Challenger Community News December 16, 2020 by Challenger Community News

THE VACCINE IS HERE. AND SO IS COVID! Don’t Let News of the Vaccine Give You a False

Sense of Security! Wear a Mask. Get Tested. Social Distance. Save Lives. We Must Remain Vigilant. It Ain’t Over Till It’s Over!

December 16, 2020 | FREE | COMMUNITY NEWS

VIRTUAL C E L E B R A T I O N

ROCHESTER

BUFFALO

THE PRINCIPAL OF UMOJA

Unity Brings Buffalo & Rochester Together for an Historic Virtual Kwanzaa 2020! Page 8

POLITICS

NEWSMAKERS

India Walton Launches Campaign for Mayor Page 15

Wright Opens Black Owned Farm! Strickland is New Juneteenth Prez Page 3

LOCAL

David vs. Goliath The Other Pilgrim Village Story Page 6

HO! HO! HOTEP! Christmas Circus At the African Cultural Center Page 8

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

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

Covid Testing Site at East High This Weekend City of Rochester Covid testing sites took place indoors this past week due to forecasted cold temperatures. Residents arriving for Covid tests will be asked to park, and wait in their cars until they are notified to enter the building. Those with appointments will be given priority. Please allow for longer wait times. Anyone with mobility issues or in need of other accommodations should notify the greeter on site. Residents arriving on site are asked to bring their ID and a pen to fill out registration forms. The remaining City of Rochester Covid testing sites this week is East High School, 1801 E. Main St., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19.

Aqua Porter

Aqua Porter is New Executive Director of the Rochester-Monroe Anti-Poverty Initiative Aqua Porter has named its new executive director of the Rochester-Monroe AntiPoverty Initiative. Porter, who served as Vice President for Xerox for 17 years, has served as the interim executive director of the Initiative since May. She holds a masters degree in business administration from RIT and a bachelor’s in mechanical engineer from Kettering University. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha and The Links. The Anti-Poverty Initiative works to eliminate poverty in the Rochester area.

City Learning Labs to Stay Open per New State Guidance Mayor Lovely A. Warren announced today that the R-Center Learning Labs will remain open as a result of receiving more specific State guidance under Rochester’s status as a partial Orange Zone in the NY Forward Micro Cluster Action Initiative. The Labs had been scheduled to suspend operations starting Monday upon the initial announcement of Rochester’s status. “In the fast moving environment of this pandemic we have to be nimble and take the most appropriate action as the information unfolds,” said Mayor Warren. “Our goal is to keep our residents safe and while providing the essential services needed to get through this pandemic. I am grateful to our citizens, our employees and the Rochester City School District for the commitment to our children that these Learning Labs represent.” Nine City R-Centers have been converted to Learning Labs to help students adjust to a remote learning environment and ensure they have access to nutritious meals when school facilities are closed. Under the direction of the Department of Recreation and Human Services, the R-Center Learning Labs are open from 8 a.m. to noon. Monday through Friday, when RCSD staff are on site to help children with homework and other learning needs. The R-Centers will also serve as Grab-and-Go meal distribution sites -- providing breakfast, lunch and dinner -- for all children and their families from 8:30 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Open recreation will remain unavailable due to the NYS Orange Zone regulations. The following R-Centers will have Learning Labs and meal distribution sites: • Adams Street, 85 Adams St. • Frederick Douglass, 990 South Ave. • Avenue D, 200 Ave. D • David Gantt, 700 North St. • Carter Street, 500 Carter St. • Tyshaun Cauldwell, 524 Campbell St. • Edgerton, 41 Backus St. • Trenton & Pamela Jackson, 485 N. Clinton Ave. • Thomas Ryan, 530 Webster Ave. A full list of Grab-andGo meal distribution sites, including those operated by the RCSD, is available at cityofrochester.gov/coronavirus

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Virtual Community Update to Feature Rochester Public Library

City Library Director Patricia Uttaro and key Department staff members will conduct a Virtual Community Update, 6:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 17 to discuss the current state of the City’s libraries, digital services, remote learning resources, services for small businesses, job seekers and more. Mayor Lovely A. Warren and her team want to keep residents informed about the City’s activities, programs, services and developments. Residents can watch the presentation and ask questions by joining a Zoom webinar at: http://www.cityofrochester.gov/virtualcommunityupdate. A live stream is available on the City’s YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/c/CityofRochesterVideos.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

AREA BRIEFS

NATIONAL PANEL: Buffalo natives Antoine Thompson and Sheila L. Brown are participants in the 73rd Annual Virtual Convention of the National Association of Real Estate Brokers (NAREB) which is being held now thru December 18. The event, which features three Empowerment Panels, began Dec. 11. Antoine Thompson, who is the Executive Director of NAREB, is moderating the panel on “Building Black Wealth with the Biden-Harris Administration.” Mrs. Brown, manager and principal owner of Vision Multi Media Corp, Power 96.5 WUFO Radio, is a panelist on “The Role of The Media Increasing Black Home Ownership.” Donnell Williams is president of NAREB. Conventions sponsors include Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Chase and Zillow.

NEWSMAKERS

Jennifer L. Strickland Is New Juneteenth Festival President Leadership change at Juneteenth Festival, Inc. “aka Juneteenth of Buffalo”The Juneteenth Festival, Inc., Board of Directors , on December 1 elected Jennifer L. Strickland as its 4th president of the iconic organization that represents history, culture, and the progression of the African American community. Strickland succeeds Marcus O. Brown, who has served as president for nearly three decades. Ms. Strickland is an educator and life long resident of Buffalo, who has nearly 10 years of consistent service to the Juneteenth Festival. Her tenure includes operating in the positions of Festival Coordinator, Public Relations Chair, and Board member. As coordinator of Buffalo’s Virtual Juneteenth Festival 2020, she led the team in bringing to the world wide web, the first event of its kind, providing over 18 hours of content to an international viewing audience. “I am humbled and honored to serve with our Juneteenth Board, Jennifer L. Strickland our committees, and the community, to ensure that we continue to communicate and celebrate the freedom and cultural heritage of African Americans and their contributions to our world. My hope is, in alignment with one of the purposes of the organization, to identify, educate, and foster leadership among groups and individuals dedicated to the perpetuation of the attributes of African American culture.” Strickland looks forward to carrying on the legacy that’s been indelibly laid in the footprints of those who have preceded her as president of the Juneteenth Festival Inc.

Local Community Leader Opens Black Owned Farm: Individuals Are Able to Rent Space to Grow Crops Alexander Wright, owner of the African Heritage Food Coop (AHFC) has officially opened Blegacy Farms in Franklinville, NY. Blegacy Farms is a 22 Acre farm that offers community members and leaders the opportunity to rent 10,000 sq ft plots of land to grow and sell crops. This is a major opportunity for the Western NY community to get involved in farming, and business ownership. Blegacy farms will provide free training and support for new farmers, and due to the need for produce, the African Heritage Food Coop has committed to purchase selected crops from Blegacy farmers. This is a win win for the community. If individuals are interested in farming at Blegacy Farms they can get more information at www.BlegacyFarms.com. For media interviews with Founder Alexander Wright please call (716) 382-8627.

Alexander Wright

Kelly Wofford Selected as 2021 Rubinger Fellow by LISC Kelly Wofford, Director of Community Relations, ECMC and founder of Front Seat Life, Buffalo is one of 10 local leaders selected as a 2021 Rubinger Fellow by Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC). LISC selects individuals pushing the boundaries of community development and focusing on issues that impact the long-term quality of life for people throughout the country. The year-long fellowships will support new models and research projects that advance economic opportunity, address racial discrimination and strengthen communities. As a 2021 Fellow Wofford will be awarded $40,000 to develop a peer-led model for mental health coaching that helps people identify and manage their emotional health—not as a replacement for professional therapy but as an additional support for those who are struggling.

Kelly Wofford

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Black-Eyed Peas in Black History: A Culturally Iconic Food Black-eyed peas have been a staple in the diets of Black people for centuries, providing a tasty source of protein, calcium, fiber, and vitamin A. Black-eyed peas originated in North Africa. Records show they were brought to the West Indies by enslaved West Africans as early as 1674, subsequently spreading to the U.S. where they became a staple primarily for animals and enslaved Africans. An early Virginia cookbook also included a recipe for fried cakes made of mashed black-eyed peas, a delicacy that had been prepared by West Africans since the Middle Ages Many of the traditions we now see surrounding the black-eyed pea stem from the Civil War era. It is commonly held that enslaved Africans, who already ate the food often, notably ate them with the passing of the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863, also signaling the New Year. The black eyed pea was further solidified in Southern culture with the story of General William Sherman’s March to the Sea in November of 1864 when they pillaged the Confederates’ food supplies. Stories say blackeyed peas and salted pork were left untouched because Sherman and his troops believed they were for animal consumption. Southerners and the remaining slaves considered themselves lucky to be left with some supplies Continued Page 8

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

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

A Toy Story Give Away A Toy Story Giveaway will be held Saturday December 19 at Buffalo Police Station District C (corner of East Ferry and Fillmore Ave.) from 2-5 p.m. This event will be a drive through entering on the Woodlawn Ave. side. Everyone must remain in the vehicle. Children ages birth – 18 years mfust be accompanied by an adult. Masks and social distancing are required. The giveaway is sponsored by Ms. Esthlia Hunt and organized by The Buffalo Police Department, Byron Lockwood. Commissioner and Chief Alphonso Wright. Contributors include Teachers Federation, The Teacher’s Desk, Duff’s Famous Wings on Niagara Falls Blvd., PatrickGary R. Jean of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc. Eta-Rho Lambda Chapter of Rochester NY, The Buffalo Food Bank and overseer Dr. James Lewis IIof . The Miracle Mission Full Gospel Church. Desiree Breckenridge- Jean organized the event. The Buffalo Public School Teachers, and a host of Family and Friends made contributions. The objective is to spread Holiday Joy to families adversely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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

Pride In Place Project Kicks Off in Near East Side Neighborhoods LISC Western New York, in partnership with the Buffalo Center for Health Equity, and supported by a 2020 AARP Community Challenge grant, are working to celebrate and reinvigorate Black and Brown culture, community, and pride throughout near East Side Buffalo neighborhoods. Working with a team of local creatives and equity advocates, this effort aims to gather community input while lifting up important landmarks, arts and culture events, and health initiatives occurring in these neighborhoods. The effort highlights and promotes hope and exploration during COVID-19 recovery, while planting seeds for neighborhoodowned community development visions as we work together to rebuild. Pride in Place currently has a Call to Artists available through December 18. The program asks artists to design idea boxes, which are vehicles for community development input. If you have questions or wish to submit content from your organization or initiative to the website, please contact info@prideinplacebuffalo.com. To see a full list of local partners participating in this project, visit www.prideinplacebuffalo.com/about-us.

Covid 19 Vaccines Will Help Save Lives

onday, December 14th is a day that will be forever remembered for most of us who have been wearing The Mask since early spring. It is the day when the first Covid 19 vaccine in New York State was administered to a health care worker on Long Island in NYC. The fact that she was an African American should not play a significant part in who got the first vaccine but to me it does. As we know African Americans and Persons Of Color have disproportionately contracted and died from Covid 19 more than any other race or ethnic group. We also make up the largest group of workers in low level jobs in hospitals and nursing homes. We are exposed to the Coronavirus more and, in turn, unknowingly bring the virus home to our families which

sometime consist of several generations of extended members living in the same household. As of today, over 16 million Americans have contracted the Coronavirus, and over 300,000 have died. As devastating as they are, these numbers would have been much higher if we had not implemented a massive

mask, hand sanitizer and social distancing initiative early on. The Covid 19 vaccines will give us an additional way to protect ourselves as we wait for the Coronavirus Pandemic to end. Although there have been many discussions on whether or not to take the vaccine, we must realize that we need

Continued Page 15

Celebrating 10th Year Anniversmy As A Health Voice For Our Community. Women's Health With Dr Catherine Collins Now Heard Every Saturday 9-9:30A.M. On 1400 AM & 107.3 FM. She Can Also Be Heard On Think Twice Radio. Go To Thinktwiceradio.Com For Date And Airing Time.

Hair Salons, Barber Shops, Gyms Reopen

During a coronavirus briefing last Friday Gov. Andrew Cuomo announced that beauty salons, barbershops and gyms could begin reopening in orange zones effective Monday December 14 with capacity restrictions and weekly testing. “In gyms and salons, they are not the problem that they were,” Gov. Cuomo said. The governor added that new state data released Friday showed that fitness center and personal care facilities showed low transmission rates of the virus. The governor shared the new data which showed that household gatherings are the overwhelming cause of spread.

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

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

HEALTH MATTERS

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

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

David vs Goliath: The Other Pilgrim Village Story

ost of what the community has heard about Pilgrim Village Housing has had to do with its proposed redevelopment. But there’s another story. One that involves land, deeds, manipulation and what could potentially bring a new meaning to gentrification to downtown Buffalo. For some years now, Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church , 665 Michigan Ave., has been in litigation with the McGuire Group Corporation as it relates to the Pilgrim Village project located just steps from the Medical Corridor. Rev. Frank Bostic, the savvy and determined Senior Pastor of Pilgrim, points out that the church was given the land in 197 4 and was given the green light to start development in 1978 of a 110-unit affordable housing complex. The church, he said, was ultimately “manipulated by ungodly partners which has now resulted in this lawsuit because of fraudulent activity in the transferring of the land without the church's permission.” However the courts have found that the Pilgrim does have legal standing to the ownership of the land.

“The church and I understand the complexity of statute of limitations, but we also have recognized the manipulation that has occurred bringing us to this point,” continued Rev. Bostic. He refers to his years long struggle as a “David vs. Goliath” battle. And now he is calling on the faith based community to stand and support him in this effort to get justice. Rev. Bostic said what prompted him to reach out for support to his fellow ministers was the offer that was made labeled “The Pilgrim Village Baptist Church Settlement Proposal.” “They didn’t even have enough respect to get our church name right,” he said. “Then you want the pastor to be a slave ; speak where you want me to speak go where you want me go, say what you want me to say.” The settlement included the immediate release of notice pending and discontinuance of all claims against McGuire; for the church and pastor to provide support and assistance reasonably requested by McGuire Including publicly supporting the sale, all rezoning requests and all development.

Pilgrim Missionary Baptist curch amd Rev. Bostic

Failure to do so would void payment obligations. Additionally the church and its pastor are not to visit the property (yet Rev. Bostic has members who live there) or the church loses any funds in a settlement. “So if I already have the settlement they can come back and sue me for breach of the settlement! Do they think we’re dumb? And that’s what’s offensive, ” said Rev. Bostic. Continued Page 12

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

Kujichagulia- Sunday, December 27th- Daughters of Creative Sound and Dr. Karenga’s Message Ujima- Monday, December 28th- Cariole Horne Ujamaa- Tuesday, December 29th- Wakanda Alliance Nia- Wednesday, December 30th- Sabriyah Amin Smith- Walking in Your Purpose and Juneteenth of Buffalo Kuumba- Thursday, December 31st- Juneteenth of Buffalo Imani- Friday, January 1st- Mother Eva Doyle and Dr. Leslie Myers (Rochester)

ach year the coming of Kwanzaa causes us to come together in celebration, remembrance, reflection and recommitment,” Dr. Maulana Karenga, the creator of the cultural holiday recently shared. “It also urges us to constantly study and learn the deep meanings and expansive message of Kwanzaa.” Even in the midst of this pandemic he continued, quoting author, philosopher, theologian and educator Howard Thurman, “we must ride the storm and remain in tact.” This year the cities of Buffalo and Rochester have done just that and in the true spirit of Umoja - Unity - ensured that Kwanzaa will be celebrated jointly and virtually for the very first time this year. “It’s not the Kwanzaa we’ve known all these years” said Sister Patricia Elliott who along with Ras Muata (Centrell Smith) serve as Co-Chairs of this year’s event.” But the love is sill there that we’ve known all these years!” What that love has produced is a 7-day virtual celebration featuring the best of both Buffalo’s and Rochester’s Cultural communities. “The committees have done an amazing job,” acknowledged committee member Carlanda Meadows. “When people are watching they really won’t know all the time and effort a lot of people put into it or the work behind the scenes,” she said giving a special shout out to Tech Team Chair and Acting Treasurer of the Buffalo Kwanzaa Committee Fragrance Harris Stanfeld (a.k.a. Fragrance of Yah). Sister Patricia also had high praise for Fragrance. "Without her we couldn't have gotten it done!" -RochesterDelores Jackson Radney and Terry Chaka of the Rochester Kwanzaa committee are equally excited about the collaboration and upcoming celebration. “We are really focusing on what has been Happening this year and why it’s important to embrace the Nguzo Saba ( 7 Principals of Blackness)” said Delores . Among the highlights will be ancestral remembrance, The Black Agenda Group, film, dance, movies, discussion and the Black Storytellers. -Accessing The Events-During the week the communities of Buffalo /Rochester will be able to access the Kwanzaa celebration during the week on all five platforms: Instagram, Tic toc, Face Book You Tube and Public Access. The beauty of going virtual is that both communities will be able to share each others talents. Buffalo’s Daytime Celebration will air from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the evening programming from 7-9 p.m. for the 7 Days of Kwanzaa Dec. 26- to Jan. 1. Rochester’s Pre-recorded events will air daily from 4-6 p.m. each of the 7 days Dec. 26 - Jan. 1. This year’s joint celebration actually embodies the Nguzo Saba or all of Kwanzaa’s 7 Principals of Blackness: Umoja (unity), Kujichagulia (self-determination), Ujima (collective work and responsibility), Ujamaa (cooperative economics), Nia (purpose), Kuumba (creativity), and Imani (faith), Kwanzaa offers “A whole range of living instructions (Nguzo Saba) which we have to carry out - that is our legacy. We are actually charged with repairing humanity…repairing the entire world,” said Baba Eng of Buffalo’s Kwanzaa Committee. And we in America, more than anyone else, are the ones who have been equipped to do that…once we repair ourselves.” Following is a sample of some of this year’s Kwanzaa Highlights and participants:.FOR MORE INFORMATION EMAIL buffalokwanzaa@gmail.com BUFFALO Daytime Program 11am - 4pm Umoja- Saturday, December 26th- Children's Kwanzaa

Night Program 7pm- 9pm Platforms: Public Access, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube Umoja- Saturday, December 26th- Buffalo Tradition Keepers, Buffalo Soulja Orchestra, address from Ambassador Dr. Arikana Chihombori-Quao Kujichagulia- Sunday, December 27th- African American Cultural Center Ujima- Monday, December 28th- Ujima Theater Ujamaa- Tuesday, December 29th- Afrikan Women in Business moderated by Sabriyah and Lamar Smith of WNY Community Bulletin Board Nia- Wednesday, December 30th- UNIA President Lion Blyden and Nia Soul Concert Kuumba- Thursday, December 31st- Oyotunji Village Presentation and Toronto Kwanzaa Fashion ROCHESTER Umoja Saturday, December 26 Sponsor: Black Agenda Group (BAG) Kujichagulia Sunday December 27 Terry Chaka Ujima Monday December Black Story Tellers, Steppers, Negus El Bey - Nutrition Tap Dancer, EZ Works- Exercise Ujamaa Cooperative Economics Tuesday, December 29- Craig Carson/Aneesah Willis Panel Nia-Purpose/Wednesday December 30th- Abraham Steiner Guest Speakers Karen and Celeste Barkley Dr. Eddy More Kuumba Night Thursday December 31 Delores Jackson Radney/David Anderson Sankofa, Children’s Video, Exhibition, Kaylon the Artist

Don’t Miss The Ho Ho Hotep Christmas! The Ho Ho Hotep Christmas featuring Kente Claus and Funso The Clown will take place Saturday, Dec. 19 from 3-5 p.m. at the African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten Avenue. Free stockings and candy for the children will be available plus stories with Kente Claus and games with Funso The Clown, drumming and dancing from the African American Cultural Center and so much more! Come experience the first annual African American Cultural Center magic tree lighting!

BLACK HISTORY continued from page 3 to help them survive through the winter and the New Year, and black-eyed peas thus evolved into a representation of good luck. Decades later, folk singer Ella Jenkins recalled how this tradition remained: “People had this feeling about good luck and black-eyed peas. So every New Year’s Day, you must get your black-eyed peas.” Greens also became a common additive, which represented green money. Black-eyed peas has been the provider of nutrients and strength to enslaved people, a necessity in African American New Years’ celebrations, and contributed to widely loved Soul Food… the black-eyed pea is truly a culturally iconic food. ( Excerpted from History Makers/Chicago Crusader)

HAVE A HAPPY & SAFE HOLIDAYS F R O M G - H E A LT H ENTERPRISES!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

Moving forward as a community

XMASSPECIALS

The pandemic and humanitarian crisis has brought us together with intensified passion and resilience. At Bank of America, we remain focused on supporting the well-being of our teammates, providing the essential financial services our clients need and helping local communities across the country move forward. Here in Buffalo, we’ve donated masks to local partners to distribute to those most at risk. We’ve provided lending to local small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) to help strengthen our local economy. And we continue to partner with local nonprofits and organizations that are working to advance racial equality and economic opportunity in the communities we serve. We’re grateful for our employees, who have worked tirelessly to support our clients. And we are especially grateful to the healthcare and essential workers who have helped Buffalo recover. My teammates and I remain fully committed to the work to come in 2021 and beyond.

Ted Janicki Buffalo Market President

Working together Grateful for our partners in Buffalo who gave our community support when it needed it most. 146,000 PPE masks donated 1,015 PPP small business client loans totaling $83 million Bank of America employees

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

SUPPORT BLACK BUSINESS Blanc Photographie

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

Challenger Community News â&#x20AC;˘ t hec hallengernews.com â&#x20AC;˘December 16, 2020

12 David v.Goliath: Pilgrim Village continued from page 6 He said the settlement they offered was “racist and ignorant.” “They offered me a settlement then insulted me, my church and the people in my community. We have over 801 documents that shows the church involvement. The deed that we had was called an unclear deed (in legal terms a clouded deed) - but the address goes back to 665 Michigan - the church. “Mcguire did a rush for deed - they took the land. I put an juction on the land so you can’t do nothing with it….They got the cadillac but not the keys!" “I’ve been waiting three years and I don’t have to wait any longer,” continued Pastor Bostic. "Now I can stand. We have proof. We have facts. We’re not making anything up. We’re not living in lala dream land." What Pilgrim is basically seeking is influential and major involvement in the Pilgrim Village Project moving forward. “All we ask is a seat at the table so that we would have influential say so - that would allow the church to talk so the community and allow members to say this is what we would like to see.” "Development needs to be done,” he agreed. “The area needs to be fixed up. Properties were built in 1978 and falling apart. So I’m not against development. I’m for development! But I want the right people at the table. I have a right. The church has that right. The church’s claim to the money part is so we can do more investment… so we are part of this community. “If we lose this battle,” Pastor Bostic concludes, “ this will bring a new meaning to gentrification to the downtown Buffalo area that will be negatively impactful to this Black community for years to come. The approximate value of the Pilgrim Village project is well over $210 million.”

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

TI MOTH Y M . KEN N EDY

New York State Senate, 63rd District

From our family to yours — wishing all a happy, safe, and healthy holiday season! CONTACT MY OFFICE:

“

WE MAY BE APART, BUT WE’RE NOT ALONE SOMEONE WHO CARES IS JUST A PHONE CALL AWAY. If you or someone you love is feeling isolated or anxious in these challenging times, hearing a friendly voice on the phone may help. That’s why we created the AARP Friendly Voice program – a trained, caring group of volunteers standing by ready to chat, listen, or just say hello. It’s easy. Request a call by dialing AARP at 1-888-281-0145, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. local time.

Address: 37 Franklin St., suite 550, Buffalo Phone: 716-826-2683 Email: kennedy@nysenate.gov Website: KennedyJobs.com

Challenger Community News â&#x20AC;˘ t hec hallengernews.com â&#x20AC;˘December 16, 2020

This service is supported in part by a grant from the New York State Department of Health.

Buyblackwny.com

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

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

business can continue. The intention of Buyblackwny.com 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.

There will also feature a black toy give away with Kente Claus so follow us online at instagram.com/buyblackwny to find out more. To be listed contact buyblackwny@gmail.com www.buyblackwny.com or call Theresa Land - 716-444-2179 Dewitt Lee - 716-294-7904

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

NATIONAL + WORLD UNIA Announces The Passing Of Hon. Marcus Garvey The UNIA announces the passing of Hon. Marcus Garvey, Jr., the 7th President General and Administrator of the UNIA and the son of the founder, Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey. Hon. Marcus Garvey Jr. was born on September 17, 1930 in Kingston, Jamaica and served as President General from 1992 to 2004, stepping down due to health concerns. He made his transition on Tuesday, December 8, 2020 due to complications from Alzheimer's. He was 90 years old and led the UNIA during a most critical period and brought stability and structure as he followed in the footsteps of his father, Hon. Marcus Mosiah Garvey. Hon. Marcus Garvey Jr. leaves behind his wife, Jean, two sons, and one daughter as well as four grandchildren. As the worldwide UNIA grieves the death of its resilient 7th President General, the 11th and current President General, Hon. Michael R. Duncan and the worldwide UNIA engaged in an official three-daymourning period from December 11th to 13th to honor him.

Founded on July 20, 1914 in Kingston, Jamaica, the Universal Negro Improvement Association [UNIA] is a social, friendly, humanitarian, charitable, educational, institutional, constructive, and expansive society and is founded by persons desiring to the utmost to work for the general uplift of Black peoples of the world. The members pledge themselves to do all in their power to conserve the rights of their noble race and to respect the rights of all mankind believing always in the Brotherhood of man and the Motherhood of God.

“We wish to plead our own cause. Too long have others spoken for us.” - John Russwurm, Freedom’s Journal. 1827 America’s 1st Black Newspaper

“I’m real, resilient, and ready.”: India Walton Suddenly It’s All About the Black Woman and the Vaccine Launches Campaign for Buffalo Mayor

ith a Sunday morning virtual launch party, India Walton announced her intentions to become the first woman to serve as Mayor of Buffalo. Born and raised on Buffalo’s East Side as one of six children, India became a fulltime working mother at the age of just 14. She earned her GED while pregnant with twins who were born prematurely, an experience that inspired her to become a nurse in the same NICU where her boys’ lives were saved. As a healthcare worker, India became a representative in the 1199 SEIU union, SHE'S IN! Mayoral candidate India Walton poses standing up for both workers and patients with her sons. from picket lines in Buffalo to the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court, where she was invited to speak at a national women’s rights rally in 2014. Continuing to serve as a nurse in Buffalo Public Schools, India witnessed the health disparities among our most vulnerable citizens and became determined to change the systems that cause them. India’s commitment to systemic change called her to become a community organizer for Open Buffalo, establishing herself as a thought leader on a wide range of issues including criminal justice reform and fair housing. Her work on the latter led her to be named the founding executive director of the Fruit Belt Community Land Trust, for which she worked with longtime residents to develop permanently affordable housing. India’s campaign launch party was livestreamed at www.IndiaWalton.com as well as the campaign’s YouTube and Facebook pages on Sunday morning, coinciding with the WNED premiere of the internationally-syndicated The Laura Flanders Show featuring India and other local leaders in “Making Buffalo: ‘Our City’”; in addition to airing the show, the party featured live performances, testimonials from supporters and India’s opening remarks. Campaign news and events will continue through her website and social media. “I’m real, resilient, and ready,” said India. “Are you ready?”

The Spirit of KWANZAA 365 The Spirit of Kwanzaa is one that has inspired, motivated and stimulated vision with creativity and faith for Black people since its founding in 1966 by Dr. Maulana Karenga in 1966. For me, one of the primary focuses of the Kwanzaa celebration is the remembrance that it represents the joy of working together, loving together, being together for the year leading up to December 26th. What that means for me is that each of the struggles and victories achieved Baba throughout the year happened because of an adherence to the principles of ENG Unity, Self Determination, Cooperative Economics, Collective Work and Responsibility, creativity, Purpose and Faith. Knowing that those principles come forth from a system of governance known as Kawaida, which is founded on the values and principles of the Nguzo Saba, the seven principles of Blackness, offers me a complete way of Black beingness in the world as self, family and community. It gives me the solidarity of being, necessary for my individual development as a human being and as a social being in community with my people. When I think about the journey of our Ancestors during the Maafa, The Afrikan Holocaust, I feel their strength of will that embodied unity, self--determination, cooperative economics, collective work and responsibility, creativity, purpose and faith. I think about my Ancestors, men and women in the bowels of slave ships, holding on to each other, supporting each other and comforting each other in the knowledge that Our Creator had a Divine plan for us, for them and the progeny that I now represent and that fuels my hope in depending on God’s Will for our future. That is my thankfulness and joy, that is my appreciation and gratitude, that is the wealth of family and community that I delight in each and every day of Kwanzaa while I embrace each of every part of my legacy in a cultural tradition that is Ours as Black African People. This year our theme is ‘Reframing The Legacy of Mother Africa’, which to me is a very appropriate way of honoring who we are as Africans in America at this very special time that we are in. Like my Queen, Karima, and Our Women say, “Kwanzaa 365!” Happy Kwanzaa family!

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Dear Editor: I appreciated last week’s cover which clearly suggested that we use our personal discretion as to whether or not to take the COVID vaccine. Safety and efficacy concerns regarding a COVID-19 vaccine is running high among African Americans. It’s no wonder that Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s leading infectious disease expert (who is highly respected) , wants Black people to know that a Black woman, Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett, was heavily involved in developing one of the vaccines (the one expected to soon be released by Moderna). Then in New York State the first person to receive the Pfeizer vaccine was a Black women, Sandra Lindsay, RN, a critical care nurse in Long Island being administered by a Black medical professional. That ionic photo is everywhere. I’m not mad at the brilliant Dr. Corbett. In fact I first read about her in The Challenger back in April! And I respect the nurse who took that historic first shot as well as the doctor who administered it. Overall I’m glad to see ome kind of movement in the wake of so many lives lost, especially in our community. But personally I just feel there are still too many unanswered questions and I'm uncomfortable with the “speed” in which the vaccines are being developed. Even the esteemed Dr. Corbett who is working to save lives and wants to see us all protected, told CNN last week: “I would say to people who are vaccine-hesitant that you’ve earned the right to ask the questions that you have around these vaccines and this vaccine development process.” And a CNN special last week revealed that the vote among 14 CDC vaccine advisors was not unanimous. One lone doctor said "no," in the vote to recommendthe vaccine for long term care residents; expressing worry whether or not vaccine would even work in frail and elderly patients. Will I take the vaccine? Time and proof of its safety and efficiency will tell. Meanwhile I’ll stay “masked up,” keep my social distance, used common sense, and stay “prayed up” for my family and my community. -M. Heard

Hua Hu Ching Do you imagine the universe is agitated? Go into the desert at night and took out at the stars. This practice should answer the question. The superior person settles her mind as the universe settles the stars in the sky. By connecting her mind with the subtle origin, she calms it. Once calmed, it naturally expands, and ultimately her mind becomes as vast and immeasurable as the night sky. (FivE)

BETTY GRANT

to achieve Herd Immunity in this country in order for the virus to go away. We cannot do that until 80% of the total country population inoculate themselves against the virus. Right now, the number of American citizens stating they will take the vaccine is only around 63%. In African American communities, the percentage is even less.Top that off with a limited supply of vaccines and African Americans always winding up 'at the end of the line', we need to make sure that those of us who are willing to take the vaccine are given every opportunity to do so.

• Published every Wednesday • News Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. • Ad Deadline: Friday 5 p.m. • Classified Deadline: Thursday 5 p.m.

continued from page 4

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

BUFFALO POLICE ADVISORY BOARD EXTENDS DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS

SERVICE LINK: In photo L-R: Pastor Charles H. Walker II, Re-Entry Mentoring Program Director for Back to Basics Outreach Ministries, is joined by Erie County Commissioner of Mental Health Mark O’Brian, Erie County Holding Center Superintendent Thomas Diina, and Erie County Director of Intensive Adult Mental Health Services Ronald Schoelerman at the new Service Link Stop (“SLS”) at 120 West Eagle Street in Buffalo. Fourteen participating agencies are on-site at the Service Link Stop to assist individuals leaving detention, or anyone in need of assistance, with links to needed services to help them return to the community and lead better, healthier lives. “Just as it takes the 'Wisdom’ of the villagers to raise a child, likewise does it take the many organizations under the Service Link Stop umbrella to provide the best comprehensive services to our returning citizens,” said Pastor Charles H. Walker II, ReEntry Mentoring Program Director, Back To Basics Outreach Ministries.

The Buffalo Police Advisory Board is looking for City of Buffalo residents who are passionate and involved individuals interested in improving community-police relations in Buffalo. Currently several vacancies need to be filled. Applicants will be expected to attend monthly meetings, participate in our public forums, engage in community outreach, and/or assist with our policy research and recommendation projects. Interested City residents can apply by sending a letter of interest and resume to policeadvisoryboard@gmail.com before the end of the day on December 23, 2020. Please include up-to-date contact information in your letter including an email address and phone number. Applicants who are invited to join the board may be subject to a background check by the City.

AARP Awards Community Challenge Grant to LISC & The Buffalo Center for Health Equity in WNY

LISC in Western New York has been named a recipient of a 2020 AARP Community Challenge grant in partnership with the Buffalo Center for Health Equity, one of six grantees selected in the state of New York. The grant will be used to celebrate and reinvigorate Black and Brown culture, community, and pride throughout three Buffalo neighborhoods. Working with a team of local creatives and equity advocates, this effort aims to gather community input while lifting up important landmarks, parks, art and music happenings, and cultural events occurring in these neighborhoods. The effort will highlight and promote health, hope, and exploration during COVID-19 recovery, while planting seeds for neighborhood-owned community ACCEPT development visions as we IN G APPLICA T work together to rebuild. FOR 4TH IONS – 7TH “This work centers Pride in GRADES Place – We are here. Black people have been an important part of Buffalo’s history since the beginning. We are excited to lift up the community during this scary time. It is not only needed, but this effort is lauded, and we are so excited to work with LISC and AARP,” says Rita Hubbard-Robinson, CEO of NeuWater & Associates, LLC and consultant with the Buffalo Center for Health Equity. “We are looking forward to raising spirits and inspiring the Black community. This placemaking work will allow us to explore our own communities, and help other people interested in learnHappy holidays from our Buffalo Collegiate family. ing about our communities to see and experience areas Now accepting application for the New Year! where we envision positive transformation.”

THE GREATEST GIFT IS THE BELIEF IN OUR CHILDREN. BUFFALOCOLLEGIATE.ORG/APPLY

Read Sports on thechallengernews. com

East Side Commercial Building Stabilization Fund Open to Applicants Empire State Development (ESD), East Side Avenues, and Preservation Buffalo Niagara today announced that applications are available for funding dedicated to the stabilization of historic at-risk buildings on Buffalo’s East Side. The $5 million Commercial Building Stabilization Fund, part of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo’s Buffalo Billion initiative, will help protect the fabric, density and character of the East Side – “Across the City of Buffalo, we have seen the role that preservation has played in the health and opportunities of our neighborhoods,” said Jessie Fisher, Executive Director of Preservation Buffalo Niagara. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to ensure that the East Side is not left out of the social and economic benefits afforded by a commitment to preservation of place.” The program is open to owners of commercial and mixeduse structures that were built more than 50 years ago and meet additional program criteria as outlined in the program guidelines. The full program guidelines and applications can be found at https://preservationbuffaloniagara.org/east-sidecommercial-building-stabilization- fund/. First-round funding award applications are due on or postmarked by Friday, Jan. 15, 2021. For more information, contact Bridge Rauche at (716) 852-3300 or brauche@pbnsaves.org.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020 PUBLIC NOTICE OF ADOPTION NEW PERMIT, CONNECTION INSPECTION, AND EQUITY FEES SCHEDULE ERIE COUNTY SEWER DISTRICT NOS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5,6 & 8 Erie County Sewer District (ECSD or ‘District’) Nos. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 & 8 held a Public Hearing on November 5, 2020 at 10:00 A.M. local time, for the purpose of updating new permit, connection inspection, and equity fees for the ECSDs. In December 2020, the Board of Managers for each ECSD formally approved the schedule as presented at the public hearing, with an effective date of January 1, 2021. The newly adopted fees are available for viewing at https://www2. erie.gov/dsm. EFFECTIVE DATE – January 1, 2021 Joseph Fiegl, P.E., BCEE Erie County Sewer Agency Dated: December 8, 2020 Published: December 15, 2020

Buffalo City School District Advertisement for Bids Sealed proposals for the following project will be received at the Office of DiDonato Associates, 689 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14203, on Tuesday, January 5, 2021 at 11:00 a.m. proposals will be publicly opened via zoom conference call and read aloud for: Pool Main Drain Reconstruction at: PS 031: Harriet Ross Tubman School Bids will be opened for a single prime contract: GENERAL CONSTRUCTION; Beginning Wednesday, December 16, 2021, bidding document packages may be viewed and purchased through Avalon Document Services online Plan room website at www.avalonbuff-planroom.com, under “Public Jobs”, or ordered by phone at 716-995-7777. Owner can assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or other misinformation obtained via other bid document distribution resources. Zoom Invitations will be sent to all registered bidders and upon email requests to the contact listed below. A mandatory pre-bid walk through conference will be held on Wednesday, December 30, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. at the school at 212 Stanton Street, Buffalo, NY 14212. Please assemble in the school parking lot on the east side of the building, in front of the overhead service garage doors. The Architect will be present. Eligible bidders are required to attend this walk through or another previously arranged and documented site visit with Architect and/or District personnel. Please note that required bid bond is 10%. The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. Any questions regarding this project, please request in writing via email, addressed to: Liz Meegan, email address: LMeegan@ didonato.cc, no later than Thursday, December 31, 2020 by 12:00 noon. Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

Name Change Notice is hereby given that an Order entered by the Supreme Court, Erie County, on the 19th day of November , 2020 , bearing Index Number 812883/2020, a copy of which may be examined at the Erie County clerk’s Office located at 92 Franklin Street Buffalo, New York, grants me the right, effective on the 19th day of November, 2020 to assume the name Sonya Denise curry. My present address is 69 Woeppel Street Buffalo, NY; the place of my birth is Hempstead, NY. My present name is Sonya Denise Sherman.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

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Lex & Dreys invite you to join their virtual evening of Music, Live Painting and Positive Vibes! This is a BYOB event. $65 - VIP Entry. At 5:00pm - Join them early and enjoy the Pre-Happy Hour with guest DJ (curated music) - and great conversation. (via Zoom) At 6:00pm - Stay on Zoom with us and hang out while famed Buffalo artist Edreys creates his musical scores while others join in from Facebook. All VIP Guests will receive a 12in x 12in limited number print (unframed) of the piece that was created during the Happy Hour by Edreys Wajed. For more info go to eatoffart.com Saturday December 19 Girl Gang Entertainment Virtual Soul Sippin Event Soul Sippin, is a virtual wine tasting and soul food pairing experience including appetizers, main course and dessert. There will be a professional sommelier wines from Paradise Wines. The three-course meal is prepared by Brothers’ Takeout Café and Catering as well as Angel’s Treats of Heaven. For tickets and more info go to girlganent.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •December 16, 2020

Take the Survey and Help Shape the Future of Neighborhood Parks Citywide !

HAPPY KWANZAA From GRANT’S Variety Shop 1055 E. Ferry St.

The Trust for Public Land in partnership with the City of Buffalo launched a new online survey where residents can comment directly on the development of the city's park plan. The city also released the Buffalo Unlimited Activity Book, a fun opportunity for residents of all ages to get creative and share their vision for local parks. The community can find out more about the plan here: https://www.tpl.org/our-work/ buffalo-parks-plan Take the survey at: https:// www.surveymonkey.com/r/ BuffaloParks. Pick-up and return activity books at: Central Library (downtown Buffalo) Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Library, Leroy R. Coles, Jr. Branch Library ,Crane Branch Library, Dudley Branch Library, East Clinton Branch Library, Elaine M. Panty Branch Library, , Isaias Gonzalez-Soto Branch Library, North Park Branch Library You can also send thoughts or feedback directly to buffaloparks@tpl.org

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www.tpl.org/buffaloparksplan Public input is critical to developing a new Parks Master Plan that will serve as a long-term road map for a parks system citywide that is relevant, sustainable and equitable for Buffalo’s diverse community.

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! " ! ! # ! ! # " those who continue to face hardships and challenges.

CMY

' # & $ ! ! ! $ all the necessary precautions to help stop the community spread of this virus. We will get through this together, as we always do as the City of

MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES AND OUR GREAT CITY OF BUFFALO!

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