CHALLENGER COMMUNITY NEWS

ANNUAL MARTIN LUTHER KING CELEBRATION RETURNS TO THE EASTMAN

The Greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission is bringing back the annual MLK Day Community Celebration to Kodak Hall inside Eastman Theatre.

On Monday, January 16, hundreds of people from the Greater Rochester area will come together to commemorate Dr. King's legacy. The free event starts at 9 a.m. and doors open at 8:30 a.m.

United States Ambassador-at-large, and goddaughter of the late Coretta Scott King, Suzan Johnson Cook will travel to Rochester to deliver the keynote speech. This year's theme is “The Dream is Not Dead: Democracy is Alive," a nod to the year 2023 marking the 55th anniversary of the assassination of Dr. King.

In previous years, the annual event at Eastman has attracted more than 700 people. When the world was forced to go virtual in 2020, the commission successfully produced 2 online productions (2021 & 2022), attracting more than 7,000 online viewers. Therefore, this year's event is highly anticipated. The commission is encouraging the community to register by going to www.eventbrite.com and searching “ MLK Day Rochester." Masks are encouraged.

The event will be emceed by the incoming chair of the Greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission, Virgil Parker. "It is a great honor to be asked to lead the work of the Greater Rochester Martin Luther King Jr. Commission," said Parker. "I look forward to being emcee and to formally introducing myself to the Greater Rochester community in this capacity."

Monroe County Executive Adam Bello and Rochester Mayor Malik Evans are among the honorable guests who will attend the community commemoration. Entertainment will be provided by Rochester’s Martin Luther King Jr. Community Choir, directed by Jason Monroe. Additional acts include Pamela Beaty, vocalist; Malcolm A. Stokes, trumpeter; and Brandy Johnson, Singer/Songwriter.

Spirit of Mandela Presents “About The People” Event

On Saturday, January 14 at 5 p.m. The Spirit of Mandela Coalition Campaign will present “About the People,” a grassroots audio visual broadcast and in-person virtual premiere at Mayday Space at 176 St. Nicholas Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11237. If you are unable to attend in-person you can join at https://linktr.ee/aboutthepeople

The first installment, (‘Camp Muntaqim,’) will feature interviews with Revolutionary Elder Jalil Muntaqim and Incarcerated Organizer Kwame ‘Beans’ Shakur. Elder Jalil is a veteran member of the Black Panther Party and Black Liberation Army, who spent almost 50 years imprisoned for his revolutionary activities. He was paroled in 2020.

Alongside the feature discussions, segments such as ‘Everyday Slavery,’ ‘Revolutionary Culture,’ and ‘Strong Work’ provide further looks into the genocidal conditions that we’re relentlessly faced with, the inspired resistance heads are waging to address those conditions and some of that fire that sustains our drive to push forward to liberation and self-determination. Organizers have been developing this project since before the International Tribunal in October 2021.

Bills Defeat Patriots on Damar Hamlin Day at High Mark Stadium : NFL’s First Black Female on-field Official, Rochester Native Maia Chaka, Referees Game

The love shown around the NFL for Damar Hamlin during the Bills-Patriots game last Sunday in High Mark Stadium was heartfelt and hopefully will bring Americans closer together.

While the focus was understandably on Hamlin, there was also a historic first taking place that day. Rochester’s own Maia Chaka, only the second woman to became an NFL on-field official, is the first African American woman NFL referee and the first to officiate a football game at High Mark Stadium. Maia’s parents, Gerald and Terry Chaka , formerly owned an African American Bookstore , Kitabu Kingdom, on Thurston Road in Rochester. Congrats to Maia on her achievements and continued success!

The Bills did not disappoint with a 35-23 win over a pesky New England Patriots team. Bills running back Nyheim Hines opened the game with a 96-yard kickoff and later a 101-yard return for two touchdowns. Hines is a real game breaker for the Bills that needs to get the ball more often in the upcoming playoffs. The last time a player returned two kickoffs for touchdowns was in 2010 by Seattle Seahawks Leon Washington.

The Bills and Patriots both seemed to be sleep walking through this game. Buffalo looked like a team that did not practice all week. The Bills defense must get better against the run going into the Miami Dolphins playoff game. Bills Defensive Coordinator Leslie Frazier must create a pass rush in order to take pressure off a depleted secondary. The good news is that corner back Tre Davis White is starting to look like his All-Pro self again and continues to improve from his knee surgery.

Bills Offensive Coordinator Ken Dorsey must continue to run the football more often especially with rookie running back James Cook now playing at a higher level. Cook has come a long way since his fumble on his first regular season carry against the LA Rams. He was averaging 5 yards a carry and Devin Singletary 4.1 yards, against the Patriots. That’s excellent yards per carry and should be continued in the playoffs.

I said it before and once again that the Bills offensive line is better at run blocking than pass protection.

Once the Bills get into the red zone, they should focus on running the football instead of “In Josh We Trust” football.

Prediction: I see Bills defeating the Miami Dolphins 35 – 24 with the Bills potent running game leading the way on offense with Josh Allen using play action passing to supplement the run game. The Bills defensive unit will slow down the Dolphins run attack.

This will be a very entertaining football game!

Visit me on Realdealsportsshow.com or follow me on twitter: @georgeradman on YouTube: Real Deal Sports Show (subscribe via

YouTube) Radio: WLGZ HD2 The Beat 105.5 FM Saturday Mornings from 8am – 9am. WHTK 1280 Fox Sports What’s Going on The Experience Sunday mornings 8am – 9am.

Ambassador Cook

Jalil Muntaqim

Maia Chaka

PLEASE SUPPORT THE LIGGANS FAMILY!

A Tragic Dartmouth Avenue fire on New Year's Eve took the lives of five beautiful children (above). Their grandmother, Lisa Liggans managed to rescue a 7-month old sibling, but she remains in critical condition. Her husband, Clarence Liggans was at work at the time of the tragedy. The family lost everything. Please help! No amount is too small! You can donate at any Keybank in the Liggans Family Name. Cornerstone Church has also set up a Go Fund Me page on behalf of the Liggans family.

GAUGHAN CALLS FOR FEDERAL GOVERNMENT REVIEW OF DECEMBER BUFFALO BLIZZARD

Requests Senate hearings to create more effective, equitable plan to deliver emergency services to vulnerable, minority citizens

Kevin Gaughan has sent correspondence to the United States Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs requesting public hearings on the December Buffalo storm that took over 40 American lives.

"For our nation to move on without examining how over 40 Americans -- most of whom were Black -- died in a snowstorm is morally wrong," Gaughan asserted. "But to learn from the tragedy how we can more effectively and equitably protect citizens in this age of increasingly harsh weather events, would be government at its best."

Gaughan proposes that the Committee: hold a portion of the hearings in Buffalo, so the voices of those residents who endured the storm but cannot afford to travel to Washington, DC can be heard.

He also seeks that the Committee Determine whether upstate New York's concentration of local governments -- the highest in the nation -- impaired rather than advanced effectiveness of the response.

MANNA

Activist Launches “Blizzard 2022 Left for Dead "Protest on Steps of City Hall

C“No life mattered when the storm hit. Not one. They left us for dead!"

ommunity activist Taniqua Simmons is on a mission to make sure that each and every person who died in the 2022 Blizzard over the Christmas holiday, did not die in vain. She is vigilant because, as she points out "it can happen all over again…" and like the recent catastrophe, “there will be no transparency and no accountability.”

So she makes her way to City Hall most days from around noon to 2 p.m., microphone in hand, and reminds all within earshot –or who see her on her Facebook page – that the issue is accountability.

“No one wants to discuss the lack of preparedness by the City of Buffalo,” she declared during a recent speech.

“Many City Residents were forced to save themselves and their families because city officials were not proactive in providing resources for the most vulnerable of our residents! Now It is time for the people to stand up and be heard!

Taniqua Simmons

“We can never forget those who lost their lives needlessly! Many of these deaths were preventable with an ounce of planning," a press statement read. “So, meet us on the stairs of City Hall… as we put our leadership…elected and otherwise…on notice….that we will never forget!!!

"We will be demanding a public investigation and hearing…to discuss the systemic failures of every level of our leadership!! We want answers and we want accountability…many need to resign!!! Many need to go to jail…as they all have blood on their hands!!!”

Why, she asked, were there only four warming centers in the entire city? Why were snow survival kits issued after the storm instead of leading into the storm that dumped nearly 52 inches of snow? Why does the city have tanks and assault rifles and no snowmobiles? They suspended emergency services! Why were they giving people tickets when they were out trying to get food and find shelter for their families? There was not one school open. Not one community center. What was the plan?

“These are the questions we need to ask,” she continued .”Forty people died in a town known for its snow and they don’t have a plan for over 8” of snow in 2023!

“No life mattered when the storm hit. Not one. They left us for dead!”

Yet she had praise for the countless heroes – many who had lost power themselves (she was among them) – who braved the storm to try to help others.

“There was a lot of people who lost power who were out in the street helping others- people who without regard for their own safety were actually putting people over politics,” she noted.

“The time to stand is now. The time to act is now. We’re going to be out here (City Hall) every day – Monday thru Saturday, 12-2….

“People talk about there’s a cloud above Buffalo. …that there’s a cloud above our city . Yes it’s a cloud,” she said, “a cloud of corruption…a cloud of poverty pimping….”

" Call 311 - call your council member and ask them - what is the plan? Because winter ain’t over! This is just the beginning! "

Application Process Now Open for Buffalo Common Council Affordable Housing Task Force

The Buffalo Common Council’s Affordable Housing Task Force is now seeking applications from committed and passionate Buffalo residents with relevant experience with tenant, landlord and business advocacy. As a member of the Affordable Housing Task Force, applicants will have the opportunity to help shape the housing policies and initiatives in our city and work to address the housing needs and challenges faced by our community.

The City of Buffalo Affordable Housing Task Force will be composed of 9 voting members who must be residents of the City of Buffalo for a minimum of one (1) year and be at least 18 years of age. Also, three members must be from organizations that focus on tenants rights; three members from organizations that focus on landlord and business rights and one Community Member who has been personally affected by the lack of affordable housing options within the city and who is not affiliated with a particular organization. To apply, go to www.buffalony.gov/HousingTaskForce. Also, email resumes to councilstaff@buffalony.gov or call (716) 851-5105 to speak to a member of the Council staff. The application process will close on Wednesday, January 18, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

ON

Rosewood, FL families were a diverse crowd of prominent landowners, farmers and businessmen before the massacre.

Remembering the Rosewood Massacre

Rosewood, Florida was a bustling and fiscally diverse town with Black landowners. It was estimated that Rosewood’s families owned up to 300 acres each — a fact that was instrumental in their unprecedented reparations win decades later. Many of those families called grand twostory residences, with such luxuries as parlors and pianos, home while others tilled smaller plots and had more modest accommodations. Life in Rosewood dared to boast promise and security in the Jim Crow South, but that charmed existence was shattered when a vicious tale devastated the lives of the close-knit community and destroyed the town.

On January 1,1923 the thriving Black community of Rosewood, was turned into a place of terror and fear after Fannie Taylor, a 22-yearold married White woman, claimed she had been assaulted by a Black man. Her claim “opened the doors for the lynch mob to come in and over a seven-day period of time, they went on a killing spree. From January 1, to

Continued Page 13

@ NORTHLAND WILL BE OPEN

MONDAY JANUARY 16 IN HONOR OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR. DAY!

From left: Jalissa, 7; Aniyah, 10; Nehemiah,2; Joelle, 8; and Denise, 4. All died in the New Year's Eve fire on Dartmouth Avenue.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK!

Make 2023 A Year of Prayer

“And He withdrew himself into the wilderness, and prayed.”

King James Version (KJV)

Prayer is one of the most powerful weapons God has given us, and looking ahead at 2023, it has never been more important for God’s people to be on our knees. But knowing how to pray is not always easy. Jesus’ disciples felt the same confusion. They were familiar with the oft-repeated prayers of the Torah. But Jesus prayed with a kind of authority and power they had never seen before — as though God was listening! So when they came to Jesus, as told in Matthew 6, they didn’t say, “Teach us another prayer.” They said, “Lord, teach us to pray.”

The Lord’s Prayer (Matthew 6:9–13) is Christ’s response. It is a beautiful prayer and one that everyone should hide in their heart …I do not believe Jesus intended it to become another ritualistic prayer. Rather, it was to be an example of how to pray. This, then, is how you should pray:

Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil: For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory, for ever. Amen.

Here are a few keys that may help develop a more powerful and effective prayer life. I hope they will encourage you to make 2023 a year of prayer.

1. Know to whom you are speaking. Prayer is a conversation with God, and every conversation begins by addressing the person to whom you are speaking by name.

2. Thank him.

A heartfelt thank you is always a great conversation starter. Praise opens the gates of heaven and should always be part of

LOST IN THE STORM...

Pictured are some of the beloved members of the community who we lost in the storm. From top left row: Demetrius Robinson, Monique Alexander, Anndel Nicole Taylor, Lederise Curry, William Clay, Timothy Murphy, Doris Williams, Morris Singer Jr.

While Blacks make up 33 percent of the population in Erie County and 14 percent in Buffalo, they account for 51 percent of those who died in the storm. So far, 42 deaths in Western New York have been attributed to the blizzard, including one in Niagara County.

Here are just some of the names we have been able to research to date. Our deepest, heartfelt sympathy to the families and loved ones of those left to mourn their memory.

•Margaret Hawkins was left without power during the blizzard from Friday to Monday (Christmas Day). When she was finally picked up by ambulance and taken to the hospital her organs had failed after severe Hyperthermia. She died of her injuries of Dec. 29.

• Demetrius Robinson carpenter & handyman. His body was found on Christmas Day - the day before his 59th birthday - in a snowbank on Clinton Street near Jefferson not far from his apartment.

•Monique Alexander, 52, left her house on Christmas Eve. She was later found frozen and covered in snow.

•Abdul Sharifu, 26, left his pregnant wife at home on Christmas Eve to go for groceries. His car was found abandoned on the corner of Main and Utica. A Congolese refugee, his body was later identified by a friend at Children’s Hospital.

•Carolyn Eubanks, 63, who had no electricity to run her oxygen machine, died despite her son Antwaine Parker and his step brother Kenneth Johnson’s heroic efforts to get to her. When they got there, they had to park two blocks from her house and walk her back to the vehicle, but Mrs. Eubanks, who had a heart condition, was unable to make the walk and collapsed and died in her sons arms. Knocking on doors and seeking help, a neighbor, David Purdy and his fiancée Cassieopia Layhee, let them in and kept the body at their home for about 24 hours before it was taken to ECMC.

•Anndel Nicole Taylor 22 got stuck driving home from work. She called repeatedly for emergency services but none ever came she was in contact with her family and eventally fell asleep. She was found dead in her car on Christmas Eve .

•William Clay, 56 was found frozen in a snowbank.

•Timothy M. Murphy, 27, died from carbon monoxide poisoning caused by heavy snow covering the external furnace.

•Lederise Curry, known as "Nicky" to her friends, died around 2:15 a.m. Monday from an apparent asthma attack. Rescuers were slowed in reaching her house due to the aftermath of the Buffalo blizzard. She was 46.

•Morris Singer Jr., 65, was found dead in a snowbank at the height of the storm. He got within a block of his house on Broadway but could not walk any further.

Miss Doris Williams known as Mama Doris 91, died cold, and alone in her dark apartment after all the power and heat went out at LBJ Senior Housing Development Complex on December 23, 2022. Neither loved ones nor the 911 Rescue Teams could come to her aid until early morning on December 25. Despite their best efforts, she was found frozen and unresponsive.

A YEAR OF PRAYER continued from page 6 our alone time with God.

3. Ask for God’s will.

The one thing we can know with absolute certainty is that God’s plan for those who love him is good, and the safest place we can be is in the center of His divine will.

4. Say what you need. The Bible says, “You do not have because you do not ask God.”

5. Ask for forgiveness. James 5:16 reminds us that if we want our prayers to be heard, our hearts need to be right with God and with one another.

6. Pray with a friend. There is power in agreement when we pray in Jesus’ name.

7. Pray the Word. “The Word of God has power and is our great spiritual weapon... Pray the Word.” Jesus did the same when he was tempted by Satan in the wilderness (see Luke 4:1-12).

8. Memorize Scripture. Even a few minutes a day in the Word of God will add strength and authority to your prayers in 2023.

MAYOR BYRON W. BROWN

Honors the REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. holiday on Jan. 16, 2023 marks the 28th anniversary of the national day of service. This day was established to honor the life and legacy of Dr. King, and to encourage all Americans to volunteer to improve their communities.

On this special day, let’s reflect and study how The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. made our City, Country and world a better place to live, as we continue to work together to foster a more inclusive and equitable Buffalo.

As we celebrate the vision and the Prophet Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. , our focus should be on Keeping The Dream Alive by being responsible for extending a helping hand to everyone. We have much to do with breaking the chains of ignorance, destroying the divisive nature of acceptance of race, creed, religion, and gender.

This past year has been very harsh and trying. Our city has yet to be healed from the ungodly act of terrorism and hate. We must yet herald that peaceful protest yet make a difference to increase a better way of living.

Let's strive to be free at last from the devalue of lives. All lives matter, and we should protect our neighbors, and keep our hearts inoculated against society's genocidal infectious germ. We must upgrade our intellectual intake to a level of respect of self and others. We were not born to be savages and disrespectful on purpose. We must ask ourselves, what can I do to help somebody along life's way?

"Let us live and let live."

The Dream Can't Die!

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”

The Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Attorney General James to Hold Public Hearing on Mental Health Access in Western New York

New York Attorney General Le-

titia James announced that her office will hold its second inperson public hearing concerning the provision of mental health care for people with serious mental illness in the Western New York region. The hearing is scheduled for Wednesday, January 18, at 11 AM at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library, and members of the public, advocacy groups, and healthcare providers are encouraged to testify. Individuals who wish to provide oral testimony at the hearing must submit their testimony online in writing by 5 PM on Wednesday, January 11, and written testimony will be accepted online through January 18.

For those who can't attend James' hearing in person, it also will be live streamed on the attorney general's websiteat https://ag.ny.gov/livestream .

James' hearing comes as the need for mental health services in Western New York, and across the country, has skyrocketed in the aftermath of the pandemic.

Buffalo, in particular, has had a difficult, trauma-filled last eight months, starting with the racist mass shooting on May 14 at Tops on Jefferson Avenue that left 10 people dead and three wounded. Then, just in the last couple of weeks, a Christmas weekend blizzard claimed at least 44 victims, a tragic fire in Buffalo killed five young children and, most recently, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed in cardiac arrest during a game, shocking millions of fans across the world.

eat to live

Winter Is A Time to Focus on Your Kidneys & Bladder

Winter is also a time to focus on care for Your Kidneys/ Bladder.

Beneficial foods for the kidneys include brown rice, buckwheat, adzuki beans, sturdy greens, roots, winter squash, seaweeds (kombu, hijiki, miso soup, arme and watermelon extract.

Additional good winter foods that support the kidneys and bladder include warm herbal teas with ginger, licorice root and cinnamon; an abundance of

MOON WATCH

New Moon: January 21

vegetable and bean soups (to promote kidney cleansing); lettuce, turnip, celery, asparagus, alfalfa, rye, oats, quinoa and amaranth; gar-

lic, black pepper, cloves, flaxseed oil; black beans, chicken, wild salmon; tofu, lentils, spirulina, blackberries, blueberries lemon juice, and cranberry juice.

Winter is a time for storing and conserving energy – to slow down, rejuvenate, rest, nourish our inner life, restore our foundations anddeepen our roots – within ourselves, within our family our spiritual community and faith.

Billie

It's the first New Moon of 2023! This New Moon is asking you to wake up! The New Moon is called the Seed Moon. It is a time of sprouting and new beginnings. It’s also a time to spiritually wake up! It’s time to cut the cords to the past. This is one of the biggest messages from this New Moon. Let go of anything that does not serve you…Cherokee

Attorney General James

M&T Bank Announces Pitch Competition Winners for its Multicultural Small Business Innovation Lab

M&T Bank recently announced the winners of its Multicultural Small Business Innovation Lab pitch competition, which was held at Canisius College. Ari Parson PR, a marketing and public relations agency led by Porsha Ari Parson, earned the $10,000 top prize to accelerate the growth of her business. Kiper Moving and Transportation was awarded the $6,000 second prize, and MOBE Kitchen & Bath Remodeling received the $4,000 third prize.

The Multicultural Small Business Innovation Lab was created by M&T Bank to empower racially and ethnically diverse entrepreneurs to start and grow businesses that strengthen neighborhoods and meet local market needs. Organized in collaboration with Canisius College, the sixweek program provides business education, guidance and resources to help small business owners gain expertise in effective business planning, understanding credit, accessing capital, networking, marketing and more.

Over 50 local entrepreneurs participated in this year’s Multicultural Small Business Innovation Lab in Buffalo, and seven program finalists earned an opportunity to pitch their business during a Shark Tank-style competition. A total of $20,000 in funding from M&T Bank was awarded to the pitch competition’s top three businesses.

“As a bank for communities, we’re grateful for this opportunity to make a difference for our city’s multicultural small businesses.” said Eric Feldstein, M&T Bank Regional President for Western New York.

Finalists included: Luv Me Onesie, led by Lamiyah Jabar; Salud Market, led by Marielyn Santiago; The ETECH Foundation, led by Munirah Ali; and St. Brian Clothiers, LLC, led by Dewitt Lee.

WINNERS: L to R: Dante Griggs (second place), Porsha Ari Parson (first place), Mubark Abdalla (third place).

ON STAGE AT THE PAUL ROBESON THEATRE…

The African American Cultural Center’s Paul Robeson Theatre, 350 Masten Avenue, will present “The Niceties,” by Eleanor Burgess, directed by Yao Kahlil Newkirk February 10-19. For tickets go to www.AACCBuffalo.org or call the Paul Robeson Theatre at (716)884-2013. “Celebrating Women who Lead,” this is the Theatre’s 55th season.

THE SNOWY DAY AND OTHER STORIES ON STAGE AT THEATRE OF YOUTH!

Ezra Jack Keats images

JUMP Off the page from his books in Theatre of Youth upcoming production of THE SNOWY DAY AND OTHER STORIES, which opens this Friday, January 13 at 2pm and continues through February 4 and 5. All showtimes are scheudled for 2p.m.. The 1962 publication is an all time favorite from its time to the present especially for African American Children where through colorful illustration could identify with characters who looked like them. This classic story is one you don't want to miss. The play is directed by Annette Daniels Taylor with costume design by Rashaad Holley, set design by Ron Schwartz, music director Joe Isgar. Cast includes Megan Rakeepile (Mom, Archie, Amy, various kid voices) Davida Tolbert (Peter) Roderick Garr (Dad, Willie, Pepe, Boys and various kid voices). Tickets and more info at TheatreOfYouth.org.

From "Afrochella" to AfroFuture Fest

After five years, Afrochella has held its final performance. According to festival organizers, moving forward, the popular music/cultural festival held annually in Ghana, will be known as AfroFuture Fest.

LATIN FIRE

Enrico Lopez-Yañez, conductor José Sibega, trumpet

Mónica Abrego, soprano

A passionate and energetic celebration of Hispanic orchestral music, this sizzling program includes Tico Tico no Fubá, Bésame Mucho, Granada, Carmen Suite, Libertango, Brasil, y mucho más!

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•PEBO BRYSON, 8 p.m. Feb. 9-10, Niagara Resort & Casino Niagara Falls, Bear's Den. Tickets start @ $65 on sale at senecniagaracasino. com

•JODECI, 8 p.m. Feb. 10 Niagara Resort & Casino Bear's Den. Tickets start @ $55 on sale at senecniagaracasino.com

•VALENTINE’S SOUL

JAM Friday, 8 p.m. Feb. 10, featuring The Whispers, Howard Hewett, Heatwave Rochester Auditorium theatre, Rochester, NY

•ROYAL COMEDY

TOUR 2023,March 31 at 8 p.m. Rochester Auditorium starring Sommore, Bruce Bruce, Lavell Crawford, Arnez J, Rochester Auditorium Theatre

•BRIAN MCKNIGHT, Saturday, March 11, 8 p.m. Buffalo Shea’s Performing Arts Center

In October, Goldenvoice, the company responsible for the famous Coachella music festival held every year in the California desert, sued Afrochella for alleged copyright infringement.

Although Afroachella organizers report they won the lawsuit, they had already been planning on going through a rebranding which included the name change to AfroFuture. because they felt they needed to evolve.

"The future is Africa and we want people to come to Africa, so that is why we wanted to do AfroFuture. The future is bright and we want more people to come to the continent,” explained co-founder of Afrochella, Ken Agyapong Jnr.

CALL FOR ARTWORK

Garden Walk Buffalo, Americas largest garden tour, is looking for submissions of original artwork to promote the 2023 event, which will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, July 29 & 30, 2023. Entries are due Tuesday, January 31, 2023 Email your entry to aclark@ gardensbuffaloniagara.com. Include ART ENTRY in the subject line. For more info & guidelines for submission email GardenWalkBuffalo@ GardensBuffaloNiagara.com or call (716) 247-5004.

SUPPORT THE ARTS

BRTE CEPTS CMOOL one

JoAnn Falletta, conductor Nikki Chooi, violin

Caroline Gilbert, viola

Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus

Mozart’s birthday celebration features the double concerto, Sinfonia concertante, the thrilling “Paris” Symphony, and 18th-century Europe’s preferred royal music, the Coronation Mass.

Coming

Foreign Language and Suzuki Violin day one in Kindergarten

K-12 College Prep for all levels of student needs

Vocational Opportunities on site

Ruben Santiago Hudson Fine and Performing Arts Center

TOMMY:mHILFIGER

Dreaming: Main character Peter dreaming of a snowy day played by Davida Tolbert . photo by Christy Francis

Chairwoman Baskin Partners with Organizations in Response to Blizzard

OnSaturday, December 31st, Erie County Legislature Chairwoman April Baskin partnered with the Bills Foundation, The Salvation Army, Central World Kitchen, and M&T Bank as a response to the December 2022 Blizzard and the shopping void left on Bailey Avenue due to looting. “I was proud to partner with local organizations to put together a Home Supplies Drive for the residents that were most affected by this tragedy. The purpose of government is to provide safety and quality of life for citizens, we need to become the bridge between needs and resources, and we need to work in unity to continue to meet the needs of our citizens.

“I was proud to partner with local organizations to put together a Home Supplies Drive for the residents that were most affected by this tragedy. The purpose of government is to provide safety and quality of life for citizens, we need to become the bridge between needs and resources, and we need to work in unity to continue to meet the needs of our citizens. I thank all first responders and commend Erie County for its stellar work this past week,” said Chairwoman Baskin. “Erie County does a great job providing resources to its residents and I will continue to partner with local leaders as we work to improve our general emergency response systems. ”

“The storm was hard on all of our BMHA residents, but here at the Martha Mitchell Community Center, we did everything we could to help each and every person in the neighborhood. Just like the rest of Buffalo, we, too, are a part of the city of good neighbors, and it makes me happy to see everyone coming together in a time of crisis to help those in need. We could not have done it, without the help of Legislator Baskin, thank you.” Emily Robinson, Martha Mitchell Community Center.

Boys High School Basketball

A Boys High School Basketball League for youth that do no play on a high school team at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center, 3342 Main Street on Friday nights from 5-9 p.m. Entry is free! Individuals or teams can sign up with Kevin Ferguson at 716-400-4159.

COMMUNITY HEROES OF THE STORM

While Black people make up 14 percent of the population in Erie County and 33 percent in Buffalo, they account for 51 percent of the 2022 Christmas Snow Storm's victims. The percentages would have been worse had it not been for the amazing, countless acts of heroism that occurred. Here are just a few examples. There were many more! We owe a depth of gratitude and thanks to all of our Community Heroes!

PASTORS AL AND VIVIAN ROBINSON

Pastors Al and Vivian Robinson opened the doors to their church, Spirit of Truth Urban Ministry during the blizzard, welcoming those without power to ride out the storm. After posting their invitation on Facebook, they drew more than 130 neighbors. “They were half frozen just trying to get here,” said Mr. Robinson.

SHA'KYRA AUGHTRY

Sha'Kyra Aughtry and her boyfriend Trent were at home on Christmas Eve when they heard Joe White, 64, calling for help during the storm. Aughtry's boyfriend quickly brought White inside.His clothes were frozen to his body and ice covered his exposed hands. After calling 911 and not being able to get a response,she started a Facebook Livestream for medical advice. Eventually a group of men (who were also strangers) saw her livestream, came to her home and drove them to ECMC where Joe was treated.

MYLES CARTER, DAVID LOUIS, CARIOL HORNE, RASHIED MCDUFFIE

Myles Carter, David Louis , Cariol Horne and Rashid Mcduffie were able to help nearly 20 people, bringing them to safety and remaining safe themselves — Carter questioned why city officials did not open more schools, churches and government buildings, and stock them with food, cots and blankets for residents who already struggle to keep their homes warm. “People were told to shelter in place but the places people were sheltering weren’t safe,” Carter said in a Washington Post interview.

CRAIG ELSTON

C &C Cutz Barbershop owner

Craig Elston took in a freezing man and it took 7 hours to warm him up. Eventually the shop, located at 707 Fillmore, became a refuge for up to 40 strangers. ”I felt needed…” said Elston, “ some even slept in the barber chairs." Elston’s shop became a bright, lifesaving light for the community… Although he missed Christmas with his two young daughters, he said he was happy to be able to bless strangers “by giving them shelter.”

SHAQUILLE JONES

TIMOTHY M. KENNEDY

Shaquille Jones, a security guard, shared his harrowing experience in an interview with the Washington Post after he and some family members were stuck in their car for 18 hours and braved 70 MPH winds to find a warm shelter. Jones then went back out to try to help rescue other stranded drivers. He said he found several people either not responsive or possibly dead; some of them curled into their back seats, others under piles of snow near their vehicle.

A CHILD IS BORN

Erica and Davon Thomas were expecting their first child on Christmas Day, but around 11 p.m. on December 23, Erica’s contractions began and worsened on Christmas Eve. The Thomas's were unable to leave their home due to the storm and told first responders were unable to get to their house. He called a friend, Jeter Neville Jr., who made a post on facebook asking for help. Raymonda Reynolds, an experienced doula of five years and her friend, doula and nurse Iva Blackburn, responded. A little after 3 p.m., with both doulas on video chat Devynn Briell Thomas was born at 3:31 p.m. on December 24. To God be the glory

JAY WITHEY

Jay Withey Jr., a 27-year-old Kenmore mechanic who ended up stranded in his own truck on his way to help a friend trapped in the storm, is being credited with saving the lives of an entire group after they were trapped in snow-encased cars in Cheektowaga during the December 2022 blizzard. Withey broke into the Pine Hill Primary Center school, so they could have shelter and food while the storm raged on. At least 14 people and as many as 24 took shelter in the school.

BLACK, BANGLADESH COMMUITY COME TOGETHER

During the Blizzard the Bangladesh Community joined forces with Black community activists Carlanda Meadors, member of MVP, Most Valuable Parents, Pastor Tim Newkirk of GYC Ministries and others to work together to help those in the community in need. Mohammed Osman Shimul of the Bangladesh community, with over 30 bangladesh volunteers, gathered food, resources and transportation to help residents who didn't have power or food. They set up several warming stations to provide shelter to over 500 people. With the help of MVP they worked as a dispatch to connect them to the "rescue team" which also received snow removal services from Pastor Newkirk's "Snow Patrol" team.

SNOWMOBILE HEROES

Chandler Clinton and his young friends went out early Sunday (Christmas) Morning on their snowmobiles riding around Buffalo looking for people to help /rescue. They spent the holiday doing welfare checks, they saved several adults and children who were stranded in a school, helped nurses get to the hospitals and even helped people who were having health crisis get to the emergency room. They continued their misson to help the following days purchasing food and supplies for those in need.

The

Martin Luther King Jr. has been an inspiration to so many of us. He inspired us to serve others, to fight for fairness and justice and to stand up for what’s right. Let us celebrate his legacy together!

Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Celebration This Sunday at Kleinhans

Noted Scholar and Educator L. Nathan Hare is Keynote Speaker

The Concerned Citizens Following The Dream Committee will honor several community leaders this Sunday, January 15 at their annual Martin Luther King celebration to take place at 6 p.m. at Kleinhans Music Hall. The theme this year is, “Together We Can Be the Dream.”

Admission is free and open to the public.

Honorees who will receive awards for their work in education, medicine, judicial, humanitarian, leadership, community service, diversity, interfaith, and business include:

•Bishop Jacqueline Foye - MLK Women of Distinction Award

• Sharon Belton-Cottman - MLK Education Award

• Ed Drantch - MLK Media Award

• Dr. Candace Johnson - MLK Medical Award

• Judge Craig Hanna - MLK Judicial Award

• Bishop Tommie Reed - MLK Humanitarian Award

• Lenny Lane - MLK Community Award

• Rosa Gonzalez - MLK Leadership Award

• Apostle Robert L. Sanders - MLK Interfaith Award

• Jerry Daniels - MLK Businessman Award

• Jomo Akono - MLK Diversity Award

• Oswaldo Mestre, Jr. - MLK Community Service Award

Noted scholar and teacher of both Christian education and classical African history and culture., L. Nathan Hare, will be the keynote speaker.

The celebration is also slated to have several performances by The African Cultural Center Drummers and Dancers, Buffalo Performing Arts School, Kimera Lattimore, Larry Salter’s Soul Orchestra True Bethel Church Praise Dance Ministry, Delivered, Moe Badger, Worship Ministry and Young Adults of The Tabernacle of Orchard Park Bishop Robert Stearns, Pastor, Eireann Kennedy and many others.

The event is sponsored in part by: M&T Bank, Wegmans’s Food, Councilman Ulysees Wingo, Councilman Darius Pridgen, Councilman Rasheed Wyatt, Senator Tim Kennedy, The Fretted Buffalo World Class Acoustic Guitars, ECMC, Lombardo Funeral Home Connect/Life, Community Health Center, Alan Core Funeral Home, Buffalo Teacher’s Federation, Molina Healthcare and WUFO Power 96.5 FM & 1080 AM Radio.

For more information contact Bessie Patterson, program coordinator, at 716-855-1539 for more information.

Martin Luther King Day of Service and Blanket Drive

The Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor And Cultural Anchors Celebrate Dr. King’s Life With A Day Of Service And Blanket Drive

“This year, we are even more energized as we prepare for the MLK Jr. Day of Service to provide a larger helping hand of support to our community. There has been so much suffering, so, the Corridor team has an extended list of service projects and activities to honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., stated Terry Alford, Executive Director of the Michigan African American Heritage Corridor Commission.

Activities include:

8:45 - 10 a.m. MLK JR. DAY OF SERVICE ACTIVITY: In collaboration with Faustenia Morrow, Founder of Monarch of Infinite Possibilities, join us as we assist select community churches with projects. #MLKDAY

10: 30 – 11:30 a.m. - Celebrating the renovations made so far and sharing upcoming plans for the Historic Michigan Street Baptist Church – Event Open to the Public

12 noon - 2 p.m. - FREE Tours of the Michigan Street Baptist Church, The NASH House Museum, the Historic Colored Musicians Club and the WUFO Black Radio Collective.

12 noon – 4 p.m. MLK JR. RADIO SPECIAL: WUFO

Black Radio Collective and WUFO Power 96.5 “Redeeming The Dream\” Honoring the life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

MLK DAY OF CARING BLANKET DRIVE

We are asking the community to donate a new blanket that can be distributed to Buffalo area residents on MLK Day. Blankets can be dropped off at the Michigan Street Corridor Office at 111 Genesee Street or at WUFO Power 96.5 Radio Station at 143 Broadway Ave. Buffalo, NY 14203 during business hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. now thru January 16.

The New Blankets will be distributed on MLK Day January 16, from 12 Noon to 4p.m. at the historic Michigan Street Baptist Church, 511 Michigan Street.

“Reading about many community members who went without power or heat and recognizing the expensive cost of preparing for the winter or a winter storm, the Michigan street team evaluated how they could help,” stated Lillie Wiley Upshaw, Michigan Street Board Chair and Chair of the Buffalo Niagara Freedom Station Coalition/the Historic Michigan Street Baptist Church. For More details @ www.michiganstreetbuffalo.org

Afro-American Historical Society Hosts 18th Annual MLK Program

The Afro-American Historical Society will remember and celebrated Dr. Martin Luther King’s legacy this year by hosting their 18th annual program with keynote speaker, Dr. Douglas L. Hoston Jr. leading a presentation on John Henryism in Black America.

Dr. Hoston, a graduate of the University of Buffalo’s doctoral program and professor at Buffalo State College, will offer a presentation on John Henryism in Black America. The program will be held on Sunday, January 15 at 3 p.m. at The History Museum, 1 Museum CT in Buffalo, NY.

According to Dr. Hoston, “chronic stress leads to hypertension, depression, and anxiety that needs to be examined to improve the well-being of college students.” His research focuses on helping Black and Brown students utilize John Henryism (a coping strategy for African Americans) to overcome perceived racial strife within a learning environment through prolonged tenacious work and determination.

The 43rd Annual Community Event Honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

The 43rd Annual Celebration of honoring Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. will be held Thursday, Jan. 12 from noon to 1:30 p.m. at the Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue. The Hon. Clifford Bell will serve as the Master of Ceremonies for the program which features Poet Laurate Jillian Hanesworth and performances by We All Storytellers and the Students from the Buffalo Academy of Visual and Performing Arts.

The event is free and open to the public. For more information call (716)858-8900.

Dr. Hoston

EMBARRASSED

It was called the perfect storm. When it was over at least 40 people perished either in, or as a result of, the Christmas blizzard.

I can recall my first perfect storm, the Blizzard of 77. I was 10 years old when it hit. The storm shut the city down for days. Forty-five years later what have we learned? NOTHING!

I know one thing, we were lied to every year about the city’s so-called snow emergency plans.

In the wake of the 2022 blizzard Erie County Executive Mark Poloncarz called the city’s response to the storm “embarrassing.” Was Poloncarz correct? In my opinion - Yes!

And for those who attempted to play the “race card” as a result of Poloncarz comments in reference to the mayor, please put the card back in your pocket!

On YouTube a former rapper mentioned the young lady Anndel Taylor, who died in her car trying to get home. He also asked a very important question, one that I have brought up in my facebook live post - where is all this federal money that was allocated to Buffalo? Second, what is the federal money that’s coming into the city thanks to President Biden, going to be spent on?

The rapper asked another very good question - after all the snow storms that Buffalo gets year after year, why do we not have the necessary up dated equipment to rescue people and move vehicles and equipment in snow removal and other emergency operations?

Meanwhile Poloncarz found himself having to apologize for some of the comments he made (the mayor referred to his comments as “hysterics”), but he was absolutely correct in reference to this city's leader dropping the ball and the embarrassing reality that the City of Buffalo is always the last to be cleared out in any snow storm. In the suburbs I have personally seen highlifts with huge snowblowers attached to them clearing the major roads. Why doesn't Buffalo have anything remotely similar? Where is all the federal monies allocated to Buffalo over the years during these snow storms?

The state, county and city should always have emergency teams formed and a command center. Also the city police should have equipment that the state police has. There should be two snow mobiles in every police district, there should be emergency teams trained to search and rescue people in distress in vehicles and homes.

This perfect storm brought out the good and the bad in the so-called "City of Good Neighbors." People came out to help those stranded and offered shelter to those caught out in this storm. People came out and ignored the travel band to do welfare checks on our elderly and sick and shut in. People were delivered life giving essentials such as food and water and some were given hot meals.

The bad also reared its ugly head during the mist of the storm, LOOTING, which took place throughout the entire city, not just the East and West sides. The North and South sides also were looted. However the consequences of this looting is going to cost the Black community dearly. It’s been been confirmed that the Aldi's located on Broadway will not be reopening. The Save-A-Lot Market on Genesee St. is said to be not re-opening as well.

I look for a brighter future for the Black community but only if we continue to fight for what we are entitled. Let us demand that they spend more money for people services such as updating the fire departments and purchasing more snow rescue and snow removal equipment. The police do not need any more equipment to garrison the community.

Since the County was responsible for the initiative to get a large part of the city open, we should take County Executive Poloncarz up on suggesting that with more capabilities, and working with the state, they would better find a way to get through these storms quicker by taking over operations if need be.

Sounds like a plan that should be considered. I'm Just Saying...

A Message from Dr. King

Part 1 of a 2-Part Series

As a graduate of Morehouse College, Dr. King’s alma mater, I have been exposed to speeches, writing and scholarly discussions regarding his philosophy, teachings, impact, life, and death. Having said that, I do not pretend to be an expert. If I am not an expert, why am I writing this article? I am writing this article because, in my opinion, we have limited our understanding of Dr. King and his speeches to a select few quotes and speeches. Mainly to this section of the 1963 ‘I Have A Dream Speech.’

“… when we let it (freedom) ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! Free at last! Thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

Unfortunately, many of us have only been exposed to that short segment of this insightful, inspiring, and motivational speech. Within that same speech, Dr. King also within one section stated:

“In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, Black men as well as White men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

"It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds. But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. So, we have come to cash this check — a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice.”

In another section Dr. King stated:

“I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from areas where your quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality.”

I can only ask in 2023, what happen? As I read this speech again, his eloquent words still hold true today, especially “staggered by the winds of police brutality.” Well, what are we going to do about it? Dr. King in some of his later speeches gave us a blueprint.

Dr. King, on October 26, 1967, six months before he was assassinated, spoke to a group of students at Barratt Junior High School in Philadelphia. The speech was tilted “What Is Your Life's Blueprint?”It cannot be more straight forward than that. We need a life blueprint! (Next Week: Conclusion)

BLACK HISTORY/ROSEWOOD continued from page 3

com documents: “The mob brutally tortured and lynched Sam Carter, and also tried to lynch Aaron Carrier, who was dragged behind a car and left for dead. No one was immune to their rage. With a houseful of terrified children huddling inside, prominent. Rosewood resident Sarah Carrrier was gunned down on her doorstep, and when her son Sylvester fought back, killing two White men, he was murdered as well.”

According to The Equal Justice Initiatiave, up to 80 people were killed in the massacre. No one was ever punished or prosecuted for the killings, the burning of the town or theft of the Black residents possessions.

It's a NEW DAY for the Buffalo Public Schools

OnTuesday, January 3, 2023, Ferry District Board Member, Sharon Belton-Cottman was nominated and unanimously voted in as the President of the Buffalo Board of Education during the Board’s re-organization meeting which was held at the Buffalo Academy for Visual and Performing Arts School. Belton-Cottman previously served two terms as Board President from July 1, 2019, to July 1, 2021. She will be the first president to start her term in January due to New York's decision to move school board elections to coincide with political elections. Belton-Cottman has served as Ferry District Representative since the spring of 2011. Other boards members that were elected for office positions include Dr. Kathy Evans-Brown and Mr. Lawrence Scott. Dr. Evans-Brown, East District Board Member was nominated and unanimously voted in as the Vice President of Executive Affairs for a one-year term, and Mr. Scott, Board Member at Large, was nominated and unanimously voted in as the Vice President of Student Achievement for a one-year term.

During the November 2022 election, two new board members were elected. The newly elected board members are Mrs. Theresa Schuta, the retired Principal of South Park High School, who now represents the Park District and Ms. Cindi M. McEachon, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Peaceprints of WNY, who now represents the North District. These two new school board members were sworn in on Tuesday 1/3/23. Schuta and McEachon's terms as Board of Education Members began immediately following their taking Oath of Office. Belton-Cottman expressed that she is "confident that they will be great additions to the board." Their professional experiences will be a huge asset which will allow them to transition smoothly. Current board members who won reelection to office and who were also sworn in include: Central District Board Member, Ms. Paulette Woods, West District Board Member, Ms. Jennifer Mecozzi, and East District Board Member, Dr. Kathy Evans-Brown. The meeting was well attended by many staff members, community leaders, clergy, and family members of the sworn in Board Members.

Dr. Tonja Williams, the Superintendent of the Buffalo Public Schools shared that, "with a well-focused board, who are all working to ensure that all of the children in the Buffalo Public Schools have unyielding access to a first in class, excellent education every school day, there will surely be academic gains." As the new president of the board, Sharon Belton-Cottman is determined to focus on school safety and will work with all to turn the Buffalo Public School into a high-performing, model school district." It is a new day in the Buffalo Public Schools.

Members of the Buffalo Board of Education

The Bills Win This One for ‘The Gipper’

The Bills 35 - 23 victory over the New England Patriots provided about as electric an atmosphere as these eyes have ever witnessed. With the Bills and their sellout crowd amped up to the maximum in support of injured safety Damar Hamlin, there was never really much doubt as to the outcome of this contest. The Bills were determined to “win this one for the Gipper.”

Of course, the million-dollar question was whether Hamlin’s near fatal injury on the field would play mind games with the Bills psyche. That question was answered in the most electrifying fashion possible when Nyheim Hines received the opening kickoff and proceeded to take it 96 yards, untouched into the end zone. At that moment, just 14 seconds into the ball game, there was never a doubt in anyone’s mind that the Bills would prevail. But of course, Patriots Head Coach, Bill Belichick, did not become the winningest coach in the history of professional football by rolling over and playing dead. Give the Pats credit. They played hard, but there was just too much emotional juice in Highmark Stadium for the Pats to do anything else other than lose. I must say, it is always a delight whenever the Bills can prevail over Coach ‘Sour Puss.’ Belichick and his Patriots vanquished the Bills for so many years that it is exhilarating to finally see him get his comeuppance in the Sean McDermott era.

Besides the two electrifying kickoff returns by Hines, the Bills finally earned some ‘style points’ on Josh Allen’s three touchdown passes, two of the long ball variety. Both TD bombs were things of beauty. The first, a 42 yard strike to John Brown, came after Josh was flushed from the pocket, but signaled to ‘Smoke’ to turn his short underneath pattern, into a deep route. Thereupon, Brown, the veteran speedster, turned on the jets and made a spectacular diving catch to barely get under Allen’s beautiful rainbow of a pass.

The other play, a 49 yard toss to Stefon Diggs, was equally a thing of beauty, as Allen hit Diggs in perfect stride over close pass coverage by the New England secondary. Along with his 3-yard TD to tight end Dawson Knox, Allen hit the trifecta.

And now, let the playoffs begin. Sunday’s game against the Miami will be the third meeting between the teams, with this one being the ‘rubber match’ as the teams split their two regular season games. The Dolphins, however, are coming to town with great uncertainty at the quarterback position. Starting QB Tua Tagaviola has been in the concussion protocol for the past couple of games and it is not certain whether he will return. If Tua is unable to go, the Bills will have a definite advantage if the Dolphins are forced to start rookie QB Sylar Thompson. With Teddy Bridgewater, the normal backup, also out with an injury, Thompson is the junior varsity replacement and has seemed in way over his head.

The Bills, on the other hand, are warriors and the season long adversity which they have faced and overcome has made them ready for the moment. They will not falter.

DAMAR HAMLIN THANKFUL FOR THE LOVE

Just days after his stunning on-field cardiac arrest, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin said on Instagram he was thankful for the love he’s received and asked for continued prayers for a “long road” ahead.

“When you put real love out into the world it comes back to you 3x’s as much,” he wrote in his first Instagram post since his collapse Monday. “The Love has been overwhelming, but I’m thankful for every single person that prayed for me and reached out.”

“If you know me you know this only gone make me stronger,” he added. “On a long road keep praying for me!”

Later he added on Twitter the “love is felt, & extremely real. No matter race or religion everybody coming together in prayer.”

Hamlin, who has received an outpouring of support from across the nation since he collapsed in cardiac arrest early in a game Jan. 2, was released Monday morning from intensive care at University of Cincinnati Medical Center and was flown back to Buffalo, where he was transferred to Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute to continue his treatment.

He was released from Buffalo General on Wednesday!

Dilemma of Defibrillators

As we all held our own breath, at the sight of one of our own Buffalo Bills players' - take his last, we must see the big picture.

A man's life - hung in the balance, as we watched. Defibrillation to the rescue! Professionals trained to administer this life sustaining measure in critical minutes.

NFL has the access to this equipment but what about High School Sports Teams, Public Venues, Churches, Community Centers and the like?

Training to utilize this equipment, can we take this unimaginable crisis and create opportunity? So much so, that others lives will be saved.

Continued prayers for our beloved Damar Hamlin, his family and teammates.....a speedy full recovery!

-Broderick Cason

RISE UP RIGHT SPORTS HIGHLIGHTS

Let's Rise Up...

Happy New Years to everyone. I want to start off the year by saying thank you for your great support of the Rise Up Right Articles. I want to thank Challenger News for allowing me to write for this great paper going on 5 years now.

The Rise Up Right New Year's kickoff article will be very direct. There is a lot to be said and in due time all of it will be stated.

The NFL community deserves a round of applause for the great support they have shown the Buffalo Bills second year safety Damar Hamlin. Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest last Monday night against the Cincinnati Bengals. Due to the leadership of Sean McDermott and Zach Taylor coming together, the monumental game was canceled. On that Monday night, the world chose the caring of someone's life over the game of football. Kudos to everyone for supporting that great statement. Since the incident, Hamlin's condition has gotten a lot better. The Buffalo Bills carried that never give up attitude into Sundays football game against the New England Patriots and the Bills would defeat the Patriots 35-23. Josh Allen would throw three touchdown passes and Nyheim Hines returned two kickoffs of 101 and 96 yards.

People Inc. Folwell Senior Apartments

LOCATION: 140 Hodge Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14209

ACCOMMODATIONS: Currently under construction, this 4-story apartment building are for households being 62 years and older, with 33 one-bedroom apartments and 4 two-bedroom apartments will be ready for occupancy in spring of 2023.

Part time professional on-site management • Some accessible apartments Five hundred feet from a major bus route and within a few blocks of restaurants and shopping • Smoke-free living • Community Room On-site laundry facilities • Central air conditioning Attractive grounds and seating areas around the building

If you are aware of any persons, that might be eligible or interested in our Senior Housing, please have them contact the following person for more information on how to apply:

Housing Intake Specialist

280 Spindrift Road • Williamsville, NY 14221 • 716.880.3890 housing@people-inc.org people-inc.org/folwellseniorapts

ReNT: (Gas and Electric not included)

1 Bedroom: (33) $600.00 - $695.00

2 Bedrooms: (4) $695.00 - $795.00

**MAxIMuM INCOMe:

1 person: $36,840

2 people: $36,840

2 people: $42,120

**Dependent on unit rent

Applications will begin to be mailed on October 3, 2022 to those individuals interested, in keeping with approved affirmative marketing plan and must be postmarked by February 6, 2023 opened by lottery at People Inc. Linwood Lafayette Apartments, 637 Linwood Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14209 on February 13, 2023 at 10:00am. We will be recording the lottery and posting on People Inc. websites. For more information or an application, email housing@people-inc.org, visit NYHousingSearch.gov or call 716.880.3890.

COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

CHARGE ERIE

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations & Installation

Amherst and Akron FA-PIN 5763.49

Department of Public Works, Division of Building & Grounds seeking General Construction sealed bids for provision and installation of electric vehicle charging stations. Sealed proposals will be received at Rath County Office Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Room 1400, Buffalo, NY 14202 by, and opened at, 10 am local time, Thursday, January 19, 2023. Certified check in the amount of $20,000.00 bid deposit is required.

Pre-let meeting scheduled Thursday, January 5, 2023 at 9:00 am local time at Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin St, Room 1404, Buffalo, NY 14202. NYSDOL, Davis Bacon Wage Rates, NYS Vendor Responsibility

CCA-2 A/B/C, Locally Administered Federal Aid Project procedures and guidelines, Local Minority, & Disadvantaged Workforce goals, NYS Apprenticeship goals, and DBE goals may be required. Plans and additional bid submittal information on the Erie County website at: http: // www2.erie.gov/dpw see On Line Bid

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE IN FORECLO-

SURE SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK COUNTY OF ERIE LAKEVIEW LOAN SERVICING, LLC, Plaintiff, v. MARY ELLEN

WHITE, PATRICK J. WHITE, ET AL, Defendant. PLEASE TAKE NOTICE

THAT In pursuance of an Amended Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered in the Office of the County Clerk of Erie County on July 16, 2022, I, Michael A. Benson, Esq. the Referee named in said Judgment, will sell in one parcel at public auction on February 9, 2023 at the Closing Room of the Erie County Clerk`s Office located on the first floor of 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, County of Erie, State of New York, at 10:00 AM the premises described as follows: 31 Christopher Drive West Seneca, NY 14224 SBL: 143.19-3-45

ALL THAT TRACT OR PARCEL OF LAND situate in the Town of West Seneca, County of Erie, State of New York. The premises are sold subject to the provisions of the filed judgment, Index No. 806830/2018 in the amount of $96,735.73 plus interest and costs. The aforementioned auction will be conducted in accordance with the Court System's COVID-19 mitigation protocols and as such all persons must comply with social distancing, wearing masks and screening practices in effect at the time of this foreclosure sale. Brettanie L. Hart Saxton Woods Oviatt Gilman LLP Plaintiff's Attorney 500 Bausch & Lomb Place Rochester, NY 14604 Tel.: 855-227-5072 104324-1 73794

January 12, 19, 26 February 2

LEGAL NOTICE

NEWS RELEASE

ERIE COUNTY GOVERNMENT

ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Gale Burstein, M.D. –COMMISSIONER FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Dr. Gale Burstein, Commissioner of the Erie County Department of Health announced today January 3, 2023 that the next Board of Health meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, January 17, 2023 at 3:30 P.M. Room 1404, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202. Immediately following a Public Hearing to be held at 3:00 P.M. for the purpose of adoption of revisions to the Erie County Sanitary Code regarding Article IV, including new section 15.

At this time the Board will vote on adopting the aforesaid revisions.

NOTICE OF INVITATION TO SUBMIT A PROPOSAL:

Engineering Services for Erie County / Erie County Sewer District No. 5

Transit Road Corridor Sanitary Sewer Service Evaluation Report

Proposals are requested by the Erie County Department of Environment and Planning, Division of Sewerage Management (DEP/DSM) for the Transit Road Corridor Sanitary Sewer Service Evaluation Report in Erie County Sewer District No. 5. The highest rated respondent will be selected to enter into an agreement with the County.

In accordance with Local Law No.

6, proposals are hereby invited for the subject project. Proposals are to be submitted in the exact format of submittal available from the DEP/ DSM, 95 Franklin Street, Room 1034, Buffalo, New York 14202. Proposals will be due January 31, 2023 at 4:00pm.

The DEP/DSM emphasizes that declining to respond at any step of the procurement process prior to selection will not hinder firms from being solicited for future work.

To obtain a copy of the RFP guidelines, please visit the following website, http://www2.erie.gov/ purchasing/index.php?q=requestsproposals-amp-construction-bids.

Alternatively, you may e-mail DSM@ erie.gov

This invitation does not commit Erie County nor its DEP/DSM to accept any proposal, nor does it obligate Erie County for any costs associated with preparing or submitting proposals.

BY:Joseph Fiegl, P.E., BCEE Deputy Commissioner Erie County Department of Environment & Planning Division of Sewerage Management

Date: 12/14/22

Published: 12/15/22

LEGAL NOTICE

NOTICE OF SALE SUPREME COURT COUNTY OF ERIE, KEYBANK, NA AS SUCCESSOR BY MERGER TO FIRST NIAGARA BANK, NA, Plaintiff, vs. SURABHI KAKATI, ET AL., Defendant(s).

Pursuant to An Order Confirming Referee Report and Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale duly entered on October 15, 2022, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the first floor closing room of the Erie County Clerk's Office, 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY on February 15, 2023 at 10:00 a.m., premises known as 122 Old Farm Circle, Williamsville, NY 14221. All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being in the Town of Amherst, County of Erie and State of New York, Section 55.08, Block 5 and Lot 14. Approximate amount of judgment is $183,022.72 plus interest and costs. Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment Index # 810459/2019. COVID-19 safety protocols will be followed at the foreclosure sale.

Michael Klima, Esq., Referee

Greenspoon Marder, 590 Madison Avenue, Suite 1800, New York, NY 10022, Attorneys for Plaintiff January 12, 19, 26 February 2

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

Pursuant to a Judgment of Foreclosure and Sale entered herein and dated October 30, 2017, I, the undersigned Referee will sell at public auction at the Foreclosure Alcove, 1st Floor, Erie County Hall, 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY on February 14, 2023 at 11:00 a.m. premises situate in the City of Buffalo, County of Erie and State of New York, being part of Lot 89, Township 11, Range 8 of the Holland Land Company Survey and further distinguished as Subdivision Lot 45, as shown on a map filed in the Erie County Clerk's Office under Cover No. 1182. Section: 77.76 Block: 3 Lot: 16.

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

Said premises known as 67 SAINT FLORIAN STREET, BUFFALO, NY Approximate amount of lien $78,230.47 plus interest & costs.

Premises will be sold subject to provisions of filed Judgment and Terms of Sale.

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

Index Number 813751/2014.

NORA B. ROBSHAW, ESQ., Referee

David A. Gallo & Associates LLP

Attorney(s) for Plaintiff

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

File# 5025.1924

January 12, 19, 26 February 2

COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

Back Creek Road (CR 438)

Slope Stabilization & Reconstruction

PROJ# CAP-438-23

Department of Public Works, Division of Highways seeking sealed bids for slope stabilization & full depth highway reconstruction including new closed drainage and relocated waterline in the Town of Boston.

Sealed proposals will be received at Rath County Office Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Room 1404, Buffalo, NY 14202 by, and opened at, 10:00 am local time, Tuesday, January 17, 2023. Certified check in the amount of $64,000.00 bid deposit is required with the bid submittal. Pre-let meeting scheduled Tuesday, January 10, 2023 at 10:00 am local time at Rath County Office Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Room 1404, Buffalo, NY. NYSDOL Wage Rates, NYS Vendor Responsibility CCA-2 A/B/C, Local Minority, & Disadvantaged Workforce goals, NYS Apprenticeship, and MWBE goals may be required. Plans and additional bid submittal information on the Erie County website at: http: //www3.erie.gov/dpw see On Line Bid Retrieval.

LEGAL NOTICE

PROBATE CITATION

File Number: 2021-4227

SURROGATES COURTERIE COUNTY CITATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

By the grace of God, Free and Independent

TO: EISHAWN CAMP, MORIAH CAMP, if they be living, and if they dead to their heirs-at-law, next of kin, distributees, if any such there be, all of whom and all whose names, ages, and places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the Petitioner(s) and cannot after due diligence be ascertained, and HON.

LETITIA JAMES, Attorney General of the State of New York, and to JENNIFER G. FLANNERY, Erie County Public Administrator.

A Petition having been filed by IRMA CAMP, who is domiciled at 25 CAMBRIDGE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NEW YORK 14215.

YOU ARE HEREBY CITED to SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate’s Court, Erie County, at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 on November 17, 2022 at 930 o'clock in the fore noon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of Ferron Marshall Camp, Sr. lately domiciled at 271 Northampton Street, Buffalo, New York 14208 admitting to probate a will dated June 8, 2016 (a codicil dated n/a) a copy of which is attached, as the Will of Ferron Marshall Camp Sr. deceased, relating to real and personal property and directing that:

Letters Testamentary to Irma Camp Dated, Attested, and Sealed September 28, 2022

Hon. Acea Mosey- Surrogate Linda C Novotny - Chief Clerk Rashied H McDuffie, Esq. Attorney for Petitioner 594 Winslow Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14211

LEGAL NOTICE

Bid

EARLY NOTICE FOR BIDS

Gilbane│Turner will be soliciting Bids for the BUFFALO BILLS NEW STADIUM PROJECT.

Packages in the January 2023

release* are:

BID PACKAGE 02 – Site Fence

BID PACKAGE 03A/B– Existing Utility Relocates & Early New Utilities (Non-Electric)

BID PACKAGE 03C – Existing Power Relocates

BID PACKAGE 05 – Site Set-Up

Temporary Light & Power

BID PACKAGE 07 – Site Demolition

BID PACKAGE 08A/B – Mass Excavation

BID PACKAGE 09 – Elevators & Escalators

All businesses interested in bidding as a Prime/Tier-1 subcontractor must prequalify to receive an invitation to bid. For an overview of the prequalification process, reference the Prequalification Navigation Guide at www.buffalobillsnewstadium.com.

We encourage NYS certified minority-, women- and service-disabled veteran-owned and local businesses to participate. If you provide services relevant to any of the above packages and are interested in participating at a lower-tier level, apply in the “Contracting Opportunities” section on the project website.

*Subject to change

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

INVITATION TO BID

The NFTA is soliciting bids for Project No. 15LA2101, LRRT - 400 Embedded Rail Replacement, Bid No. E-587 due on February 2, 2023 at 2:00pm. Website for information www. nftaengineering.com

LEGAL NOTICE

PUBLIC NOTICE

The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority (“BMHA”) has made available copies for review of the BMHA 2023 Annual Agency Plan. Individuals interested in reviewing the Plan may do so by visiting the BMHA Administrative Office located at 300 Perry Street, Buffalo, NY, Monday - Friday between the hours of 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. and/or via the BMHA’s website www.bmhahousing.com.

Written comments should be sent to the attention of Gillian D. Brown, Executive Director, BMHA, 300 Perry Street, Buffalo, NY 14204. The deadline for submitting comments is Tuesday, February 28, 2023 at 3:00 pm. A public hearing of the 2023 Annual Agency Plan will be held on Thursday March 2, 2023 at 10:00am at 300 Perry Street.

LEGAL NOTICE Bid

INVITATION TO BID

The NFTA is soliciting bids for LRRT – Yards and Shop Façade Repairs Project No. 10LS1511, Bid No. E-584 due on January 31, 2023 at 2pm. Website for information www. nftaengineering.com

LEGAL NOTICE

Bid

INVITATION TO BID

The NFTA is soliciting bids for NFIAAirfield Pavement Maintenance 2023/24 Project No. 12NA2240, Bid No. E-588 due on January 25, 2023 at 2pm Website for information www. nftaengineering.com

1870 FILLMORE (near Kensington) Friday 12-5 pm Saturday 9-5 PM Sunday 12-5 PM

JEFF MOORE (716) 361-4900

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Vernon Ross Sr

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M.O.S. Electrician

Provide electricty to servicemen in TDY

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The Ross family lived in The Philippines

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Home Buyer Seminar

HUNT Mortgage Corp. will conduct a Home Buyers seminar on January 19th and 25th 2023, located at the Central Library, (Downtown Buffalo, West Room) 1 Lafayette Square, Buffalo NY 14203 at 5:45 pm.

The guest speaker for this event is Bill Severyn of Severyn Development discussing "Your Pathway Home" new construction homes. Also discussed will be how to prepare for homeownership.

HUNT Mortgage Down Payment and Closing Cost Assistance

Credit Repair

Advantage of investing in your community

To reserve your seat, contact Melissa at: Melissa.Howell@HUNTMortgage.com

Hustle For Health

There will be no Hustle for Health Line Dance Class at Delavan Grider or Gloria Parks Community Center on: Monday Jan 16th 2023

Monday Feb 20th 2023