CHALLENGER COMMUNITY NEWS

Photo by Jamal Horne

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Shaun Nelms Appointed VP for Community Partnerships at University of Rochester

New role seeks to deepen the University’s commitment to the city and the region

Shaun Nelms, the current superintendent of the East Educational Partnership Organization with the University of Rochester, has been named vice president for community partnerships at the University effective July 1.

“Shaun is a visionary leader who for the past eight years has led a revolutionary partnership that could be a model for K-12 transformation,” says President Sarah Mangelsdorf. “His extraordinary work at East High School and the Warner School of Education has inspired us to think more broadly about the role innovative partnerships can play at the University level. ”

As East EPO superintendent, Nelms, a Buffalo native, has led a distinctive educational partnership model between East High School—a Rochester City School District (RCSD) school—and the University of Rochester. The partnership has demonstrated great success, serving as a model for academic and culture transformation in urban K-12 education.

In 2015, Nelms was named the first ever superintendent of the East EPO. Prior to the partnership’s founding, East High, one of Rochester’s oldest city schools, was in disarray, in desperate need of help, and slated to close for failing to meet state standards for several years. With agreement among the RCSD, New York State, the East High School community, and the University, the EPO was launched. Under Nelms’ leadership, the model has shown great success in addressing disparities in urban education to change student outcomes, while surpassing the goal to double the graduation rate of East students. Since 2015, the four-year graduation rate increased from 33% to 85%, the attendance rate grew from 77% to 90%, and the drop-out rate declined from 41% to 15%. As superintendent of East Upper and Lower schools, Nelms also expanded its Career and

Technical Education (CTE) programs to include pathways in Culinary Arts, Information Technology, Computer Technology, Biomedical Health Sciences, Business and Computer Essentials, Precision Optics, Teaching and Learning, and Vision Care.

In 2021, the New York State Education Department extended the EPO through 2025.

“It has been a true privilege to work alongside East EPO educators, parents and community members for the past eight years to rebuild the foundation of a great school,” said Nelms. “In working with the University of Rochester and its Warner School, we have been able to provide scholars at East real opportunities to succeed, a safe environment to grow, and we’ve been given the support and resources to innovate in spaces where despair was more often greater than hope. And as the University continues to put their full support behind this model, I am most proud that these public school students have been given what they deserve, which are equitable opportunities that allow them to reach their full potential. ”

Easter Egg Hunt

The City of Rochester invites kids and their caregivers to participate in an Easter egg hunt from noon until 2:30 p.m. on April 1 at the Genesee Valley Sports Complex (131 Elmwood Ave). All participants must pre-register. Visit www.CityofRochester.gov/R-Central. For more info call 428-7890.

Mount Olivet Baptist Church Holy Week Services

Mount Olivet Baptist Church, 15 Adams Street, where Dr. Rickey Harvey is Senior Pastor, will host its 15th Annual Holy Week Services April 3-7 from 5 a.m. daily. Featured will be D. Myra Mathis-Uwanogho of Rochester, Dr. Cynthia Butler McIntyre of new Orleans, Rev. Dr. Millicent Hunter of Philadelphia, Rev. Dr. Ruby Holland of Memphis and Rev. Dr. Rudolph McKissick of Jacksonville, FL.

On Good Friday, April 7 the “Last Words of Christ” will feature Pastor Rodney R. Roberts, Pastor Leon Tate, Pastor Cynthia Anderson, Bishop Gregory Wells and Dr. Douglass Smith all of Rochester, and Dr. Keith Robinson of Memphis, TN. and Rev. DeCarlo Draper of Syracuse.

For more Information call (585)232-6742

Hustle for Health!

Line Dance Fitness for 50+, Saturdays 11 a.m. east high School, Rochester. www.hystleforhealth.com

Supplemental SNAP Ending in February

AREA BRIEFS

Greater Jefferson Avenue Business Association Hosts “Meet and Greet”

STAND AGAINST RACISM!

Retired Officers Offer Support, Encourage Community to Stand With Young Professionals At April 15th Benefit

Racism is nothing new in the Buffalo Police Department.

Long time community activist, columnist and author Ted Kirkland writes about it extensively in his book “Spirit and Soul.”

Larry Stitts

The Greater Jefferson Avenue Business Association (GJABA) held a “Meet and Greet” last Saturday at the Apollo Media Center for community members and current business owners who have successfully joined GJABA and its ongoing efforts to revitalize the Jefferson Avenue commercial strip into a thriving business district. GJABA general membership is open to all businesses, institutions, property owners, and stakeholders within the Jefferson Avenue corridor. Members of the Board of Directors include Larry Stitts, President; Gio McKnight, Vice President; Avon White Treasurer; Kenny Ivy, Secretary; Zaid B. Islam, Sergeant at Arms; Athenia Cyrus, Project Manager; and Pastor Arthur H. Boyd, Clergy.

For more information call (716)259-8039 or visit www. GJABA.org

Downtown Library Resumes Regular Hours

The Central Library has resumed its regular hours after shortening hours to 3 p.m. March 10. The reason? Kids fighting both inside and outside the building. The library is open Monday through Thursday 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays.

The presence of Buffalo Peacekeepers, an anti-violence initiative of Back to Basics Outreach Ministries, will hopefully prevent the violent outbreaks going forward. A total of five Peacekeepers will be assigned to the library Monday thru Friday. The usual security staffing at the library includes four security guards and two sheriff’s deputies. Library users will now come and go thru the main entrance after 3 p.m. Rev. James Gilles, president and CEO of Back to Basics, said the Peacekeepers have basically proven they can “relate to the kids.”

Area residents Among Recipients of the Arc of Justice -Arc Benders Award

Abany, NY – A host of outstanding citizens from the Buffalo/Rochester area were among those honored at the 2nd Annual Arc of Justice - Arc Benders Awards Reception last month in Albany, NY . The recipients, who were honored for their “unwavering service to community, commitment to justice, equity, and equality” included:

NYS Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples Stokes; Former, Buffalo Fire Commissioner Garnell Whitfield; Chief of Staff National Baptist Convention Pastor Frank Bostic; Radio Station Owner Sheila Brown; Challenger Newspaper Editor/Publisher Al-Nisa Banks and Monroe County (Rochester) Legislature President Sabrina LaMar. Additional honorees included NYS Senate Leader Andrea Stewart Cousins; NYS Assembly Speaker Carl Heastie ; NYS Attorney General Letitia James and others.

The event was hosted by Rev. Kirsten John Foy, President & CEO of The Arc of Justice (AOJ), along with New York State Nurses Association (NYNSA).

A former Buffalo Police officer, Ted was one of only two Blacks in his Police Academy graduating class in 1962. He was the co-founder of the Afro-American Police Association and in 1972 led a group of Black officers to file racial discrimination charges against the Buffalo Police and Fire Departments. As a result there was an increase of women and Black officers hired.

Fast forward to 2023. There are a lot more Blacks and women on the force. But as the saying goes, the more things change the more they stay the same.

Last November officers Brandon Hawkins, Katelynn Bolden and Mental Health Counselor Erica Seymour filed a lawsuit against the Buffalo Police Department and the City of Buffalo after seven months of trying, within the department, to resolve issues of racism and discrimination. They accused Captain Amber Beyer of going on a racist rant during a cop training session and retaliating against the officers who complained. The department didn’t take any action against her until after the suit was filed. She was ultimately placed on administrative leave with pay According to our sources, neither Brandon or Katelynn are receiving any pay. Erica, who was fired, is looking for a job.

-Community Support-

Last month on Cable Access four retired police officers – Justine Harris, Idella and Maurice Abram, and Cariol Horne – talked about the Code of Silence and the difficulty of being asked to adhere to the culture of the Blue Line, while attempting to perform their day to day duties. They voiced support for the brave stand the young professionals are taking.

A “Stand Against Racism” benefit on behalf of the three will be held Saturday, April 15 from 4-8 p.m. at the Johnnie B. Wiley Stadium, 1100 Jefferson Avenue. Tickets are $30 in advance and also available at the door. For information and tickets contact Lisa Wilson-Smith at (716)6024438 or Andrea Anderson (716)335-3157.

-Breaking the Silence-

Justine Harris,who served 24 years on the force, recalls having to “break the code of silence” about conditions and suffered intimidation and retaliation in a number of forms. It’s important, she said, for the community to come out and show their support for Brandon, Katelynn and Erica.

“What they are going through is nothing new” she lamented. “It’s been going on. She noted the importance of officers to be grounded in their communities and sticking together, adding "it’s them today…it could be you tomorrow.”

Maurice Abram echoed her call for unity. Reflecting on his own "background pain" and experience, he said t "it's terribly important that we support them...we've got to stand together or we lose together!"

In 2006 Buffalo police Officer Cariol Horne did the right thing. She saved a life when she intervened to stop a fellow officer who had an unarmed Black man in a deadly choke hold. Her reward? She was dismissed from the force, lost both her pay and pension, while the cop who was using excessive force was rewarded. After 15 years of fighting to have her dismissal overturned and her full pension restored, the amazingly resilient mother of 5 claimed victory. In addition, her Cariol’s Law: The Duty to Intervene legislation was signed into law in the City of Buffalo. The law codifies the duty to intervene for police officers, whether on-or-off-duty, when they see another officer using unreasonable force against a civilian. It also protects those officers who intervene from retaliation.

Cariol’s struggle exemplifies what “standing your ground” can produce. She encourages the community to support the three young fighters in their stand against injustice and bigotry

“It is hard chipping at a system that has been in place to divide us for hundreds of years, but it can happen,” she said. “ I am living proof.”

She urged the community to attend the upcoming benefit fund raiser April 15.

“It’s time to continue moving in a positive light….to take a stand against racism in Buffalo, N.Y. Let’s show unity in 2023. Today we urge you to join us in our stand with Brandon, Katlynn, and Erica because tomorrow it could be you.”

"There's strength in numbers," said Abram. "We've got to let them know we're on their side!"

Queen

Nzinga Mbande

(c. 1583 – December 17, 1663)

Queen Nzinga Mbande was a highly intelligent and powerful 17th-century ruler of the Ndongo and Matamba Kingdoms (modern-day Angola). Around the turn of the 17th century, Nzinga fearlessly and cleverly fought for the freedom of her kingdoms against the Portuguese, who were colonizing the Central African coast at the time to control the trade of African human beings.

To build up her kingdom’s military might, Nzinga offered sanctuary to runaway slaves and Portuguesetrained African soldiers. She stirred up rebellion among the people still left in Ndongo, by then ruled by the Portuguese. Nzinga also formed an alliance with the Dutch against the Portuguese. However, their combined forces were not enough to drive the Portuguese out. After retreating to Matamba again, Nzinga started to focus on developing the kingdom as a trading power and the gateway to the Central African interior.

At the time of Nzinga’s death in 1661 at the age of 81, Matamba had become a powerful kingdom that managed to resist Portuguese colonization attempts for an extended period of time. Her kingdom was only integrated into Angola in the late 19th century.

From Left:Justine Harris, Idella and Maurice Abram, and Cariol Horne. Street Legacy Photo

FAITH & FAMILY

D.I.V.A.S For Christ Inc.: “It’s Revival Time!”

From April 12 to 14

The D.I.V.A.S for Christ Inc. will celebrate their 14th anniversary with a three day “Redeemed and Ready" revival featuring guest Revivalist Prophet Terrell Turner at Miracle Missions

Full Gospel Church, 406 Sycamore Street where Overseer James A. Lewis is Senior Pastor. The host is Pastor Marquitta Whitehead.

How the Pandemic Affected Attendance at U.S. Religious Services

According to the Pew Research Center, Black Protestants have experienced a substantial bounce in physical attendance since the Pandemic, from a low of 14% in July 2020 to 41% in the recent survey. But Black Americans also have suffered a disproportionately high share of COVID-19 hospitalizations and deaths relative to White Americans, and remain the U.S. religious group most likely to be viewing services virtually. In the most recent survey, about half of Black Protestants (54%) say they participated in services online or on TV in the last month, compared with 46% of White evangelical Protestants and smaller shares of Catholics (20%), White non-evangelical Protestants (19%) and Jews (16%). (The report could not analyze the attendance patterns of Muslims, Buddhists, Hindus and other smaller non-Christian religious groups due to sample size limitations.)

Homegoing Services For Quinton Roseboro Smith (Smitty)

Sunrise February 16, 1942 • Sunset March 24, 2023

Homegoing services will be held for Quinton “Roseboro” Smith (Owner of Studio 322 on Herman Street) Monday April 3rd at St. Paul’s AME Zion Church located at 610 East Eagle Street. The wake is at 11am and the service will begin at 12pm. Arrangements were made by Thomas T. Edwards Funeral Home, who have also provided an online platform where you can send flowers, cards and condolences to the family. Go to thomastedwardsfuneralhome.com

Pastor Whitehead.and Prophet Terrell Turner.

Links 2023 Scholarships Available

The Buffalo NY Chapter of the Links Incorporated are offering four scholarships for applicable students:

1. Buffalo (NY) Links Scholarship for graduating 12th graders entering college by Fall 2023.

2. James & Vernette Patterson Engineering Scholarship for graduating 12th graders going into an engineering program or a current college student majoring in engineering.

3. Joan E. Sutton Memorial Scholarship for African American Females age 21 & older interested in continuing education or a special activity/ project.

4. Brian Michael Harper Memorial Scholarship for a student attending Cornell University – new this year, more details to follow.

The deadline for all applications is April 7, 2023. Go to LinksBuffalochapter.org/.scholarships for all details and to apply.

Three Events Planned to Benefit the Lt. Aaron Salter Memorial Scholarship: Bills Legends Join Forces to Honor a Fallen Hero

This May our community will come together to remember the lives lost in the May 14th, 2022 attack on Tops Market, and to honor the life and legacy of retired Buffalo Police Lt. Aaron Salter, who tragically lost his life in the attack while protecting the lives of others.

Lt. Aaron Salter Memorial Scholarship Inc. (LASMS) will be hosting three special events alongside Buffalo Bills Hall of Famer, Bruce Smith; with special guest appearances by Andre Reed, Steve Tasker, Thurman Thomas, and others. The first event will be held on the one-year anniversary weekend of the tragic shooting to raise money for a scholarship created in Salter’s name.

Earl E. Perrin, Jr., President of the Board of Directors for the fund said there will be ten scholarships given to Buffalo high school graduating seniors “ who meet our criteria and represent Lt. Salter’s ethics, morals, and civic duty. By continuing in his footsteps, these students will honor the legacy of a true servant to our community.”

“We felt this marathon was a good way to create new leaders in Buffalo school students because Aaron Salter was a leader and career minded and community oriented. He also attended Buffalo city schoosl and graduated from Hutch Tech. This is all about giving back," said Perrin

Salter served as a Buffalo Police Officer for three decades, and after retirement worked as a security guard at Tops Market. While a student at Hutchinson Central Technical High School, from which he graduated nearly 40 years ago, Salter excelled in mechanical and technical skills. The scholarship will recognize students whose technical skills, passion for projects, and passion for community service exemplify those of Lt. Salter.

TERRENCE D. McKELVEY

181 Franklin Street Suite #301 Buffalo, New York 14202

The planned events include:

•Saturday May 13 The 514 5K Half-Marathon sponsored by the Lt. Aaron Salter Memorial Scholarship

8:00 AM kick off point: 2001 Main St. (Canisius College) where Salter was a student. He received his degree posthu-

mously after the college learned that he was one class short of the graduation requirements.

Bruce Smith, Thurman Thomas, and Steve Tasker will welcome runners to the 514 5K Half-Marathon. The 5K Run/Walk and half-marathon will begin at 2001 Main Street (Canisius College) and end in Delaware Park. Relay teams are eligible to compete in the half-marathon, in addition to individual runners. Members of the media are welcomed to join the 5K or half-marathon, with a special award given to the media relayteam with the fastest time. First responders looking to participate in the race will receive a 20% discount on registration. The cost is $35 for the 5K, $80 for the half-marathon and $320 for a four-member relay team with additional sign-up fees. First through third place winners in each age bracket will receive medals, along with a plaque to the runner with the overall fastest time. Race day volunteers are also sought. Post-race festivities will be held at St. George’s Church. To register or to volunteer, please visit https://bflo5145k.com

•Sunday May 21: Second Annual Bruce Smith Celebrity Gala 6 – 10 p.m. Sto-Lat Bar & Restaurant, Eastern Hills Mall, Transit Road .

•May 22: The second annual Bruce Smith Celebrity Golf Tournament from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Lockport Town & Country Club, 717 East Ave. Lockport. For more information go to Lt.AaronSalterMemorialScholarship.com

Attorney at Law

Alzheimer’s Association Presents Caregiver Conference Focusing on Black Community

In partnership with the Buffalo Center for Health Equity, the Western New York Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association will present “It’s A Family Affair: 3rd Annual Black/African American Caregiver Conference” on Saturday, April 1, from 1 to 3:30 p.m. at the Merriweather Library. People can also participate via Zoom.

The conference will offer the opportunity for members of the Black community to learn more about Alzheimer’s and dementia, along with the resources available to assist them as caregivers.

"We know that, particularly in communities of color, much of the care for people living with dementia is provided by family members. For these caregivers, knowledge is power,” says Andrea Koch, director of education and training for the WNY Chapter. “We want to ensure that they have the information, tools and support they need to provide the best care for their loved ones."

National guest speakers will address the unique challenges faced by communities of color when caring for family members with Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Sadé Dozan, MPA, chief of operations and development for Caring Across Generations, will speak on the need to support family caregivers and help elders age with dignity. Doris Saintil Phildor, MPH, New York State Health Systems Director for the Alzheimer's Association, will talk about building trust with health providers and improving health outcomes in communities of color.

Lauren Ashburn, the Alzheimer Association’s associate director of advocacy for New York State, will speak about the power caregivers have to create policy changes through sharing their stories, and a volunteer advocate will also speak on the power of advocacy.

A free caregiver resource fair will be offered featuring representatives from Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield of Western New York, the Erie County Department of Senior Services, UBMD Neurology, Congressman Brian Higgins’ Congress on Your Corner team, the Center for Elder Law & Justice, and Mellowing Mind. . Registration is required and can be done online at bit.ly/AlzFamConf23 or by calling 800.272.3900.

"Black Lives, Black Lungs": A Community Conversation on Menthol Cigarettes

Pastor George Nicholas of the Buffalo Center for Health Equity will lead an important community conversation about the Governor’s proposal to ban menthol cigarettes in the State Thursday, March 30 from 6 – 7:30 p.m. at Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, 641 Masten Ave. More details about the “Black Lives, Black Lungs” community conversation program can be found on the Buffalo Center for Health Equity” website at https:// www.buffalohealthequity. org/

Healthy Options Restaurant Week

Theinaugural event for Buffalao’s first “Healthy Options Restaurant Week” is running now through April 1 and will showcase delicious and nutritious options for families at restaurants across Western New York.

More than 20 local restaurants are participating in the first ever Healthy Options Restaurant Week now through April 1 presented by the Independent Health Foundation, Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus and the Buffalo Urban League Young Professionals.

For more information on Healthy Options Restaurant Week, visit healthyoptionsbuffalo.com/restaurantweek

Participating restaurants include:

*Brothers Restaurant and Bar: Lemon Pepper Salmon with Broccoli, Rice and Cabbage

*Carine’s Caribbean Cuisine (in the Broadway Mar-

ket): Pink Tropical Smoothie; Chicken Bites with Kale Rice

*CEO Kitchen: Southwest Quinoa Salad with Smoked Chili Cumin Dressing; Stuffed Sweet Potato with Ground Turkey, Kale and Apple Chutney

*The Cheesy Chick: Tomato Soup, Pesto Grilled Cheese (Vegan option available)

*Chiavetta’s Barbeque: Tomato Pepper and Onion Salad; Half BBQ Grilled Chicken

*Chubby’s Pit Stop (Delivery Only): Chubby’s Cowboy Caviar; Zucchini Alfredo; Avocado and Lime

Cheesecake

*Fresh Catch Poke: All Signature Bowls

*Gallo Coal Fire Kitchen: Roasted Stuff Tomato; Ortaggio Pasta; Poached Pear with Honey

*Golden Hour Treats: Green

O’Clock Smoothie; Berry Berry Yum Smoothie

*Ilio DiPaolo’s Restaurant: Caprese Salad; Penne Broc-

coli with Grilled Chicken

*The Juice Lounge: Ginger and Wellness Shots; Orange Pineapple Ginger

*Juicey Quartz: Hodge Podge Salad; Vegan Chili

*Manna @ Northland: Vegetarian Jambalaya

*Mister Pizza Elmwood: Vegan Pizza; Veggie Delight Pizza

*PhatCatz: Cajun Shrimp Bites; Pan-seared Cajun Shrimp over Garden Salad

*Radah Baked Goods: Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookie

*Steaksters: BBQ Chopped Salad

*Sto Lat Bar: Lettuce Wrap; Salmon Power Bowl

*Sunshine Vegan Eats: Kale Salad; Veggie Stir Fry

*The Terrace at Delaware Park: Beet and Chevre Salad; Buddha Bowl

*Tom’s Restaurant – Home of the Souvlaki: Pita with Tzatziki; Open Chicken Souvlaki

*Venus: Hummus with Pita; Greek Salad with Chicken

eat to live

Sadé Dozan and Doris Saintil Phildor

One Woman’s Vision, Planted Rooted and Growing Still!

Food Forest Garden Planned for JFK Park

Back in 2020 when the world was hit with challenges of Covid 19 and the ever present lack of good healthy food access in Black communities had overstayed its welcome in our own town, one very active member of the community took matters into her own hands to lead the charge of change.

Gail Wells starting with activating East Side residents to begin a purposeful journey of growing food in their own back yards with the support and guidance of the organization she founded called Buffalo Freedom Gardens.

The long time Grassroots Gardner designed a program to inspire resilience and independence for Buffalo residents who were willing to make the jump and transform back and front yard spaces that would yield food; creating a very edible “yard -to -table” lifestyle for their own families. What started with 50 households in Buffalo in the Summer of 2020 has turned into over 150 household Freedom Gardeners on Buffalo’s East side and growing.

Just 3 short, successful years after founding Buffalo Freedom Gardens, Wells has expanded her vision to extend beyond East Side back yards, yet staying rooted to “growing” her community into a fortress of resilience. Her latest vision expands to JFK Park located at 114 Hickory Street.

Wells along with a small group of local horticulturalists, Master Gardeners and community residents working with CCE Erie and Cornell Garden Based Learning, recently proposed to utilize $6000 in available funding to establish a Food Forest Garden, a small permaculture garden in JFK Park. A permaculture garden is basically one that can essentially take care of itself through each season.

The garden's holistic design mimics a natural ecosystem and climate that combines the best of edible landscaping and native plant cultivation. Food forest gardens produce fruit and nuts, berries, grapes, herbs, seeds and edible flowers. Those involved in this vision have thoughtfully considered

where this garden might be located and are thinking JFK Park near the tennis court where they planted maple trees last fall.

“The legacy of fruit and nut producing trees can still be seen today," said Gail. " A permaculture park area would build upon investments already made in our natural ecosystems with the establishment of rain gardens by the Buffalo Sewer Authority.”

Several months ago, she connected with current Common Council President Darius Pridgen, Deputy Commissioner for Parks and Recreation Andy Rabb, Board members of the Buffalo Green Fund (Gail is currently Chair of Green Fund) and Re-Tree Buffalo. They all showed support for the project. She was recently given the grant she needed to make this new dream come true and along with her partners are excited about this ideal site for a permaculture park or what she calls a Buffalo Food Forest Freedom Garden.

“JFK Park is an ideal site for this type of garden due to its proximity to a number of nearby community partners, including schools, churches, housing, Community Action Organization, and the Copper Town Block Club, who would benefit from having a permaculture garden at this location,” said Wells. “We are envisioning a space where the garden serves the community holistically, providing not just beneficial plants but a space that serves as a backdrop for nutrition and exercise classes in alignment with the City’s master plan for our parks and green spaces. A permaculture garden has the potential to

to benefit our community members on Buffalo’s East Side and across the city,” she concluded.

The Buffalo Green Fund, Re-Tree and Cornell Cooperative Extension of Erie County are hosting a free horticultural course titled “Planting Trees-a How-To Workshop” as part of an East Side effort to train volunteers in the planting of trees. This free course will take place on Saturday, April 15 at the Buffalo Museum of Science, 1020 Humboldt Parkway starting at 9a.m.

To learn more visit www.re-TreeWNY.org. The project is set to start this spring, 2023, and takes two years to complete. To support Buffalo Freedom Gardens or to inquire about how to volunteer for this project email yourfreedomgarden@ gmail.com , go to Instagram @buffalofreedomgardens or to our Buffalo Freedom Gardens Facebook business page for additional information.

-staff writer

Educational Excellence

Ebony Nelson made the Daemen University Dean’s list in the fall semester of 2022.She’s a Senior in the BSN-RN program with just three credits left until graduation. Outside of school and working as a nurse full time she is a member of Buffalo Black Nurses with a career goal to become an NP in women’s health or pediatric services. Congratulations!

contribute to increasing access to FREE healthy fruit, nuts, herbs and edible flowers in our food insecure neighborhoods,” she continued.

Now that the grant is approved Wells and three of her partners (CCE, Buffalo Freedom Gardens, and LifeSource Systems) can move forward organizing listening sessions with community stakeholders to get their input.

Her team is also looking at other urban garden spaces to determine rules for the garden and best practices for a safety and maintenance. Since its right in the heart of the Pratt Willert/Towne Gardens neighborhood they plan to involve CopperTown Block Club members, residents of Frederick Douglass Towers, Town Gardens, and Ellicott Town Center in addition to Freedom Garden volunteers, and Grassroots Garden as well as tree stewards and corporate sponsors who her planning team has relationships with in the care and oversight of the permaculture space.

“This project will raise awareness around the benefits of community green spaces. Cornell Cooperative Extension and our partners are committed to providing education and stewardship of treescapes

Gail V. Wells near the site of planned Food Forest located in JFK Park.

Photo Jamal Horne

Gail V. Wells and crew planting sugar maple trees last season in JFK park.

ON STAGE

Pictured

Annette Daniels-Taylor,

Jean McKinley, Lissette DeJesus Agustus Donaldson

Murder On the Orient Express at Sheas710 Features

Talented Community Actors

Since its publication in 1934, Agatha Christie's iconic locomotive whodunnit Murder On The Orient Express has thrilled and chilled readers and audiences of all backgrounds with subsequent stage/screen adaptations over the decades .

Currently On stage at Shea’s710 Theatre, the story unfolds as the lavish trip through Europe turns into a race against time to solve a murder aboard a train that is met with an avalanche that stops it dead in its tracks.

For this production, directed by Kyle LoConti and adapted by Ken Ludwig, among the great cast of talent there’s a surpising number of Black and Brown actors with major roles!

Actress Annette Daniels Taylor plays the elderly wealthy Russian Princess Natalya Dragomiroff; Gabriella Jean McKinley plays the tormented spinster Mary Debenham; Agustus Donaldson plays Hector MacQueen and Countess Anrenyi is played by Lissette DeJesus. So even if you aren’t familiar with this book by the queen of mystery Agatha Christie or the 2017 adaptation as a film, here’s your chance to indulge on stage at Sheas710. The play runs through April 2. Support the productuion and go to sheas.org for tickets and details.

THE MOTOWN YEARS

Seneca Niagara Event Center

Tickets start at $49

Tuesday, April 25

Entertainer Bobby Wilson is the son of Legendary R&B/ Soul Singer, Jackie Wilson. Bobby has the same amazing traits and talents as his father, and many say Jackie Wilson’s legacy lives on through him. Bobby brings the unforgettable songs of Motown in this dynamic show spanning more than a decade of Motown Classics. The Motown Years recreates the sound and excitement of the artists you loved during that era such as: The Four Tops, Temptations, The Contours, Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder, and Jackie Wilson. All the favorite songs from your favorite groups and singers. Tickts online at senecaniagaracasino.com

Cellist Sterling Elliott

Performs with Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

Former BPO music director Maximiano Valdés returns to conduct a thrilling and eclectic program with stand out cellist Sterling Elliott.

Acclaimed for his stellar stage presence and joyous musicianship, cellist Elliott is a 2021 Avery Fisher Career Grant recipient and the winner of the Senior Division of the 2019 National Sphinx Competition. Already in his young career, he has appeared with major orchestras and conductors and will be bringing his excellence to perform with BPO on April 15 7:30pm and 16 at 2:30p.m. at Kleinhans visit bpo.org for more info and tickets.

•Najee, Saturday, April 22, 2023 - 8:00pm Buffalo State Univesity Rockwell Hall

Tickets at Rockwell Hall Box Office Tues-Fri 10a.m.4p.m. Email: RockwellBoxOffice@buffalostate.edu or call 716-8783005

•Royal Comedy 2023 featuring Arnez J., Bruce Bruce, Sommore, Lavell Crawford, March 31. Tickets available at Ticketmaster. com and the Box Office.

Marquis Hill New Gospel

Revisited Friday, April 14 at 8 p.m. at Kleinhans. visit kleinhansbuffalo.org

•Kevin Hart , Friday, May 19-20, OLG Stage Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort, Tickets at Ticketmaster. Kevinhartnation.com

Poetry at EMTea Coffee Cup 6:30 p.m. 80 Oakgrove Ave. every 2nd and 4th Saturday of the month. Free and open to the public. For info call 716 717 7852 or email imaniblack18@gmail.com

froml eft:

Gabriella

Black Achievers Museum Update Completed Thanks to $10,000 Grant

The Black Achiever Awards celebration first began in 1973 and has continued each year for the past 50 years.

Three years ago, Black Achievers, Inc., which sponsors the annual awards celebration, opened the Black Achievers Museum. The museum, located inside the 1490 Jefferson Avenue building, serves the WNY community as a digital repository where the biographical stories of the hundreds of exceptional award recipients will be preserved for the future.

When the museum first opened it featured the stories of award recipients for 2010-2019, but the goal was to include information for all award recipients.

Last week Black Achievers, Inc. CEO Herbert L. Bellamy, Jr. announced the completion of a project designed to update the museum database to include all 50 years of Black Achiever Award recipients. According to Mr. Bellamy, updating the digital content at the museum was possible thanks to a generous $10,000 grant provided by the Golden Goldman Philanthropic Fund. “We are truly grateful to the Golden Goldman Philanthropic Fund for supporting our museum," he said.

The Black Achievers Museum, located at 1490 Jefferson Ave. is now open to the public by appointment only. The museum offers the public a half century of local Black history, as told in the biographies of recipients of the Black Achiever Awards. Call (716) 884-1490 for more information.

D.A.D.S Easter Three on Three Basketball Tournament

D.A.D.S (Dads Anointed Delivering Sons) will host a 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament on April 4 & 5, from 10a.m.1p.m. at Community School #53, 329 Roher Ave. The age groups are 7-9, 10-12, and 13-15. Sign up deadline is April 2. There will be mountain bike giveaways. For more information contact Dwayne Ferguson 716-563-1834.

EASTER EGG HUNTS!

1st Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt

Virtuous Diamonds Dance is hosting their 1st Annual Community Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 1 from 12-5p.m. at Edward Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Ave. There will be paint n’ snack, dance contests, balloon animals, face painting, food, and Easter basket giveaways.

Power 96.5/WUFO Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Power 96.5/WUFO will host their Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 8, from 12-3p.m. at Mount Olive Baptist Church, 701 E. Delavan Ave. (Reverend Dwayne Gillison, Sr.) There will be pictures with the Easter Bunny, an Easter egg hunt, bunny hop contest, the jellybean count, coloring contest, musical chairs and more.

William-Emslie Family YMCA and the FruitBelt Coalition

Easter Egg Hunt and Garden Expo

The William-Emslie Family YMCA and the FruitBelt Coalition, aka Fruit of the City, will host an Easter Egg Hunt for Children ages 1-12 and Garden Expo Saturday, April 1 from 11a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Y, 585 William St. The Easter Bunny will bring candy, activities, Bunny Bingo, crafts, a puppet show, giveaways, and other exciting activities for kids and adults.

anthropic Fund.

PRIMARY ELECTION UPDATE

Democrats Make No Endorsements in Ellicott: Rev. Chapman Declared Ineligible to Run in June Primary

Last week the News reported that Erie County Democratic Committee Chairman Jeremy J. Zellner announced the Committee would not endorse in the primary for the Ellicott District.

It was the first time in eight years the Democrats did not endorse for a Common Council seat. The last time that happened was in the race for the Masten District seat in 2015. The reasons for the surprise move varied from Zellner’s claim that recent redistricting of council districts and the change in district lines was responsible, to others who said that divisionary politics among the various “factions” within the party was the reason; particularly between East Side political organizations Grassroots (Mayor Brown’s camp) and the Unity Coalition, led by Champ Eve. Meanwhile it was reported that according to the Erie County Board of Elections, declared candidate Rev. Michael Chapman, pastor of St. John Baptist Church, is not a registered Democrat and is therefore not eligible for the June 27 Democratic Primary. That leaves declared candidates Leah Halton-Pope, Cedric Holloway, and Matt Dearing seeking to the ballot for the Primary election.

"Liberty For Our People Means Women's Liberation As Well"

Some comrades do their utmost to prevent women taking charge, even when there are women who have more ability to lead than they do. Unhappily some of our women comrades have not been able to maintain the respect and the necessary dignity to protect their position as persons in authority. They were not able to escape certain temptations or at least to shoulder certain responsibilities without complexes. But the men comrades, some, do not want to understand that liberty for our people means womens liberation as well, sovereignty for our people means that women as well must play a part, and that the strength of our Party is worth more if women join in as well to lead with the men.

-Amilcar Cabral, 1969.

•Black Candle Women (Novel) by Diane Marie Brown

•Black on Black: On Our Resilence and Brillance in America by Daniel Black

•Cooking For The Culture: Recipes and Stories from the Streets of New Orleans to the Table by Toya Boudy

•The Davenports (Novel) by Krystal Marquis

•Every Man A King (Novel) by Walter Mosley

•The House Of Eve (Novel) by Sadeqa Johnson

•Master Slave Husband Wife: An Epic Journal from Slavery to Freedom by Ilon Wuo

•Never Forget Our People Were Always Free: A Parable of American Healing by Ben Jealous

•The Quaking of America: An Embodied Guide to Navigate Our Nation's Upheaval and Racial Reckoning by Resmaa Menakem

•Revolutionary Women: 50 Women of Color Who

Reinvented the Rules by Ann Shen

Working Families Party Endorses India Walton

The New York Working Families Party has endorsed India Walton in the race for Buffalo Common Council, Masten District.

In 2021, India Walton rose to political prominence after defeating longtime incumbent Byron Brown in a remarkable primary victory. She gained national attention and support and won three of the city’s seven council districts in the general race. One of those districts was Masten, Byron Brown’s home base.

Two years later, India Walton’s run for Buffalo Common Council is a continuation of that same momentum. Driven by transparency and accountability, Walton is ready to get more for the Masten District. From more access to quality housing and food to improvements in infrastructure, public safety, and climate protection. Above all else, Walton is

ready to do what she has always done, which is to prioritize people, put their needs into policy, and put the power back into their hands.

“This endorsement speaks to my continued commitment to the hard working residents of the Masten District and the City of Buffalo, this represents another opportunity to advance a people-focused platform rooted in love and centered around justice,” Walton said.

For additional information about India Walton and her run for Common Council contact Tia Brown at comms@indiawalton.com

Dewitt Lee Enters Primary Race For University District

Long-time University resident Dewitt Lee III has decided to submit his name for consideration to be the next common council member to represent the interests of the people and businesses in the University District.

Lee has spent decades of his life as a business innovator and community activist who has stood on the front line against injustice, inequality, economic oppression and through diplomatic measures is responsible for real legislation and policy change.

He is recognized internationally as a bridge builder who has a vision for community development, a passion for business development/entrepreneurship, and a commitment to youth empowerment through various of his own created and funded programs and initiatives.

For over the past year, Mr. Lee says that he received numerous calls from community leaders in the University district and across the city who have encouraged him that his ideas, energy, experience and leadership skills is exactly what City Hall needs right now.

"I am very proud of my track record in business innovation, equality advocacy, political engagement and youth empowerment over the past two decades and I am humbled by the support I have received for my candidacy to become the next University District Common Council Member."

“My desire to see this community grow is relentless, I remember the days of my youth living in the district, from Clarence, Millicent to Minnesota. I fondly recall the bustling businesses on Bailey, the electricity in Roosevelt Park on Saturdays during football games, a university campus that was a part of the community and a cohesiveness and closeness you experience from those on your street, all which in my opinion can return and come back better than ever!”

“My desire is to partner with the residents here to create neighborhoods and shopping districts that represents a new

model for districts in Buffalo, one that will become a beacon of hope, a place of prosperity for those who call this home, safety and redevelopment that will attract visitors and investment for years to come.”

Lee concludes that he is also very encouraged by the new names who are also running in the 2023 election across the city and believes that their addition to City Hall will give Buffalo a perfect balance of true community servants who will move the city forward into the future!

"I am ready to do my part, God willing, if given the opportunity. I am very excited to visit the residents and stakeholders of this promising community and put together a plan that will make University District the standard of urban development across the country."

For more info contact Friends to Elect Dewitt Lee DewittLeeforUniversity@gmail.com

India Walton

Dewitt Lee

Rev. Chapman

MISSION POSSIBLE? US Vice President Kamala Harris delivers a speech at the Kotoka International Airport on Sunday (March 26) in Accra, Ghana. Vice President Harris is visiting the African continent for the first time in an official capacity. She said that her trip to Ghana, Tanzania and Zambia is focused on fostering collaboration and economic opportunities on the continent, not about competing with China. But the damage appears to have already been done. Can her visit fix it?

US Shoots Itself In The Foot In Africa

By Ann Garrison

The US can’t seem to understand that the rest of the world, including Africa, doesn’t like to be pushed around. African nations’ refusal to reinforce US foreign policy in the UN General Assembly is a case in point. During the Assembly’s February 16 vote on a resolution “deploring” Russia’s action in Ukraine, nearly half the nations who abstained were African, 15 of the 32 , although only 54 of the UN’s 193 member nations are African. Those abstaining were Algeria, Angola, Burundi, Central African Republic, Republic of Congo, Ethiopia, Gabon, Guinea, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Sudan, Togo, Uganda, and Zimbabwe.

No African nations were on the list of nations introducing the resolution, and two of the seven who voted no—Eritrea and Mali—were African.

In 2022, South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Naledi Pandor deplored Congressman Gregory Meeks’s Countering Malign Russian Activities Act as “a totally unwarranted” intrusion that goes against international law, and the South African Development Corporation joined South Africa in that sentiment. The House had passed the Act on a voice vote, but the Senate at least seems to have realized that it was counterproductive , and not brought it up.

Nevertheless, on February 21, Republican legislators in the House introduced “H.Res.145 - Opposing the Republic of South Africa's hosting of military exercises with the People's Republic of China and the Russian Federation, and calling on the Biden administration to conduct a thorough review of the United States-South Africa relationship.”

The joint military exercises proceeded as planned , and security analysts rightly described the proposed US legislation as an act of desperation.

-US Uses Trade Preference To Bully Ethiopia, China Steps Up-

On January 1, 2022, the US canceled Ethiopia’s eligibility for the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) because of alleged human rights violations during Ethiopia’s Tigray War, a civil conflict waged from November 2020 to December 2022. The act had granted tariff free access to the US market to firms manufacturing in Ethiopia.

At the outset of the war, Ethiopia had the fastest growing

Clarification On Ramadan Fasting

Dear Editor, Salaamu alaykum. I just wanted to correct something from last week's Challenger which states "Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset."As this is a mistake we don't want anyone to invalidate their fast by thinking that they are allowed to eat and drink in the morning until sunrise! It is unanimous among all Muslim scholars and in Islamic communities worldwide, that fasting in the blessed month of Ramadan is a religious obligation for Muslims means to fast from dawn until sunset each day of the month. These are the rules and customs of the Ramadan fast. If needed more confirmation can be found at https://www.learnreligions.com/fasting-during-ramadan-2004615?utm_source

As always we thank Allâh for you and your wonderful service to the community.

Al Haj Dawoud Adeyola, Imam Islamic Cultural Center of Niagara Falls

Do All Gatherings In Our City Have Rooftop Snipers For "Protection"?

Western New York, Buffalo in particular, is known for celebrating various forms of ethnic pride. From our community's grand Juneteenth celebration and parade, the Pine Grill reunion and, Kwanzaa programs. The other events include the Dyngus day parade, the Italian Festival, Greek and Middle Eastern celebratory events and the St. Patrick's day parade.

I recently learned of an incident in which a Buffalo Police officer's sniper rifle fell off of its mounted tripod from a rooftop down to the ground below. Thankfully, no one was hurt but, my question is, do all gatherings in our city have rooftop snipers for "protection"? We have heard the term, "soft target" in the past, most recently with the tragic Tops Supermarket mass shooting to which I will not touch upon further. That hurt will never go away. I am writing this out of a lack of knowledge on this subject however, I am interested in answers to my question. I see police in the vicinity of every Buffalo event, no issue there, but snipers on rooftops speak of an extremely important form of protection for an individual or a group. So, my final question is, are WE that important? Someone help me out with this one.

Love you all and God bless.

Activist Says Zellner In No Position to Tell The Minority Community Who To Vote For!

Dear Editor.

I shall get right to the point. I was truly dismayed, last week when I saw the current Chairman of the Democratic Committee in a picture with a candidate for the Masten District in a local community newspaper. Let me say this: I have nothing against the candidate who posed in the photo with him for I know this young woman to be an upright individual. However, in light of the way this chairman, Mr. Jeremy Zellner, vilified and mistreated former Erie County Sheriff candidate Kim Beaty in person and in political commercials during the campaign in 2021, I believe he has no credibility in telling us who to vote for in this Masten District race.

The fact that he fired my granddaughter from her job in the Erie County Board of Elections the same day after I filed a petition to qualify Ms. Beaty for the ballot by personally witnessing over 900 voters' signatures, shows me that he will do anything to those of us who have the courage to stand up to him and his controlling dictatorship of the Erie County Democratic Party.

The fact that Mr. Zellner supported bogus election law, violations against this writer and attempted to 'try' my case in the public domain by going on TV and encouraging the Erie County DA to prosecute me and send me to jail, tells me that we have a bully and a mean-spirited man running both the Erie County Board of Elections and the Erie County Democratic Committee. I want to thank retired City Court Judge, James A.W. McLeod for representing me and for City Court Judge Andrew Lotempio for dismissing this highly publicized and controversial case.

The fact that Mr. Zellner could do this to this writer, who as Chairwoman of the Erie County Legislature, hired him as my Legislative Chief of Staff and supported him in his quest to become the head of the Democratic Committee, shows me that to him, loyalty means absolutely nothing and that power, greed and control means everything.

This 'Speaking Truth to Power' is neither a reflection of whom I support for the Masten District seat nor is it an endorsement of who should run or who should be elected to represent the District residents in the Buffalo Common Council.

This letter to the editor is an honest and truthful Op-Ed about why I believe the Chairman of the Erie County Board of Elections and the Chairman of the Erie County Democratic Committee ( same person but two conflicting positions) is not the best person to be telling us which candidate this largely, minority community should be voting for, period!

-Betty Jean Grant

economy on the African continent and the tariff free access had been stimulating the growth of its industrial capacity and generating foreign exchange. Two international firms, Hela Indochine Apparel PLC and Submarine Garment, left Ethiopia’s industrial park in Addis Ababa after the tariff free access was suspended, costing 5,000 Ethiopians, mostly poor women, their jobs.

The war ended in December, when federal forces defeated the Tigray People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), a longtime US proxy, but the US is refusing to restore Ethiopia’s tariff free access unless the country agrees to cooperate with a UN investigation of war crimes. Meanwhile, as the US attempts to use AGOA as a carrot and stick to impose its will on Ethiopia, China has stepped up to offer Ethiopia tariff free access to its own, much larger market.

China is already Ethiopia’s largest trading partner, source of investment, and project contractor. It constructed the rail-

road between Ethiopia’s capital Addis Ababa and Djibouti’s ports on the Gulf of Aden and Indian Ocean, at the interface of Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.

With its economy ravaged by the US’s two-year proxy war, Ethiopia has also turned to China for debt relief , which it hasn’t received from the IMF, where the US has veto power, or from the G20.

Imagining that it is still in an age of economic dominance rather than competition with the world’s other great powers, the US is shooting itself in the foot in Africa again.

Ann Garrison is a Black Agenda Report (BAR) Contributing Editor based in the San Francisco Bay Area. In 2014, she received the Victoire Ingabire Umuhoza Democracy and Peace Prize for her reporting on conflict in the African Great Lakes region. She can be reached at ann(at)anngarrison.com. For her full report “US Shoots Its Foot In Africa” from which this information was excerpted, go to blackagendareport. com

Supplemental Summons and Notice of Object of Action Supreme Court Of The State Of New York County Of Erie Action to Foreclose a Mortgage Index #: 813100/2022 Habitat For Humanity/Buffalo Inc., Plaintiff, vs Marshay Miller As Heir

To The Estate Of Michelle Mosley, Unknown Heirs Of Michelle Mosley If Living, And If He/She Be Dead, Any And All Persons Unknown To Plaintiff, Claiming, Or Who May Claim To Have An Interest In, Or General Or Specific Lien Upon The Real Property Described In This Action; Such Unknown Persons Being Herein

Generally Described And Intended

To Be Included In Wife, Widow, Husband, Widower, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assignees Of Such Deceased, Any And All Persons Deriving Interest In Or Lien Upon, Or Title

To Said Real Property By, Through Or Under Them, Or Either Of Them, And Their Respective Wives, Widows, Husbands, Widowers, Heirs At Law, Next Of Kin, Descendants, Executors, Administrators, Devisees, Legatees, Creditors, Trustees, Committees, Lienors, And Assigns, All Of Whom And Whose Names, Except As Stated, Are Unknown To Plaintiff, People Of The State Of New York, United States Of America On Behalf Of The IRS, M&T Bank, John Doe (Those unknown tenants, occupants, persons or corporations or their heirs, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, guardians, assignees, creditors or successors claiming an interest in the mortgaged premises.)

Defendant(s). Mortgaged Premises:

314 Vermont Street Buffalo, NY

14213 To the Above named Defendant: You are hereby summoned to answer the Complaint in this action, and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Complaint is not served with this Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance, on the Plaintiff(s) attorney(s) within twenty days after the service of this Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within 30 days after the service is complete if this Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York). In case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. The Attorney for Plaintiff has an office for business in the County of Erie. Trial to be held in the County of Erie. The basis of the venue designated above is the location of the Mortgaged Premises. TO Unknown

Heirs Of Michelle Mosley, Defendant

In this Action. The foregoing Supplemental Summons is served upon you by publication, pursuant to an order of HON. Lynn W. Keane of the Supreme Court Of The State Of New York, dated the Twenty-Second day of February, 2023 and filed with the Complaint in the Office of the Clerk of the County of Erie, in the City of Buffalo. The object of this action is to foreclose a mortgage upon the premises described below, dated August 28, 2009, executed by Michelle Mosley (who died on March 26, 2019, a resident of the county of Erie, State of New York) to secure the sum of $64,861.12. The Mortgage was recorded at Book 13462, Page 8589 in the Office of the Erie County Clerk on August 28, 2009.The property in question is described as follows: 314 Vermont Street, Buffalo, NY

14213 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK

STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS.

PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY.

SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT

YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID

OFFICE

TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF.

SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE

The state encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and non-profit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Department of Financial Services at 1-800-342-3736 or the Foreclosure Relief Hotline 1-800269-0990 or visit the department's website at WWW.DFS.NY.GOV.

NOTICE FOR BIDS

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

Upcoming Packages include*:

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITYCOMPANY

Grayscale Movers, LLC filed Articles of Organization with the Secretary of State of New York (SSNY) on the 23rd day of February, 2023. Office location: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of any process served upon him or her to: 50 Fountain Plaza, Buffalo, NY 14202. Purpose: Moving used household goods. March 9,16,23,30 April 6,13

RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME AT THIS TIME. YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO STAY IN YOUR HOME DURING THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. YOU ARE NOT REQUIRED TO LEAVE YOUR HOME UNLESS AND UNTIL YOUR PROPERTY IS SOLD AT AUCTION PURSUANT TO A JUDGMENT OF FORECLOSURE AND SALE. REGARDLESS OF WHETHER YOU CHOOSE TO REMAIN IN YOUR HOME, YOU ARE REQUIRED TO TAKE CARE OF YOUR PROPERTY AND PAY PROPERTY TAXES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE AND LOCAL LAW. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to "save" your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner's distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services.

BID PACKAGE 11A – Exterior Glass & Glazing (Entrances) BID PACKAGE 11B – Perforated Metal Panel System & Colonnade Wrap BID PACKAGE 11C – Architectural Precast System BID PACKAGE 11D – Metal Panels BID PACKAGE 12 – New Stadium Site Utilities (Excluding Smoke Creek Line) BID PACKAGE 13 – Concrete on Metal Deck 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. Please refer to bid documents for full MWBE/SDVOB plan information. If you provide services relevant to any of the above packages and are interested in participating at a lower-tier level, apply to participate in the Meet the Primes session via the “Contracting Opportunities” section on the project website.

*Subject to government approvals March 23, 30, April 6, 13

LEGAL NOTICE

Affordable Garbage Bin Cleaning Service

We offer weekly service

NOTICE OF FORMATION OF A DOMESTIC LIMITED LIABILITYCOMPANY

Our Family Ice Cream LLC. Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept. of State: 02/10/2023. Office of the LLC: 52 Floss Ave Buffalo NY 14211 office), Erie County

The NYSS has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of the process to the LLC at 52 Floss Ave Buffalo NY 14211. Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpose. No specific duration attached to LLC. March 23, 30, April 6,13,20.27

LEGAL NOTICE

Bi- weekly service

Monthly service

1 Time service Call/Text

716-759-4787

Mention code

CN04 for 10% Off

COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS

2023 OVERLAY A PROJ# CAP-141.196.245-2023

Department of Public Works, Division of Highways seeking sealed bids for highway mill and overlay. Sealed proposals will be received at Rath County Office Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Room 1419A, Buffalo, NY 14202 by, and opened at, 11:00 am local time, Friday, April 14, 2023. Certified check in the amount of $115,000.00 bid deposit is required with the bid submittal. Pre-let meeting scheduled Thursday, April 6, 2023 at 10:00 am local time at Rath County Office Building, DPW, 95 Franklin St, Room 1419A, 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 DPW Bid Retrieval.

IT PAYS TO ADVERTISE!

§ 1303 NOTICE NOTICE

YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING

PROBATE CITATION

SUPPLEMENTAL File No. 2022-1861

SURROGATE'S COURT - ERIE COUNTY CITATION

THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK

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 an swer the summons and protect your property. Sending a payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RE SPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE AN SWER WITH THE COURT. DATED:

February 27, 2023 Gross Polowy, LLC Attorney(s) For Plaintiff(s) 1775 Wehrle Drive, Suite 100 Williams ville, NY 14221 The law firm of Gross Polowy, LLC and the attorneys whom it employs are debt collectors who are attempting to collect a debt. Any information obtained by them will be used for that purpose. 75443 March 16, 23, 30 April 6

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 Rev. J. Edward Nash!

By the Grace of God Free and Independent TO: JENNIFER G. FLANNERY - Erie County Public Administrator and to any and all persons who are or claim to be heirs at law, next of kin, distributees of decedent named below, if any such there be, all of whom and all of whose names, ages, places of residence and post office addresses are unknown to the Petitioner(s) and cannot after due diligence used be ascertained

A petition having been duly filed by KENNETH LAMONT LOTT, who is domiciled at________.

YOU ARE HEREBY CITED TO

SHOW CAUSE before the Surrogate's Court, Erie County, at 92 Franklin Street, 2nd Floor, Buffalo, New York, on May 3, 2023, at 9:30 o'clock in the fore- noon of that day, why a decree should not be made in the estate of ANNETTE LOTT lately domiciled at 49 Mulberry Street, Buffalo New York 14204, admitting to probate a Will dated November 16, 2019 (a Codicil dated none) a copy of which is attached as the Will of ANNETTE LOTT, deceased, relating to real and personal property, and directing that Letters Testamentary issue to: KENNETH LAMONT LOTT.

Hon. Judge Acea M. Mosey Surrogate

Dated, Attested and Sealed: March 23, 2023

Linda M. Wiedrick

Chief Clerk

Attorney for Petitioner:

Daria L Pratcher, Esq.

Law Office of Daria L. Pratcher

Address and Telephone No. of Attorney: 37 Franklin Street, Suite 1000, Buffalo, New York 14202

(716)541-8574

Attorney Email Address: dlpratcher@dlpratcherlawoffice.com

[NOTE: This citation is served upon you as required by law. You are not required to appear. If you fail to appear it will be assumed you do not object to the relief requested. You have a right to have an attorney appear for you.] March 30, April 6, 13, 20

April 6 Full Moon

This April will see the largest Full Moon of the year so far!

With April’s Full Moon come new beginnings, new growth and the perfect opportunity to take control of your life. It's time to tap into that innate sense of power you have over your spiritual self. Striving for harmony and partnership is the main theme of the full moon in Libra in April 2023. An atmosphere of benevolence reigns everywhere, people are inclined to cooperate. The influence of the air sign gives lightness, mobility, the ruler planet – Venus is responsible for beauty, love and marriage. People quickly find a common language, are drawn to each other. This is a good time to settle controversial issues, conclude agreements. Empathy, compassion, mercy are the most valuable qualities. There is nothing worse than mental callousness and heartlessness. The consequences of mistakes made on the Libra full moon will affect all the events of life for a long time. You need to be careful not to talk too much.

- CHEROKEE BILLIE

Tao Te Ching

-43-

The gentlest thing in the world

Overcomes the hardest thing in the world. That which has no substance

Enters where there is no space.

This shows the value of nonaction

Teaching without words, Performing without actions:

That is the Master’s way.

ST. JOHN'S LODGE #16 HOSTS 158TH ANNIVERSARY AWARDS DINNER

St. John's Lodge #16 recently hosted its 158th Anniversary Dinner. Pictured from left, Right Worshipful Charley H. Fisher; 3rd Worshipful Master Bobby Jackson; Honorees Judge Samuel P. Davis; Oswaldo Maestre Director Citizens Services for the City of Buffalo; Thomas P. Beauford President and Chief Executive Officer of the Buffalo Urban League; Mr.& Mrs Darrell Saxon of Thomas Edwards Funeral Home; Brian K. Lewis of Brian Lewis Funeral Home; and District Deputy Grand Master Tim Wooden

VOICES

Ban All Cigarettes : Not Just Menthols!

It is mind boggling how we let side issues keep us from attacking the real issues in our community. We are wasting energy debating the pros and cons of banning menthol cigarettes (which by the latest action of the New York State Legislature, is not going to happen soon), when we should be devoting precious time and energy on making sure our students get to school and back home in a timely manner, making sure they are getting a quality education in a safe and supportive school environment, and demanding that when they graduate, they are able to read and write.

Instead of focusing on these critically important issues, we are defending the effort to ban certain menthol cigarette products that may be favored by minorities but leaving the rest of the products that don't appeal to Black and Brown people, intact. And how about those menthol cigarettes that are sold in the Native American stores, casinos and on their reservations? NYS will never be able to ban the menthol cigarettes sold by Native Americans because they are the products of a sovereign nation.

So, how is the banning of menthol cigarettes in the inner city going to reduce consumption when most residents on the Eastside, who still smoke, buy the cheaper, non taxed, menthol- based cigarettes from the street corner hustler who takes that weekly trip over to the nearest reservation to purchase them?

The entity that will benefit the most from New York

FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid Training

State's ban on menthol cigarettes will be the Seneca Nation.

This writer is affiliated with a legitimate business that has been licensed to sell government taxed cigarettes since 1980. We have not sold a pack of menthol, Newports or Kool Cigarettes at all, this year, because a pack of those government taxed cigarettes sells for over $15 while those who buy from the menthol, Seneca cigarettes street hustler pay around $8 a pack!

I believe the move to ban menthol cigarettes, if it is successful, will mainly increase the sale of the contraband Seneca menthol cigarettes and decrease the revenue stream from the government controlled, taxable Newport and Kool cigarettes.

I do not believe the ban will eliminate menthol cigarettes out of our community; there are just too many cigarettes out there that are not under the jurisdiction of the governor or the state legislature.

Instead of trying to enforce a ban that could be seen as selective and discriminatory, as it relates to the minority community, the state needs to invest resources into schools and community centers to boost their anti smoking agenda. It also needs to fund preventative education programs such as DARE and other anti addiction measures and initiatives.

The NYS Senate and Assembly do not need to address the call for any kind of a ban unless it addresses the banning of All cigarettes; not just the selective, menthol cigarettes ban encouraged by government leaders who cannot see a discriminatory or selective law when it is right in front of their eyes.

Confident Girl Mentoring will provide FREE Youth Mental Health First Aid Training Saturday, April 8 from 9 a.m. -3.p.m. (limited slots). These virtual trainings are geared to assist parents/caregivers, educators, and community organizations who work with adolescents (ages 12-19).

For more info contact: support@confidentgirlmentoring.com

MAY

East Side Bike Ride, May 6, MLK Park@ THE MLK Head, Meet: 9:30 a.m.- Ride 10 a.m. JOIN US!

JUNE

•University United Festival Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11 Vendor applications deadline May 22. (716) 245-8332 or via email at mread@buffalony.gov

•Juneteenth Festival all day Saturday June 17 & Sunday June 18, MLK Park www.juneteenthofbuffalo.com, (716)891-891.FREE

•Family Fishing Day June 24 & 25, 10 a.m.-3p.m. Broderick Park, Foot of Ferry near Niagara.

•Jefferson Avenue Friday Night Live, EVERY FRIDAY EVENING starting June 2 and continuing until August 25 from 5;30 to 9 p.m. Jefferson & E.Utica Street Shopping Plaza. FREE! DJ's, food trucks, family entertainment, dancing and more (Vendors & food trucks will sell food and goods). To become a sponsor or for more info on how to participate go to the Buffalo Funk Fest Foundation facebook page.

JULY

•Healing By The Water Broderick Park Summer Freedom Celebration every Thursday & Sunday 5-8 p.m. July 7-September 7, Foot of Ferry near Niagara St. FREE

AUGUST

•Westy’s Sycamore Family & Friends Reunion August 4 Meet & Greet, 419 Monroe 6-9pm; August 5 Reunion Cookout MLK Park Noon-8PM For Info: (716)7830099; (716)602-8119; (716)892-8311; (716)247-0258 FREE

•Pan Afrikan Festival Saturday, August 5, hosted by A.B.O.V.E. @ Highland Bowl, 1137 South Ave. Rochester, 11am - 8 p.m. Visit PANAFFESTIVAL.ORG

To List Your Upcoming event email editorial@thechallengernews.com

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

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

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Taste of Supreme 100% Gluten Free Vegan Goodies Contact the Supreme Bakers (585) 285 - 5496 www.tasteofsupreme.com Rochester Public Market 280 N. Union St. BLDG. B #44

ATTORNEYS PRATCHER & ASSOCIATES Franklin Muhammad (Pratcher) Attorney 1133 Kensington Avenue (716) 838-4612 ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC (716) 634-0330 FLORISTS MAUREEN’S Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600 MEDICAID TRANSPORTATION WafersTransport.com Call (716) 249-4800

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Micheal V. Hicks Jr. U.S. Navy 16 Sept 1985 - Sept 89

U.S.S. William H. Stanndley (CG-32) San Diego. Ca.

WestPac Cruise Asia & Middle East (1987-1988)

Persian Gulf 1987

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

THURS. MARCH 30

“Black Lives, Black Lungs,” A Community Conversation, 6 – 7:30 p.m. Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, 641 Masten Ave.

FRI. MARCH 31

Northland Workforce Training Free Community Breakfast, 8:30 a.m. – 10 a.m., 683 Northland, RSVP (716)4363299 ext. 013 or dprewitt@ northlandwtc.org

Stop The Violence Women's History Month Event, Merriweather Library guest speaker LaShelle Roberson of Our Legacys&Legend 4-5:30 p.m.

Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor round table discussion on Mary B. Talbert Buffalo History Museum, 1 Museum Court 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

SAT. APRIL 1

Coffee and Conversations for Seniors, African American Cultural Center 9-11am, 350 Masten Ave.

Community Easter Egg Hunt, 12 noon-5 p.m. Edward Saunders Center 2777 Bailey Ave. hosted by Virtuous Diamonds.

Alzheimer’s Association 3rd Annual Black/African American Caregiver Conference” 1 to 3:30 p.m. Merriweather Library See Page 6.

MON. APRIL 3 NO HUSTLE FOR HEALTH CLASSES.

TUES. APRIL 4 Free Line Dance Class, Dorothy Collier Center, 118 E. Utica, Beginner 11a.m.3p.m.; Advanced 12-1 p.m. (716)882-0602.

Wakanda Alliance Program

For youth 8 years and up, The Wakanda Alliance program is held every second and fourth Saturday at 1p.m. The program focuses on culture ,comics and community and exploring Afrofuturism. It's held at the Delavan-Grider Center 877 E. Delavan. Visit thegalactictribe.org

African Consciousness Workshop

Every Monday 4-6 p.m., Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave. “Where we learn About Our Glorious Past & Present African Family.” (716)400-8644 Bro. Shango or kmtflix@gmail.com

Spring Bulk Trash Pickup Schedule

Bulk trash will be picked up in the Ellicott District, week of April 2; Fillmore District, week of April 16; Niagara District, week of April 23; Masten District, week of April 30; Lovejoy District, week of May 7; South District, week of May 21; Delaware District, week of June 4; North District week of June 11; and University District, week of June 25. Bulk trash piles must be no more than 12 feet long 3 feet wide and 3 feet high. Electronic items, such as TV monitors and computers, construction debris and tires are banned. Call 311 for dates and times.