Challenger Community News

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January 11, 2024 | FREE | Community News

CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF A KING Dr. Martin Luther King City-Wide Celebration January 14: Outstanding Honorees Named Page 7

AWAKENING THE

Natural Genius VOICES:

DOT’s Billion-Dollar Toxic Kensington Tunnel Must Be A No-Go! Page 12

OF AFRIKAN CHILDREN! Scholar Wan’ye Rhodes-Carter Achieves 100.2 Average!

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AMBASSADOR JOHNSON COOK

HEALTH:

Start The New Year Off Right With The Daniel Fast Page 6

To Keynote Rochester’s MLK Day Celebration Page 2

STEPHANIE BARBER GETER FEATURED IN CITY & STATE MAGAZINE

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2 INSIDE ROCHESTER

Ambassador Johnson Cook to Keynote Annual MLK Day Community Celebration

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mbassador Johnson Cook, appointed by President Obama as the ambassador-atlarge for International Religious Freedom, will be the keynote speaker at the 39th Annual MLK Day Community Celebration by Greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission is Monday, January 15 inside Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre at 9 a.m.. The theme for this year is: Be who we ought to be!

A Faith Leader, Entrepreneur, Educator, Success strategist, international influencer, Communications expert, and Diplomat, Hon..

Suzan Johnson Cook was the first female and African-American to hold the position of U.S. Ambassador for International Religious Freedom. Nominated by Secretary Hillary Hon. Suzan Johnson Cook Clinton, and appointed by President Barack Obama, she was the principal advisor to the President of the United States and Secretary of State, for religious freedom, globally, having all l99 countries in her portfolio, and integrating religious freedom into the foreign policy and national security discussions. She represented the United States in 28 countries and more than l00 diplomatic engagements, bringing faith leaders and women to the Religious Freedom table. Additionally, she has been the faith advisor to two U.S. Presidents, three cabinet secretaries, as well as political and celebrity leaders. She served as President Bill Clinton’s only faith advisor on the historic “President’s Initiative on Race”. On the front lines of 9/ll, she helped New York and our nation through traumatic times, and become known as “America’s Chaplain”. In 2016, she was the only woman to run for NY’s 13th Congressional district.

Garth Fagan Dance, RPO To Present World-Premiere Presentation of The Rite of Spring The Rochester Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) proudly announces its latest collaboration with Garth Fagan Dance (GFD): a world-premiere presentation of The Rite of Spring.

RPO Music Director Andreas Delfs conducts Stravinsky’s groundbreaking score to accompany the first full-length public performances of Artistic Director Norwood “PJ” Pennewell’s daring, all-new choreography, 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 11 and 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 13, in Kodak Hall at Eastman Theatre, 60 Gibbs St., Rochester.

“This program is another highlight of the Rochester Philharmonic’s blockbuster centennial season,” noted Maestro Delfs. “Two world-class Rochester arts institutions, the RPO and Garth Fagan Dance, have come together to present this trailblazing masterpiece in a brand-new choreography by the exceptionally talented PJ Pennewell. I have collaborated with some of the world’s leading dance companies and am utterly amazed to meet the power, imagination, and sheer vitality of Garth Fagan Dance.”

Fagan’s first premiere with the RPO was in July 1979, Salon for a Fashionable Five-Toed Dragon, in which Pennewell made his debut as a Fagan dancer. Forty-five years later, The Rite of Spring is Pennewell’s first choreography for the company since Fagan announced he was stepping down from leadership, naming Natalie Rogers-Cropper the troupe’s executive director and Pennewell its artistic director.

Tickets start at $30 / $18 for children ages 3-17 and are available online anytime at rpo. org, by phone at 585-454-2100, and in person at RPO Patron Services at 225 East Avenue (Monday-Friday, 10 AM-5 PM) and one hour prior to curtain at the Eastman Theatre Box Office (433 East Main St.).

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Mt. Olivet Baptist Church – Temple B’rith Kodesh MLK Celebration “Pulpit Exchange” Services Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, where Rev. Dr. Rickey Harvey Sr. is pastor, the oldest historically African American Baptist church in Rochester, is proud to continue its long-standing tradition of celebrating MLK Day worship services with Temple B’rith Kodesh where Rabbi Peter Stein, Senior Rabbi at Temple B’rith Kodesh.

The relationship between Mt. Olivet Baptist Church and Temple B'rith Kodesh began over 40 years ago with the late Rev. Dr. Leardrew Johnson, of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, and the late Rabbi Judea B. Miller, of Temple B'rith Kodesh, each of whom had personal experiences with the late Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. MLK PULPIT EXCHANGE SERVICES: FRIDAY JANUARY 12TH – 6p.m. SERVICE Temple B’rith Kodesh, 2131 Elmwood Ave., Rochester, NY 14618 Guest Speaker – Rev. Dr. Rickey B. Harvey Sr. SUNDAY JANUARY 14TH – 10a.m. SERVICE, Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, 141 Adams St. Rochester, NY 14608 Guest Speaker – Rabbi Peter Stein

Kayla Sconiers

Kayla Sconiers Recipient of Eastman’s William Warfield Scholarship: Benefit Concert Set for January 21 Since its establishment in 1977, the William Warfield Scholarship Fund Inc., has provided financial aid to more than 50 African American classical singers, including Eastman students and high school-aged performers.

Annually, the scholarship fund holds a benefit concert to spotlight its scholarship recipients. On Sunday, January 21 at 4p.m., their 47th concert will be held in Kilbourn Hall, featuring the 2023-2024 William Warfield Scholarship Recipient, current Eastman student Kayla Sconiers ’24E, mezzo-soprano.

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

AREA BRIEFS Leadership Transition at CAO: Reverend Ulysees Wingo Appointed Interim CEO Mr. Thomas U. Kim has stepped down after three years of serving as President & CEO of the Community Action Organization of WNY to pursue “roles that offer a broader scope of influence and impact, more closely aligned with (his) personal and professional aspirations.” The Board of Directors has appointed former Masten District Council Member Reverend Ulysees O. Ulysees O. Wingo, Sr. Wingo, Sr., Chief Operations & Outreach Officer, as the Interim President & CEO. Reverend Wingo will fulfill this position while the organization undergoes the search for a new President & CEO, ensuring a seamless and efficient transition for the organization.

African Cultural Center Annual Meeting The African American Cultural Center will hold their Public Annual Meeting a 5 p.m. Monday, January 15 at 350 Masten Avenue to bring together the community members, stakeholders, and supporters to discuss and celebrate the achievements, initiatives, and future plans of the center. The Annual Meeting provides an opportunity for networking, sharing ideas, and engaging in meaningful conversations about our community and our next steps. Come meet the new Executive Director, current board members and staff. We want to hear what you have to say! Please RSVP at Africancultural350@gmail.com.

Gov. Hochul Signs Reparations Bill New York Gov. Kathy Hochul signed historic racial justice legislation December 19, creating a committee to consider reparations for slavery.

The new law authorizes the creation of a community commission that will study the history of slavery in New York state and what reparations could look like.

New York is the second state in the country to study reparations after California.

"You can see the unreckoned-with impacts of slavery in things such as Black poverty, Black maternal mortality," said Nicole Carty, executive director of the group Get Free.

Activists like Carty said the new law was a long time coming. She helped advocate for the bill, which was sponsored

by Assemblywoman Michaelle Solages, after the racially motivated Buffalo mass shooting.

The committee will be made up of nine members who will be appointed over the next six months. They'll have a year to draft the report before presenting it to the public.

VISIT THE NASH HOUSE MUSEUM The Nash House Museum has a new Facebook page! Follow Nash House Museum Buffalo to stay up to date on all the programs hosted by the historic house that was once the home of Reverend J. Edward Nash!

“Awakening The Natural Genius of Afrikan Children”

Scholar Wan’ye Rakhari Forrest Rhodes-Carter Achieves 100.2 Average! Presented with Kwanzaa Children's Award

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ur young people are rarely cast in the positive light they so often deserve.

On the fifth day of Kwanza, “Nia-Purpose,” 16year old Wan’ye Rakhari Forrest Rhodes-Carter was presented with the first Children’s Kwanzaa Award and a Certificate of Appreciation from the City of Buffalo during the Children’s Kwanzaa celebration hosted by the Wakanda Alliance.

In addition to being a young man of high moral character, Wan’ye, the son of proud parents Vonetta T. Rhodes and Divine Ancestor Dwayne E. Carter, is a scholar. He recently received high academic honors at Leonardo Da Vinci High AWAKENING! Pictured left: Kwanzaa co-chair Carlanda Meadows, Charvaye Hutchins, honoree Wan'ye School for achieving a 100.2 average!

This school year alone, Wan’ye has also Rhodes-Carter, Vonetta T. Rhodes and Bro. Sankofa. achieved: Student of the Month for September Challenger Photo and October; Honor Roll for the first two periods; appointed to be his school’s CLRI (Office of Culturally & Linguistically Responsive Initiatives) Scholar for Social Justice; selected to be a member of the My Brother's Keeper Initiative ; recommended candidate for the National Honor Society; Boy Scout of Troop #5 (Tenderfoot Rank); and served as a community service volunteer for Juneteenth, Kwanzaa, and the Dorothy Collier Community Center.

Prior to Wan’ye receiving the Kwanzaa award, his mother, poet/educator Queen Vonetta, thanked the community for honoring her son. She recounted the personal struggles they faced in his early years.

“When he was 5 or 6 we went thru some obstacles,” she shared. “They even wanted at one time to put him in a police car and take him downtown.”

She said at one point it was also recommended he be placed on behavior medication.

“I knew (then) that problem was bigger than me and I’m an educator but I said, ‘I’m the first teacher….it’s bigger than us..so I’m going to learn and we’re going to do this together.’ And we and the village did it together with Umoja - unity and all the 7 principals.”

She describes her son as "beautiful, strong, resilient, and intelligent."

Wan'ye was eloquent in his acceptance speech, which also included a message to the youth.

"It’s truly a blessing to be recognized by this Afrikan family which I have been brought up in,” he began. “I especially want to thank my mother for always being the powerful and loving Black queen in my life. My message to all the youth… is that …each one of you has what it takes to be successful…and to be somebody. Before our ancestors were taken away from Africa, we were kings and queens. We come from a generation of powerful Black kings and queens. So make sure that in everything you do, carry yourself like a king or queen and show the world who you are.

Also too, believe in yourself and be honest with yourself and follow your heart.”

-Young Aspiring PoetWan’ye’s future plans are to attend college and major in Creative Writing & Poetics to become an author. He said he’s been writing poetry since he was 10. He thanks God, his ancestors, and family. Wan’ye shares that he is motivated by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, and Amanda Gorman to use his beliefs and talents to make a difference for our community.

Harambee! (Let's all pull together!)

Community Groups to Roll Out Policy Change Agenda for 2024 Each fall, Partnership for the Public Good (PPG) leads a democratic process among its partners to determine the Community Agenda for the coming year. The 2024 Community Agenda includes important priorities such as Increasing Funding for City of Buffalo Youth Services and more.

This year’s public roll-out of the Community Agenda will take place on Friday January 12th at 10:30a.m. at the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. (corner of E. Utica) At the roll-out event, community advocates will represent each policy proposal and share why it matters for Western New York. Speakers will include:Leah Angel Daniel of Fostering Greatness and the African American Cultural Center; Samantha White, Esq. of the WNY Law Center on reforming Buffalo Public School suspension policy; Jerome Wright of WNY Halt Solitary on enhancing human rights by increasing legislator oversight of Erie County jails and more.

Elected Officials attending to voice their support will include NYS Senator Sean Ryan, NYS Assemblymember Jonathan Rivera, Erie County Legislature Chairwoman April Baskin, Councilmembers Mitch Nowakowski, and Joel Feroleto. This event is free and open to the public.

Important Dates In the Life of Martin Luther King

Martin Luther King

1929 Martin Luther King, Jr., is born on Jan. 15 Michael King, Jr., in Atlanta. His father is the pastor of the Ebenezer Baptist Church, a Black congregation in Atlanta. His mother is Alberta Williams King, a former schoolteacher. (In honor of the German religious reformer Martin Luther, the elder King later changes his name to Martin Luther King and his son’s name to Martin Luther King, Jr. 1944 At age 15 King begins his freshman year at Morehouse College in Atlanta. He originally studies medicine and law but later decides to enter the ministry.

1948–55 King graduates from Morehouse College in 1948 with a bachelor’s degree in sociology. He spends the next three years at Crozer Theological Seminary in Chester, Pennsylvania. It is here that he first learns about Mahatma Gandhi’s philosophy of nonviolence. Renowned for his public speaking skills, King is elected president of Crozer’s student body, which is composed almost entirely of white students. He is the valedictorian of his class in 1951. King then attends graduate school at Boston University. In Boston, King meets Coretta Scott. They are married in 1953. The following year King becomes pastor of Dexter Avenue Continued Page 17

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

WECGOD II Donates $250,000 To Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Renovation

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verseer/Pastor Michael Chapman of Gethsemane and St. John Baptist Church (Two Churches, Two Campuses, One Village) and his wife, Minister Ina Chapman donated $250,000 from WECGOD II (We Educate Communities Globally on Disparities) to the renovation fund of the Gethsemane Missionary Baptist Church during a press conference Friday morning in front of the oldest, historical preservation site in the Fruit Belt at 57 Grape Street Opened in 1874, this $1.4 million restoration project was prepared by the Clinton Brown Company Architecture, PC of Buffalo, known for its renewing of historic buildings and heritage places.

“We will use our donation to begin discussions with lo-

cal foundations to match it or do more to help us complete this restoration, which we believe will help us restore that community,” Pastor Chapman said. “We plan to begin the renovation in the spring, and it will include a renovation of the original sanctuary, the parsonage, kitchen, cafeteria and restoring the original pipe organ.”

The Chapman’s WECGOD II nonprofit organization had previously donated $400,000 to the project for a new roof, masonry work, a new boiler and stabilizing the building. In addition to their recent donation, WECGOD is also calling on three major area charities to match or at least support their pledge. Renovation is expected to begin this spring.

Michael Norwood, a trustee and spokesman for the Buffalo

Black Billions called the initiative "one of the most critical

Pastor Michael and Minister Ina Chapman

restoration developments in the Fruit Belt and East Buffalo history."

Gethsemane

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Dr. King’s Chicago Campaign and the Ongoing Fight for Fair Housing

HOME's Fight For Fair Housing Continues As Blacks in WNY Still Experience Housing Inequities

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By James Coughlin

n January 26, 1966, a four-bedroom flat awaited Martin Luther and Coretta Scott King at 1440 South Hamlin Avenue in West Chicago’s segregated North Lawndale neighborhood.

Unlike their neighbors, this dwelling was recently renovated, upon their landlord learning that Dr. King and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC) would wage a nonviolent campaign to protest and transform Chicago’s poverty.

Throughout 1966, SCLC’s Chicago campaign shifted national attention to the impoverishment, violence, and injustices perpetrated by segregated housing throughout northern cities and sought to open housing opportunities for all.

According to King, decades of redlining, discriminatory real estate practices, and intimidation from White neighborhoods created slums, which “confine those who have no power and perpetuate their powerlessness” and therefore, “leaves its inhabitants dominated politically, exploited economically, and segregated and humiliated at every term.”

Initial failed negotiations with Mayor Richard Daley led to several marches into Chicago’s all-White Gage Park, Marquette Park, and Belmont-Cragin neighborhoods and protests at discriminatory realtor offices throughout July and August 1966. Hostile White protesters reacted violently towards marchers. Struck in the right temple with a rock during an August 5th Marquette Park demonstration, King remarked he had “never seen anything so hostile and so hateful as I’ve seen here today.”

Following demonstrations, King, Mayor Daley, and Chicago business, real estate, and religious leaders brokered an agreement for greater enforcement of Chicago’s housing ordinance, integration in Chicago’s real estate, and an end to discriminatory, segregated housing patterns.

King’s Chicago campaign echoed the work of “open housing” (what we call today fair housing), activists forming throughout the United States. Western New York’s Housing Opportunities Made Equal (HOME) was founded in 1963 to seek the enforcement of the Metcalf-Baker law, the nation’s first statewide fair housing law. HOME assisted Black households in integrating all-White suburban neighborhoods and held realtors and lenders accountable for violating the law, and steering Black families to segregated, overcrowded neighborhoods. HOME used testing, to gauge differential treatment between prospective White and Black homeowners, a technique still used to this day. In August 1965, Black chemist Floyd F. Cumberbach was offered a non-negotiable $28,500 offer to own a home. When white U.B. professor Bill Harrell inquired about the same home’s asking price, he was told the home was listed at a negotiable $22,900. HOME’s evidence led to realtor Joseph Moynihan’s suspension by the New York State Department of State. Locally, open housing’s progress was steady, yet slow, denoted by James Hecht, former HOME Board of Directors Chair: between 1964 and 1968, Black households “bought homes in about 250 neighborhoods which previously were all White,” yet only one Black household moved in “all but three of these neighborhoods.”

The fight for fair housing and HOME’s work continues as Black Western New Yorkers still experience housing inequities. A February 2021 New York State Department of Financial Services “Inquiry Into Redlining” found between 2016 and 2019 “minorities in the Buffalo Metropolitan Statistical Area [MSA] comprise only 9.74% of the total loans made.”

On October 31st, Attorney General Letitia James’s report “Racial Disparities in Homeownership” found that in 2021,

Saturday

“7.6% of purchase applications were from January 20 B l a c k residents and 1 lam-Spm 9.5% were from Latino residents, approximately half of each group’s representation in the overall state population.”

In the Buffalo MSA, applicants from “neighborhoods of color” were 151% more likely to be denied loans compared to “majority White neighborhoods.” Henry Louis Taylor Jr.’s report “The Harder we Run” Martin Luther King Jr., center lower illustrates segregated right, and supporters pause during a fair housing’s continued housing march through Marquette Park economic impact. With in 1966. King later said he had never 85% of Black Buffalo- seen “mobs as hostile and as hate-filled nians living on the East as I’ve seen here in Chicago.”

Side, “over 55% of East Side residents pay 30% or more of their income on housing, and 36% spend more than 50%” amid an estimated 7,000 vacant lots and substandard housing. In Buffalo, there is a “56% difference between the household income of Blacks and Whites and a 55% difference in poverty rates” with median Black household income at $28,320. Throughout Erie County, 33% of Black REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. households own their home compared to 73% of White households, impacted by continued redlining.

Honoring Dr. King’s legacy The Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday on Jan. 15, 2024 is a daily practice of living history that extends beyond marks the 29th anniversary of the national day of service. a single, celebratory day. It This day was established to honor the life and legacy of is to fight every day, guided by love, against segregation Dr. King, and to encourage all Americans to volunteer and discrimination’s harmful inequalities, to build a more to improve their communities. just, equitable, nonviolent world.

On this special day, let’s continue to reflect and study

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Honors the

James Coughlin is a Fair Housing Specialist at HOME.)

“Do all the good you can, By all the means you can, In all the ways you can, In all the places you can, At all the times you can, To all the people you can, As long as ever you can.”

― John Wesley

how The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made our community a better place to live, as we continue to work together to foster a more inclusive and equitable Buffalo.

“We can accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

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HEALTH MATTERS

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The Daniel Fast: A Great Way To Start The New Year!

f you’re thinking about changing your lifestyle or improving your eating by incorporating more plant-based foods, becoming a vegetarian or vegan, the Daniel Fast is the perfect introduction to the health benefits of a more plant-based diet.

Unlike other fasting methods, the Daniel Fast restricts what you can eat rather than when you eat. The diet is easy to follow, as there is no portion or caloric restriction, and it allows for a wide variety of food choices. So what can you eat on the Daniel Fast? Here's what you need to know.

What Is the Daniel Fast?

The Daniel Fast diet is a dietary modification plan emphasizing simplicity and plant-based nutrition inspired by a character from the Book of Daniel (1:8-14) in the Bible which highlights Daniel’s food choices and describes the positive physical, intellectual, and spiritual outcomes. From this experience, Daniel was said to gain knowledge, wisdom, spiritual understanding, favor, and even better, appearance in addition to answered prayer and spiritual insight. These same beneficial outcomes can be accessed today with simple diet changes.

The Daniel Fast diet consists of non-energy-restricted choices of foods from plant sources, minimally processed and prepared in a healthy and simple way. The diet eliminates animal products, caffeine, and alcohol; and includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

How Long Is the Daniel Fast?

While it might seem restrictive, the Daniel Fast is meant to be followed for just 21 days or just three weeks . However Some people choose to follow it for 10 days, as the Book of Daniel mentions both 10 days and 21 days that Daniel fasted.

Daniel Fast Food List The only acceptable foods explicitly listed in the scripture are water and vegetables. However those on the Daniel Fast can also eat whole grains, fruits, and other plant-based foods — everything else is off-limits. This plan encourages eating foods in their more natural state, which reduces the exposure to preservatives, additives, artificial colors and other chemicals used in processed foods.

Foods You Can Eat on the Daniel Fast •Whole grains: Barley, brown rice, buckwheat, farro, grits, millet, oats, popcorn, quinoa, rice cakes, rye, sorghum, spelt, whole wheat, whole-wheat pasta, wild rice and Ezekiel Bread (sold at Wegmans and the Lexington Co-op) •Beans and legumes: Black beans, black-eyed peas, cannellini beans, garbanzo beans (chickpeas), great northern beans, kidney beans, lentils, peanuts, pinto beans, and split peas.

•Nuts and seeds: Almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, macadamia nuts, natural nut butters (no additives), peanuts, pecans, pumpkin seeds, pine nuts, pistachios, poppy seeds, sesame seeds, soy nuts, sunflower seeds, and walnuts.

•Vegetables: All vegetables whether fresh, frozen, dried, juiced, or canned.

•Fruits: All fruit whether fresh, frozen, dried, juiced, or canned (so long as it doesn't contain added sugar).

•Oils: Oils can be used minimally, but not for deep-frying.

•Herbs, spices, and seasonings: Includes salt and pepper.

•Soy products: All soy products including tofu.

•Unleavened bread: Whole grain breads made without yeast, sugars, or preservatives.

•Water: Distilled, filtered, sparkling, spring, and mineral waters allowed.

•100-percent fruit juice: Natural, 100-percent fruit juice is allowed but should be had sparingly.

Foods You Can't Eat on the Daniel Fast •Animal products: All meat including poultry fish and other seafood •All Dairy: including milk, cheese, cream yogurt etc. and eggs.

•Sweeteners: Agave nectar, artificial sweeteners, brown rice syrup, brown sugar, cane juice, corn syrup, honey, malt syrup, molasses, sugar, raw sugar, and other syrups.

•Leavened bread: Bread made with yeast like sandwich bread, crackers and wraps, is not permitted on this diet either.

•Refined and processed foods: Foods that contain artificial flavorings, artificial preservatives, food additives, white flour, and white rice. And while many trendy vegan food options may help fill your need for chicken nuggets or cheeseburgers when avoiding animal products, these foods are typically not enjoyed when embarking on this fast, as the goal is to eat foods in their most minimally processed form. Instead, people can get their protein fill by eating nuts, seeds, grains, edamame and other similar plant-based and minimally processed choices.

•All fried foods: Including fries, potato chips, etc.

•Solid fats: Butter, lard, margarine, and shortening.

•Chocolate: Milk chocolate, semi-sweet chocolate, dark chocolate, syrup, and cacao.

•Some beverages: Alcohol, coffee, energy drinks, soda and other caffeinated beverages.

The Daniel Fast diet has been evaluated scientifically both for short-term interventions of 21 or 40 days as well as long-term interventions of a year or longer. In both short-term and long-term scenarios, the results show that this dietary plan significantly decreases body weight, blood pressure, cholesterol, C-reactive protein — a marker of inflammation in the body — and improves insulin function.

No negative effects have been reported, although if this plan is going to be followed longterm, since it is an elimination plan experts recommend the supplementation of vitamin B-12.

There is no portion or caloric restriction.

Individuals who are already following a diet plan that has been recommended by a healthcare provider should meet with a Registered Dietitian to understand how the Daniel Fast diet can be incorporated.

Experts advise those with a history of eating disorders or disordered eating should not engage in the Daniel Fast. Sources: allrecipies, Eating Well, Loma Linda University Health (image public domain)

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Free Event Is Sunday, January 14 at Kleinhans

MLK Celebration Set: 2024 Honorees Named he Concerned Citizens Following The Dream Commitand the Buffalo Ringers.

T tee, will host the free annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The admission is free, sponsored in part by: M&T Bank, Celebration Program Sunday January 14 from 6 to 9p.m. at Wegmans Food, Senator Tim Kennedy, The Fretted BufKleinhans Music Hall. The theme is “ What Would Martin Luther King Jr. Say In 2024, 60 Years After The March On Washington?”

This year’s Awardees include: •Pastor Angela Stewart the MLK “Christian Leadership” Award •Andrew L. Davis MLK “Businessman” Award •Dr.(s) Raul & Toni Vazquez, MLK “Medical” Award •Tracey E. Singletary, MLK “Education” Award •Betty Jean Grant, MLK “Woman Of Distinction” Award •William Covington, MLK “Community Service” Award •Honorable Shirley Troutman, MLK ‘Judicial” Award •Bishop F.A. Gelsey & Dr. Lydia A. Gelsey MLK “Prison Ministry” Award •Barbara Lark MLK “Medal Of Valor” Award •Bernarda Arias MLK “Community Leadership” Award •Pastor Dwayne Jones MLK “Humanitarian” Award •Kenneth & Sharon Holley The MLK “Black Business Owners” Award The keynote speakers are School Superintendent Dr. Tonja Williams and State Senator Tim Kennedy.

There will also be great singing and dance ministry performances including SPEAKERS: Dr. Williams Elim Christian Fellowship, KEYNOTE (left) and Sen. Kennedy.

Bessie Patterson and the City Wide Choir, The Tabernacle Music Ministry of Orchard Park, the African Cultural Center Dancers, Valerie Foye, Robin Adams, Tracey Green, Cathy Sharpe and the Metropolitan Choir, Louetta Terry and the True Bethel Male Chorus, Miss Barbara’s School of dance (Alumni)

“…the price that America must pay for the continued oppression of the Negro and other minority groups is the price of its own destruction.”

-Martin Luther King 1965

falo World Class Acoustic Guitars, West Herr Automotive Group (Williamsville) Councilman Rasheed Wyatt, Councilwoman Leah Halton-Pope, Councilwoman Zeneta Eberhart, ECMC, Mayor Byron Brown, Legislator Howard Johnson, Legislator April Baskin, Community Health Center and Alan Core Funeral Home. Bessie Patterson is the Coordinator. For vendor space call Sandara Baines 716881-1973.

Dr. King Visited Buffalo and Rochester Dr. Martin Luther King appeared in Buffalo at Kleinhans in 1967 when the University at Buffalo invited him to come and give a speech about his stance against the Vietnam War. Only a few Black Clergy members came out to hear him. He took pictures with Deputy Speaker Arthur O. Eve, George K. Arthur, Lt. Marian Bass and others. He was was assassinated six months after his visit to Buffalo.

-No Stranger to the Rochester AreaIn 1958 Dr. King spoke at the Rochester City Club and Colgate Rochester Divinity School, before attending a reception that evening at the home of Dr. Charles Lunsford, the city's first Black physician and a major civil rights figure.

Four years later in 1962, he visited Rochester a second time for the Empire Baptist Missionary Convention, drawing a crowd of 1,500 people eager to hear the powerful orator speak. In 1963,Dr. King delivered the baccalaureate address at Keuka College while receiving an honorary degree.

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Common Council Elects New Leadership, Saving Black Lives From the Scourge of Announces Committee Appointments: Menthol Tobacco ...

Halton-Pope Makes History he Biden Administration decision to delay

T Stephanie Barber Geter

Restoring Our Community Coalition Activist Righting Buffalo’s Decades-Old Wrongs The following article appeard in City and State Magazine which featured Stephanie Barber Geter for her work with ROC and the Restoration of Humboldt Parkway.

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.S. Transportation Department Secretary Pete Buttigieg doesn’t travel to Buffalo with a $55 million check on St. Patrick’s Day just so he can have wings and a Kimmelweck roll with his corned beef. Buttigieg – along with Gov. Kathy Hochul, U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and U.S. Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand – made the trip this year due to the efforts of Stephanie Barber Geter to right several decades of wrongs in her East Buffalo neighborhood.

Geter, the chair of the Restoring Our Community Coalition, has for years been at the forefront of advocating a plan to restore the original Humboldt Parkway in Buffalo and reconnect East Buffalo to the rest of the city. The plan is to build a new park over the Kensington Expressway, which divides the mostly Black neighborhood from the rest of Buffalo and was built in the 1960s. Buttigieg awarded the project $55 million, the largest Reconnecting Communities grant in the nation, part of a program under the federal infrastructure law to grow economic opportunities and remove barriers. Hochul has committed $1 billion in state funds to the project, which will cover a mile of the Kensington Expressway to reconnect the Humboldt Parkway.

The Restoring Our Community Coalition has cited the construction of the Kensington, and the connecting Scajaquada Expressway, as a primary cause for a rise in crime and blight in East Buffalo. The original Humboldt Parkway was part of Buffalo’s Frederick Law Olmsted-designed park system and served as a parkway dotted with six rows of elm trees to connect what is now known as Martin Luther King Jr. Park in East Buffalo, once a working class Polish neighborhood that is now largely Black, with Delaware Park which abuts Buffalo’s toniest neighborhoods.

In addition to the Kensington deck, the project includes repaving, new sidewalks, restored greenspace, new landscaping, repaired driveway aprons, a new roundabout and Americans with Disabilities Act compliance.

Geter has said the original decision to “disinvest in a community” robbed East Buffalo of “its best and most prosperous citizens” and said the project “represents hope.”

In March, Geter said she and her neighbors were more than a little bit surprised that Buttigieg, Hochul, Schumer, Gillibrand and the rest of the elected officials gathered for the press conference were willing to make East Buffalo’s dream a reality.

“The elected officials for once in my lifetime gathered together and decided that they would deliver the goods to this community,” Geter said. “We were honestly shocked.”

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

-Tao Te Ching

he Buffalo Common Council has elected new leadership to guide the city's legislative body. The Council, consisting of nine members across Buffalo’s districts, convened to appoint its President, President Pro Tempore, and Majority Leader, along with new committee chairs.

Newly Elected Leadership: •President: Christopher P. Scanlon (South District) •President Pro Tempore: Bryan J. Bollman (Lovejoy District) •Majority Leader: Leah M. Halton-Pope (Ellicott District: The first African American woman to hold that position).

-New Committee ChairsBuffalo Common Council Committee meetings occur every other Tuesday and will reconvene with the new committee chairs effective Wednesday, January 3, 2024 with Civil Service starting at 9:45a.m.

The appointment of new committee chairs and members to all of the Buffalo Common Council committees and their meeting times include: •CIVIL SERVICE COMMITTEE (9:45a.m.): Chair: Councilmember Rasheed N.C. Wyatt Members: Councilmembers Bollman, Rivera, Nowakowski •FINANCE COMMITTEE (10:00a.m.): Chair: Council Member Mitch Nowakowski Members: Councilmembers Bollman, Everhart, Halton-Pope •LEGISLATION COMMITTEE (1:00p.m.): Chair: Council Member Joel P. Feroleto Members: Councilmembers Golombek, Halton-Pope, Rivera •COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE (2:00p.m.): Chair: Council Member Joseph Golombek, Jr. Members: Councilmembers Everhart, Feroleto, Wyatt SPECIAL COMMITTEES: •BUDGET COMMITTEE: Chair: Majority Leader, Council Woman Leah M. Halton-Pope Members: Councilmembers Bollman, Golombek, Wyatt •CLAIMS COMMITTEE: Chair: Council Member David A. Rivera Members: Councilmembers Everhart, Feroleto, Golombek •EDUCATION COMMITTEE: Chair: Council Woman Zeneta B. Everhart Members: Councilmembers Wyatt, Nowakowski, Bollman •MWBE COMMITTEE: Chair: Majority Leader, Council Woman Leah M. Halton-Pope Members: Councilmembers Everhart, Golombek, Jr., Rivera •POLICE OVERSIGHT COMMITTEE: Chair: Council Member David A. Rivera Members: Councilmembers Feroleto, Nowakowski, Wyatt •PRESERVATION COMMITTEE: Chair: Council Member Joseph Golombek, Jr. Members: Councilmembers Everhart, Feroleto, Nowakowski •RULES COMMITTEE: Chair: Council President Christopher P. Scanlon Members: Councilmembers Bollman, Halton-Pope •TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE: Chair: President Pro Tempore, Council Member Bryan J. BollmanMembers: Councilmembers Everhart, Feroleto, Nowakowski •WATERFRONT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE: Chair: Council Member David A. Rivera. Members: Councilmembers Golombek, Jr., Nowakowski, Rashied Wyatt.

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the ban on menthol tobacco has deadly consequences on the African and Black Community. At this time of year, parents are trying to stretch their budgets even further for presents.

As a parent, and community activist, I believe stopping Big Tobacco from targeting our youth with menthol tobacco is essential to our community’s health and financial well-being.

"STAND UP!" Tobacco use takes a heavy toll on Black Stan Martin New Yorkers – on their health, wallet and their pocketbooks. According to the American Lung Association, 28,000 New Yorkers die each year due to tobacco use - a disproportionate number of these deaths impact the black community and are a result of menthol flavored tobacco. A pack of cigarettes in New York State is nearing $14, so at one pack per day, the weekly cost is nearly $98, and the monthly cost approaches $420. Think about it, this money could be used for so many other necessities (i.e., food, clothing, education, a family vacation and etc.).

Research shows that 45,000 African American/Black people die each year because of menthol tobacco use. However, a ban on menthol tobacco will save over 255,000 black lives over the next 40 years. Now is the time to ban menthol tobacco and save our children from becoming the next generation of replacement smokers. Over 7 out of 10 African American/Black youth ages 12-17 years who smoke use menthol. Please reach out to your city legislator and ask them to support Buffalo’s menthol ban and complete the Community Menthol Ban Survey by going to: https://forms.office.com/r/x6qs3DQP0R -MENTHOL FUNERALOn January 18th 2024 there will be a Menthol Funeral held in Washington, D.C. outside the steps of the White House. Along with a rally to express our disappointment in the Biden's Administration delay to ban menthol tobacco. The procession will begin at Black Lives Matter Plaza. Please let me know if you are interested in getting on a bus, "leaving around midnight" and traveling roundtrip to and from Washington, D.C. "in oneday" to show Buffalo's support of this historic event? For more information, contact me directly!

Stan Martin is Founder & CEO Stan Martin Consulting, LLC Email: sm@stanmartinconsulting.com Website: www. stanmartinconsulting.com Office: (716) 393-2808

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Lecture Series Set

"The Revolutionary King: What They Never Taught Us In School About Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." This month (January), the Nazarene Messianic Party (NMP) invites you to join a thought-provoking lecture series titled "The Revolutionary King: What They Never Taught Us In School about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." The series, presented by Moreh Judah EmEl, popularly known as Bro. Judah, will take place every Sunday from January 14th to February 4th, between 2:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Merriweather Library and on Zoom. The sessions will delve into crucial aspects of Dr. King's legacy, including "The Letter From A Birmingham Jail," "Dr. King’s Radical Transformation," "Dr. King vs. Capitalism," and culminating with the impactful statement from Dr. King himself on February 4th: "We’re Going Have to Change the System."

This educational series sheds light on Dr. King's realization that while voting and civil rights were vital in addressing the struggles of Black Americans, they alone were insufficient to secure complete human rights. Dr. King recognized the imperative need to reform the entire American economic system for genuine and lasting change to occur.

The featured lecturer, Bro. Judah, brings over 30 years of dedicated study of the Bible and serves as an educator and advocate for human rights and workers’ rights. His commitment extends towards fostering transformation within the present oppressive societal structure. By employing a combination of lectures, slideshows, and interactive discussions, the series aims to engage participants in an exploration of Dr. King's visionary perspective.

The Nazarene Messianic Party operates under the umbrella of the C.O.I. Biblical & Cultural Center. Its mission is to educate individuals on global issues from a religio-political standpoint, offering an alternative perspective to the existing social and political governing systems. To register for zoom visit the NMP.org.

-Submitted By Deidra EmEl, an NMP member.

Volunteers! Please Register For 4th Mlk Day! The Monarch of Infinite Possibilities LLC in partnership with the Michigan Street AfriFaustenia can AmeriMorrow can Heritage Corridor and the local NAACP Buffalo Branch will host a local version of the National MLK Day of Service on Monday, January 15th beginning at 8a.m. Volunteers from all over WNY will gather at the Durham Memorial AME Zion Church on 200 Eagle St. The theme this year is, “Clean and Green,." This year, 25 MLK Day Project Sites will welcome hundreds of community volunteers to participate in 1-2 hour environmentally friendly projects like: cleaning, painting, and beautifying the neighborhood.

Faustenia Morrow, Principal at the Monarch of Infinite Possibilities.

The Buffalo MLK Day of Service Committee is still seeking volunteers. For additional information on the event and to register to volunteer visit www.michiganstreetbuffalo.org/mlk-day

THE MEETING. On March 25, 1964 Martin Luther King and Malcolm X - two of America’s most influential leaders - were both on Capitol Hill watching a Senate hearing regarding legislation aimed at ending segregation in public places and racial discrimination in employment. The two shook hands and exchanged greetings as cameras clicked away. Then, just as quickly as it began, the brief meeting between the two legends was over. Less than a year later, Malcolm was dead, the victim of an assassin’s bullet.

10 Entertainment

"MOM’S GONE " the Stageplay Comes to Paul Robeson Theater for 3 Night Engagement

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fter a successful debut to a packed house at True Bethel Baptist Church in December of 2023 "Mom’s Gone" is back by popular demand and this time on stage at the Paul Robeson Theater on January 12!

Presented by Alemaedae Theater Production company, Mom’s Gone is a powerful dramatic stage play about loss and family bonds as Marsha a young woman and her estranged siblings Jackson and Ava attempt to repair broken relationships after losing their mother. "It's a play about forgiveness and dealing with the loss of a loved one. We hope that theater goers will be inspired to repair broken relationships and gain a sense of peace after seeing the production," said Phil Davis who wrote and directed the play .

Starring Taura "Chyna" Stephens, Lesha Green, Monique Cunningham, Charles Everhart, Leon Copeland, Elisha Ali and Jennifer Booker, "Mom's Gone" is full of raw emotion that theater goers are bound to connect with as these talented actors bring this heartwarming story to life on the Paul Robeson stage. Get ready to laugh, cry, and be thoroughly entertained.

The play will be held Friday January 12th through Sunday January14th, at the Paul Robeson Theatre located at 350 Masten Avenue. Shows are Friday and Saturday at 7p.m. and Sunday at 4p.m.

Grab your friends, family, and loved ones, and mark your calendars for a night filled with healing and real life-changing theater. Get your tickets now and be prepared for an evening of non-stop entertainment!

Tickets are available at tickets are available on Eventbrite or www.atpgalaxy.com or you can call the theater for more info at 716 884-2013.

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Burchfield Penney Annual Stay Gold Community Art Party January 12!

The Burchfield Penney Art Center's beloved community art party, Stay Gold, returns on January 12 from 4:30 – 11:00 p.m.! This one-night celebration and immersive arts experience – part of the M&T Second Friday event series - will feature visual and performance art, dance, music, and whimsical creativity throughout the building.

Thanks to the generous support of M&T Bank, admission is free."The arts have the unique power to inspire creativity, foster cultural understanding, and strengthen communities. "Few events truly capture this impact like Stay Gold at the Burchfield Penney Art Center," said Francesco Lagutaine, M&T Bank Chief Marketing and Communications Officer and a Burchfield Penney Development Committee member.

The community is invited to explore pop-up art installations created by talented local artists, especially for the event, and ongoing gallery exhi- A.I. The Anomaly bitions at the Burchfield Penney.

A list of live art installations also includes "Other Girl" and live performances that include award winning national recording artist A.I. The Anomaly who teams up with Carolinah Blu to present Lyrical Gold: A Fusion of Sonics, Poetry and Lyricism, as well as B.flo-Girls Ladies of Hip Hop among others.

Its going to be a great experience. Go to burchfieldpenney.org for more info.

On Stage at Helium ARNEZ-J

Fri. Sat. 13 from & 7:30 & 10 p.m.; Sun. Jan. 14 7:00 p.m.

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NEED FOR APOLOGIES PODCAST LIVE Wed Jan 17 at 8:00 p.m.

C YOUNGFLY Thurs.

Jan 25 at 7p.m. Fri, Jan 26 at 7 & 10 p.m.; Sat, Jan 27 at 10 p.m.

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Creative Mornings Kicks Off 2024 with Activist Author Mark Talley

Just Buffalo Literary Center Invites Poets To Write for Poetry Fellowship

Creative Mornings will be featuring local activist author Mark Talley Jan 12 from 8:30 AM to 10AM in Allen Hall - UB 3485 Main Street.

Mark TalMark Talley ley, an accomplished author and advocate, is deeply committed to enhancing his community. He is the founder of Agents For Advocacy, a nonprofit organization that tackles systemic inequalities. Mark’s book, “5/14 The Day the Devil Came to Buffalo,” illuminates their personal journey following their mother’s experience as a victim of a terrorist attack.

CreativeMornings is a free breakfast speaker series that happens every month in cities around the world.

Buffalo formed a chapter to join the collective in 2016.

-WNY Stage.

Applications are now open for Just Buffalo Literary Center’s Poetry Fellowship, judged in 2024 by Megan Fernandes a multi-published writer and poet.

Healing Arts: The New Masters Workshops

The New Masters in an empowering series of free workshops created in support the communities that have been impacted by the devastating massacre on May 14, 2022 on Jefferson Avenue. Register and explore the therapeutic potential of arts as a tool for healing.

Upcoming Workshops: Jan. 11 5-7p.m. Pen Your Pain for Progress with artist YNX716.

Jan. 13 2-4p.m. Healing Through Zines with artist Laura Chenault .

Jan. 16 5:30p.m. -7:30p.m.

Art as an Expression with artist Muhammad Zaman.

Sessions held at the TriMain Building 2945 Main Street suite 441 Although Free registration is required .

Visit cultruelife.org to learn more and register for these healing free workshops.

The award, which is open to adult poets of all ages and career stages, includes a $2,500 honorarium; a month-long residency in Buffalo, New York, during August 2024; and the opportunity to perform as a featured reader alongside Fernandes at Just Buffalo’s acclaimed Silo City Reading Series.

The deadline for applications is February 29, 2024; the 2024 Poetry Fellow will be announced in mid April.

Fellowship details, application guidelines and eligibility requirements are available at justbuffalo.org

“The WIZ” Returning to Broadway!

“The Wiz” is officially returning to Broadway. The previously announced revival, which is currently appearing as a national tour, will play the Marquis Theatre in New York City located at 210 W46th St, beginning on March 29, 2024 ahead of an opening night scheduled for April 17!

The Broadway production has been announced as a limited engagement, with an end date to be scheduled. The musical version first debuted in 1975.

Featuring an all-Black cast, “The Wiz” is a cultural classic.

Directed by Schele Williams with additional writing by Amber Ruffin, it now features Nichelle Lewis, whose TikTok audition landed her the role as Dorothy; a stirring Melody A. Betts as Aunt Em and Evillene; Kyle Ramar Freeman as the Lion, Phillip Johnson Richardson as the Tinman; Avery Wilson as the Scarecrow; and Deborah Cox as Glinda, with Wayne Brady returning to Broadway to play Oz. It promises to be a hit with Hannah Beachler’s (“Black Panther”) kaleidoscopic set and the former Beyoncé choreographer JaQuel Knight’s dance moves, especially when Dorothy and her squad of outsiders make their way to Emerald City.

Tickets and info can be found on tickets.broadwaydirect.com

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

NO TOXIC TUNNEL! Sherry Sherrill, pictured left, of We Are Women Warriors speaks to reporters at the" Reconnect And Restore Humboldt Parkway Neighborhood And Its MLK Park" support rally and march last Saturday from Ferry and Jefferson to Humboldt Parkway. The goal: to support neighborhood residents and homeowners who want to see the return of Humboldt Park's majestic and historic tree-lined canopy (pictured far right) and a reconnection of Humboldt Parkway neighborhoods. They are opposed to the DOT's plans for the billion dollar toxic tunnel. Challenger Photos

Ill Conceived and Dangerous: NYSDOT’S Billion-Dollar Toxic Tunnel Must Be A No-Go !

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By Marcia Ladiana

he New York State Department of Transportation’s (NYSDOT) project to reconnect our community by constructing a tunnel, feet from our homes on Humboldt Parkway, is a smokescreen to reconstruct the deteriorated Kensington Expressway, at our expense.

NYSDOT’s tunnel project is ill-conceived and dangerous. It will burden our community with air/noise pollution, likely damage our homes, and will further disconnect our community, eliminating economic development and any possibility of the full restoration of Humboldt Parkway.

During the construction of the tunnel between Dodge and Sidney Streets, NYSDOT will use explosives very close to our homes to blast bedrock under the expressway and Humboldt Parkway to remove 5 to 20 feet of bedrock to widen and deepen the tunnel. Demolition and construction 24 hours a day for 4-5 years will damage our health and well-being with continuous exposure to excessive toxic air pollution, high levels of noise/vibrations, and extraordinary disruption. Once completed, Humboldt Parkway will lie on top of the tunnel.

There are many potential health risks for our community associated with the construction and operation of the tunnel, including: AIR POLLUTION: •There will be a significant increase in air pollution during demolition and construction.

•Air pollution will increase greatly after construction at each tunnel portal. Anyone living, working, or attending school near Dodge and Sidney Streets will be exposed to a toxic plume that will extend about 1000 feet from each end of the tunnel.

•The tunnel will have ventilation located at Sydney, Utica, and Dodge Streets that can be reversed when needed to pump toxic air and smoke from the tunnel into our community.

ASBESTOS: There are approximately 250,000 sq. ft. of extremely deteriorated concrete retaining walls and bridges containing asbestos, which may be released into the air during demolition and removal, increasing our risk of contracting deadly mesothelioma.

NOISE: There will be a significant increase in noise, day and night, during demolition and construction.

VIBRATIONS: Five years of continuous and significant vibrations from blasting, crushing, pounding, drilling, sawing, operating heavy-duty equipment, hauling debris and materials in large trucks, and other activities so close to our homes will likely cause structural and cosmetic damage to our fragile, historic houses and damage underground utility lines.

RADON GAS: EPA classifies Buffalo as Zone 1 for radon, a radioactive gas. Blasting bedrock may release radon gas that can enter our homes through cracked foundations, increasing our risk of lung cancer.

RADIATION: The subbase of the existing Kensington Expressway likely contains radioactive slag. Exposure to radiation during demolition can potentially increase the risk of cancer in our community, especially for unborn babies and children.

NYSDOT claims the increase in air pollution is minimal and our air is and will continue to be safe to breathe. However, they have never measured the pollutants present in our air or conducted a health risk study to determine if the diseases and deaths we have suffered are related to exposure to vehicle exhaust. An air quality study to measure all pollutants present thoroughly and accurately is necessary to determine the true health impact caused by inhaling the hazardous air pollutants emitted from the exhaust of millions of vehicles over decades. This exhaust contaminates the air we breathe and can cause asthma, heart and lung diseases, cancer, dementia, autism, cognitive impairments, behavioral difficulties, premature death, and other diseases.

NYSDOT promised us an Olmsted Park. Instead, with the tunnel, we will get a 12-acre GREEN ROOF which will require substantial maintenance at a very high cost to us. The trees NYSDOT claims will grow 50 feet tall, will be planted in 3 feet of soil on top of the concrete tunnel roof with no regular access to water. Below the soil will be a 6-inch section for drainage and protection of the tunnel roof. These materials will deteriorate due to heavy load, freeze/thaw conditions, deicing salt, microorganisms, and other factors. Tree roots can pierce the protective layer and tunnel cover causing leaks and damage. To protect motorists, the green roof must be replaced regularly, and leaks repaired just like the roof on our homes. If the green roof installation is shoddy, then replacement may be needed sooner. Green roof replacement will require a complete tear-off every time including the removal and replacement of the trees, soil, drainage/protective layer, and possibly the tunnel cover.

NYSDOT is forcing our community to host a tunnel that we cannot use. Utica Street's entrance and exit ramps will be removed, disconnecting our community, and cutting us off from any economic development. Traffic on Humboldt Parkway Southbound will increase by at least 4000 cars per day due to backups from Best Street, which will be the only entrance to the Kensington

Expressway south of Grider Street.

The NYS Department of Environmental Conservation has designated our neighborhood one of the top 10 disadvantaged communities with the highest air pollution burdens in NYS. The Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA) enacted in 2019 requires that decisions made by any NYS agency, including NYSDOT, do not disproportionately burden disadvantaged communities, prioritizing reductions in greenhouse gases and air pollutants caused by vehicles.

NYSDOT’s main objective for the tunnel project is to maintain current traffic levels. NYSDOT’s greenhouse gas analysis for the tunnel is fraudulent and a clear violation of NYS CLCPA. Although NYSDOT claims overall support for the tunnel project, community members at public meetings have overwhelmingly expressed their anger with the tunnel project. As they learn the truth about the tunnel project, most affected residents support the full restoration of Humboldt Parkway from MLK Park to Delaware Park, like Buffalo’s Chapin, Bidwell, and Lincoln Parkways.

Restoring Humboldt Parkway by filling in the Kensington Expressway can be done quickly, with less disruption and harm to our health for ONE TENTH THE COST of the tunnel. Any remaining “tunnel funds” can be used to modernize Buffalo’s streets, and transportation network, starting in our community, providing safe and efficient travel options. Traffic congestion, accidents, and air pollution will be greatly reduced by using Buffalo streets, which are well below capacity and can easily handle more traffic. Most Kensington Expressway motorists live in Buffalo.

We have the right to clean air and water, and a healthful environment as guaranteed to all New Yorkers by the NYS Constitution. The only way to ensure our rights are not violated is to restore Humboldt Parkway fully.

Note: Marcia Ladiana has been a resident of Humboldt Parkway for the past 35 years. She is a recently retired NYS environmental engineer and a member of the East Side Parkways Coalition.

A Tribute To United Veterans of Buffalo Founder Sandi Williams

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ay this new year bring joyous moments, renewed energy, and countless reasons to smile.

As we embark on this journey, let's embrace the opportunities it presents, build bridges of kindness and understanding and cherish our connections.

For me personally, one of those connections is our Amvets Post founder Army Veteran Sandi Williams. She is also president and founder of United Veterans of Buffalo.

Her dedication, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to our community of veterans has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her selflessness and service have not only defended our nation but continues to uplift and inspire those around her. On behalf of the entire veteran community, I, along with many others, extend our deepest appreciation and affectionate gratitude for your immeasurable contributions. Army veteran Williams’ legacy of service will forever resonate within our hearts and minds. Her involvement and contributions have not only strengthened our community but have also inspired many, myself included, to continue the noble work of advocating for our fellow veterans. Her genuine appreciation for the efforts undertaken within our community, especially the work done during the founding of our AMVETS Post, has been a source of immense encouragement.

I invite you all to join me in expressing our sincerest gratitude to Sandi. You can show your appreciation by visiting my Instagram page, StreetLegacy_Photography, and/or my Facebook page, Darvin Adams, and leaving your positive comments and messages of thanks. Let's flood the comments with our heartfelt appreciation for Sandi's service and the difference she's made in our lives. Every positive comment will be shared to further highlight the incredible impact Sandi has had on our community.

I’m Just Saying…

Sandi Williams

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Support for Fully Restoring Humboldt Parkway

-A CHALLENGER COMMENTARY-

The Mayor Who Stole The First Night of Kwanzaa…

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wenty-one years ago I proposed multiple options for filling or covering the MLK/Route 33 Expressway while a Council Member for Buffalo’s Masten District. I secured the first funding for the project from NYSDOT while a NYS Senator. I strongly support fully restoring Humboldt Parkway in Buffalo, N.Y. There is a national movement accompanied with lots of federal funding to reconnect communities negatively impacted by bad transportation planning that had little or no regard for Black and other minority neighborhoods when many of these highways were built in cities across the U.S. Environmental and transportation justice and equity are at the core of the restorative policies and projects that are being pushed in largely racially and economically disadvantaged communities.

When I proposed the idea 20 years ago, it was met with stiff resistance.

However, I, along with a dedicated City Council then a State Senate staff and lots of community leaders and other public officials and the local universities kept pushing the idea for the project. In 2010, while still a NYS Senator, I set up a meeting in my office with local leaders Stephanie Barber Jeter, Richard Cummings and the late Clarke Eaton and the leadership of NYSDOT. Together, we successfully pushed NYSDOT to use money for a feasibility study for removing or covering the expressway.

I am thankful for the leadership of residents, business, political and government leaders for keeping the project alive and moving forward. Now is the time for Buffalo to fully restore Humboldt Parkway. This is the perfect time and opportunity to go to Albany and Washington to advocate for more money for this project.

Antoine M. Thompson, a Buffalo native, served as NYS Senator, from 2007-2010; Chair, NYS Senate Committee on Environmental Conservation; Masten District Councilmember, 2001-2006. He is currently CEO, Greater Washington Region Clean Cities Coalition

Politicians, The Kensington 33, Elections and Us Dear Editor: Is Governor Kathy Hochul from Buffalo? If so, then why is she pushing a plan for the 33 expressway that the clear majority of residents don’t want. So far, I have read statements from The Olmstead Parks Conservancy, Colored Girls Bike Too, Slow Roll Buffalo, East Side Parkways Coalition, and others, all of whom oppose this half-baked billion-dollar tunnel idea. Even the Restore Our Community Coalition is not getting what they originally stated as their goal. They have lost membership. Those who remain are all good people, but after being told to “take it or leave it” by the powers that be, their group has decided to settle for less. How many more groups and organizations have to publicly express their displeasure before the Governor gets the message.

This is the same Gov. Hochul who barely won her first statewide election. Local Democrats were so nervous she would lose, they had to double up on their their efforts to get out the Black vote in her" hometown." They went so far as to recruit former President Barack and First Lady Michelle Obama to save Mrs. Hochul from embarrassment. If our concerns are not going to be listened to, maybe we shouldn’t be so quick to save the day once again with our votes next election time.

Speaking of which, where does State Senator Tim Kennedy stand on this transportation issue? For someone who has no problem stuffing my family’s mailbox with big glossy promotional campaign flyers, he sure is pretty darn quiet on this subject. I guess he figures it is best to say nothing. That way he won’t run afoul of his fellow politicians. Don’t upset the apple cart, it will not be looked upon favorably. Not exactly a profile in courage or anything you could call leadership.

But according to his non-stop brochures, Kennedy is the Chairman of the Transportation Committee. It takes years of working in the State Senate, building up seniority, in order to reach this powerful position. We can now expect to see essential projects funded. Roads, bridges, sidewalks, all types of transportation needs because we supported the South Buffalo politician’s ascension to his key post.

So, remind me again, why are we being asked to now vote for Kennedy for congress?

As a new member of the House of Representatives, he will have absolutely no power. He will give up a state position that is able to help Buffalo fix our broken infrastructure. In exchange, we will send him to Washington, where he won’t be able to do anything. Then again, maybe Kennedy will cut a deal with Republicans like he did in the past. As a County Legislator, the Dems had the majority, but Kennedy organized with the Republicans, giving them the chairmanship and other leadership positions. As a result, East side health clinics were shut down and Democrats were left shaking their heads. Who benefits from politicians moving up the ladder?

Certainly not us.

-James Robbins and Family, Buffalo NY

Brown Desecrates First Night of Cultural Holiday With Shameful Promotion of "Politricks"

If I Must Die

By Reaat Alareer 2003 If I must die, you must live to tell my story to sell my things to buy a piece of cloth and some strings, (make it white with a long tail) so that a child, somewhere in Gaza while looking heaven in the eye awaiting his dad who left in a blaze – and bid no one farewell not even to his flesh not even to himself – sees the kite, my kite you made, flying up above and thinks for a moment an angel is there bringing back love If I must die let it bring hope let it be a tale.

Claude McKay’s radical poem “If we Must Die ” was written in response to the race war declared on African Americans during the bloody summer of 1919, the notorious “Red Summer” that saw dozens of White attacks on Black communities across the United States. Once again, a poet has captured both the terrible violence of the age, and the indomitable spirit of survival, resistance, and revolt, adopting McKay's style.

The poet is Refaat Alareer.

A Palestinian writer, activist, and professor of English literature, who taught at the Islamic University of Gaza, Alareer (along with six members of his family) was killed on December 6, 2023 when his apartment was hit in an Israeli airstrike. Alareer’s heroic tale of resistance has rallied the world to the Palestinian cause. Over one hundred translations of “If I must Die” have appeared since his murder.- -BlackAgendaReport

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he Grinch who stole Christmas?

How about the mayor who stole the first night of Kwanzaa?

That’s exactly what Mayor Byron Brown did December 26th when he spoke for nearly a half hour promoting politricks in an attempt to connect his sorry record in this community to the high African centered principles of the Nguzo Saba – the 7 principles of Blackness; the foundation of the Kwanzaa celebration.

As an elder who has participated in Kwanzaa almost from its inception, I can bare witness to a time when the founder himself – Maulana Karenga - made a point to travel to Buffalo every year to personally deliver the annual Kwanzaa message because he was so impressed with our celebration. It was a message designed to “rescue” our minds and elevate our consciousness. Indeed, by definition, Kwanzaa is a celebration when we come together “to honor the ancestors, affirm the bonds between them and to celebrate African and African American culture.”

Not to hear politicians politrick.

After walking out I later expressed my disappointment to one of the organizers who replied they were just “working to honor the people around us and highlight us trying to work together.”

Fine and beautiful – it was a great idea to select a member of the community to honor each night. But What did that have to do with giving the mayor a political platform which basically overshadowed the honoree and put a damper on the gathering?

What have we become, I asked, political operatives in the name of culture?

No response.

As Black folk we don’t spend enough time holding our elected officials accountable.

Must we be reminded, that politicians are elected to serve us – not to be self serving and sell us out; to represent us and look out for the community’s best interests – not their own or the interests of the highest bidder ; to be honest and transparent, show humility, be a voice for the voiceless and to represent the will of the people.

Over the past 18 years under the Brown dynasty this community has descended into the bowels of political hell marked by ring kissing, political favoritism , and occasional buck dancing while the east side, once described as “the hole in the donut,” was ignored as cranes rose all around us building up the rest of the city.

So no beloved Kwanzaa committee members. We appreciate your hard work. But please don't lose your perspective. Politricks should never again be allowed to hijack the cultural pulpit at Kwanzaa.

A message from one of our readers (I received several but no one wanted to use their name) summed it up as follows: “The hopes of a new direction for Kwanzaa ...was dashed by the disrespectful and shameful promotion of an incompetent city government led by Mayor Byron Brown. He ruined Kwanzaa for all who were present to celebrate unity!”

I agree. -Alnisa Banks

“Tomorrow belongs to people who prepare for it today.”-AFRIKAN PROVERB

14

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

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15

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

“A nation that continues year after year to spend more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death.”

“The evils of capitalism are as real as the evils of militarism and evils of racism.”

-Martin Luther King

How to Boost Your Confidence in the New Year 2024!

A

s we approach 2024, the word for this year is "simplicity." This means simplifying our lives by reducing complexity and clutter.

It involves focusing on what's important and letting go of what's not.

By embracing simplicity, we can save time, money, and energy, and improve our health, well-being, and happiness.

As we set our goals for the New Year, two essential factors that can help us succeed are confidence and smart goals. Confidence is having a positive and realistic attitude towards oneself and one's abilities.

Confidence can boost our motivation, performance, and happiness. It can also help us cope with stress, anxiety, and fear. Smart goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound objectives Tiffany R. Lewis that we set for ourselves.

To achieve simplicity in the New Year, here are some tips to follow: 1. Reflect on your achievements in the past year before setting new goals. Celebrate your successes and appreciate how far you have come.

2. Start with a vision for how you want your life to be in 2024. What are your values, priorities, and passions? What do you want to achieve, experience, or enjoy? Write down your vision and keep it somewhere visible.

3. Set smart goals that align with your vision. Ensure that they are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Break them down into smaller steps to make them more manageable.

4. Build your confidence by practicing positive self-talk, affirmations, and gratitude. Challenge yourself, learn new skills, and seek feedback. Celebrate your successes, no matter how small.

5. Simplify your life by eliminating anything that distracts you from your goals or adds stress to your life. This could include physical clutter, digital clutter, mental clutter, or emotional clutter. Create routines and habits that support your goals and make your life easier.

6. Enjoy the journey towards achieving your goals. Remember that it's a process, not a destination. Don't let setbacks or failures discourage you from trying again. Have fun along the way, and don't forget to appreciate the present moment.

By following these tips, you can create a fulfilling, meaningful, and happy life. Remember that you have the power to shape your own destiny.

Happy New Year! ~Your Confidence Coach

16

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

Bills Squish the Fish 21-14 to Take On Second Thought . . .

Let the Playoff Games Begin!

AFC East Championship ! unday Night Football (SNF) color com-

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es, I know a Dolphin is a mammal and not a fish, but that catchy title has always been too much to resist!

I guess the Bills did not want to return to Hard Rock Stadium next week. Bills Special Teams finally came through with a game changing play - a 96-yard punt return by Deonte Harty to tie the game and change the momentum in their favor. Harty’s return was the longest punt return in Buffalo Bills history.

The Bills needed all three phases of the game in order to defeat the Miami Dolphins. Bills defense dominated the line of scrimmage with Ed Oliver, Poona Ford and DaQuan Jones forcing their will on the offensive line of the Dolphins. The pressure caused Tua to throw the ball early and high forcing punts from this high-powered offensive team.

Once again Bills defense came up with a big one this time with Safety Taylor Rapp during this five-game winning streak.

The Bills Head Coach message to his team after the devastating lost to the Eagles was “we’re close to consistently winning, but it’s hard to keep your strength and endurance after playing in London and other cities throughout the season, it’s been a tough grind for this team.”

Bills Punt Returner Deonte Harty discussing his record-breaking punt return said: “Punter out kicked his coverage and I saw a crease and hit it then went down the left side for the score; you must be ready when your number is called. It’s definitely a blessing to perform at this high level.”

Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa said about the game ending interception: “They played two-man coverage, tried to anticipate the throw and an interception was the result.”

Bills safety Taylor Rapp read the play perfectly and made the interception. This game was very similar to the 2022 game in Miami where the Dolphins won because of Josh Allen turnovers. Allen seems to play better after taking hits by the opposing defense. He loves to run the football over a defender taking sometimes unnecessary punishment.

Said Joshz; “I want the ball in my hands at the end of the game. That’s how it’s been for my entire career. That will never change”.

I think veteran running back Leonard Fournette should not only run the football more but has excellent hands for catching the ball out of the backfield. He can also pass block which makes it a no brainer to implement him into the offense more often.

I’m really impressed with the steady play of the entire offensive line but especially Spencer Brown’s improvement on the line.

Brown and rookie guard O’Cyrus Torrence have become a nice combination on the right side of the line.

Bills Pro Bowl tackle Dion Dawkins and Connor McGovern continue elite level blocking on the left side of the line. Hopefully cornerback Rasul Douglass can return during the playoffs from an apparent knee injury suffered against the Dolphins.

Bills second year linebacker from Clemson, Baylon Spector, had four combined tackles in the game after replacing injured Tyrel Dodson and already has the reputation of being a tackling machine. Spector filled in nicely during crucial times in the game. The Bills backups are playing more of a role in these games and that bolds well for the future. The future is n ow and Pittsburgh Steelers is presently the most important game taking place at High Mark stadium.

Prediction: I see the Bills defense forcing Steelers QB Mason Rudolph into a passing game after stopping running backs Najee Harris and Jaylen Warren’s physical running game. The Bills should win another ugly style game with Josh Allen limiting his turnovers and allowing running game Leonard Fournette, Latavis Murray and James Cook to lead the team to a 24 -17 win.

Please remember to be a good sport!

S

RISE UP RIGH SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS Welcome to Rise Up Right Let's Rise Up

mentator, Chris Collinsworth, while describing the first half of the Bills Divisional Buffalo Bills Week 18 showdown against the Dolphins aptly deOn Sunday night, there was a game scribed it as the “Josh Allen Experience.” played that will go down as one of the That may have conjured up different images classic rival games in the NFL. As the for different people, but for me, it brought back distant mem- week approaches, slogans like "Grill the ories of the towering Comet Roller Coaster at the old Crystal Bills" or "Squish the Fish" became more Beach amusement park. I was immediately flooded with excit- apparent. The Bills would be victorious ing recollections of that thrilling roller coaster ride with its rush 21-14 as they won their fourth straight of adrenaline fueled highs, followed by stomach churning lows AFC East championship. Now with the from its sudden and rapid descents. Watching Josh Allen perform was much like hanging on for dear life on those long ago playoffs starting as early as Sunday the Bills record will be 0-0 and it's win or stay home as they face the Pittsburgh rides at the famed Crystal Beach roller coaster.

Like the Comet, the “Josh Allen Experience” is suggestive Steelers at Highmark Stadium in the Wild Card round. Will of something that is, at once, both exciting yet scary about the the Bills be able to continue their winning ways?

Bills, as they begin their fifth consecutive playoff run. The Bills Buffalo Sabres Hockey chances of making it to, and winning Super Bowl LVIII will take The Buffalo Sabres have started off the new year on the them only as far as Allen can lead them. Which is to say, to the right track with back-to-back wins against the Canadians (61) and the Penguins 3-1. Against the Canadians last Thurstop of the mountain, or into a mountain side wreckage.

At the beginning of the second half, with Buffalo still trailing day, Jeff Skinner recorded four points, Tage Thompson had Miami by a touchdown in their fraught 21 - 14 victory, Collin- two goals, and Rasmus Dahlin, Casey Mittelstadt and Jack sworth’s insightful broadcast partner, Mike Tirico, asked what Quinn added a goal and an assist. On Saturday against the advice he’d give to Allen. Without hesitation, Collinsworth said Penguins, the Sabres would collect goals from Alex Tuch, he would just tell Allen to, “don’t stop being you.” And that is Rasmus Dahlin, and Zemgus Girgensons. The Sabres are exactly what Allen did - donning his super hero cape and all - getting ready for six game homestand. Can the Sabres conhe kept on being the guy who just can’t seem to help himself tinue to pile up wins? from keeping his familiar ‘hero ball’ style of play on the shelf. More Buffalo Sports His tough, not-to-be-denied, 15 yard first down run on third and The Buffalo Bandits defeated the Colorado Mammoth 12-8 13, which helped the Bills bleed the fourth quarter clock was last Saturday at Key Bank Center.

Exhibit A for the irrepressible style of hero ball for which he The Buffalo Extreme will start their New Year off on the has become so well known. And with a little bit of help from his friends, especially Deonte Hardy’s 96 yard punt return TD, road against the Binghamton Bulldogs. The Buffalo ExJosh and the Bills finally pulled away from a proud and pesky treme ended 2023 with an 8-2 record.

For more sports talk and news follow me on Facebook @ Dolphins teams that few had given a chance to win this game because of their rash of key late season injuries. Going forward Andre Robinson or D'Andre Torch Robinson. Join the Rise in the playoffs, which is a new season, what we must hope that Up Family Sports Network for a look at all the daily sports Allen will realize that sometimes, discretion is the better part of shows. Tune into the WUFO sports report every Sunday at 6p.m., and every Monday and Wednesday at 10p.m. Revalor.

Allen’s critics will tell you, as does T’bu, my esteemed West member to Act Accordingly as you continue to support your Coast consultant that “ . . . as good as he is, he has just not settled Rise Up Right articles. down and matured enough to take what’s available instead of getting greedy and making horrible decisions.”

While it’s hard to argue with that assessment, I am not about to count out him and the Bills. Josh Allen is still a generational talent and with him at the helm, the Bills will always have a puncher’s chance. I had already counted out the Bills weeks ago when they were mired at 5 - 5. I figured as many did, that they were dead and buried. Of course, not all the credit goes to Allen. James Cook’s legs, Ed Oliver’s ferocious play on the D-line and the play of many others have made the Bills a team possessed. And not to be left unmentioned is the stellar work of Head Coach Sean McDermott in keeping this squad together through a tense period that Ice Trae Hot In Toronto would have made many teams fold.Right now, we must all On Friday, December 15, 2023 the Atlanta Hawks made their way into the “Six” hoping not to hope that the “Josh Allen Experience,” like the terrifying rides of my youth aboard the Comet, with its exhilarating highs, followed by the sudden, plummeting drops, will, like the roller coaster car, return safely to the slow, reassuring straightaway ride to the exit gate.

get a sixth loss in a row. They were successful in that endeavor as Trae “Ice” Young went for 38 points and 11 assists. As always Toronto fought bravely. But when you get out rebounded, especially on the offensive boards, shoot too many threes while making a small percentage of them and go 14 for 25 from the free throw line. That recipe is one for disaster. Atlanta won the game 125-104. Scottie Barnes led Toronto with 23 points. And while “Ice” Trae was cold in the first half with only 9 points. Young heated up in the second half!!! Pictured on left 1 Trae Young passes the ball to teammate Clint Capela while surrounded by Raptor’s Scottie Barnes and Jakob Poeltl and pictured right Scottie Barnes attempts a tough basket surrounded by Hawks’ Center Clint Capela and other Atlanta players. Photos and Text by A. Dorcely

17

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

BLACK HISTORYMARTIN LUTHER KING continued froim page 3 Baptist Church in Montgomery, Alabama. He receives a Ph.D. in theology from Boston University in 1955.

1955–56 In December 1955 King is chosen to head the Montgomery Improvement Association, formed by the Black community to lead a boycott of the segregated city buses. The boycott comes about after a Black woman named Rosa Parks refused to give up her bus seat to a white man and was arrested. In response, King leads the Montgomery bus boycott. Late in 1956 the U.S. Supreme Court rules that segregation on buses is unconstitutional.

1957 King and other activists, notably Bayard Rustin, establish a group later known as the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC). It is formed to help local organizations carry out civil rights activities in the South.

1959 A visit to India gives King a long-awaited opportunity to study Gandhi’s techniques of nonviolent protest.

1960 King and his family move to his native city of Atlanta, where he becomes co-pastor, with his father, of the Ebenezer Baptist Church. At this post King devotes most of his time to the SCLC and the civil rights movement.

April 16, 1963 To protest racial segregation, a Black student sits at a drugstore lunch counter designated for whites only in Birmingham, Alabama, in 1963.

That spring King had participated in a campaign in Birmingham, Alabama, to end segregation at lunch counters and in hiring practices. Police had turned dogs and fire hoses on the protesters, and King had been arrested along with a large number of his supporters. In the Birmingham jail, King writes an open letter to his fellow clergymen explaining his philosophy of nonviolence and why he would continue to protest.

August 28, 1963 The historic March on Washington takes place. The march is organized by King and other civil rights leaders. More than 200,000 people participate in the demonstration. Near the Lincoln Memorial, in Washington, D.C., King delivers his famous “I Have a Dream” speech. The march influences the subsequent passage of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

October 14, 1964 King is announced as the winner of the Nobel Prize for Peace.

1965 The historic Selma March, also called the Selma to Montgomery March, takes place. It is a political march from Selma, Alabama, to the state’s capital, Montgomery. King leads the march as part of an effort to register Black voters in the state. Demonstrators had twice attempted the march in the preceding weeks. On Sunday, March 7 (known as “Bloody Sunday”), they had been violently turned back by local police officers. Two weeks after Bloody Sunday as many as 25,000 people participate in the roughly 50mile (80-kilometer) march over five days. The Selma March and the events surrounding it become a symbol of the civil rights movement.

The march leads directly to the passage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

1966 King initiates a drive against racial discrimination in Chicago.

April 4, 1968 Martin Luther King, Jr., was assassinated on April 4, 1968, outside the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, Tennessee. The wreath marks the place where he was shot.

LEGAL NOTICE RFP

SUMMONS Supreme Court of New York, Erie County GITSIT SOLUTIONS LLC, Plaintiff, -againstDOUGLAS GIERMAN AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARY GIERMAN; KEVIN GIERMAN AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARY GIERMAN; GAIL MANGUS AS HEIR AND DISTRIBUTEE OF THE ESTATE OF MARY GIERMAN; UNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF MARY GIERMAN; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (WESTERN DISTRICT) O/B/O INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE; "JOHN DOE" AND "JANE DOE" said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of the premises being foreclosed herein,, Defendants. Index No. 810896/2023 Mortgaged Premises: 37 Philadelphia Street, Buffalo, NY 14207 Section: 77.41 Block: 1 Lot: 48. To The Above Named Defendant(s): 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. If you fail to appear or to answer within the aforementioned time frame, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. NOTICE OF NATURE OF ACTION AND RELIEF SOUGHT THE OBJECTIVE of the above captioned action is to foreclose on a Consolidation and/or Modified Mortgage to secure $70,500.00 and interest, recorded in the Erie County Clerk’s Office on May 15, 2009, in Book 13446, Page 5249, Control Number 2009096771, covering the premises known as 37 Philadelphia Street, Buffalo, NY 14207. The relief sought herein is a final judgment directing sale of the premises described above to satisfy the debt secured by the mortgage described above. Plaintiff designates Erie County as the place of trial. Venue is based upon the County in which the mortgaged premises is located.

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. FRIEDMAN VARTOLO, LLP 1325 Franklin Avenue, Suite 160 Garden City, New York 11530, Attorneys for Plaintiff.

January 11, 18, 25 February 1

Erie County Department of Senior Services is seeking proposal statements from qualified entities interested in providing personal care services, level I/housekeeping & level II for Erie County Department of Senior Services (RFP # 2024-002VF). The Department will have a Q & A session on Tuesday January 16, 2024, from 2:00 - 4:00 pm. Please check the Erie County Purchasing Department website, https://www3.erie. gov/purchasing/requests-proposalsconstruction-bids , for more information. Requests for clarification of this RFP must be written and submitted to Commissioner Angela Marinucci at angela.schnell@erie.gov or Erin Mahoney at erin.mahoney@erie.gov.

Final sealed proposals are due no later than February 2, 2024, at 4:00 pm EST.

Principal Position Vacancy (Junior High School Level) Aaron Mossell Junior High School Valid NYS building administrator certification required. Apply online www.applications@ lockportschools.net Lockport City School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer

LEGAL NOTICE BID

Buffalo Employment and Training Center

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

HONOR AND CELEBRATE BLACK HISTORY 365 Days A Year!

HIRING

LEGAL NOTICE

NFTA PROCUREMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL/BID 230115 - CONSULTANT FOR TECHNICAL SERVICES: RISK ANALYSIS IN URBAN TRANSPORTATION DECISIONS Go to NFTA's Website to register as a supplier and for instructions to download the Procurement Document at https://www.nfta.com/departments/ procurement.

NOTICE TO BIDDERS Town of Amherst Contract Compliance & Administration Department RFP #202401 2-Year Term Agreement for Professional Architectural Services for Amherst’s Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Pilot Program Sealed proposals for the abovementioned project in the Town of Amherst, NY will be received by the Contract Compliance & Administration Office in the Municipal Building, Williamsville, NY 14221 on or before 3:00 PM local time on February 8, 2024.

Specifications may be obtained via e-mail to zkittleman@amherst.ny.us or examined at the Contract Compliance & Administration Office of the Town of Amherst between the hours of 8:00 AM and 4:00 PM through due date, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays.

By Order of the Town Board Town of Amherst, New York Lynda L. Juul Director of Finance January 10, 2024

LEGAL NOTICE RFP COUNTY OF ERIE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES 95 FRANKLIN STREET BUFFALO, NEW YORK 14202 County of Erie, New York RFP RELEASE The Erie County Department of Social Services is seeking proposals from qualified agencies to provide Summer Primetime Programming.

The RFP #2024-005VF can be found at http://www.erie.gov and a complete copy of the package can also be obtained by contacting Carrie Godfrey at 716-858-6086, or via Carrie.Godfrey@erie.gov as of January 10, 2024.

All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with the ECDSS contact person listed on the specific RFP. Prospective proponents, or their representatives, shall not make contact with or communicate with any representatives of the County, including employees and consultants, other than the designated person in regard to any aspect of this proposal.

Sealed bids are due to the Erie County Department of Social Services by 4:00 p.m. (EST) on February 7, 2024.

Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality.

Marie A. Cannon, Commissioner of Social Services

Lockport City School District PRINCIPAL

JOBS BETC 716-856-5627

www.workforcebuffalo.org

LEGAL NOTICE Bid NFTA PROCUREMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL/BID 230068 – TRACTION MOTOR OVERHAUL REPAIR SERVICE. Go to NFTA's Website to register as a supplier and for instructions to download the Procurement Document at https://www.nfta.com/departments/procurement

LEGAL NOTICE BID NFTA PROCUREMENT REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL/BID 230079 - HAZARDOUS AND NONHAZARDOUS WASTE DISPOSAL SERVICE Go to NFTA's Website to register as a supplier and for instructions to download the Procurement Document at https://www.nfta.com/departments/procurement

Girl Friend Fund (GFF) Scholarship GFF is a National Organization of African American Women whose goal is to award a college scholarship of $1000 - $1500 annually, up to four academic years, for a deserving student (male or female) who will be starting college in 2024.

We are seeking high achieving African American students who face significant financial obstacles in their path toward a college education. Students with an SAT of 1200, ACT of 25 or GPA of 3.0 or greater are encouraged to apply.

Interested students should contact Brenda Chavers, GFF Chairperson at: brendachavers@hotmail.com to receive an online application. Subject: GFF Application.

All application requirements are due by February 15, 2024.

18

Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

JANUARY •Monday,January 15, AFRICAN AMERICAN CULTURAL CENTER PUBLIC ANNUAL MEETING @ 5 p.m. 350 Masten Ave. Please RSVP at Africancultural350@gmail.com •Saturday, January 20, SBA & SCORE “Straight Talk” Business Conference & Training Series, 8 a.m. Registration, Buffalo Niagara Convention Center, $25 day of event; $20 pre-registration; students $10; Veterans free. Register @ WWW.WNYStraightTalk.org For more information 716-551-4301.

•The Revolutionary King Lecture Series: "What They Never Taught Us In School About Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr." every Sunday January 14, 21,28 and February 4th, between 2:30 p.m. &4:30 p.m. Merriweather Library and Zoom. visit the NMP.org.

FEBRUARY •Saturday , February 3, BUFFALO CHAPTER OF DELTA SIGMA THETA SORORITY INC. CRIMSON & CRÈME GALA, 6 p.m., Niagara Falls Convention Center, 101 Old Falls Street, Niagara Falls. Tickets $100. Proceeds to Benefit Scholarships & Public Service Projects. For More information visit www.dstbuffalo.org •Monday, February 26, HOW WE CAN CHANGE THE BLACK EAST SIDE: A SYMPOSIUM,” From 6-8p.m., Free.

Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, M&T Auditorium, 955 Main Street featuring Henry Louis Taylor Jr., PhD, hosted by the UB Community Health Equity Research Institute, Buffalo Center for Health Equity and the UB Center for Urban Studies.

A Celebration Of Life Was Held For Trina Lynn Cobb Thomas Saturday, December 30 at True Bethel Baptist Church

The Family of Trina Would Like to Thank Everyone For Their Prayers And Love Shown During Their Time of Bereavement. We Appreciate You All.

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Challenger Community News • January 11, 2024

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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Dorothy Thornton A WINTER RECITAL SUPREME! The Love Supreme School of Music is one of the best kept secrets in Western New

York! Their December 16 Winter Recital, presented by the Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective, ranged from heart warming and inspiring to amazing. The students talent, discipline, and appreciation for the musical legacy of jazz – even at their young age- was redeeming . Hats off to all the outstanding performers and to the school’s amazing director Marcus Lolo and his talented and dedicated instructors and staff; to Dawn Martin Berry Walker, CEO of the Pappy Martin Legacy Jazz Collective; and last but not least her phenomenal father, James “Pappy” Martin, the school’s visionary founder. For more information about how you can support the school or enroll your children go to PML JAZZ.COM Third Eye Photography

played host to her son, Head Coach Fred Batchelor, and his University of Maryland Eastern Shore Women’s Basketball team at her lovely home over the holidays. Eastern Shore, a top rated HBCU, was in town to play UB’s Women’s Basketball team at Alumni Arena. Pictured (top) Batchelor (the winningest women’s basketball coach in Eastern Shore’s history) and his team. Above, Dorothy (far left) with sons Fred, Dorian and Ronnie Jr.; granddaughter Amanda and great granddaughter Stephanie. Thanks for a lovely evening Dorothy! Third Eye Photography