Challenger Community News

What Really Happened to Char’Dae?

Grieving Family Sets up GoFundMe to Get Justice in Wake of “Uber Incident” Death on the 33

Patrice Funderburg to Deliver Luncheon Keynote at UB Women’s Symposium Page 3

AN EAST SIDE TRAGEDY

Family and Friends are Still Reeling From The Police Killing of Edward Holmes

Page 10

Buffalo Blerd Party: The Ultimate Experience for Black Nerds in WNY Page 9

Council Women Everhart and Halton-Pope

Rochester's Dyaisha Fair Passes

Brittney Griner On All-time Scoring List Page 2

Rochester Native Dyaisha Fair Passes Brittney Griner for Fifth Place in Career Scoring in 63-53 Win Over Pittsburgh

Rochester’s native and former Edison Tech High School basketball standout player Dyaisha Fair did not disappoint recently after a slow start against The Pittsburgh Panther’s by scoring 15 points in the fourth quarter helping Syracuse to erase an 11-point deficit in a come from behind win.

Dyaisha became only the 16th Woman in NCAA Division I player to score 3,000 points or more in her college career. She moved past Brittney Griner into 5th place overall by scoring 23 points against the University of Pittsburgh. The fifth-year guard moved past Griner on a tough driving layup in the second quarter. Dyaisha finished with 23 points when Syracuse outscored

Pitt 22-4 in the fourth quarter. This has Dyaisha Fair with 3,302 points needing 91 points to pass Jackie Stiles at 3,393 career points to move into fourth place. There’s an outside chance Fair can hit this level with one regular season game left and the ACC and NCAA Tournaments left to be played.

“I think this was the best season of my career progress and success wise (in terms of ) what I was able to do and contribute to the team,” said Fair.

Syracuse Head Coach Felisha Legette – Jack said Dyaisha was the best player she has ever had the pleasure of coaching. They started out at University of Buffalo and last year moved down the thruway before last season as Legette - Jack accepted the position at her alum-mater Syracuse University. Head Coach Felisha Legette – Jack is the only woman athlete to have her jersey retired at Syracuse University. She was the 1985 BIG EAST player of the year and three-time ALL BIG EAST Selection, leading Syracuse to their first Big East Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance in school history. I remember watching on TV and her style of play being similar to the female version of Karl Malone. She finished with 927 career rebounds and this year’s team has an outstanding rebounding unit. Syracuse Head Coach Legette – Jack brought over most of her starting players and Coaching staff from UB to Syracuse University. This year’s team could be very dangerous in the upcoming ACC and NCAA Tournaments. They have height, outstanding rebounding abilities and scoring. I was also impressed with forwards Alyssa Latham’s rebounding and scoring abilities. She was in foul trouble during the U of Pittsburgh game but when Syracuse went on that 11-0 run in fourth quarter Latham made her presence known. Guards Sophie Burrows and Georgia Woolley, both have good size and can score points. Rochester native and former Bishop Kearney Section V Tournament MVP Saniaa Wilson played a power forward position that helped out inside the paint. The Syracuse women’s team has every component to make a serious run especially with such a clutch player like Dyaisha Fair. Leading the team in her final season makes it extra special! Follow George Radney on Facebook and Instagram or on youtube The Real Deal Sports .

City to Send Youth on Tour of Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Mayor Malik D. Evans announced that the City will provide more than two dozen Rochester youth with the opportunity to tour four Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) this spring.

Mayor Evans and the Department of Recreation and Human Services (DRHS) proposed legislation this month to Rochester City Council to approve funding for the trip.

Participating students will visit Morgan State University, in Baltimore, Maryland, Delaware State University, in Dover, Del., Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, and Bowie State University in Maryland. Transportation, hotel, and food will be provided for students and chaperones.

“Knowledge is power, and I am thrilled to be able to provide this wonderful opportunity to our youth, who are the future of this city, so that they can explore the potentials of college life first-hand,” said Mayor Evans. “HBCUs offer an exceptionally transformative experience exposing young people to Black culture, history, and academic expectations. Many of our youth have not traveled beyond their own neighborhoods, let alone to another city or state. This tour will inspire hope and provide our young people with an opportunity to see themselves beyond their present realities and into a promising future.”

Youth who currently participate in the Department of Recreation and Youth Services’ programs are eligible to participate in the tour, which is planned for April 1 - 4, 2024.

The Department of Recreation and Human Services is working with Gocampusing, Inc. to coordinate the tour of colleges and universities. The vendor was chosen via a comprehensive RFP process.

NEWS PHOTOGRAPHER:

Trinity Wilson of Rochester recently began working at WROC Channel 8 as a News Photographer. She is a graduate from SUNY Brockport with a Master's degree in English, as well a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and Broadcasting. She enjoys reading, writing and photography.

Congratulations Trinity!

ROC EVENTS

Heritage Gospel Concert featuring Akoma and Voices of Thunder, 6–8 p.m., Wednesday, March 2 at the Mount Vernon Baptist Church, 351 Joseph Avenue. Free and open to the public.

Women’s Recognition, 5:30–7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 5 at the City Hall Atrium, 30 Church St. Free and open to the public.

Bronze Collective Theatre Fest remaining schedule at The Avenue Theatre 780 Joseph Ave.

February 29 The Dendrites, March 1 Friday Ants to Gods 1-4pm

March 2 Anansi Tales- After Noon 2pm and The Dendrites Later

Back By Popular Demand, the Must-See Clarissa Uprooted Exhibit Reopens in New Location

“We were a village. They took the village away.”

—Joan Coles Howard

These are the opening words of the must-see Clarissa Uprooted: The Exhibit (Unearthing Stories of Our Village, 1940s-early 1970s), in downtown Rochester at the Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County. The museumquality experience offers living history about Clarissa Street, Rochester’s village that was stolen, but that refuses to be erased. Hours and more information at ClarissaUprooted.org.

The exhibit is open to public Wednesdays 3-7 p.m. and Saturday 12 noon-4 p.m. throughout 2024.

The grand reopening event which took place last Wednesday, honored and celebrated the work that youth and elders have created to illuminate Rochester’s hidden history. Thousands of visitors viewed the exhibit over seven weeks during Summer 2022, a nationally award-winning documentary.

Mayor Malik Evans, Assemblymember Demond Meeks, and City Councilor LaShay Harris joined elders who would have been the generation to inherit their families’ homes or businesses and the tight-knit community that was built around Clarissa Street, to honor their partnership in the Clarissa Uprooted initiative.

Youth History Ambassadors from Teen Empowerment and Clarissa Uprooted is an intergenerational partnership of Teen Empowerment and Clarissa Street Legacy.

Clarissa Street Legacy is carrying the torch from the former Clarissa Street Reunion Committee to host the celebratory annual Clarissa Street Reunion festival. As well, they are extending their mission to preserve and share the legacy of the community. The Center for Teen Empowerment is a youth organizing program in Rochester that hires youth to lead community change with their peers and community leaders.

Clarissa Uprooted was created with support from many partners including RIT Museum Studies Program, Central Library of Rochester and Monroe County, and from The City of Rochester, The National Endowment for the Arts, The National Endowment for the Humanities, New York, NYS Office of Children and Family Services, ESL Federal Credit Union, and Rochester Area Community Foundation.

Dyaisha Fair

AREA BRIEFS

Patrice Funderburg To Deliver Luncheon Keynote at UB Women’s History Month Symposium

Buffalo native Patrice Funderburg will deliver the Keynote Luncheon Address at UB’s inaugural Women’s History Month Symposium, "From the Roots to the Sky: Women, Organizing and Social Justice"

Friday, March 1 from 8:30-a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the UB Center for Tomorrow located on the North Campus.

Ms. Funderburg uses over 20 years of corporate human resources experience to advance criminal justice systems change as the Executive Director at The Center For Community Transitions , an award winning Charlotte-based nonprofit organization that creates reentry pathways for the justice-involved population. Patrice, who attended North Carolina Central University, earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Resource Management from SUNYNY at Buffalo and a Master of Science degree in Organizational Communication and Development from Canisius College. She relocated to Charlotte, NC with her family in 2006. Patrice is the daughter of former Buffalo educator Barbara Clark of Charleston, S.C. and Richard Clark of Buffalo.

Council Women Everhart and Halton-Pope Launch "Ladies First" Podcast

What Really Happened To Char’Dae?

Family Wants Answers In their Quest for Justice!

On February 8, 2024, while riding in an Uber, Char’Dae Nunes tragically died. Cheektowaga police have ruled the incident “accidental,” and no charges have been filed at this time.

The family and friends of Char’Dae along with many members of the community feel otherwise. They are in disbelief about Nunes' death, and many question the findings of the Cheektowaga Police, who have said her death appears to be accidental. The Police Chief told one news outlet that this was “a complicated case.”

Investigators claim Nunes climbed out the back window of the Uber she was taking home from work while it was moving and fell onto the highway, before she was hit by another car. But her family said they don't believe that's what happened.

Human trafficking is an alarming problem across the nation, and Buffalo N.Y. is a border city being less than 30 miles from an international border. So, the family poses the question, was she afraid for her life? Why would she be hanging out of the car window? Was she fearful for her life which led her to desperately try to get out of the Uber? Could this have been a trafficking incident gone wrong!?

America’s First Memorial to its 4,400 Lynching Victims

Common Council Majority Leader Leah M. HaltonPope and Masten District Council Woman Zeneta B. Everhart have announced the launch of their podcast, "Ladies First." According to a statement released by the lawmakers, "Ladies First aims to educate and empower listeners on various aspects of life and government, offering authentic and unfiltered conversations on real issues. Listeners can expect insightful interviews with remarkable women who are trailblazers and changemakers. The podcast will also provide legislative insights and transparency."

The podcast is scheduled for release on Spotify Friday, March 1. A podcast kickoff listening party will be held on March 1 at Shea's 710 located at 710 Main St. from 7 to 9 p.m. The public is invited to attend this event.

Community Forum Will Address $600 Million McCarley Gardens Project

The Buffalo Black Billions LLC will host a Community Forum on Friday, March 8 from 3-5:45 p.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue regarding the McCarley Gardens’ $600 million project. The forum is designed to allow all involved to express their views , especially members of the East Side and Fruit Belt community who are most in need of affordable housing opportunities. Members of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus have been invited. Please RSVP by emailing to wecgod.office@gmail.com. Buffalo (See VOICES Page 11).

Char’Dae was a hard working young woman, holding down two jobs and going to school. The family is demanding answers, a further investigation, and all guilty parties to be held accountable!

They will not rest until they get justice for their beloved.

A GoFundMe has been started to assist the family with expenses, as the process will be very costly. To donate please go to https://www.gofundme.com/f/justice-for-chardae-nunes or on the GoFundMe website search Char’Dae Nunes.

PLEASE HELP!

Char’Dae was born on February 1, 2003, to Charmaine Collins and Adam Nunes. She was born two months premature and spent 14 days in Neonatal Intensive Care. She recently celebrated her 21st birthday in Jamaica. She was a member of Faith Baptist Church, 626 Humboldt Pkwy., Buffalo, where she participated in the children’s choir, Sunday school and vacation bible school. Char’Dae attended Harvey Austin Elementary school and graduated from Hutchinson Technical High School in 2021. She was very active, as she was a cheerleader for The Raiders Little League Football team, drilled for Buffalo’s Finest, The Gospel Difference, and Hutch Tech’s drill team. In her senior year of high school, she worked at Dick’s Sporting Goods, KFC, and WalMart, to support her elegant lifestyle. After graduating high school, she enrolled at Medialle College to begin her quest to be a dental hygienist. Her recent employment was with Capital Management Services and Foot Locker in the Galleria Mall.

Remembered by her family and friends as “a beautiful princess…a beautiful soul”, and also known to her younger siblings as their “2nd Mom,” Char’Dae was loved beyond measure; love that was also displayed at her funeral services filling Faith Baptist Church to capacity. She leaves to cherish her memory her mother Charmaine Collins, her father Adam Nunes, her siblings Adam and Amir Nunes, Da’Lani and Da’Lon Moss, Robert Lee Miller III, Ta’Nica Patton, Zae’la Franklin and J’Mani Munn, and a host of other family members and friends across the country, Char’Dae is the community’s daughter, granddaughter, sister, niece and friend, and her story needs to be told! Let’s come together and demand justice for Char’Dae. We cannot allow her death to be in vain as this could potentially be a target on our community. If the authorities won’t ensure our safety we need to take matters into our own hands, come together collectively, with all our resources and help this family! -S.Clark

The nation’s first comprehensive memorial is dedicated to the legacy of Black Americans who were enslaved, terrorized by lynching, humiliated by racial segregation, and presumed guilty and dangerous. The National Memorial for Peace and Justice, which opened in April of 2018, is an outdoor structure in Montgomery, Ala., that includes 800 monuments, each representing a U.S. county where lynchings occurred and listing the names of people killed in that county. .

More than 4,400 Black people killed in racial terror lynchings between 1877 and 1950 are remembered here. Their names are engraved on more than 800 corten steel monuments—one for each county where a racial terror lynching took place—that form the main structure of the memorial at the heart of this six-acre site.

Racial terror lynchings were violent and public acts of torture that traumatized Black people throughout the country. Tolerated and often aided by law enforcement and elected officials and designed to re-establish racial hierarchy after the Civil War, lynching was terrorism.

One of the stories from generations affected by the history of lynching in America has Buffalo roots. It features the late Mamie Kirkland, who

"LADIES FIRST": Councilwomen Everhart (left) and Hilton-Pope.

A sacred space for truth telling and reflection about racial terrorism and its legacy.

Prayer In The Park Ministry Anniversary And Birthday Celebration for Brother Eddie Wiley

Prayer In The Park Ministry will celebrate its 21-22 Year Anniversary and the 80th Birthday Celebration for Brother Eddie Wiley at the Johnny B. Wiley Stadium , Jefferson at Dodge Street on Thursday, February 29 from 5-8 p.m. Bro. Wiley is affiliated Prayer In the Park, 100 Mighty Men, True Bethel Baptist. The brother of the late Johnnie B. Wiley and uncle to Legislator April Baskin. Bro. Wiley is a man who has worked very hard in Buffalo and WNY.

Prayer In the Park Returns In April

Prayer In the Park Ministry will begin in April (the date to be announced). Min. Barbara Johnson Kirk is Assistant to the Senior Pastor. For more information contact Pastor Wanda L. Strong Howard at (716)715-1969.

Deadline For First Shiloh Baptist “Purposeful Women of Faith” Awards Nominations March 8

First Shiloh Baptist Church is accepting nominations for the prestigious Purposeful Women of Faith awards.

This award recognizes women who play major roles within faith communities. They serve as clergy, administrators, ministry leaders and work with several faith organizations within the community. Women are also active in the wider community as community leaders, operating businesses, politicians, financial managers and leading not-for-profit agencies. These women support, mentor and inspire others whether at work, faith communities or in the home.

Please nominate a woman who exemplify the characteristics of a Purposeful Woman of Faith:Nomination forms are due on Friday, March 8.For questions or more information about the list of categories please contact Lady Tanya. Staples, Chairperson at (716) 8476555 or mail at: firstshilohmail@gmail.com

How to Honor Black History and Culture with Confidence

Black History Month is a special time of year when we celebrate the achievements and contributions of Black people in various fields of endeavor. It is also a time for us to reflect on the challenges and struggles that Black people have faced and continue to face in a society that is often biased and oppressive. However, Black History Month is not just about the past; it is also about the present and the future. We can use this time to cultivate confidence and resilience in ourselves and our communities, and to envision a more just and inclusive world.

Confidence is not arrogance or pride. It is not ignoring or denying the realities of racism and oppression. It is not pretending that everything is fine or perfect. Confidence is about believing in our worth and dignity as human beings. It is about recognizing and honoring our talents, skills, passions, and dreams. It is about supporting and uplifting each other in solidarity and love. It is about challenging and resisting the systems and structures that seek to diminish or erase us. It is about envisioning and creating a more just and inclusive world for us and others.

As we celebrate Black History Month and Black History all year in 2024, let's be inspired to have confidence by following these suggestions:

- Learn from your role models: Many Black people have led with courage, wisdom, innovation, and leadership. Let's explore the diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences of Black culture through books, documentaries, events, and online communities.

- Be kind to yourself: Embrace your strengths and weaknesses, and treat yourself with respect and compassion. Confidence is about accepting yourself as you are, not trying to be perfect. Prioritize self-care that nourishes your body, mind, heart, and soul. Remember that you are deserving of happiness and wellness.

- Take action for social justice and change: Educate yourself on the issues that affect Black people locally and globally. Speak out against injustice and discrimination, and support movements or organizations that fight for Black rights and liberation. Let's use our skills, talents, passions, or resources to make a positive difference in our community and the world.

- Donate to a cause or an organization that supports the Black community. You can make a positive difference in the lives of others by giving your time, money, or skills to a cause that you care about. You can also feel good about yourself for being generous and compassionate.

It is important to have confidence during Black History Month. Not only does it benefit us, but it also inspires others to have confidence. Having confidence allows us to challenge the stereotypes and prejudices that limit us and create a more inclusive world for everyone. Confidence allows us to take action, speak up, stand up, and make a difference. It’s an opportunity to envision a world where Black people are respected, valued, and empowered. We must support and uplift each other, especially those who are vulnerable and marginalized in our communities. We all possess the power of confidence, and it is a powerful tool for change.

If you have any thoughts or questions, contact me at tlewis@imageignite360.com.

-Your Confidence Coach, Tiffany Lewis

10th Annual University United Festival Date Announced!

The University United Festival committee are thrilled to announce the highly anticipated 10th Annual University United Festival, set to take place on Saturday, August 10, 2024, at the University at Buffalo, South Campus Rotary Field.

This landmark anniversary marks a decade of community cohesion, celebration, and cultural exchange in the University District and City of Buffalo. Established in 2015, the University United Festival has grown into a cornerstone event in the University District, fostering connections and camaraderie among residents, the UB campus community, and visitors from Canada and across our county.

"As we approach the 10th anniversary of the University United Festival, we reflect on the profound impact it has had in fostering unity and pride within our diverse community,” said University District Council Member Rasheed N.C. Wyatt. “This milestone is a testament to the strength of our collective spirit and the enduring bonds we've forged over the years."

Taisha St. Jean, Chairwoman of the festival, added, “A decade back, our community yearned for a gathering, and I found myself spearheading an event that started with just 100 folks but blossomed into a crowd of 24,000 last year. It's truly an honor to reflect on this journey and take the lead once more. This event is all about bringing us together and pooling our resources. Get ready for an even more fantastic and heartwarming experience this year!”

The 10th Annual University United Festival promises to be an unforgettable day filled with live music, delicious food, vibrant performances, and interactive activities for all ages. Full lineup and applications for vendors will be released in the coming weeks.

If there are any additional questions, please contact Mike Read, Director of Marketing with the University United Festival at (716) 245-8332 or via email at mread@buffalony.gov

African Genealogical Society Annual Memorial Workshop

The Buffalo Genealogical Society of the African Diaspora (BGSAD) will conduct the Annual James A. Huff Memorial Workshop on March 9 at Calvary Baptist Church Chapel at 1184 Genesee St. from 11a.m. – 1p.m. The event is free and open to the public.

BGSAD Members will share their research methods for tracing enslaved and free ancestors. Storyboards and books will demonstrate how to creatively share your work with family members. Information on how to begin your genealogy search will be available.

Pre-registration is encouraged. Email: bgsad96@ gmail.com or facebook. com/groups/bgsad. Sonia L. Walker is President of BGSAD

TERRENCE D. McKELVEY

Attorney at Law

181 Franklin Street Suite #301 Buffalo, New York 14202

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Tiffany Lewis

Cold Medicine That Doesn’t Work

Does phenylephrine, a common ingredient in cold medicine sold over the counter, actually work?

Many providers in Florida believe the popular decongestant found in Sudafed PE, some formulations of NyQuil and many other cold and flu treatments aren’t working as advertised.

Recently, an advisory committee for the F.D.A. unanimously confirmed three findings. Right now, phenylephrine is in hundreds of products; Americans spent about 1.8 billion on those remedies last year.

How can an ineffective drug discovered nearly 100 years ago and marketed since the 1930s still be on the market, despite decades of drug experts like us prodding the F.D.A. to do something?

Worse than that, this is only the tip of the iceberg. This decongestant is like many drugs on the market that don’t really provide relief. Just ask your local pharmacist about over-the-counter drugs he or she suspects don’t work. It’s an open secret among many of us who study pharmaceuticals that several ingredients, including ones found in common treatments like Robitussin, Mucinex and certain cough syrups, probably don’t work as advertised.

While there have been legislative efforts to improve the regulation of ineffective drugs on store shelves, much of the process still moves too slowly and has not gone far enough.

Essential Oils That May Help Fight Depression

There are essential oils that may help alleviate your mood. Using diffusers or essential oil burners to accent the air in your home is one way to engage the oils or you can often wear them lightly and even some can be made as a safe tea to consume.

*Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) reduce anxiety boost mood increase calmness manage blood pressure relax breathing reduce stress.

*Sweet orange (Citrus sinensis) reduce anxiety boost mood.

*Yuzu (Citrus junos) reduce anxiety antidepressant effect.

*Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)lower levels of cortisol in saliva, suggesting stress reduction.

*Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)reduce stress and anxiety antidepressant effect.

*Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus)reduce anxiety.

*Sage (Salvia officinalis) boost mood.

*Spanish sage (Salvia lavandulaefolia)boost mood.

*Combined lavender and Damascus rose (Rosa damascene) reduce anxiety antidepressant effect.

*Combined lavender, ylang-ylang (Cananga odorata), and neroli (Citrus aurantium) reduce anxiety. (sourced by @colormewell716 )

The Ostomy Support Group

The Ostomy Support Group Begins Their Second Year On Tuesday, March 12, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Marilyn Nixon and the Ostomy Support Group will present the first session on Leaky Gut: what it is, and what does it mean to you?

Discussed will be: digestion and gut flora, what it means - and what are the long term effects it could have on you.

The sessions will take place in the Fellowship Hall at Elim Christian Fellowship Church located in Central Park Plaza. Also, are long-term, prescribed medications helping or hurting your body?

What does this information have to do with an Ostomy? Come and find out.

Desiree Parker Named To Breast Cancer Network Board of Directors

The Breast Cancer Network of WNY (BCN) announces that Desiree Parker has accepted a position on its Board of Directors.

She was installed as Treasurer at BCN’s January 11th Board of Directors meeting. Ms. Parker is a Buffalo resident and owner of DLP Consulting WNY, which she started in 2020.

A true entrepreneur, Ms. Parker’s business services include Consulting, Bookkeeping, Tax Preparation, LLC Formation, Human Resources, Payroll Services and more.

She is very experienced in nonprofit work and accounting and currently serves on the Boards of NaTania B. Parker Foundation, Hope Program Incorporated Organization, and Greater Jefferson Avenue Business Association.

The Breast Cancer Network of WNY is located in the United Way Building at 742 Delaware Avenue in Buffalo. They have been offering support and education services to people in Western New York who have been impacted by breast cancer since 1994.

BCN recently received a grant from New York State which will allow them to offer support programming designed specifically for local African American Women who have been impacted by breast cancer.

For more information on that or any of BCN’s programming, or visit them online at www.bcnwny.org or call 716-706-0060.

Salute BLACK HISTORY

YearRound

THE

Desiree Parker

Healthy Options Restaurant Week

Healthy Options Restaurant Week kicks off Monday, March 4 with the Taste of Health from 6-8 p.m. at the Northland Workforce Training Center, 683 Northland Ave. The free community event features samples of Healthy Options menu items from participating restaurants along with live cooking demonstrations, health screenings, and education. Menu items have been analyzed by a registered dietitian from the Independent Health Foundation to meet Healthy Options standards for calories, fat, saturated fat, and sodium. Healthy Options Restaurant Week runs March 4-10.

Community Advocates Named to Buffalo Business First “Idea Awards” List

The following “Champions of Diversity and Inclusion” are among those named to Buffalo Business First “Idea Awards” list. The special feature appeared in the February 16-22 edition. They include: Keith Alford, Dean and professor, University at Buffalo School of Social Work; Malene White, License mental health counselor, Spectrum Health and Human Services; Samantha White, Supervising attorney, Western New York Law Center; Jessica Turner, Director-DEI, New Era Cap; Kenneth Turner, Regional disaster officer, American Red Cross, Western New York Region; Kyria Stephens, Director of Inclusion and community initiatives, Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus; Sherry Sherrill, Senior consultant, Covington Associates Consulting; Lamark Shaw, Director of career services/ adjunct instructor, Damen University; Casimiro Rodriguez Sr., President and founder, Hispanic Heritage Council of Western New York; Elisa Rodriguez, Vice President/ associate director of diversity, equity and inclusion and associate professor, Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center; Francesca Mesiah, Manager workforce development, Kaleida Health; Takesha Leonard, Family nurse practitioner, Jericho Road Community Health Center; psychiatric mental health nurser practitioner, Landmark Health; medical director, Gateway Longview; Joyelle Hackett, Chief of diversity equity and equal employment opportunity, VA Western New York Health Care System; Ashley Green, Learning and development training specialist, Person Centered Services; Michelle- Marie Gant, Director of diversity and inclusion, M&T Bank; John Davis, Project Manager- GHD; Jason Daniels, Senior associate legal counsel, physician enterprise and corporate operations, Catholic Health; Kim Brown, Executive director, Community Access Service.

Attention High School Seniors! Urban League Scholarship Application Deadline Extended!

The Buffalo Urban League is calling all graduating high school seniors and re-cent HSE/GED graduates! We are excited to announce an extension to our scholarship application deadline!

You now have until March 15, 2024, to apply for this incredible opportunity to receive financial support for your educational journey.

Are you facing financial hurdles while pursuing higher education in the fall of 2024? We encourage you to apply!

Scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, community service, character, and financial need.

Eligibility:

•High School Seniors or recent HSE/GED recipients (within the current academic year)

•Planning to attend college or vocational school in the fall of 2024

Visit: https://www.buffalourbanleague.org/scholarship

We encourage you to submit your application even if you are facing issues with your FAFSA and haven't received it yet. Include all other completed documents with your application.

Black Business Expo

The Black Business Expo will take place Thursday February 29 from 4:30-7:30 at Seneca One on the 2nd floor. Attend a One-Hour Panel Discussion at 6pm moderated by Buffalo’s Chief Diversity Officer Darrien Saxon. Fee Food served from 4:30pm – 6pm. Music will be provided by WUFO.

BUY LOCAL BUY BLACK

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS! Pictured above just a few of the great vendors who took part in the Black History Month Event at the Broadway Market last Saturday. Top from left: Second Chapter Bookstore, Artwork By Goodness, Tearra Creative; Above: Essentials body Care LLC, Blessings of the Bling, Glamorous Embellishments, Sewing Sisters And Mom Boutique. Challenger Photos

UP NEXT at UJIMA “ HERStory”

3 stories. 3 women. 3 weekends. In Recognition of Women’s History Month

March is Women’s History Month and in recognition of the remarkable, yet often overlooked, contributive work of POC women playwrights Ujima announces it’s next production, “HERStory.” It will open on Friday, March 8th and run for 3 weekends at the Lorna C. Hill Theatre. “HERStory” is an intimate series of three one-act plays that will give the audience an up-close and loving glimpse into the real lives of three women of color. All three autobiographical plays are written by the women and each of their personal journeys provide insight into living one’s truth while speaking openly about our shared humanity.

Opening the three part one-act series, from Friday, March 8 through Sunday, Match 10 is, Big Butt Girls and other fantasies, The Remix. This one-act dramedy is written by Chicago native Marsha Estell, directed by Ujima Company member Rachael Jamison and features the multi-talented Dayatra Hassan.Trapped by hot-flashes, varicose veins and that “middle-aged-middle” Marty, played by Hassan, longs for her childhood on the south-side of Chicago. Using humorous flashbacks and music, Big Butt Girls… takes us along on a hilarious and touching ride.

Weekend 2 of the series, Friday, March 15 through Sunday, March 17 will feature BIOPSEE, written by Colombian playwright Tatiana de la Tierra, directed by Brian J. Brown and featuring the work of gifted Buffalo actress and dancer, Hilda Ramos. BIOPSEE depicts one woman’s solo journey through her diagnosis of lupus. Outspoken latina activist and lesbian writer, Tatiana de la tierra, holds back no truth when sifting through the complicated layers of her life, while it flashes before her eyes.

The final weekend of the one-act series runs Friday, March 22 through Sunday March 24 Mom, How Did You Meet the Beatles? is written by the multiple OBIE Award-winning playwright Adrienne Kennedy, directed by Gabriella McKinley, and features the stellar work of one of Buffalo’s favorite performers, Annette Daniels Taylor, joined by the young, talented Christian Hines. In, Mom, How Did You Meet the Beatles?, the playwright relates her own star-studded experience of moving to London and working on The Lennon Play: In His Own Write. This is a truly memorable story, staged as an intimate interview-style conversation, between a mother and her son.

Artists of Color Art Exhibition in Niagara Falls

The 15th Annual Artists of Color Art Exhibition in Niagara Falls is running now thru March 23, 2024. The show is curated by Ray Robertson, founder of the exhibit at the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center This multigallery art exhibit celebrates work by over a dozen regional African American artists from WNY.

How High The Moon

AKG presents The first retrospective of artist Stanley Whitney's How High The Moon. His unique and powerful abstractions over the course of his fifty year career is on display until May 26 at Albright Knox Art Museum 1285 Elmwood Ave.

Cultural Representation Roundtable

"The Polish Cleaning Lady's Daughter" - By Paula Wachowiak

March 8th - 24th,

Premiere Friday March 8

Paul Robeson Theatre, Inside the African Cultural Center 350 Masten Avenue AACCBUFFALO.ORG

The Music of Phil Collins & Genesis

Fri Mar 8, 7:30pm

Bradley Thachuk, conductor

From his songs with the legendary band, Genesis, to his solo work, Phil Collins has been responsible for creating a soundtrack of cherished musical moments from the 70s to present day. Hear them reimagined with full orchestra, an outstanding frontman, and all-star band.

First Ladies of Song

Sat Mar 9, 7:30pm

Fernanda Lastra, conductor Carmen Bradford, vocals

As the lead vocalist with the Count Basie Orchestra, Carmen Bradford is one of jazz music’s most diverse and exciting vocal stylists. She pays homage to legends Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughan, and Lena Horne in this special program featuring the likes of Fascinating Rhythm, Love Me or Leave Me, and many more.

On February 29, Castellani Art Museum 7 Varsity drive at Niagara University (in Niagara Falls) will present a diverse panel from 5p.m.7:30p.m. featuring panelists Terry Alford, Executive Director of the Michigan Street Heritage Corridor; Tiffany Gaines, Curatorial & Digital Content Associate, Burchfield Penney Art Center; Bree Gilliam, Visual Artist,; and Muhammad Z. Zaman, Visual Artist.Tickets are $10. Visit castellaniartmuseum.org for more info.

Calling All Black Nerds! BLERD Is Alive and Well in Buffalo Celebrating Black Geekdom

Anthony

Pierce and Blerd Official Head of Content Otis East Create Fun Creative Safe Space Party Experiences for Black Nerds in Buffalo

Black nerd aka BLERD. A term said to have been coined back in a 2006 episode of the sitcom Scrubs by the Black nerd character Turks. It wasn’t long after that it became popular among people of color in the nerd community.

You’ve seen them before. Maybe there’s one in your family, the socially awkward introvert, highly intelligent tech savvy geek who is obsessed and enthusiastic about a subject he sees through a technological or scientific lens? Or think Steve Urkel from the show Family Matters, Princess Uhura in Star Trek or Shuri in the Black Panther film. Even in real life, people like the chemical engineering and African studies graduate Mae Jamison who was the first Black woman to travel to space would be considered a Blerd.

Blerd was founded in North Caroliona by Terril Fields who turned ribbing comments from his friends into a booming business. “I was always into video games, comic books, technology, things like that,” Fields said in an interview. That’s what inspired him to create Blerd a multi-media and apparel company for Black geeks and gamers who are often overshadowed in a predominantly white industry.” he said.

Ok now that you are a little more up to speed, did you know there’s a Blerd division growing in Buffalo laying the groundwork to make the town more Blerd active?

The Blerd Party experience is for adults, most of whom have experience of being outcast for liking certain media like cartoons and video games beyond what was once deemed a socially acceptable age or capacity. “Black communities, as diverse as they are, rectify stigmas out of ignorance, because our favorite characters didn’t fit 'hood,' or 'Christian,' or 'Black' perspectives," said Ace, a local Blerd and community builder who is leading the charge bringing the experience to Buffalo. “To me, Black people were geeks and nerds before those terms became a thing. We were the purveyors of myth and lore, science, spirituality, and music for ages. Sure, we love stories from Ancient Japan, but I think it's a yearning for having our own deep and rich history. How many animations or video games explore Black and African history? Being a Blerd isn’t just about being a fan, it’s innovation. It’s a way to see that another group loves what you love in a unique way, and how that can turn into a creative union.” He said.

The parties are produced by Hidden Village Entertainment Collective, and have been held at OSB Ciderworks over the past year. They feature cosplay, video games, and music. Ace and Otis recruited their friend Chris “C-Saint” Simmons, a hip-hop artist and battle rapper to coordinate musical acts. Their friend, Blackstar Mack, a local Esports competitor coordinates the video game tournaments and Sound selector Desiree "DJ IYKYK" Kee brings it all together with the music, which features Hip-Hop and R&B, along with punk, house and cartoon theme songs. Da'Von McCune and D Real McCoy Entertainment have provided sponsorship.

Their next events are on March 2nd. A day-long panel at VillaCon, Villa Maria College’s convention, and that evening the Buffalo Blerd Party: Year Of The Blerd will be happening at OSB Ciderworks 517 main street at 8pm. Tickets are $20 and can be found on eventbrite. com . The event is sponsored by Blerd, D Real McCoy and Villa Maria College.

-The Backstory On How Blerd Came to Buffalo -

The brand found its way to Buffalo Blerd's Head of Content Otis East,(a Chicago native) who is a talented story builder and marketing specialist. “We're hoping to find more Blerds in the city and create more pathways for them to connect with each other both in and outside the city of Buffalo,” he said. On a visit during Buffalo’s 2023 Juneteenth through The Wakanda Alliance, Otis was connected with a popular Blerd from our East side community, Anthony Pierce aka Ace.

Often looked at as a nerd or geek growing up, Ace went from finding like minded friends on the internet and making YouTube videos about cartoons to making videos around how the film experience of Black Panther made him feel. That soon turned into his work with the popular Afro-Futurist group The Wakanda Alliance - a reading and activity family program that explored Afrofuturism through comics like Black Panther.

Since the two met and after Otis’ recommendation to check out "Blerd Con" the rest has been history. “Going to BlerdCon was the first time I didn’t feel like an outsider.” said Ace. Everyone was on the same page. There wasn’t a gap in identity. We all knew what we were there for: to be proud Black geeks. Black cosplayers and fans often get scrutinized for being too dark skinned to play characters, or get rejected from social groups because of their culture. So it was refreshing to be in a place where we could swag surf AND talk about ninjas and giant robots. I wanted to bring that energy back to Buffalo. At first I thought it was going to be a light event with only a few people. But the first party brought out 60 people, and the second party doubled that! My friends and I knew we had to take this seriously.”

After having a successful year of events in 2023, Buffalo Blerd Party and events are seriously here to stay! Don't miss their first party of the year March 2 and future events! Follow @ace_theoutsider, @blerdofficial and @hiddenvillage716 to keep up with Buffalo Blerd Party! -L.H.

“Super Freak: The Rick James Story”

March 20, 2024 "Super Freak: The Rick James Story" is coming to Sheas With a stellar cast, breathtaking choreography. Tickets for this limited time engagement start at $52.75 and can be purchased at jecaryous.com or ticketmaster.com

THE STYLISTICS at The Bear's Den Showroom inside Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino Thursday, May 30, and Friday, May 31, at 8p.m

Grammy Winning Performers Coming to UB

The Grammy winning performers involved in “Passion for Bach and Coltrane,” will be coming to Buffalo to perform in Slee Hall on April 25, 2025, and its composer, Jeff Scott, will join UB’s faculty in the fall, 2024.

The Folks at Home: With Rave Reviews

still pouring in, The Folks At Home is on stage for its final shows at The Alleyway Theater ( 1 Curtain Up Plaza) in downtown Buffalo. final show dates February 29 & March 1 at 7:30p.m. and March 2 at 8p.m. For tickets and more information visit Alleyway.com or call the theater at 716-852-2600.

Buffalo Blerd Party team l/r Blackstar Mack, Da'Von McCune, Ace, C Saint and DJ IYKYK (inset) Images provided by Buffalo Blerd Party

An East Side Tragedy

Family and Friends Are Still Reeling From the Police Killing of Edward Holmes on the City's East Side.

By Myles Carter IG @myles4sheriff

Edward Holmes Sr., 58, was shot and killed by police on Saturday, February 24, 2024, the details of which have left the community stunned and the family seeking answers.

Everyone that describes Edward boasts about his positive energy and his loving attitude. Yolanda Wyatt, a long-time friend of Edward’s, described him as “sweet, caring and kind.” According to his neighbors and grandchildren, he loved everybody.

The incident occurred in front of his house on Reed St. off Sycamore in the 14211-zip code, where his blood still stains the street, days after the tragic event.

“Suicide by Cop” is what Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia claims happened in the case of Edward Sr. According to Gramaglia, Edward Sr. called the police on himself, describing a man wearing camouflage with a gun on Reed St. When the officers arrived at the scene, they met a man with a gun who they said was roughly 50 feet away.

According to the Police Commissioner, Edward Sr. opened fire on the officers, discharging one round, although there’s no clear sight in the video to validate the claim. Two of the three officers on the scene discharged their weapons at least 20 times and hit Edward Sr. with at least two bullets, of which he suffered fatal wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene at the age of 58. Stunned by the loss of a charismatic patriarch in the family, his children are struggling to put together the pieces.

The police commissioner had the family view the body camera footage prior to releasing it to the public.

are not going to let this go…we are not going to let ya’ll tell us what you think we want to hear…that’s not going to happen. Ya’ll let the Tops (Massacre) assailant walk out of Tops with a gun with his life…but my dad got 30 seconds. So we are not going to keep quiet about my father, Edward Langston Holmes Sr.”

The victim's namesake, Edward Holmes Jr. and other family members, believe there’s more to the story. Edward Jr. says his father has been faced with everything from broken windows on his house and vehicle, to being attacked. He questions if any of those events in the past may have played a role in what happened Saturday.

Taniqua Simmons, an East Side resident who attended the vigil for Holmes on Sunday said “They ‘the police’ were jumping to conclusions when they pulled up, and they’re jumping to conclusions in the investigation.” She points out that the police arrived on the scene, yelled at Holmes to drop his gun and then the shots started from somewhere. More frustration grows from Taniqua and others in the community at the blatant disregard for human life in a residential street on the East Side. She recalls when Buffalo Police fired shots at Kente Bell in moving traffic on Genesee St. in 2022 in the same zip code. Out of the 20 rounds that were discharged at Edward Holmes, the police say he was struck by only two, leaving over a dozen bullets unaccounted for.

Would the police have responded with such force in the suburbs?

Excessive force is what some residents are saying was on display by Buffalo Police, many perplexed by the police’s unwillingness to neutralize instead of eliminating the threat. Regardless of the lingering questions, “suicide by cop” are the words used to describe the fatal police involved shooting of Mr. Holmes Sr. Fragments of the body camera footage along with pieces of the 911 call reflecting that very narrative were swiftly made available; images which seem to justify the lethal use of force. Many are demanding the police release the full body camera footage from all officers at the scene.

Our condolences to the Holmes family and the entire East Side community, and we pray they can gain strength in the face of adversity and continue to support one another to overcome this difficult time.

At the time this photo was taken initial reports said there were 17 shots fired by police during the Reed Street shooting. The community was later informed that there were 20 shots fired by police, two of them hitting Mr. Holmes

"Eddie Was A Face of The Community"

Photographed and Reported by @Tru_Ink Media

I spoke to Chris (pictured) after the candlelight vigil for Edward Holmes, Sr., 58, on Sunday night. “Eddie” was killed by Buffalo police officers on Saturday morning on Reed Street on Buffalo’s East Side.

Chris said, “I’ve known Eddie since I was a kid and I’m a friend of the family. It’s sad to see this happen, especially since he called the police. He was a customer at Sodapops on Sycamore Street where I cook. He always ordered a steak sandwich with onion rings and a Faygo.

“Eddie was more than just an uncle, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. Eddie was a face of the community. He was well known for his cowboy hats and for making sure everyone was okay in life with words of wisdom. He helped many in the community for decades and was always kind-hearted, wellrespected, and loved.”

According to Buffalo Police Commissioner Joseph Gramalia, he believes Eddie was a victim of “suicide-by-cop.”

Peace Advocates Join Forces To Protest Schumer And Gillibrand’s Support For Billions In Funding For Ongoing War In Gaza

Coalition protests outside Schumer’s office as U.S. Senate approves $14 billion to Israel despite ongoing and extensively documented war crimes in Gaza, as the killing and wounding of over 100,000 civilians and counting, continues.

BUFFALO -- Members of Jewish Voice for Peace-Buffalo, Muslim Public Affairs Council of Western New York, Western New York Peace Center, and others assembled in front of New York Senator Chuck Schumer’s Buffalo office Friday, February 23, at 130 South Elmwood Avenue to protest Schumer and Senator Gillibrand’s support for an additional $14.1 billion in funding for Israel’s war on Gaza, even as experts warn of an unfolding genocide and the world looks aghast at Israel’s imminent plans to invade Rafah in southern Gaza.

The Senate’s vote to send billions more in military aid to Israel comes as the known Palestinian death toll in Gaza approaches 30,000 people killed, more than half women and children, and almost 70,000 injured. Nearly all of Gaza’s 2.1 million people have been displaced and more than half of its buildings have been destroyed. Killings and violent attacks on Palestinans in the West Bank are increasing.

Amnesty International states that “Israeli forces continue to flout international humanitarian law, obliterating entire families with total impunity” and warns of a “real risk of genocide.” World Food Program officials are warning of a “full-fledged famine” in Gaza. The International Court of Justice has ordered the Israeli government to take all measures to prevent acts of genocide.

“As genocide unfolds in Gaza, and as the global consensus for ceasefire grows, it’s simply unconscionable that Senators Schumer and Gillibrand are helping to send billions more in U.S. taxpayer dollars to the Israeli military’s horrific war on Gaza,” said Jen Kaminsky, member of Jewish Voice for Peace-Buffalo. “How many more thousands of Palestinian children must die? No one is being made safer by this. Our Senators should be calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, not sending billions more to fund Israeli war crimes.”

“What world do we live in where our elected leaders are pouring our tax dollars into killing babies and mothers?,” said Khalid Qazi, Founding President of Muslim Public Affairs Council-WNY. “A Palestinian child is being slaughtered every 15 minutes using US-funded arms and ammunition. We are into the fifth month of this carnage and genocide. It’s about time we stop funding Israeli war crimes and stop vetoing UN resolutions for an immediate ceasefire, allow unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza, immediate exchange of all the hostages and innocent detainees, and redouble our efforts for an independent, viable, and secure state for Palestinians.”

Edward Holmes Sr.

TRAGEDY: Lakia Holmes (left) is comforted during recent vigil for her father. Lakia tearfully declared at Sunday night's vigil: “He didn’t deserve it. He wasn’t that type of person…“We

Here's Some Important Information For East Side Residents That May Have Been Left Out In Discussions Regarding The

Expressway Tunnel vs. Full Restoration of Humboldt Parkway.....

During all the talks regarding the Expressway/Tunnel vs Full Restoration of Humboldt Parkway over a period of several months, certain important information have been left out or glossed over in printed forms or verbal discussions. Here are a few of them listed below:

There will be no Phase 2 or 3 to reconnect Humboldt Parkway to MĻK or Delaware once a tunnel is constructed. The Air Filtration System, needed to disperse the carbon monoxide and other pollutants, has been taken out of the design portion of the Plan. Only ceiling fans and the outside atmospheric winds will be relied on to take the vehicle exhaust emissions away from the Tunnel. The soil and trees planted on top of the Tunnel will have to be removed and replaced in 40-50 years to repair the roof of the Tunnel (maybe sooner if the roots of the trees attempt to grow deeper than the 3 feet of soil they will be planted in). There is an annual $5 million dollars cost (2024 estimate) to maintain the Tunnel that no government entity has committed to paying. The portions of the Expressway south of Dodge St. and north of Sidney St. will remain as it is, exposing those homeowners to additional pollutants if the Expressway stays and the Tunnel is put in.

The blasting of the rock formation, especially near Sidney St., has the potential to leach asbestos, radon, lead and other dangerous gases and pollutants into the homes and

neighborhoods nearby. The trajectory of water flowing in the underground, buried Scajaquada Creek could be compromised by the blasting and digging near it.

We have a once-in- a lifetime opportunity to correct this mistake of the past. This is our only opportunity to remove the Expressway and to restore our Humboldt Parkway so that our children and their descendants can enjoy it, for generations to come.

The Governor does not understand the need for the Black community to bring permanent closure to a racist act that was put on us when they built that monstrosity, called an Expressway, in our community, in the first place. Gov. Hochul may not be sensitive to the feelings of family members or friends of those who have lived, suffered and died of respiratory related illnesses while living so close to the Expressway but I expect our state representatives in the Assembly and the Senate, Assemblywoman and Majority Leader, Crystal Peoples-Stokes and Senator Tim Kennedy, to advocate what is in the community's best interest, not the big developers or their special union friends.

Gov. Hochul, NYS-DOT and our NYS legislative representatives, please Remove the Expressway, get rid of the archaic idea of putting in a toxic tunnel and let us all work together to restore Frederick Law Olmsted's Humboldt Parkway. When it was designed, it was deemed the most beautiful of all the Parkways in Buffalo.

The sad fact that there was zero public or private engagement with the Humboldt Parkway homeowners and the fact that no Environmental impact Statement was conducted

From Homelessness to Funding Inequities: the Struggle is Real!

As I drove through downtown Buffalo recently I saw a fully erected tent on the side of the library on the lawn between Broadway & Ellicott and Broadway & Washington just blocks away from City Hall. I’m assuming it was meant to address the homeless issue.

In Washington, our elected officials are debating on whether or not to send tens of millions of dollars to Israel to further slaughter a completely innocent and defenseless population of people, the Palestinians . Meanwhile, right here in America, thousands of men, women and children are living on the streets in cities across the nation and the number is rising.

The issue of homelessness among veterans adds insult to injury. Veterans, having served their country, should ideally have access to the support they need upon returning home. Many face difficulties transitioning to civilian life, contributing to homelessness among this population. The bottom line is no one should ever be in a position to be homeless in a society such as ours. The rising cost of living, including increasing rents without corresponding improvements in living conditions, further exacerbates housing insecurity for many individuals and families.

-Funding Issue-

In addition to homelessness, another issue in “the Queen City” is the reallocation of funds and disparities in resource distribution across different neighborhoods. This is a significant concern that highlights the need for transparency, accountability, and equitable development. It's distressing when resources intended for specific communities are diverted elsewhere, perpetuating inequalities and hindering the progress of the intended projects. It is time to start holding our elected leaders more accountable and demand that they be more transparent with us THE PEOPLE.

We as a people need to attend city council meetings, community forums, or engage with local representatives directly to voice our concerns. There is so much that we can do as a united people. However until we become all of one mind and stop all these back door deals in the Black community only then can we demand the respect from our federal and local government, especially those who look like us and give us their butts to kiss once they get elected into office.

Wise up people! We’ve got work to do and issues to deal with from education to gentrification! The struggle continues! I’m Just Saying….

“Knowing when to stop, you can avoid any danger.”

-Tao Te Ching

Important Community Forum Will Address $600 Million McCarley Gardens Affordable Housing Project

Dear Editor:

A Sunday, February 18 Buffalo News editorial called the McCarley Gardens’ $600 million, 1,500 new residential development in the Fruit Belt “A good project,” adding, “McCarley affordable housing development is needed and should be supported.” It further stated the “St. John Baptist and Medical Campus are both power entities professing good intentions and they agree on one essential point: More affordable housing is needed.” It ended with “They should do the work to help fulfill that need.”

The Buffalo Black Billion LLC, led by executive team of Consultants, Advisors and Leadership of St. John Baptist and Gethsemane Baptist Church (Two Churches, Two Campuses, One Village) has invited Matthew K. Enstice, President & CEO of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus and members of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus Board to a Community Forum to continue working towards “helping fulfill that need” by each of us expressing our views on the project but more important, hearing from members of the East Buffalo and Fruit Belt community who are most in need of affordable housing opportunities.

The Community Forum will be held on Friday, March 8 from 3-5:45 p.m. in the Mother Eva Doyle Auditorium inside the Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue. Please RSVP by emailing to wecgod.office@gmail.com.

The need for affordable housing in East Buffalo has been supported by our elected officials from Governor Hochul to our Erie County and City of Buffalo representatives. We believe this commitment to invest $600 million in the Fruit Belt for affordable housing is extremely necessary and we are calling on the leaders of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus to work with us to make this project a reality soon.

-Leadership of the Buffalo Black Billion, LLC

Statement from Buffalo Common Council Majority Leader

Leah M. Halton-Pope On the Officer-Involved Fatal Shooting on Reed Street in the City of Buffalo

“The pain I feel for my community and city is immeasurable as we mourn the loss in yet another officer-involved shooting. While I support our men and women in law enforcement, unanswered questions linger, echoing the sentiments of his family and our entire city.

Watching the body cam footage, the absence of de-escalation efforts by Buffalo police is glaring. Edward Holmes's death leaves behind children without a father, grandchildren without a grandparent, and our community without another cherished individual. We demand transparency, accountability, and solace in the pursuit of justice."

Leah M. Halton-Pope Majority Leader, Buffalo Common Council Ellicott District Council Member

SUPREME COURT

LEGAL NOTICE judgment may be taken against you extinguishing any interest or judgment lien you may have in the mortgaged premises.

STATE OF NEW YORK

COUNTY OF ERIE

SUMMONS

WITH NOTICE

Index No. 814447/2019

RJI No.:

CITIZENS BANK, N.A., Plaintiff, -againstHIPOLITO VAZQUEZ, JR., ANNA VAZQUEZ, DOLLY a/k/a DOLLIE VAZQUEZ and ARLENE KIRBY, individually and as sole heirs and distributes of the Estates of HIPOLITO VAZQUEZ, SR. and LUCY VAZQUEZ, both deceased, late of the City of Lackawanna, County of Erie and State of New York, John Roe and Jane Roe, said names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiffs, the persons or parties intended being all unknown heirs-to-law and next-of-kin of Hipolito Vazquez aka Hipolito Vazquez, Sr., and Lucy Vazquez deceased, late of the City of Lackawana, County of Erie, State of New York, PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK by and through the Commissioner of Taxation and Finance, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, COUNTY OF ERIE, and VANESSA MOOTRY, Defendants.

TO: John Roe and Jane Roe, said names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiffs, the persons or parties intended being all unknown heirs-at-law and next-of-kin of HIPOLITO VAZQUEZ a/k/a HIPOLITO VAZQUEZ, SR. and LUCY VAZQUEZ, deceased, late of the City of Lackawana, County of Erie, State of New York:

YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED and required to serve upon plaintiff’s attorneys an answer to the complaint in this action within twenty (20) days after the service of this summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service is complete if the summons is not personally served upon you within the State of New York. The United States, if designated a defendant on this action, may appear or answer within sixty (60) days of service. In case of your failure to answer, judgment will be taken against you for the relief demanded in the complaint.

The basis of the venue designated is that the mortgaged property is located in Oneida County.

Dated: February 22, 2024 COOPER ERVING & SAVAGE LLP

Albany, New York

BY: Matthew E. Minniefield

Attorneys for Plaintiff 20 Corporate Woods Blvd., Suite 501 Albany, New York 12211 (518) 449-3900

TO: John Roe and Jane Roe, said names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiffs, the persons or parties intended being all unknown heirs-at-law and next-of-kin of HIPOLITO VAZQUEZ a/k/a HI-

POLITO VAZQUEZ, SR. and LUCY VAZQUEZ, deceased, late of the City of Lackawana, County of Erie, State of New York:

The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an Order of the Hon. Craig D. Hannah, Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of New York, dated the 9th day of November, 2023, and filed with the complaint and other papers in the Office of the Clerk of Erie County.

This is an action for foreclosure of a mortgage made by Hipolito Vazquez a/k/a Hipolito Vazquez, Sr. to Citizens Bank, N.A.in the original amount of $36,000.00 with interest, dated August 14, 2004, recorded October 4, 2004, in the Erie County Clerk’s Office in Liber 13191 at page 4262.

The relief sought is the foreclosure of the mortgage lien and the public sale of the mortgaged premises and in case of your failure to appear,

The premises indexed in this action are described and commonly known as 73 Holland Avenue and 76 Wilkesbarre Streett, City of Lackawanna, Erie County, New York (Tax Map No. 141.13-7-22 and 141.13-7-34). A complete legal description is as follows:

**See Schedule Annexed**

Dated: February 22, 2024

COOPER ERVING & SAVAGE LLP Albany, New York

BY: Matthew E. Minniefield, Esq.

Attorneys for Plaintiff 20 Corporate Woods Blvd., Suite 501 Albany, New York 12211 (518) 449-3900

SCHEDULE A

DESCRIPTION OF MORTGAGED PREMISES

Parcel "A" All That Tract or Parcel of Land, situate in the City of Lackawanna, County of Erie and State of New York, being part of Lot No. 32, Township 10, Range 8 of the Buffalo Creek Reservation and according to a map filed in the Erie County Clerk's Office under, Cover No. 717 is known as Subdivision Lot No. 24, bounded and described as follows:

BEGINNING at a point in the westerly line of Holland Avenue at a distance of 725.8 feet southerly from the southerly line of Ridge Road; thence running southerly along the westerly line of Holland Avenue for a distance of 30 feet; thence westerly at right angles for a distance of 100 feet; thence northerly and parallel with the westerly line of Holland Avenue for a distance of 30 feet; thence easterly for a distance of 100 feet to the westerly line of Holland Avenue and the point and place of beginning.

Parcel "B" All That Tract or Parcel of Land, situate in the City of Lackawanna, County of Erie and State of New York, being part of Lot No. 32; Township 10, Range 8 of the Buffalo Creek Reservation and according to a map filed in the Erie County Clerk's Office under Cover No. 676 is distinguished as being part of Subdivision Lot No. 24 in Block "F" bounded and described as follows: BEGINNING at a point in the easterly line of Wilkesbarre Avenue at a distance of 746.33 feet southerly from the southerly line of Ridge Road; thence easterly at right angles for a distance of 100 feet to an iron pipe; thence southerly and parallel with the easterly line of Wilkesbarre Avenue for a distance of 35 feet to an iron pipe; thence westerly at right angles to the easterly line of Wilkesbarre Avenue for a distance of 100 feet to a point in the easterly line of Wilkesbarre Avenue; thence northerly along the easterly line of Wilkesbarre Avenue a distance of 35 feet to the point or place of beginning.

Febraury 29, March 7, 14, 21

LEGAL NOTICE

NEWS RELEASE ERIE COUNTY GOVERNMENT ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH FOR MORE INFORMATION

PLEASE PHONE ECDOH 716-858-7690

Dr. Gale Burstein, Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Health announced today, February 13, 2024 that a in person/virtual meeting of the Erie County Department Board of Health is scheduled for Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 3:30 P.M. on the 4 Floor of 110 Franklin St., Buffalo, NY 14202.

Included on the agenda will be a review of the September 19, 2023 meeting minutes, Introduction of new members, Presentation of LHCSA Report, Sanitary Code updates regarding tobacco vaping and retail permits, update on Food Policy Council, Commissioner's update as well as Old/New Business.

LEGAL NOTICE

INDEX NO. 803707/2023

Plaintiff designates ERIE as the place of trial situs of the real property

SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS

Mortgaged Premises: 195 BERKSHIRE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NY 14215

Section: 90.24, Block: 8, Lot: 14

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE

U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR ASSET BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-HE1, Plaintiff, vs.

SARAH LYNCH, AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH; ISAIAH R. LYNCH A/K/A ISAIAH LYNCH, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH; ANDREA LYNCH-CASON, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH; TELEAH S. WARDLAW, AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF REGINALD L. LYNCH A/K/A REGINALD LEROY LYNCH, if living, and if she/he be dead, any and all persons unknown to plaintiff, claiming, or who may claim to have an interest in, or general or specific lien upon the real property described in this action; such unknown persons being herein generally described and intended to be included in the following designation, namely: the wife, widow, husband, widower, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors, and assignees of such deceased, any and all persons deriving interest in or lien upon, or title to said real property by, through or under them, or either of them, and their respective wives, widows, husbands, widowers, heirs at law, next of kin, descendants, executors, administrators, devisees, legatees, creditors, trustees, committees, lienors and assigns, all of whom and whose names, except as stated, are unknown to plaintiff; TOPS MARKET; PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; JOHN DOE, "JOHN DOE #1" through "JOHN DOE #12," the last twelve names being fictitious and unknown to plaintiff, the persons or parties intended being the tenants, occupants, persons or corporations, if any, having or claiming an interest in or lien upon the premises, described in the complaint, Defendants.

To the above named Defendants YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or to answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you.

NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT

THE OBJECT of the above caption action is to foreclose a Mortgage to secure the sum of $68,400.00 and interest, recorded on March 07, 2005, in Liber 13216 at Page 2976, of the Public Records of ERIE County, New York., covering premises known as 195 BERKSHIRE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NY 14215.

The relief sought in the within action is a final judgment directing the sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the Mortgage described above.

ERIE County is designated as the place of trial because the real property affected by this action is located in said county.

NOTICE

YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME

If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home.

Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property.

Sending a payment to the mortgage company will not stop the foreclosure action.

YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT.

Dated: January 24th, 2024

ROBERTSON ,ANSCHUTZ, SCHNEID, CRANE & PARTNERS, PLLC

Attorney for Plaintiff

Nadine D. Smith, Esq. 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310 Westbury, NY 11590 516-280-7675

FEBRUARY 15, 22, 29, MARCH 7

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

Notice is hereby given that the Erie County Board ofHealth on the 19"" day ofMarch 2024 made a motion calling for a public hearing to be held concerning an addition of a new Article to the Erie County Sanitary Code, Article XXIII.

A public hearing will be conducted by the Erie County Board ofHealth on Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 3:00 o'clock in the afternoon in the Erie County 4"" floor conference room at 110 Franklin Street in the City of Buffalo, New York to hear all persons interested in this matter.

The proposed revisions are available for public inspection in the offices of the Erie County Health Department, Division of Environmental Health located at 503 Kensington Avenue, Buffalo, New York 14214. And in the offices of all Town, Village and City Clerks in Erie County.

ROBERT FREE

Chairman

Erie County Board ofHealth

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

NFTA

REQUEST

230066

MAINTENANCE

230116

Go

Website to register as a supplier and for instructions to download the Procurement Document at https://www.nfta.com/departments/ procurement

LEGAL NOTICE BID

COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS

Erie County Detention Facilities UPS Replacement PROJECT NO. 2023-860-01 (REBID)

Sealed bids for Electrical Construction work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on March 21, 2024, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. NYS Vendor Responsibility Form CCA-2 A/B/C, NYSDOL wage rates, MBE/ WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local and Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS Salt Storage Buildings PROJECT NO. 2021-999-04

Separate sealed bids for General Construction and Electrical Construction work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on March 26, 2024, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. NYS

Vendor Responsibility Form CCA-2

A/B/C, NYSDOL wage rates, MBE/ WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local and Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURTCOUNTY OF ERIE CITIMORTGAGE, INC., Plaintiff -against- RAYSHAWN M. PARKER, SHANA D. PAULK, et al Defendant(s).

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated October 30, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Foreclosure Alcove, 1st Floor, Erie County Hall, 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY on March 28, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. premises situate in the City of Buffalo, County of Erie and State of New York, being part of Lot 89, Township 11, Range 8 of the Holland Land Company Survey and further distinguished as Subdivision Lot 45, as shown on a map filed in the Erie County Clerk's Office under Cover No. 1182. Section: 77.76

Block: 3 Lot: 16. All bidders must wear a face mask/ shield at all times and social distancing must be observed by all bidders at all times. Bidders who do not comply with the face mask and/or the social distancing mandate will be removed from the auction.

Said premises known as 67 SAINT FLORIAN STREET, BUFFALO, NY 14207

Approximate amount of lien $78,230.47 plus interest & costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

If the sale is set aside for any reason, the Purchaser at the sale shall be entitled only to a return of the deposit paid. The Purchaser shall have no further recourse against the Mortgagor, the Mortgagee or the Mortgagee’s attorney.

Index Number 813751/2014.

NORA B. ROBSHAW, ESQ., Referee

David A. Gallo & Associates LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

47 Hillside Avenue, 2nd Floor, Manhasset, NY 11030

File# 5025.1924

FEBRAUARY 22, 29, MARCH 7,14

LEGAL NOTICE

SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK - COUNTY OF ERIE U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET MORTGAGE PRODUCTS, INC., MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005EFC5, V.

NICHOLAS SZALAY, ET. AL.

NOTICE OF SALE

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN pursuant to a Final Judgment of Foreclosure dated September 29, 2023, and entered in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Erie, wherein U.S. BANK NATIONAL ASSOCIATION, AS TRUSTEE FOR RESIDENTIAL ASSET MORTGAGE PRODUCTS, INC., MORTGAGE ASSET-BACKED PASS-THROUGH CERTIFICATES, SERIES 2005-EFC5 is the Plaintiff and NICHOLAS SZALAY, ET AL. are the Defendant(s). I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the “CLOSING ROOM” OF THE ERIE COUNTY CLERK’S OFFICE, 92 FRANKLIN STREET, FIRST FLOOR, BUFFALO, NY 14202 on April 02, 2024 at 11:00AM, premises known as 76 MANG AVENUE, KENMORE, NY 14217: Section 78.22, Block 4, Lot 5: ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND, SITUATE IN THE VILLAGE OF KENMORE, TOWN OF TONAWANDA, COUNTY OF ERIE AND STATE OF NEW YORK

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 814883/2019. Joan Warren, Esq. - Referee. Robertson, Anschutz, Schneid, Crane & Partners, PLLC 900 Merchants Concourse, Suite 310, Westbury, New York 11590, Attorneys for Plaintiff. All foreclosure sales will be conducted in accordance with Covid-19 guidelines including, but not limited to, social distancing and mask wearing. *LOCATION OF SALE SUBJECT TO CHANGE DAY OF IN ACCORDANCE WITH COURT/CLERK DIRECTIVES.

February 29, March 7, 14, 21

LEGAL NOTICE BID

CONSTRUCTION BIDS ARE BEING SOUGHT by Heart of the City Neighborhoods, Inc. on behalf of Empire State Development for work at 3020 Bailey Ave. (Horizon Health Services) as part of the East Side Avenues initiative. The scope of work, including drawings, as well as bidding requirements are available at www.ESABids.org and from the Avalon Buffalo Planroom at avalonbuffplanroom.com beginning February 23, 2024. Bids are due December March 20, 2024 at 4:00pm. A prebid walkthrough is scheduled for March 8, 2023 at 1:30pm. Minority and women-owned business enterprises and businesses based in the Kensington-Bailey project area and on the East Side of the City of Buffalo are especially encouraged to submit bids.

NOTICE of RFPs

Gilbane│Turner will be soliciting Requests for Proposals (RFP) for the BUFFALO BILLS NEW STADIUM PROJECT.

Proposal Packages include*:

Group 4

33a - Interior Ornamental Metals

33b - Interior Glass & Glazing

35 - Epoxy Resinous Flooring

36 - Carpet & Resilient Flooring

40b - Site Work/Stone

40c - Site Work - Ornamental Metals/ Fencing/Railing

40g - Site Work - Site Electrical (Lighting & Power)

40i - Site Work - Landscape & Irrigation

41a - Signage Exterior

41b - Signage Interior

42 - Toilet Partitions/Accessories

43 - Specialties

46a - Parking Lot Paving - West of Abbott

57 - Window Treatments

All businesses interested in submitting as a Prime/Tier-1 subcontractor must prequalify to receive a Request for Proposal (RFP). For an overview of the prequalification process, reference the Prequalification Navigation Guide at www.buffalobillsnewstadium.com.

We encourage NYS-certified minority-, women- and service-disabled veteran-owned and local businesses to participate. Please refer to proposal documents for full MWBE/SDVOB plan information. If you provide services relevant to any of the above packages and are interested in participating at a lower-tier level, apply to participate in the Meet the Primes session via the “Contracting Opportunities” section on the project website.

*Subject to change February 8, 15, 22, 29, March 7

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE!

HIRING

Pepe Construction Services, LLC is looking for Section 3 painters for the DePaul Delaware – Pan American Apartments located at 2633 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14216. Wages will start between $18 to $20 per hour. This could also lead to long term employment. This project is currently scheduled to start in May. If you have questions or interest please contact Kim at Kkostusiak@ pepeconst.com.

HIRING

Pepe Construction Services LLC is looking for Section 3 masons or construction laborers for the Blocher Homes Apartments at 135 Evans Street, Williamsville, NY 14221. The project is due to start in March 2024. Wages will be determined upon experience. If you have any questions or would like to apply please contact Mike at Msuto@pepeconst. com.

LLC's

NOTICE of FORMATION of a LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY FORD COMPLIANCE & CONSULTING LLC. Date of filing of Art. Of Org. filed Secretary of State (SSNY) 12/6/22 office of the LLC: Erie County. SSNY designated as process agent. Process Service Address: 27 University Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14214. Purpose of LLC: any lawful act or activity. February 22,29 March 7,14,21,28

NOTICE of FORMATION of a LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY 4R Development, LLC Arts of Org filed with SSNY on 11/29/2023. Office: Erie County. SSNY designated as the agent of the LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 1200 William Street, Rm 200-#3433, Buffalo, NY 14240. Purpose: Any lawful purpose February 22,29 March 7,14,21,28

NOTICE of FORMATION of a DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITY COMPANY 2.MRO,LLC. Filed with SSNY on 02/09/2024. Office: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail copy to 592 West Ave., Buffalo, NY 14213. Purpose: any lawful. Feb. 29, Mar. 7, 14, 21, 28, Apr. 4

RISE UP RIGHT SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

Welcome! Let's Rise Up!

Buffalo Sabres Hockey

Look it here! Look it here! In last week's article, we discussed the lack of consistency as it pertains to the Sabres putting together a win streak. We also discussed the Sabres playing complete games on both ends of the ice. During the Bandits game recently, a lady was quoted saying "they just come to ice skate" as she described the Sabres game play this season. I think it's safe to say that the Sabres got the memo as they have put together a 3 game winning streak since last week's article. This is the first time this season that the Sabres have won 3 games in a row. The defensive enforcements has definitely come to the party and surprisingly the Sabres defense is currently ranked 12th this season. The Sabres defeated the Montreal Canadians 3-2 and the Columbus Blue Jackets 2-1 on the road last Wednesday and Friday night respectively. On Sunday night, the Sabres would face a very good Carolina Hurricanes team. The Sabres before Sundays game had lost 4 out of 5 games against the Hurricanes dating back to 2021. The Hurricanes jumped out to a 1-0 lead early in the first period but Jeff Skinner would score on the power play to tie the game at 1 in second period. The third period would be a thriller as the Hurricanes would score on the power play after an errand penalty call would set the Sabres back with 6 minutes reminding in the third period. But the Sabres wouldn't be denied as the resiliency that Don Granado has been wanting to see more consistency showed up and with resiliency comes power. Owen Power that is! Owen Power would light the lamp a minute later to tie the game at 2 with 5 minutes left. His 9th goal of the season would force overtime and a shootout in which Casey Mittelstadt would net the game winner in the shootout. Sabres win 3-2. The Sabres will face the Florida Panthers on the 27th in Florida and the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday February 29th at home. Can the Sabres keep the winning streak going?

Buffalo Bandits Lacrosse

The Buffalo Bandits looked like the "wet sticky bandits" from the classic Home Alone movie. Super sloppy. The goaltender was just standing in front of the net provided to him during the game. No goal tending skills were shown. He should have been left at "Home Alone" after his dismal efforts last Saturday as the Bandits lost to Albany 13-10. The capital of New York team improved to 8-2 on the season. The Bandits fell to 5-5. Here's a fun fact. Both the Sabres and the Bandits are currently sitting at .500 in both leagues. Can the Bandits fight back to championship form before its too late?

In Other Sports News

The Buffalo Extreme lost their 3rd game of the season as they took a 119-116 defeat to the Rochester Kingz. The Buffalo Extreme's last home game is Saturday March 2nd against the Binghamton Bulldogs.

Buffalo Bills Questions

What players will not be in a Bills uniform next season?

What positions are needed the most in this year's draft?

What players would you make a run for in free agency?

Has the Buffalo Bills championship window closed?

For more sports talk and news follow me on Facebook @Andre Robinson or D'Andre Torch Robinso and join the Rise Up Family!

PRATCHER & ASSOCIATES

Franklin Muhammad (Pratcher) Attorney 1133 Kensington Avenue (716) 838-4612

BEN’S Downtown Tire 50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483

EMPIRE

(716) 634-0330

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

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February Lotto Luck 14-18-26-31-35-46 19-10-20-33-42-43

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Tyrone Spears U.S. Army Boot camp; Fort Benning Ga.

M.O.S. 11 Bravo/Infantry Duty Station: Germany 101st Air Born Fort Carson Infantry Fort Knox, Armor Cav.

“Our history did not begin in chains. It will not end in chains.”

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURSDAY FEBRUARY 29

Yaa Asantewaa Drum and Dance Company, dynamic performance, 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM Buffalo Transit Center, 181 Ellicott St. named after the legendary Ghanaian queen mother who led the Ashanti rebellion against British colonialism, is renowned for its vibrant performances that honor the spirit and resilience of African traditions.

FRIDAY MARCH 1

“Ladies First,” podcast kickoff listening party Shea's 710 , located at 710 Main St. 7 to 9 p.m.

FISH FRY FRIDAY, St. John’s Lodge #16,, 17 Kingsley St. 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Order (716)885-5009. (See their ad this page).

MONDAY MARCH 4

Healthy Options Restaurant Week kick off Monday, March 4 with the Taste of Health from 6-8 p.m. at the Northland Workforce Training Center, 683 Northland Ave. Free community event .

Hustle for Health Line Dancing W/ Jazzy T 12pm Delavan Grider Center 877 E Delavan Ave, FREE 55+ RSVP at www.HustleforHealth.com

WEDNESDAY MARCH 6

Hustle for Health W/ Phyllis Caver 11am at Gloria Parks: 3242 Main St. FREE 55+ RSVP at www.HustleForHealth. com

FRIDAY MARCH 8

Community Forum 3-5:45 p.m. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue regarding the McCarley Gardens’ $600 million project. Members of the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus have been invited. Please RSVP by emailing to wecgod.office@gmail.com. Buffalo

Mamie Kirkland

BLACK HISTORY continued

inspired her son, Tarabu Betserai Kirkland, to tell her story in his award winning, highly acclaimed film, “100 YEARS FROM MISSISSIPPI.”

Mamie and Tarabu connected with the Equal Justice Initiative (EJI) and her story was featured on the front page of the New York Times. She was honored by EJI first in 2016 at a fundraiser in New York City and again in 2018 at the Opening of the Legacy Museum in Montgomery, Alabama. Her story is one of the permanent installations at the museum.

“It could have very easily been my grandfather hanging on that same Tree,” Tarabu said in 2015 recounting his mother’s poignant story.. of escaping the rural south to come North wither family to escape the horrors of lynching.

Mamie Lang Kirkland, born September 3, 1908 died December 28, 2019 in her home in Buffalo at the age of 111.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Lovely Dorothy Billups (left) celebrated with family and friends on her birthday last weekend at “Tha Well, ” a local East Side establishment. Pictured from left, Dorothy, Jerry Brown and Dorothy's sister Viola Mathis (who is also Jerry's sister-in-law). Challenger Photo