part 2 Conclusion

Smoking is the leading cause of lung cancer, but that is not the only way in which a person can develop the disease. There are environmental factors, like growing up around a smoker and breathing in second-hand smoke or working in a factory or enclosed area where pollutants are often inhaled. There are also genetic factors, like a family history of cancer, that can play a role in a person developing lung cancer. “We also know that healthy people can still get cancer,” Clark adds. “That’s why it’s so important to do screenings and be aware of changes in your body. Be assertive when talking to your doctor and mention little changes like waking up with a cough or any unusual pain.” Exercising, eating more healthy foods and learning how to manage and control stress can help reduce the risk of developing most cancers, including lung cancer. “I am encouraged by what the Roswell AIR program can do for the Hispanic community,” says Jomary Colon, a senior health referral specialist. “Lung cancer education and screening has not been a strong focus in minority communities, and I know firsthand how the lack of awareness and access to healthcare can affect a person’s life. This program will be a great resource for my community to help lower risk factors for lung cancer and increase cancer screening rates.” The goal is for in-person and virtual meetings to start in November, with the AIR program continuing well beyond that, Clark says. “ This will be part of the ongoing, staple, core education service we offer. Even if you don’t go through the education or watch the video and you want more information, we want people to know we’re always here to educate and help navigate you to services.” To learn more about the Roswell Park AIR program or lung cancer risks, contact Nikia Clark at 716-845-4888 or Nikia.Clark@ RoswellPark.org.

COMMUNITY LEADERS SUPPORT SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER continued from page 3

Bishop Badger of the Urban Think Tank and Pastor of Bethesda World Harvest International Church stepped forward at the press conference Tuesday in defense of Ms. Woods. "It is unacceptable that after giving an apology to her colleagues and constituents that you choose to do a public high tech lynching of a Black woman," he lamented. Bishop Badger decries "high Ms. Woods again apologized tech lynching" in case of Ms. to the community for her “non Woods. verbal expressions” and said she did not want “that seven seconds” to be the focus of the community. “It is my hope that we can all move forward in the spirit of forgiveness.” The incident and the video have made national attention. A statement from the concerned leaders prior to Tuesday’s press conference expressed concern “that calls for Board member Woods resignation and censure are not warranted and want to be clear on acceptance of her apology and support for her continued leadership on the Board of Education.

“In a school district that has a code of conduct that supports restorative justice and practices, Community leaders will call on the Board of Education to use that process to resolve this matter. “Our community is as concerned about the issue that prompted Board member Woods response, which seems to have gotten lost in the reaction to it,” the statement concluded. Last week the group met at Mt. Olive Baptist Church to call on the Board of Education to have Dr. Cash share his plan to address areas of community concerns prior to approving a 3 year contract extension. They made it clear that they were not opposed to Dr. Cash, and acknowledged that he had made progress during his tenure. As expected, the Board voted to extend his contract through 2023 with 2.5% annual raise. He is scheduled to earn $311,138 for the 2020-21 school year. -What were parents and leaders asking for?Parent and Community leaders were asking for a clear accountability plan on the following key issues and areas of concerns; 1.More effective Shared Decision Making with Parents and Teachers. 2. More diversity in hiring. 3. How he will address the failure of his plan to increase the number of African American Students at City Honors per Parents Office of Civil rights complaint. Which has actually led to a decrease in the number of African American students for 3 consecutive years. 4. A plan to increase MBE/WBE contracting. 5. A plan to improve the quality of remote instruction. 6. A reopening plan that allows for “All” students who want to attend school in person to be able to, as soon as it’s safe to do so. 7. Transparency in the sharing of Accountability Data as it relates to all Equity issues. i.e What % of students are currently not logging in regularly. 8. What is the plan to compensate for the learning loss of students who did not have internet connection last year and the Students that did not have a device for most of this school year?

support our advertisers

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 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.

ST. JOHN TOWER, BUFFALO

COME ENJOY QUALITY LIVING IN OUR COMMUNITY WITH RENTS BASED ON INCOME - AS LOW AS ZERO. → Newly Renovated Units → Great Location → Personal and Courteous Onsite Management. → Professional Security → On-Site Laundry Room → Full Time Social Service Director → Daily Activities → Free Shuttle Bus → Emergency Pull Cords → And much more

FIND OUT MORE! CALL TODAY: 716-855-1505 | TTY/TDD#711

10 IT’S A WRAP!

Entertainment

Typography of Women:

I Am Not Invisible Prepares For Its Debut! Explosive Full Stage Production in Support of Project Mona's House, Honors The Strength Of Women Who Have Survived/Overcome Human Trafficking. It's Also A Dedication to Ujima Theatre’s Late, Great Lorna C. Hill

n December 11, 12, and 13, 2020 the long-anticipated passion project conceived, produced, written and directed by Celeste M. Lawson, Typography of Women: I Am Not Invisible, will be available for online viewing on VIMEO. Vimeo is a high-quality video hosting platform used by many professional filmmakers and videographers. Typography of Women gives viewers an insiders’ perspective on human trafficking that is grounded in the written words shared by real women in our community who suffered traf"I Am Not Invisible" The Cast ficking and managed to escape their captors. They turned to Project Mona’s House in Buffalo, the only transitional residence in Western New York dedicated to helping women trafficking victims restore and rebuild their lives. The performance was originally scheduled to make its debut March 2020 in Rockwell Hall, but the Covid-19 pandemic put a screeching halt to Typography’s plans. After several months of lockdown and a hiatus from rehearsals, the project was re-energized, the actors regrouped and began rehearsing again over the summer months, with one stark and glaring difference. Lorna C. Hill, a cast member and close friend of Lawson’s lost her battle with cancer in June. Initially, it was difficult for me to imagine the production without her,” said Lawson, “but, Lorna was clear and organized to the end. She had already chosen her own understudy; Shantinna Moore. Shanntina is an outstanding Artie award-winning actor and a wonderful person to boot; proving once again the fine judgement of Lorna.” Typography of Women is recorded in Ujima’s new home space at 429 Plymouth Avenue in Buffalo. Lorna had offered on several occasions the use of the theater for this project, so it was natural for the project to take its final form in Ujima. The cast and crew felt it would be a wonderful tribute to dedicate the performance to Lorna and her legacy and still maintain its status as a benefit for Project Mona’s House. It is especially fitting because Lorna was a life-long advocate for social justice and women’s empowerment. Lawson, along with choreographer Robin Hibbert, also named co-director by Lawson for Hibbert’s creativity in building innovative choreographies, but also for selecting most of the music for the show and working closing with Celeste as her visions for the show became more lucid. Robin was always able to respond with creative and ingenious approaches to the dance numbers. Ultimately the duo was able to weave together a performance that is well-balanced, beautiful to look at, and blended into a poignant and inspiring story that takes audiences on a journey from pain to purpose to self-actualization. It is a large cast and features some of the community’s most talented and beloved performers. Actors include Vernice Turner, Celeste Lawson Shanntina Moore, Melinda Capeles, Brandon Williamson, Dayatra Hassan, Vonetta T. Rhodes, Tashani Wiggins, Dee “Dewel” Perez, Gunilla Kester, Joy Scime, Goodness Shawndrell Green, and KerryKate Abel-Smith. The dancers are equally talented and include Natasha Perkins, Dana “Roxy” Harris, Megan A. Rakeepile, Gaitrie Subryan, Netanya Thompson, Janee Brown, Courtney C. Costanzo, and Ginna Wilson. Featured vocalists for Typography include Sara Rogers, Alex McArthur, and Yvette D. Hicks as well as musicians Nelson Rivera, Anthony Henry, Ade Kasumu, and Griot Alassane Saar. Highlights of the show include deeply moving and inspiring selections performed by artist activist and composer/vocalist, Drea D’Nur, who along with Lawson and Hibbert, are among the original planners for this project. “I also want to give a special word of thanks to the crew of Typography,” states Lawson, “they were all in at 110% and without them we could not have made the vision real. Nick Quinn, Dana Fischer-McPhaden, Tyler Furniss, Vincent Murphy, and the outstanding team at Expressed Entertainment, a family-owned minority business with a woman CEO making exceptional products in, about, and for our community.” Tickets are available on the Typography of Women website: https://typographyofwoman.wixsite. com or you can reserve directly on VIMEO - https://vimeo.com/ondemand/towiamnotinvisible Please make your reservation early – by December 6th for the advance ticket price of $22. After December 6th the price increases to $27. Make your reservation with your bankcard or credit

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

card. Your card WILL NOT be charged until the release date of the video on December 11th, 2020 and you are sent the link to view the show. You will have access to the video for 72 hours, (3 days) to watch the performance at a time that is convenient and works for you. Please join us, work with us in the battle to bring an end to human trafficking. Be a freedom fighter! Human trafficking is real. It is in our community. It can happen to anybody. Peace...

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

Accelerating our commitment to affordable housing There’s a shortage of affordable housing in America, especially in communities of color. The impact of this health and humanitarian crisis has intensified the need for increased action. As part of our commitment to invest $1 billion over four years to advance racial equality and economic opportunity, Bank of America is accelerating our investment in development in neighborhoods of color — including right here in Buffalo. We’re working side by side with nonprofits and community leaders to help revitalize neighborhoods, expanding on work we’ve had underway for many years. My teammates and I remain committed to addressing Buffalo’s affordable housing gap and helping build the community in which we live and work.

Ted Janicki Buffalo Market President

Building together Here in Buffalo, we’re partnering with organizations that are expanding affordable housing options. They include: Belmont Housing Resources for WNY Buffalo Urban League

To learn more, please visit bankofamerica.com/community Bank of America, N.A. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender

In the spirit of Black Wall Street we celebrate and support Black businesses and “Buy Black Buffalo Week” December 4-11; the Brown Bag Business Directory; the Black Buffalo Mobile App; The CAO’s Holiday Shopping Pop Up Events; Black Buffalo Buy Local; the launching of the Buy Black WNY.com website and more!

n the spirit of Black Wall Street we celebrate and support Buy Black Buffalo Week” December 4-11! Locally Mayor Byron Brown announced this new initiative to drive consumers to Black-owned businesses in Buffalo this holiday season. Presented by The City of Buffalo and AT&T the citywide shopping movement is designed to support Black-owned businesses, especially ones that have suffered economic challenges due to the COVID-19 global health pandemic. The Beverly Gray Business Exchange Center is coordinating the eight-day event. Buy Black Buffalo Week encourages Western New Yorkers to explore Black-owned businesses as they shop local this holiday season, especially those impacted the most by the pandemic. The announcement was made recently outside of Ms. Eye Candy Boutique on Allen Street, where both sponsors and supporters gathered. To enhance and further promote Buy Black Buffalo Week and beyond, the community is also encouraged to support and celebrate : *The CAO Business Development Workshop Series Holiday Pop Up Shopping Event thru December 18 *That Brown Bag, a comprehensive Business Directory and resource guide to strengthen Black and Brown businesses *Black Buffalo Mobile App, a unique service-oriented directory/locator *BUYBLACKWNY.COM newly launched site that will feature an interactive magazine that links to websites of Black businesses that operate in the WNY area. *Black Buffalo Buy Local A Major source for information on minority businesses of all types. -Black Business WeekBusinesses participating in Buy Black Buffalo Week receive several benefits including the “Holiday Season Seminar,” a virtual technical assistance session made possible with support from M&T Bank, designed to assist entrepreneurs to prepare for an online shopping increase due to COVID-19 limitations. The seminar took place last week. In addition, participating businesses will be featured online and through traditional marketing, as well as receive a marketing package. Black entrepreneurs are encouraged to register their business right away for Buy Black Buffalo Week. To register, go to Buyblackbuffalo.com. “Our Black-owned businesses play an important role in our City’s economic success and we recognize that many of them have been disproportionately impacted by COVID-19. Buy Black Buffalo Week will build on my other initiatives to assist Black business owners, and further prepare them for increased online shoppers this holiday season, while showcasing some of the region’s unique goods and services.” Buffalo Public School students in grades 8-12 can participate in the Buy Black Buffalo Week Art Challenge, by submitting a visual art design that displays what “Stronger Together,” the theme for this years week, means to them. The winner of the challenge will have their image featured on a postcard, sponsored by National Grid, and win a $100 grand prize. Submission details are available at buyblackbuffalo.com Participating retailers are also encouraged to become members of Buffalo Niagara Partnership. The support of Black-owned businesses beyond the week of Dec. 4. -11 is also encouraged. Following the death of George Floyd and in the wake of social justice and racial equity movements this year, shoppers in our region and nationwide sought out Black-owned businesses to support. Buy Black Buffalo Week, in partnership with That Brown Bag Minority Business Directory, shoppers can access a comprehensive database of businesses online. “Past studies show that the dollar circulates zero to one time within the Black community, compared to the more than 6-9 times the dollar circulates within other demographics”, said Shantelle Patton, owner of That Brown Bag Minority Business Directory. “In order for our community to see a shift in this financial circulatory system, we must start with an outpour of support for ourselves. Supporting a Black Owned Business is supporting your neighbor’s dreams. We are stronger together than apart and with the Buy Black initiative, all those involved will get to play an integral part of the spark that changes that narrative in the community in which we live from surviving to thriving.” Buy Black Buffalo Week is presented by the City of Buffalo and AT&T with support from M&T Bank, National Grid, Albright-Knox Art Gallery, the Buffalo Urban League of

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

Buyblackwny.com Is Launched

Buyblackwny.com is a site that will feature an interactive magazine that contains videos, photos and interactive links to websites of Black businesses that operate in the WNY area. The online component is most important as Covid continues to threaten the livelihoods of Black business owners and e-commerce may be the only way their business can continue. Our intention is to build bridges between the Black communities across WNY to create a more dynamic and definitive relationship across the municipalities. We also aim to help them digitize their business operations so that they can continue to service their customers during Covid-19 restrictions. This digital publication will be updated constantly and will contain stories of the entrepreneurs behind the enterprises. One of the driving forces behind the launch of this platform is to highlight Black Creatives in mu sic, art, literature and Black owned media companies. Musicians, artists and authors are often forgotten about and during these difficult times we must continue to support the arts. Our website launch will be the same time the Buy Black Buffalo Week begins to help support this inaugural event that will provide a much needed boost to Black owned businesses in Buffalo. The intention is to provide a steady source of promotion for Black owned businesses in WNY after the week ends especially as we near Christmas. We will also feature a black toy give away with Kente Claus so follow us online at instagram to find out more. To be listed contact buyblackwny@gmail.com www.buyblackwny.com or call Theresa Land - 716-4442179 Dewitt Lee - 716-294-7904

Young Professionals, and Get Fokus’d Productions. A complete list of participating businesses will be available to view online by kickoff day on December 4. For more information about Buy Black Buffalo Week or the art challenge visit buyblackbuffalo.com.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

COME BACK WITH CARE

LET’S TAKE CARE OF OUR HEALTH – AND OUR COMMUNITY. This once-in-a-century health crisis has been challenging for Buffalo and Erie County, but if we stick together, we’ll see it through. Local businesses and restaurants have carefully adapted to keep you safe, and they need your support more than ever. Remember – money spent locally is money earned locally, and if we’re smart, we can take good care of ourselves and our community at the same time.

LET’S COME BACK WITH CARE. WNYNeighborhoods.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

“Big-Sister -- Little-Sister Dialogues”

The Uncrowned Queens Institute in Collaboration With the Buffalo Public Schools Launches Virtual A Mentoring Program for High School Girls Of Color Informational Session

Becoming a Community Based Partner (CBO) for the Buffalo Public Schools’ Universal Pre-Kindergarten Program Saturday, December 5 @ 10am Please RSVP by Friday December 4, 2020 to jsipes@buffaloschools.org Once registered, Zoom link will be provided.

The Corona virus pandemic has had a major detrimental impact on our community, especially on the academic progress and health and wellness of our children. Yet, thanks to the dedication of our educational professionals, parents, community leaders and students themselves, we have come together to ensure that our children receive the educational, social, emotional support and enrichment that will keep them grounded during this critical period. To that end, the Uncrowned Queens Institute and the Buffalo School District continue to partner to offer mentoring to high school girls in our District. The Big Sister/Little Sister Dialogues Mentoring Program was launched in October 2019. The program is based on evidence of the power of mentoring relationships as demonstrated by women of color’s long history of self-help movements, and of mentoring individually and collectively to uplift, educate and instill leadership skills woman to woman. The idea of the Dialogues was drawn from this tradition and offers the opportunity to engage mentees in exploring their own cultural and historical examples of women mentoring each other. Forced to shut down in March, program organizers never gave up on bringing program participants back. So, on November 5th, using a virtual platform, the program’s 20 Big Sisters welcomed back 20 returning and new Little Sisters. Our goal is to empower high school junior and senior girls of color by pairing them with supportive mentors, who will help their mentee: to identify and clarify her educational goals; provide networking opportunities with women from diverse professions, including education, business, community-based organizations and public service; support and help mentees define her aspirations for the future; contribute to the expansion of her understanding of current issues; and enhance her soft skills. The program will run through April 2021. The program is led by Dr. Barbara Seals Nevergold, Dr. Fatima Morrell, Associate Superintendent, Office of Culturally & Linguistically Responsive Initiatives, Ms. Nadia Nashir, Assistant Superintendent, Multilingual Education and Ms. Dalphne Bell, Director, Office of Culturally & Linguistically Responsive Initiatives. This program is supported by a grant from the Community Foundation of Greater Buffalo and was Submitted by Barbara A. Seals Nevergold, Cofounder Uncrowned Queens Institute for Research & Education on Women, Inc.

The Most Important Factor in Your Family’s Education is

YOU Give your family the best chance for success by supporting their education at home and at school. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, sticking to a schedule, partnering with teachers and administrators, utilizing culturally sensitive best practices, and tapping into local resources are just a few of the ways that you can support distance learning at home and keep your family on track for educational success.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

NATIONAL/WORLD

Shrinking Jails, Rising Costs: Erie County's Wasteful Jail Budget

VOICES

This policy brief presents data on the makeup of the Erie County jail population, which has reduced by 48% since 2017. It examines the capacity of both jails and determines that one jail could be closed, with savings redirected to other community-based harm reduction services. The brief compares Erie County spending on jails with spending on mental and public health, and makes recommendations for County leaders to further reduce the jail population, capture the savings of decarceration, and solicit public input into the jail closure process. Jerry John Rawlings

Funeral Services Set for Ghana’s “Great Tree,” Former President Jerry Rawlings The funeral of Ghana’s late former president, Jerry John Rawlings, will be held on December 23, his family has announced. The funeral rites for the 73-year-old statesman will take place at the Independence Square in Accra. Mr. Rawlings, Ghana’s longest-serving head of state and founder of the National Democratic Congress (NDC), died on November 12 at the Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra after a short illness. “A great tree has fallen, and Ghana is poorer for this loss,” said President Nana Akufo-Addo of Ghana said. The death prompted both main political parties to suspend their campaigns ahead of the Dec. 7 general elections. Jerry John Rawlings was born on June 22, 1947, in Accra to James Ramsey John, a Scottish chemist, and Victoria Agbotui. He was educated at Achimota, a prestigious boarding school in the British model in Accra. He enlisted in the Air Force, where he excelled in airmanship, and reached the rank of flight lieutenant. A transformative figure who started with military coups, Rawlins seized power in Ghana in 1979 as an Air Force officer but then led the nation on a course to blossom into a stable democracy, serving two terms as a freely elected president. Survivors include his wife, Nana Konadu Agyeman-Rawlings, a candidate for president in this month’s elections; his daughters Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, Yaa Asantewaa Rawlings and Amina Rawlings; and his son, Kimathi Rawlings. In 1957, Ghana became Africa’s first sub-Saharan country to declare independence from a colonial power, in its case Great Britain. After Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, Ghanan’s first president, was overthrown in a military coup in 1966.

This policy brief was drafted by Colleen Kristich, LMSW, a Community Researcher at Partnership for Public Good. "Shrinking Jails, Rising Costs: Erie County's Wasteful Jail Budget," analyzes the dramatic decline in the county jail population and compares county spending on jails with spending on mental and public health.

JUSTICE DELAYED! By Sherrie Sherrill

The brief finds: The Erie County jail population is shrinking rapidly. •A decrease of 59% in the Holding Center population since September 2019. •A decrease of 29% in the Correctional Facility population since September 2019. •An 83% drop in the number of sentenced inmates. There are now only 36 inmates total (7%) serving a local sentence at either jail. •Over 80% of incarcerated people in the jails are unsentenced (awaiting arraignment, trial, or sentencing). •Combined, the jails are at 34% capacity, with 490 people held out of a 1,432-person capacity. Jail spending does not reflect this change, and fails to capture the savings of a smaller population. •The 2021 proposed County Budget maintains full staffing for both jail facilities, with around 700 staff supervising around 500 incarcerated people, even though the jails are at one-third of their capacity. •Though the Sheriff's Department has moved most inmates to the Alden facility, the 2021 budget still funds over 400 positions at the Holding Center, to supervise around 150 incarcerated people. •The 2021 proposed County Budget allocates $98 million to operate both jail facilities, which is almost double the allocation to Mental Health. This continues a trend; in 2019, for every $1 spend on mental health services, Erie County spent $2 on jails. •If the 2021 budget is approved, the cost to county taxpayers will be $28,739 per intake or $160,131 per inmate per year to operate both jails. The policy brief commends steps that the County Legislature, County Executive, and County Sheriff can take to right-size the budget and reinvest in community health and community-based harm reduction services.

AFTER 43 YEARS, John Walker, Jr. and Darryl Boyd, two of the three surviving members of a group of African-American men known as "The Buffalo 5", finally got their long-awaited new day in court this Wednesday, when they appeared for a Hearing before the Honorable Christopher Burns, Supervising Judge Of The Criminal Term, at New York State Supreme Court, 25 Delaware Avenue in downtown Buffalo. The Hearing was set for 9:30AM. But it was postponed until January 20, 2021 same time, same place. The Buffalo 5 were convicted back in 1977 for a brutal robbery and murder that they did not commit. They have spent the past 43 years proclaiming their innocence, and rallying for a new hearing that they believe will embark them upon a path to complete exoneration. Attorney Paul Cambria, of the renown law firm Lipsitz, Green Scime Cambria LLP, is the author of the new Motion To Vacate Erie County Indictment 41-413, the indictment number of The Buffalo 5. The new Motion is based upon evidence that is believed was wrongfully withheld from the first set of trials, back during 1977. The Buffalo 5 , are: Mr. John Walker, Jr., Mr. Darryl Boyd, Mr. Floyd Martin (deceased), Mr. Darren Gibson (deceased), and Mr. Tyrone Woodruff. Falsely accused, and wrongly arrested, indicted, tried, and convicted back in 1976 and '77- while they were teenagers- three members of The Buffalo 5 (collectively) spent over 84 years in prison for a crime they still insist they did not commit. They allege that exculpatory material evidence that might have proven their innocence was withheld by the Buffalo Police Department, or was completely ignored by the Erie County District Attorney's Office at time of their 1977 trials. Now, the Buffalo 5 are seeking a vacate of their indictment (#41-413), and a complete exoneration.

National Briefs

Perspective

Kenyans Save 100-Year-Old Tree A beloved 100 year-old fig tree in the Kenyan capital, Nairobi, will live to see another day - and possibly another century- thanks to efforts of residents, environmentalist and cultural leaders who actively fought to save it. The ancient tree, which is considered sacred is four stories high. It was threatened to be cut down to make way for a $550 ,million four-lane, 17-mile highway million now being built. "Not all trees have the same status,” said Peter Kiarie Njoroge, an elder in the Kikuyu tribe, which regards fig trees as the “house of God,” and the abode of their ancestors. This one, he said, craning his neck to peer up at the giant leaves, is “like a guard post.” “All living things have their rights which must be respected,” he said. “You just don’t need concrete all the time. You need the green.”

John Walker (left) and Darryl Boyd,.

-The Arts-

The Met Museum Appoints Diversity Officer The Metropolitan Museum of Art in NYC recently appointed its first chief diversity officer, a Black woman, Lavita McMath Turner. Dr. Turner holds a doctorate in urban education. The Met also set aside more than $10 million for diversifying its collection and exhibitions as a part of a two-year diversity plan to address accusations of racism. The appointment of a chief diversity officer was part of that plan.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

Since You’ve Been Away… by A. Dorcely

I don’t want to make a habit of this. But perhaps I’m developing my own style. What am i speaking of? My last article started with a lyric from a song. This unfortunately for those who are not music fans is starting almost in the same fashion. I’m not ashamed to say it. This time I did a little research on this lyric that came to me. I had been racking my brain for a way to get this article drafted(no pun intended). “Since You’ve Been Away” starts a Black Queen’s song. That Queen being Diana Ross. The song being Missing You. How is this all connected to basketball? Well first I must say it is apparent that the NBA is missing you. But you haven’t had a chance to be away long and the NBA players will not have a chance to be away from the court long either. As always though if you’ve become a fan of my writing you know it is customary for me to wish you and your family much health and strength as our numbers start to take a turn for the worst. Now back to our basketball chatter. With the season ending a short while ago. Sunday, October 11th to be exact. It appears the new season will begin on Decem- LaMelo Ball, 3rd pick in ber 22nd right before Christmas. 2020 NBA draft chosen by Preseason is slated for December the Hornets at Villa Maria. 11th through the 19th. No word on whether or not this will be another “Bubble Season”. But in the meantime we’re being stuffed like a turkey. The NBA draft occurred Wednesday, November 19. A couple of Western New York guys were drafted (from Buffalo Jordan Nwora and from Rochester Isaiah Stewart). The draft in itself can be hit or miss. You can potentially miss out on the next NBA Hall of Famer( I hope you caught what I did there). The first three picks were interchangeable. LaMelo Ball the third pick being the highly touted of them all with a brother chosen 2nd in the 2017 draft. They’re the only brothers to ever go top five. His family is also well known throughout social media circles. As I started writing we were in the midst of a lot of teams getting ready to sing the aforementioned Diana Ross song because of free agency. Several players are on the move with little time to get settled in their new homes and to get prepared for an upcoming season. So once again since you’ve been away many players have changed jerseys. There’s not enough room in our paper to indicate all of the transactions though. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that other NBA stars have received lucrative extensions to continue playing for their current teams. Lastly, the Toronto Raptors, the team I consider to be Western New York’s current NBA team, has decided to make a temporary move to Tampa due to the Pandemic. Obviously, making it a little tougher for me to cover their games. With Jordan Nwora from Buffalo taken #45 that being said there’s much in the Second Round by Milwaukee being missed this holiday season. But most of all is family and friends because our best prevention from the spreading of Covid is said to be absenteeism. As for the song Missing You it was dedicated to the absence of Marvin Gaye who had died tragically. How ironic the remedy to prevent tragedies now is staying away! All Photos /A. Dorcely

Bills Josh Norman Partners with City of Buffalo to Create Fund Supporting Local Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19 During Holiday Season Buffalo Bills All-Pro Cornerback Josh Norman, in partnership with Mayor Brown and the City of Buffalo announce Buffalo Business Blitz, an initiative to provide funds to Buffalo-area businesses. With $25,000 of his own money, Josh Norman is providing grants of up to $2,500 each to small businesses impacted by COVID-19 restrictions this holiday season. He is also challenging the local business leaders, philanthropists, teammates, Bills Mafia and residents of Buffalo to join him in this initiative by donating to Buffalo Business Blitz. During the month of December, businesses and individuals can contribute to Buffalo Business Blitz by visiting www.starz24. org. Qualifying businesses and entrepreneurs should visit www.starz24. org to register for more information.

LEGAL NOTICE BID Advertisement for Bids December 3, 2020 North Tonawanda Public Library 505 Meadow Drive North Tonawanda, NY 14120

HISTORIC: NFL officials, from left, umpire Barry Anderson,

field judge Anthony Jeffries, down judge Julian Mapp, referee Jerome Boger, back judge Greg Steed, side judge Dale Shaw (104), line judge Carl Johnson (101) pose for a photo before an NFL football game between the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Los Angeles Rams Nov. 23, 2020, in Tampa, Fla.

LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Erie County Medical Examiner’s Office Anthropology Lab Renovation – Phase 6 PROJECT NO. 2020-886-01 Separate sealed bids for: Asbestos Abatement, General Construction, Plumbing, HVAC, Electrical, Modular Casework and Furniture work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Suite 1400, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on December 17, 2020 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local/ Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw . Attention is called to COVID bid procedures on the County’s website.

KRG has partnered with the ECIDA, who is looking to hire a Compliance Officer for their Buffalo office. This professional will be responsible for ensuring that the agency is compliant with all state laws and regulations. Requirements: 3+ years of compliance or paralegal experience, Bachelor’s Degree strongly preferred If you are the compliance expert we seek, please email your resume today to Ann at acardena@krgstaffing.com, or call 716-631-3951. Key Resource Group, LLC is an equal opportunity employer.

NOTICE OF SOLICITATION OF GENERAL CONTRACTORS FOR CONSTRUCTION WORK at the NORTH TONAWANDA PUBLIC LIBRARY, 505 MEADOW DRIVE, NORTH TONAWANDA, NY for CIRCULATION DESK & STAFF TOILET ROOM RENOVATION

Sealed bids for the North Tonawanda Public Library: Circulation Desk & Staff Toilet Room Renovation will be received until 2:00 pm, Thursday, January 7, 2021 at the North Tonawanda Public Library, 505 Meadow Drive, North Tonawanda, NY 14120 (Attn: Kevin Wall, Library Director), where they will be opened and read publicly. Each bid must be prepared and submitted in accordance with the Bidding and Contract Documents and must be accompanied by references of similar projects and a bid security in the form of a Certified Check, Bid Bond or Bank Check in the amount of (10%) ten percent of the bid amount. Work must be performed by contractors with no less than five years successful experience in completion of similar projects. Contractors must submit a list of completed projects, including project name, address, owner and consultant. The successful bidder will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and Labor and Material Bond each for 100% of the Contract amount. The completion date for this project is Friday, June 11, 2021. This project is being funded in part by grants administered by DASNY. Under Article 15A, Executive Law, it is the policy of the State of New York to encourage participation of minority and women-owned business enterprises in State-funded projects. The following goals have been set for this project: 17% Women Owned and 13% Minority Owned businesses. The Contractor, by bidding on the contract, acknowledges understanding and support of this policy and pledges to fully cooperate with the North Tonawanda Public Library in meeting NYS requirements as set forth in the Bidding and Contract Documents. •Effective Thursday, December 3, 2020, Bid Documents may be examined free of charge at Avalon Document Services, 741 Main Street, Buffalo, New York 14203. Bid Documents may be purchased at the same location. Each request must be accompanied by a certified check in the amount of $38.00 (non-refundable) for each set of drawings and specifications. Cash or personal Checks will not be accepted. •There will be a mandatory pre-bid meeting Tuesday, December 15, 2020 at 2:00 p.m. at the project location: North Tonawanda Public Library, 505 Meadow Drive, North Tonawanda, New York. •Questions after the pre-bid meeting must be submitted in writing no later than the end of the business Friday, December 18, 2020 attention Lauren M. Kaufmann, AIA at Flynn Battaglia Architects, D.P.C.Email (lkaufmann@flynnbattaglia.com) or fax (716-854-2428) are acceptable. •All Addenda, if any, will be sent via email after the December 15, 2020 meeting. Please provide email contact information. North Tonawanda Public Library has been and will continue to be an equal opportunity organization. All qualified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (MWBE) suppliers, contractors and/or businesses will be afforded equal opportunity without discrimination because of race, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, sexual preference or Vietnam Era Veterans status.

Email legals & classifieds to: advertising@thechallengernews.com • Deadline Fridays @ 5pm

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

EMPLOYMENT

LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS Rehabilitation or Replacement of Culverts 2020 Miscellaneous Culvert Group PROJ# CUL-MISC2-20 Department of Public Works, Division of Highways seeking sealed bids for Rehabilitation or Replacement of 2020 Miscellaneous Culvert Group Project. Sealed proposals will be received at Rath County Office Building, First Floor Lobby, 95 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202 by, and opened via Webex at, 10 am local time, Tuesday, December 15, 2020. Instructions found on the County website. Certified check in the amount of $30,000.00 is required as bid deposit. Webex pre-let meeting scheduled Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 10:30 am local time. NYSDOL Wage Rates, Local Minority & Disadvantaged Workforce goals, MWBE goals, NYS Apprenticeship may be required. Plans and additional bid submittal information on the Erie County website at: http: //www2.erie. gov/dpw see On Line Bid Retrieval.

NY Connects Independent Living Specialist. Connect aging or disabled individuals & families to support programs and critical pathways to providers to help facilitate access to needed home and communitybased supports & services. EEOC. www.wnyil.org $33K. Niagara Falls. Medicare Facilitated Enroller. Educate, engage, & assist Medicaid recipients, who are mandated to apply for Medicare, in order to continue receiving their Medicaid insurance coverage, in the Medicare application process. EEOC. www.wnyil.org $30K. Buffalo.

LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS Bridge Painting and Steel Repairs Leydecker Road (BIN 3328840) over Cazenovia Creek PROJ# FA-5762.07-21 Department of Public Works, Division of Highways seeking sealed bids for Federal Aid Bridge Painting and Steel Repairs Project. Sealed proposals will be received at Rath County Office Building, First Floor Lobby, 95 Franklin St, Buffalo, NY 14202 by, and opened via Webex at 10 am local time, Tuesday, December 22, 2020. Certified check in the amount of $30,000.00 is required as bid deposit. Pre-let meeting via Webex is scheduled for Thursday, December 3, 2020 at 11:30 am local time. Davis Bacon Wage Rates, Local Minority, & Disadvantaged Workforce goals, NYS Apprenticeship, and DBE goals may be required. Plans, COVID bid procedures, and additional bid submittal information on the Erie County website and at: http: //www2.erie. gov/dpw see On Line Bid Retrieval.

JOBS

Buffalo Employment and Training Center /

BETC 716-856-5627

Virtual Job Fair December 16, 2020 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. 4 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Searching for a job? We’re here to help! A reputable solar company in South Buffalo is currently hiring for a variety of manufacturing positions. Interested in speaking with our recruiting team? Join our virtual career fair on December 16 by calling 716.630.2940 at the times listed above.

Get in touch with us! buffalosolarjobs.com | 716.630.2940

www.workforcebuffalo.org

Hope House Apartments 243 Sears St. Buffalo, NY 14212

Now Accepting Applications!

Offering studio, 1-bedroom and 2-bedroom units for families and individuals facing homelessness. Other eligibility requirements and income limits apply. Call BestSelf Behavioral Health 716-449-3372 for more information.

Managed by

www.urbanctr.org

Health Homes Care Coordinator. Coordinate services w/Health Homes for purpose of decreasing highrisk medical and/or behavioral health costs for individuals being served in this Health Home. EEOC. www.wnyil.org $37K. Batavia. Open Doors Transition Specialist. Assist individuals in re-entry from institutional settings to the community. Facilitate and coordinate, for individuals residing in institutions, a comprehensive plan to re-enter the community. EEOC. www. wnyil.org $33K. Buffalo. HCBS Peer Specialist Fee for Service. Provide peer support for individuals with Psychiatric (Mental Health) and other disabilities in the community. Assist individuals with disabilities in maximizing community participation. Based in Batavia. Travel to Orleans and Wyoming Counties required. EEOC. www. wnyil.org $25/hr. Medicaid Facilitated Enroller. Educate, engage and enroll individuals who are aged, legally blind, or disabled to address their needs for health insurance by addressing the levels of eligibility, type of insurance that he or she is qualified for. Prepare application & follow-through to collect information needed to fulfill the eligibility requirements set by Local DSS. EEOC. www.wnyil.org $30K. Buffalo. MHP, Peer Support Specialist @ Renewal Center. Work w/in Renewal Center serving guests of the living space in overcoming immediate emotional crisis, who may alternatively result in emergency room visits. Provide peer support and information/ referral for access to needed services. EEOC. www.wnyil.org $30,500. Buffalo.

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!

Youth Peer Advocate. Provide peer support in person and online. Coordinate independent living skills, evaluations, & trainings for transition-age youth w/ disabilities within Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Orleans & Wyoming Counties. Must have lived, shared experience. EEOC. www.wnyil.org Part-time. $15/hr.

Looking For Employment Visit Our Jobs Page Online www.thechallengernews.com

Assistant Professor Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Assistant Professor in Engineering Technology. For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

Buffalo State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to respect for diversity and individual differences.

Come Grow With Us!! •Teacher III:

Bachelors or Associates degree in Early Childhood Education with 2-3 years’ experience teaching preschool age children. •Teacher I II: A Child Development Associate (CDA) in infant development completed within one year from hire date is required (paid for by CAO). This credential requires a GED/High School Diploma prerequisite. •LPN/Health Coordinator: College graduate or nursing registration with NYS Department of Education. •Substance Abuse Counselor: BA/BS in Behavioral Health Services or Social Science field and two years related experience. (Certificates: CASAC, LCSW, LMSW, CRC required). •Certified Teachers: Part Time evening opportunities. BS in Elementary or Secondary Education with one-year exp. working with school age children. NYS Teacher’s Certification. •Child Development Specialist: Masters and/or Bachelors in Early Childhood Education or Child Development with 3-5 yrs. Supervisory exp. •HR Benefits Specialist: Associates Degree, Bachelors preferred with 5 years’ experience in Benefits Administration. •Principal: Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood or Child Development w/3 years teaching exp. OR Associates degree w/5 years teaching experience. •Youth Service Counselor: High School Diploma with one-year experience working with children. •Program Coordinator: Associates degree, minimum 3 yrs. exp. supervising senior and youth sports activities. MUST have valid NYS Driver’s license. •Program Secretary: Associates degree in Business Administration or 5 yrs. office management experience. •Case Manager/Worker: Associates degree in Social Work or related field (Bachelors preferred) 1-2 experience working with low income population. •Food Pantry Clerk/Van Driver: MUST have a valid NYS Drivers license and able to drive agency cargo van.

Apply now on our website www.caowny.org

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 11/22

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

AUTO BEN’S Downtown Tire

50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483

BAKERY Taste of Supreme 100% Gluten Free Vegan Goodies Contact the Supreme Bakers

(585) 285 - 5496

www.tasteofsupreme.com Rochester Public Market 280 N. Union St. BLDG. B #44

ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330

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

HONEY

Davis Honey

Local Raw Honey Retail / Wholesale Rochester Public Market 280 N. Union St. BLDG. B

www.davisnaturalhoney.com (315 )730-5780

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

WIN 4 TAKE 5

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!

TUES 11/24

HOT TIPS

WED 11/25

EVE-8-2-0

MID-2-1-0

EVE-4-0-3

MID-3-1-7

EVE-2-9-2

EVE 2-2-8

MID-1-2-6-2 EVE-8-0-4-8

MID-8-7-4-5 EVE-4-1-5-2

MID-3-8-2-6 EVE-1-9-8-8

04-07-10-16-33

12-19-23-25-26

12-19-25-35-38

LOTTO

MID-6-9-5

MID-1-6-9

FRI 11/27

EVE-8-8-2

EVE-8-9-9

Free On-Line Alkaline Cooking Classes

MID-8-5-2-1 EVE-9-3-6-5

MID-2-3-8-4 EVE-4-2-8-7

MID-3-9-0-4 EVE-1-9-4-3

MID-2-9-8-3 EVE-2-4-8-8

01-10-19-22-35

02-06-11-31-35

02-04-11-34-36

03-15-19-31-32

The Dorothy J. Collier Community Center is offering On-Line ZOOM Alkaline Cooking Classes with Coach AJ of Finger Lickin' Alkaline every Tuesday at 1 p.m. during the month of November. Benefits of following an Alkaline Diet : fights against fatigue, strengthens immune system, reduces inflammation and strengthens bones. Just go to the following link to register and we will send you the link for the class: https://form.jotform. com/203003595102037

33-41-45-50-54-56 #06

4018

022

MA RUTH SPEAKS THE TRUTH! SURE HITS! 168-985-678-198-256-890054-698-679-943-001-202147-001-865-732-855

DECEMBER VIBES 854-214-894-190 547-124 quick money 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-098 511-005/201

064

648

“It’s In The Stars”

Aquarius -496-235-165-579 Pisces - 056-362-237-694 Cancer - 482-372-895-718 Aries - 289-946-034-594 Taurus -258-231-026-695 Gemini-495-257-694-508 Leo-345-213-157-201 Virgo 385-291-431-170 Libra -247-723-179-501 Scorpio - 453-253-571-597 Sagittarius - 389-701-234-924 Capricorn:893-275-342-506

THE NUMBER BOOK 708-469-801-066 781-980-194-580 805-075-467-890 579-944-357-909 680-434-680-073 678-456-708-286 230-110-781-009 920-536-580-697 075-356-579-498

GAMMA’S DECEMBER PICS

302-536-741-394-164-879 BEST TRIPLE 999

SAT 11/28

MID-0-1-4

876-016-983-706-186-967-849-701-265-478-026-070945-761-017-899-676-010-546-806-596-864-968-601089-265-800-103-496-186-460-496-186-257-350-659486-625-967-806-079-657-236-671-678-340-726-970430-968-086-609-705-563-435-978-265-780-104-657569-478-630-359-763-946-019-757-684-908-695-785959-678-219-576-605-246-806-675-380-100-435-768685-209-359-189-603-407-996-515-202-133-045-822

648

THURS 11/26

MID-1-9-8

Zakiyyah’s Rundown (ZR)

TAILORS ANN RHOD’S Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633

MID-3-7-5

MON 11/23

community calendar

Giv all your money worrries to the angles who will make sure all your needs are met!

EVE-3-4-0

06-18-34-40-47-51 #31

996

515

140

Challenger Hits MIDDAY 2-9-0 ZR, #Book (box) 4-6-9 ZR, Aquarius, Pisces (box) 0-7-6 ZR (box) 9-2-9 9-5-3 ZR (box) EVENING 0-3-2 #Book, Ozlla’s (box) 5-1-2 Covid $ (box) 4-3-4 #Book (straight)

Express Flea Market

Every Friday 12-5 p.m., Saturday 8a.m. -5pm and Sunday 10am -5p.m. the Express Flea Market located at 1870 Fillmore will be open to the public. Booths available! For more info contact (716) 4957386 or 716 262-0236

LUCKIE DUCKIE

743-133-202- 335 -2015-4444-1871134-431--143-

648*123*104

980-422-809-981-989-970-990-080800-515-996-390-196-102-581-752-319408-378-352-126-189-444-886-514- 332522-112-432-421-423-154-039-524

GRANDMA'S DOUBLES 662-711-919-422 COVID CASH$$ 190-093-142-534-857-521-406 Madam Ozlla's Predictions 140-143-133-392-320-965-843 5037-2156-3034-1342

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 2, 2020

BBB On-Line Holiday Shopping Warning. Beware of Fake Shipment Texts Don't Click Anything!

Blanc Photographie

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

Better Business Bureau wants everyone to know what these fake texts look like so they aren’t tempted to click on them. Examples that are coming into BBB’s Scam Tracker include spoofing shipping company names, telling the recipients that they have old packages to claim and to schedule a dropoff by clicking the link. Another iteration tells you your package shipped and to click to check on it using the FexEx name. This one, sent from “USPS” tells the recipients that there’s an important notice about an old package. Clicking the link either takes you to a form that asks for personally identifying information, or to a site that downloads malware onto your computer. Avoid clicking on the tracking link; go to the shipper’s website and type in the code to see if it is real.

PLEASE GIFT RESPONSIBLY.

You must be 18 years or older to purchase a lottery ticket.

Struggling with a gambling addiction? Call the HOPEline 1-877-8-HOPE-NY (1-877-846-7369) or text HOPENY (467369). Standard text rates may apply. NYLResponsiblePlay.com

FUSE PRINTING JOB # 3030

images of us

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com • December 2,2020

OUR FUTURE IS BRIGHT. G I V E YO U R I N P U T O N THE FUTURE OF OUR B U F FA L O C E N T R A L TERMINAL AND OUR N E I G H B O R H O O D.

Trailblazer:A host of friends, family and well wishers turned out to honor Joseph "Dog Man" Myree"

with the unveiling of a trailblazing sign in front of his home at Bennett Village Terrace and Hill Street Nov. 21. On hand to do the honors was Mayor Byron Brown, Masten Council Member Wingo and City Comptroller Barbara Miller-Williams. Joe recently retired after 50 years of sharing his passion professionally training literally "thousands" of lucky dogs! Joe thanked everyone for turning out and performed "the last demonstration" we would see him do. Congratulations Dog Man . It was an honor long overdue and much deserved. Challenger Photos

MachinesGiving: On November 22 Conway Cares and Drumwork Music provided a free Thanksgiving Dinner Giveaway at Oakk Room, 1435 Mains Street courtesy of Conway The Machine with food by Chef Rob. 100+ Dinners were given away via contactless pick-up and during the two hour event donations of new winter hats and gloves were accepted. photos/A.Dorcely

The best time to get a flu vaccine is

right now.

Protect yourself & those you love by getting a flu vaccine.

www.erie.gov/flu

PUBLIC VIRTUAL PUBLIC VIRTUAL MEETING MEETING

DEC 9TH, 6–8PM EST HO OMO E MS T DS ET C E9DT HO, N 6 –Z 8P H OST E D O N ZO O M

Join us in the Buffalo Central Terminal online public forum series! Tell us what Join us in the Buffalo Terminal you would like toCentral see the Buffalo Central online public forum series! Tellparticipation us what Terminal become. Your and youinput wouldwill likebuild to seeon thethe Buffalo Central strength of and Terminal become. Your participation and reflect the values of the community. input will build on the strength of and reflect the values of the community.

A C C E S S T H E Z O O M M E E T I N G AT :

A Cbuffaloterminalplan.org C E S S T H E Z O O M M E Eor T I N G AT : buffaloterminalplan.org or call in at: 267.831.0333 callWebinar in at: 267.831.0333 ID: 821 4067 8607 Webinar ID: 821 4067 8607

L ELAER AN R NMMOORREE AT AT ::

H AV NOSN? TA CC OTN U TA H AV E QEU EQSU T IEOSNTSI ?O C S :C T U S :

buffaloterminalplan.org buffaloterminalplan.org

CallCall 716.754.6142 or 716.754.6142 or email info@buffalocentralterminal.org email info@buffalocentralterminal.org