Challenger Community News May 13, 2021 by Challenger Community News

If You HAVE NOT Been Vaccinated MASK UP! If You HAVE Been Vaccinated MASK UP! Play It Safe! MASK UP!

May 13, 2021 | FREE | thechallengernews.com | Community News

Prayers for Bro. Neal Dobbins: Fighting The Good Fight Against COVID-19! Page 4

ACQUIRED TASTE

Charles and Stephanie Mingo of Mingo Imports Build Successful Cognac Brand Page 8

African American Cultural Center to Host African Dance and Music Festival

2021 Excellence In Education Awardees

Joel Smith Is Niagara Falls’ First Black Lieutenant in Police Department’s History

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PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Page 9

Page 3

• Jomo Akoma Named to NYS Labor Power 100 List • Dr. Catherine Collins is UB Distinguished Alumni Page 5

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

Creating During the Pandemic: Mental Health & A New Normal

“At the 5” Construction Completed, Now Accepting Reservations for Community Programming & Events

By Cleo Miller

e’re now more than a year into the COVID-19 pan-

demic. Most of us have struggled at some point or another with our mental, physical and financial health but artists especially are struggling as entertainment venues, festivals and concerts don’t seem to be returning any time soon. “I really miss performing,” said Zahyia Rolle, a musician whose “bluesy” R&B has captured residents across generations. She was in the middle of a series of shows, but had to pause indefinitely. Now more than a year later and she says embracing this new normal is a constant journey. “It’s not easy but you have to create – especially if you’re an artist because you’re used to that expression. Maybe it just looks differently now.” For Rolle, she went from performing live to dropping a solo-video for her new song Foul SoulChild. In the song, she’s open about mental and emotional health, even shaving her head on camera, a haircut she’s still rocking months later. And the video has amassed more than 40K views. “It was important to me to be open about all of this. We need to talk about this if we’re ever going to heal,” she added. “I would love for festivals to come back and venues to open but we’re not there yet.” “Being an artist during the pandemic was like a roller coaster ride,” said

Shaquille Payne aka A.O.R Shaquille Payne or A.O.R, a poet who has performed all over the state and parts of America. “In the beginning you are going up the first hill and thinking, ‘oh this will probably blow over soon’... [but] after the first month, I started noticing my financial situation was different due to not doing any gigs. It was then I hit the first drop: less money coupled with the [time] spent in quarantine. My mental health took a plummet.” Data shows that most Americans felt a mental and emotional “slump,” particularly in the first part of the pandemic when fear was high but vaccines and store/ restaurant openings were still far away. Payne, like Rolle, found an escape in his music even if it was hard at first to make the adjustment. Experts say what Payne and Rolle may be referring to is “flow” or being in the zone. It’s when you’re so

immersed in what you’re doing that your body and other intelligences take over, giving your brain a much needed rest. This isn’t exactly the same as driving on auto-pilot. Adam Grant for the New York Times [https://www. nytimes.com/2021/04/19/ well/mind/covid-mentalhealth-languishing.html] in a viral piece about “languishing” during the pandemic wrote: “People who became more immersed in their projects managed to avoid languishing and maintained their pre-pandemic happiness. An early-morning word game catapults me into flow. A late-night Netflix binge sometimes does the trick too — it transports you into a story where you feel attached to the characters and concerned for their welfare.” Ultimately the pandemic has been tough on all of us, emotionally and financially

Zahyia Rolle and yet art like music, movies and TV have gotten a lot of us through. While many of the creators of this art say they’re struggling, they also say it was a necessary struggle: “It was through writing... and recording the songs that I was able to find my sanity,” said Payne.

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESSES!

Mayor Lovely A. Warren hasy announced the completion of “@the5”, a transitional community entertainment space located on Parcel 5 of the Midtown Redevelopment site on E. Main St. Downtown. “I am thrilled to announce that we are one step closer to transforming ‘At the 5’ into a vibrant entertainment and meeting space in the heart of our Downtown," said Mayor Warren. City crews finished converting the development site into a transitional entertainment space with newly laid sod, a walking path and room for pop-up retail. The City asks visitors to the site to avoid walking on the new sod to allow the grass to set. P L U S

PRO TALK

The Joseph A. Floreano Rochester Riverside Convention Center is currently accepting reservations and offering support with logistics to facilitate scheduled programming and events, Members of the public that are interested in holding a special event “At the 5” are asked to contact the Convention Center at (585) 770-2374 or email the5@ rrcc.com

Hosted by

The Radman

(George Radney) &

The Mighty O’Ba (Patrick Freeman)

105.5 FM “The Beat” Rochester Every Saturday 7AM – 8AM “Taking you to the locker room and beyond!”

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

AREA BRIEFS

Joel Smith Makes History as First Black Lieutenant in Niagara Falls Police Department's 129-Year History

Freedom Wall to Receive Upgrades and Wants Community Input on Survey About Plans On Thursday May 6, NFTA members joined by Senator Timothy Kennedy, Members of the Michigan Street African American Heritage Corridor Commission and the East Side Garden Walk announced the Freedom Wall will be getting over $300,000 in improvements. The state funding will go towards installing LED lighting to accent the wall's 28 portraits, and to fix sidewalks running alongside the wall. The funds will hire local architecture firm, Watts Architecture and Engineering, for the infrastructure changes including rebuilding the sidewalk area between the Freedom wall and the curb, installing some LED Accent lighting to the portraits and replacing worn parts of the sidewalk, curb and some accessibility improvements. In addition to the noted improvements the NFTA is seeking improvement input from the public about the plans. You can take a survey at surveymonkey.com/r/FreedomWallSurvey

Effort to Eliminate Speed Zone Cameras Turns Into a Real Struggle The Common Council voted in April to end the use of Speed Zone Cameras. The mayor pushed back by not signing the legislation, claiming they did not follow the process properly. Now the Council is pushing back by asking for judicial clarification in the matter. The 6-3 vote was basically veto-proof, meaning even though the mayor vetoed it and sent it back to the council, they could vote again to over ride his veto. The Council’s struggle to serve the will of the people - the majority of whom want the cameras removed - continues.

Read To Succeed Buffalo Receives Grants Totaling $200,000 Per Year For Three Years Read to Succeed Buffalo has announced it has received three grants totaling $600,000 over three years from Western New York-based philanthropic organizations. The grants were awarded by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, ($75,000 a year for three years, the ) Cullen Foundation ($75,000 a year for three years), and the Health Foundation for Western and Central New York ($50,000 a year for three years. Funding will benefit and support literacy tutoring and childcare/preschool programming. For more information about Read to Succeed, visit readtosucceedbuffalo.org.

or the first time in the Niagara Falls Police Department’s 129-year history, an African American has been promoted to the rank of a command officer. That took place when Patrol Officer Joel N. Smith was appointed to serve as a Lieutenant last week. Smith, a 10-year plus veteran of the police department, grew up in Buffalo’s Riverside area. The son of WUFO’s Brother Jimmy Smith, he told WIVB News that he hoped to change the narrative between police and citizens of color for the better. During an interview with Jomo Akono on AccessTo-A-Free-Ka he elaborated on the importance of making empathy and understanding an important tool in dealing with all those he was sworn to protect and serve, particulary communities of color. “It’s important to display professionalism at all cost…," he said. " I can treat you with respect and still maintain my officer safety tactics,” he said confidently.”I’ll always exemplify professionalism, service and community policing.” Leading by example, his goal will be to make sure that those under his command do the same. Lt. Smith said he was looking forward to leading andwas thankful to be in his new position. “Its up to us to bring calm to a storm… using empathy and understanding.” Smith started in law enforcement as a school resource officer. He joined the Niagara Falls Police in 2009.

Mayoral Candidate India Walton: $215,000 in Buffalo Police-Related Lawsuits an Outrage

n response to yet another round of settlements totaling $215,000 for police-related lawsuits against the City of Buffalo, as reported in The Buffalo News, Buffalo mayoral candidate India Walton made the following statement:

“Our current mayor roadblocks citizen oversight of police and thinks they can police themselves, but when the time comes to pay for police brutality, the people of Buffalo end up with the bill. One of these police brutality payments is the second for a specific officer, after the first cost Buffalonians $4.5 million, yet the officer is still on the job. How is that fiscal responsibility? Any other employee who cost their employer that much money would be fired. That's poor leadership, and poor management. This is why we the people have demanded that the city discontinue the payment of victim settlements from taxpayer dollars, and instead fund victims’ settlements directly from police officers’ pensions. It’s why we need a citizen advisory board as recommended by New York State Attorney General Letitia James, which our current mayor continues to ignore. And it’s why we need new leadership in City Hall.” Walton, endorsed by the New York Working Families Party, the national People’s Action Network and Run for Something PAC, along with several other national and local organizations, will challenge Mayor Brown in the June 22 Democratic Primary. Born and raised on Buffalo’s East Side, Buffalo mayoral candidate India Walton became a full-time working mother at the age of just 14, went on to become a registered nurse in both the NICU and the public school system, and most recently founded and led the Fruit Belt Community Land Trust to develop affordable housing. Learn more at www.indiawalton. com, www.facebook.com/IndiaBWalton, Twitter at @indiawaltonbflo and Instagram at @ indiawaltonforbuffalo.

Children were met with dogs, fire hoses and police beatings during a 1963 peaceful "March for Justice " in Birmingham, Alabama.

A History of Racial Injustice... May 2, 1963 The Children’s Crusade: When the Youth of Birmingham Marched for Justice: More than 700 Black children protested racial segregation in Birmingham, Alabama, are arrested, blasted by fire hoses, clubbed by police and attacked by police dogs. May 4, 1992 Rioters in Los Angeles, California sparked by the acquittal of White police officers who beat Black motorist Rodney King, in the end leaving 53 people dead, 2,000 injured and $1 billion in damage. May 7, 1955 In Belzoni, Mississippi, NAACP member Rev. George Lee is fatally shot after angering local White people by attempting to register to vote. May 10, 1740 South Carolina enacts the Negro Act of 1740, allowing masters to whip and kill enslaved Africans who violated the law by growing their own food, learning to read, assembling in groups or earning money. Continued Page 5

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

MASK UP!“

BUILDING COMMUNITY AMID

"Face coverings are a proper public health measure that mitigates the transmission of SARS-CoV-2. (COVID-19). And if you’re not wearing anything across your nose and mouth, you’re only contributing to the generation of particles that are floating around in a room.” -Laurence Svirchev,Certified Industrial Hygienist American Industrial Hygiene Association

CHCB Resumes Vaccination Clinics: Walk-Ins Welcome On April 13 the Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc., in accordance with the NYS guidelines and in conjunction with orders from the CDC, placed our vaccination clinic on hold after receiving news regarding rare adverse side effects of the Johnson and Johnson (Jansen) vaccination. “After further investigation into the side effects of the Johnson and Johnson vaccine, the CDC and FDA determined that Cerebral Venous Sinus Dr. Kenyani Davis Thrombosis (CVST) among patients that received the Johnson and Johnson vaccine is very rare, and the data shows that vaccine benefits far outweigh any potential risks,”said Dr. Kenyani Davis. Effective Monday, April 26 the Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc., re-opened its vaccination clinics in Buffalo and Niagara Falls. Vaccination hours at the Buffalo site located at 34 Benwood Avenue, are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; and at the Niagara Falls site located at 2715 Highland Avenue on Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.. Appointments are available by calling (716) 986-9199, Option 9. Walk-ins are welcome at both sites! There is no greater priority than the safety and well-being of the communities we serve. Please whatever you do, know your status! The best way to protect yourself and your family is to get tested and get protected! Don’t hesitate – vaccinate! If you have any questions or concerns regarding the COVID-19 vaccination, please feel free to go to www.janssencovid19vaccine.com to obtain the most recent and up-to-date information. Dr. Kenyani Davis is the Chief Medical Officer and Internal Medicine Doctor at the Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc.

Come One! Come All!

The First Fruits Food Pantry Is Open!

Offering Healthy Food Options Free To The Community

NEW TIME! Tuesdays 4-6 PM & Saturdays From 10 A.M. To 12 NOON Lincoln Memorial United Methodist Church, 641 Masten @ Northland No Forms To Fill Out, No Proof Of Income Or Residency Etc. Just The Blessing Of Good Food! While You’re There Check Out The Lincoln Memorial. Clothes Closet! “Fighting Food Insecurity & Meeting the Needs of The People.” Rev. George Nicholas, Pastor, Lincoln Memorial UMC Rita Hubbard Robinson, Coordinator, First Fruits Food Pantry

Bro Neal at last year's big anti-gun rally organized by MVP. Inset, top left, supporters at prayer vigil last Saturday.

Prayers for Brother Neal Dobbins:

Fighting the Good Fight Against COVID-19! What was initially planned as a small gathering of Most Valuable Parent (MVP) members to pray for the speedy recovery of founder and coordinator Neal Dobbins, turned out to be a gathering of over 50 community supporters at the MLK Monument in Martin Luther King Jr. Park last Saturday afternoon. Brother Neal, who has been hospitalized with COVID-19, is “fighting the good fight” according to Rev. Kenny Simmons, pastor of Cold Springs Bible Chapel, who led the brief prayer vigil. Pastor Simmons called on the “all powerful God to touch and heal Neal’s body. He described Neal as a brother, a friend, a husband , a father, a community leader, and a man of God. “We love Neal, and we know God that through You all things are possible (and we are) asking for mountain moving faith, water walking faith right now!” -MVPAccording to the organization’s website: “Most Valuable Parents (MVP) is an organized body of concerned Citizens (parent’s) and organizations who stand in unity to make our City a better and safer place to live. We are concerned citizens who stand in solidarity to address issues that affect our city and communities. Our target area is wherever our services is needed the most, starting with Buffalo’s East Side where crime and violence is most pervasive and where programs, intervention, representation and awareness is required. “We have come together because we believe it is our duty and responsibility as parent’s to do our part to make our City a safe and prosperous place to live. We believe that it’s necessary to stand in solidarity to extinguish any negative stereotypes placed on us as parents. We believe that our voices will be respected and heard by the Youth of our communities along with the political and non-political leadership if we speak with one united voice.”

EAT TO LIVE!

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

HEALTH MATTERS

Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Herbs and Spices Turmeric and Cinnamon

We put these two together because almost everyone has this in their kitchen cabinets and both have powerful antiinflammatory compounds. Turmeric has numerous health benefits, including antioxidant, antiviral, Ankh wedja seneb : “Be alive, antibacterial, antifungal, strong & healthy!” anticancer compounds combined with plenty of antioxidants. Cinnamsson is also a great antibacterial that you can use every day in a wide variety of foods.

LIVING STRONG!

Ginger

Ginger has been used for centuries as medicine. It can help stop upset tummy’s and calm nausea, and its main ingredient, gingerol, is a well-known anti-inflammatory that can help ease headaches, and clear out the sinuses when you have a cold or flu.Eating a healthy dose of ginger can also help your body sweat out toxins. Steep a bit of fresh ginger root in some hot water to make a healing tea, eat it raw, or use it in some of your favorite food dishes. Ginger is great for reducing fevers, encourages coughing to remove mucus, and soothes sore throats. Ginger is also well known for stimulating the circulation and opens up your sinuses so you can breathe!

Garlic

Garlic is serious medicine, no matter how you take it! Garlic is one of the best immune boosters around. It’s wellknown that people who eat a lot of garlic get very few viruses. Garlic’s active ingredients are alllicin, and allion, both of which are powerful antiviral and antioxidants that are great at fighting off viruses. If you can deal with the strong taste, lightly crush two cloves of garlic and swallow them whole to keep colds and flus from finding you.

FRUIT OF THE WEEK:

DRAGON FRUIT

Dragon fruit, also known as pitahaya or strawberry pear, is a tropical fruit known for its vibrant red skin and sweet, seedspeckled pulp. (Good in shakes and smoothies!) •It's rich in antioxidants . •It's naturally fat-free and high in fiber. ... •It may help lower your blood sugar. ... •It contains prebiotics, which are foods that feed the healthy bacteria called probiotics in your gut. ... •It can strengthen your immune system.

Deaths From Fentanyl-Laced Cocaine

It has been reported victims dying of fentanyl-laced cocaine are getting older and more are coming from the Black population. The Erie County Health Department reported that Black opioid overdose fatalities nearly doubled from 10% in 2018 to 19% in 2020.

CHCB Your Part11erfor Q11alit y Care

COMMUNITY

HEALTH CENTER OF BUFFALO. INC.

BLACK HISORY

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

continued

May 11, 1868 Convict leasing begins in Georgia when governor leases 100 Black prisoners to Georgia and Alabama Railroad for $2,500 per year; 16 prisoners die in the first year alone. May 17, 1954 US Supreme Court rules in Brown v. Board of Education of Topeka that racial segregation in public schools is unconstitutional sparking massive White resistance and violence. May 18, 1918 A White mob lynches Mary Turner, a Black pregnant woman, in Books County, Georgia, for speaking publicly against the lynching of her husband the previous day. May 23, 1796 President George Washington offers $10 reward for capture of an enslaved Black woman named Oney Judge. May 25, 2020 A White Minneapolis police officer kills George Floyd, an unarmed Black man, by pinning his neck to the ground and choking him, sparking global protests against police brutality. (Source: The Equal Justice Initiative ) ARE YOU REGITERED TO VOTE? The deadline to register to vote is May 28 for the Primary Election which is June 22. You can register at the Erie County Board of Elections, 134 West Eagle St. Call 858-8891 for more information.

Jomo Okona Named to New York State Labor Power 100 List

omo Akona, a second generation carpenter and well known community advocate/activist, has been named to the coveted City & State’s New York State Labor Power 100 List. The annual honor recognizes labor leaders and worker rights advocates on the front lines of today’s battles, whether it’s raising wages, protecting immigrants, or seeking safe conditions during the coronavirus pandemic. Ras Jomo was appointed to the executive board of the North Atlantic States Regional Council of Carpenters last November Well known for his outreach work as a Council Representative for Carpenters Local 276 in Western New York, Jomo has led efforts to diversify his Buffalo-based union by way of programs such as the Sisters in the Brotherhood pre-apprenticeship, intended to bring more women/diversity into the carpentry trade. “I feel that creation has made it where it’s time for leadership opportunities to prevail,” he said reflecting on his recent honor. “I am thankful that the carpenters union has entrusted me to be a part of the leadership team and I want to do my best to help make our local unions reflect local communities.” His decades long community involvement is impressive. Currently the vice president of the Juneteenth of Buffalo Festival Committee, he has served on the board for nearly a decade and is responsible for creating Sankofa Days, a prelude cultural celebration to the main festival each year. Additionally he started the Marcus Garvey Back to School Readiness Project and introduced the Marcus Garvey Arts and Science Tent to Juneteenth. A well known African drummer, he also hosts a weekly radio show on WUFO1080/ Power 96.5 called “Project Access to A-Free-Ka.” “People in power are beginning to realize that it’s important to diversify and put people who understand, in leadership positions,” he said reflecting on the State Labor 100 Listing and his role in the union. He said he feels honored that he’s being trusted to help guide this positive initiative forward.

Dr. Catherine Fisher Collins to be Awarded UB’s Graduate School of Education Distinguished Alumni Award On Friday, May 14 the University at Buffalo Graduate School of Education will award Dr. Catherine Fisher Collins their Distinguished Alumni Award. The award recognizes the accomplishments of alumni and is an opportunity to publicly share the achievements of former students and the many paths they take to contribute to the improvement of education throughout society. The award will be presented as part of the annual commencement ceremony. Dr. Collins earned her master’s in health education from GSE in 1979 and her doctorate in education administration in 1990. She represents the counties of the 8th Judicial District on the New York State Board of Regents. Appointed in 2015 and reappointed in 2020, she is the first female and the first Black person to serve this district on the board, which oversees the state university system. She has focused her personal and professional life on health and education, with an emphasis on underserved young people and women. She has advocated for greater public understanding of related issues as host of the Women’s Health radio show on WWWS-AM and FM since 2011. Professionally, she has been a nursing professor and vice president of the Buffalo School Board. She is author and editor of more than a dozen books, including her latest “Black Girls and Adolescents: Facing the Challenges.” At Erie Community College, she was assistant academic dean for Allied Health Education Programs and chair of the Registered Nursing Program. Collins was executive director of the Offices for University Preparatory Programs at UB, where she also did her graduate work, completing the School of Nursing’s Nurse Practitioner program. She presented her research about Black women in prison at the International Round Table Symposium in Oxford, England and at the University of South Africa’s Law School. Her honors include the City & State media organization’s 2021 Above & Beyond Award, given to 40 women for their notable contributions to society. State governors have recognized Collins’ work –– from the Attica Prison Health Initiative in New York to commendations for public service in Connecticut, Kentucky and New Jersey. In 2015, she received the Arthur O. Eve award from the state Association of Black and Puerto Rican Legislators for her contributions to public schools and higher education.

COVID-19 TESTING MONDAY - SATURDAY

8:30AM- NOON & 1-4:30PM Call (716) 986-9199 Ext. 5907

6 Dorothy J. Collier Bible Study

Join us for Virtual Bible Study every Thursday @ 12 PM! If you have questions or need help getting on Zoom email: FRIENDSINCDCC@ GMAIL.COM or call (716)882-0602.

Free Food Giveaway Metropolitan UM Church, located at 657 Best Street will hold a Free Food Giveaway every 2nd Monday of each month 11, a.m. – 1 p.m. All are welcome. Angela R. Stewart, is pastor.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

How Religious are Black Men? A Pew Research study asked more than 35,000 Americans about their religious beliefs and practices.

lack men are second only to Black women at the top of several measures of religious beliefs. While men tend to be less religious than women, nearly 70 percent of Black men said they are religious— compared to 65 percent of Hispanic women and 55 percent of White woman—the Pew Research Center reported on Wednesday. Black women are the most religious demographic in the nation at 80 percent, the analysis of 2014 data from more than 35,000 Americans across the county found. Pew determined levels of religious belief based on answers to four questions: frequency of prayer, belief in God, attendance at religious services and importance of religion in their lives. When it comes to “absolute certainty” that God exists,

Black men were again second only to Black women. About 78 percent of African-American men had no doubt that God exists. When asked the same question, 67 percent of White women and 65 percent of Hispanic women had the same level of certainty. Roughly 86 percent of Black women believed in God without any doubts. Historically Black churches remain an integral part of Black communities across the nation. A separate Pew study, published in February, determined that the National Baptist Convention U.S.A. Inc. is currently the largest denomination among historically Black churches. H owever, there’s a generational divide. While 63 percent of African-Americans born between 1928 and 1945 are associated with a historically Black denomination, just 41

percent of Black Millennials have the same association. At the same time, the percentage of African-Americans who are religiously unaffiliated (atheist, agnostic or “nothing in particular”) continues to increase. In 2007, they represented 12 percent of the Black population. By 2014, that group increased to 18 percent. In fact, the number of religiously unaffiliated Americans has grown across all races and ethnicities. Worship This Week

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

PROJECT W.I.T.T. "Wisdom In Troubled Times" By Gene Coplin

Group to Address Race-Based Stress and Trauma for Veterans of Color

group tailored to Veterans of color to address race-based stress and trauma is hosting weekly one hour and 30 minute sessions now thru June 23 from 12:30 to 2 p.m. Virtual/On Line. Initially an 8-week series, the remaining sessions will be held 5/19, 5/26,6/2,6/9, 6/16 and 6/23.

W.I.T.T. Salutes The Hobson Family Thank you and God Bless the Hobson family! To Bonnie and her late husband, Walter Hobson of Hobson Dry Cleaners, 874 East Delavan Street in Buffalo. We truly appreciate your love and support of our school-based youth program Project W.I.T.T. (Wisdom In Troubled Times) Mrs. Hopson, told me, “I called the school myself and spoke with several teachers/administrators. They gave me such an excellent report on the program, that's why we are supporting you. The positive impact you're making on the students is very encouraging! I'd like the Speak Life Twice message, It’s very powerful. The unity you're creating amongst the youth could be life changing!"

WE DON'T FIGHT TO BLEED, WE FIGHT TO LEAD AND SUCCEED! (“We been bleedin too long y'all”) Would you like to become a sponsorpr Project W.I.T.T.? Would you like to be a volunteer? Would you like to make a donation to the program? If you want more information, please contact Gene Coplin, Executive Director at 716-9060375, project-lee@hotmail.com, Cash App $projectwitt

Have your mental health or primary care provider contact the group facilitators Drs. Ursuline Bankhead and William Gibson by email or by adding them to a clinical note. For general information or questions contact Dr. Bankhead at 716-862-8858. Racism negatively impacts both physical and mental health. Unfortunately, many Veterans of color have experienced race-based trauma in their lifetime. Additionally, research has shown that incidents of microaggressions (day-to-day racism) can have a cumulative negative impact on one’s overall stress and well-being. In this group we will explore topics such as: racism’s impact on physical and mental health; power and privilege; institutional/ systemic racism and oppression; overt and covert racism; race based stress in the context of the military and combat; empowerment; and resilience. Veterans will learn and practice coping skills for managing the mental and physical impact of race-based trauma and fostering empowerment.

Beyond a Housing Crisis: “Race for Profit” Takes a Critical Look at Black Home Ownership

LARRY HUNLEY

HOMETOWN- Buffalo BRANCH OF SERVICEUnited States Marine WAR VETERAN- Vietnam

ANDY FINLEY

HOMETOWN- Buffalo BRANCH OF SERVICEUnited States Navy WAR VETERAN-

DENNIS BROWN

HOMETOWN: Buffalo BRANCH OF SERVICE: US Army

“Race for Profit” an acclaimed book penned by Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor, reveals how

banks and the real estate industry undermined Black homeownership in America. “Black homeownership is now at a 50-year low,” she pointed out in a recent interview in Mother Jones Magazine. “It’s down to 40 percent, with no apparent recovery in sight. It’s as if we’ve just accepted this inequality that’s embedded in our society.” "Race for Profi"t uncovers how exploitative real estate practices continued well after housing discrimination was banned. The same racist structures and individuals remained intact after redlining’s end, and close relationships between regulators and the industry created incentives to ignore improprieties. Meanwhile, new policies meant to encourage low-income homeownership created new methods to exploit Black homeowners. "Race for Profit," called “a groundbreaking new book by The New Yorker, was a 2020 Pulitzer Prize in History finalist as well as a 2019 National Book Award finalist, among a host of other awards and distinguished acknowledgements. Keeanga-Yamahtta Taylor is assistant professor of African American studies at Princeton University

PAUL B. KINSEY HOMETOWN: Manhattan, NYC US Army Veteran

Entertainment

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

ACQUIRED TASTE

Charles and Stephanie Mingo of Mingo Imports Build Successful Cognac Brand

wn What You Create, is the mission statement of Charles and Stephanie Mingo, owners of Mingo Imports and creators of Acquired Taste Spirits. Having built a solid cognac brand out of passion expertise, the pair are both living and owning the dream and building an empire right in the City of Buffalo. . Both Buffalo natives, Charles 37, who attended Seneca Vocational and Stephanie 34 who graduated Kensington and Bryant Stratton, will be approaching their 10th year wedding anniversary this year. The two worked diligently over the years to grow their savings and build their credit so they could invest in themselves. When Charles had an idea to start his own spirits brand they immediately got to work to turn their mission of “owning what you create” into a reality. “I was speaking amongst friends when the idea came to me. I told my wife the idea and we immediately began performing market research. We consulted with a few distillers from different parts of the world, and we decided on our current distiller who's located in Cognac France," said Charles. The distillery they partnered with has 30 plus progressive years of expert experience giving them an edge on quality and authenticity. They originally started with vodka spirits and began the process of becoming more knowledgeable about formula, freight, customs and getting licensed to begin importing etc. Their journey took a turn in 2014 when Stephanie was hospitalized for two months after being diagnosed with Lupus and hit with a not so promising future per doctors analysis. Fortunately none of it became her reality and she fully recovered.

Acquired Taste cognac upholds tradition and quality of a true cognac with “no additives” maintaining their smooth notes as a result of exclusive cognac region grapes aging in limousin oak barrels. The first launch of Acquired Taste Cognac XO was in September of 2020 as a limited edition and retailed in the market between $85 -$99, which is very competitive considering the 10 year age and explosive tasting notes and aromas. Usually a product of such magnitude retails between $125 to $250.

Owners Charles and Stephanie Mingo flanked by their Acquired Taste Cognac Spirits at their distribution warehouse

The Acquired Taste brand is carried in major spirit retail stores throughout WNY like Premier Wine & Spirits, East Ferry Liquors, International Wine and Spirits, On The Rox, among others... From that point on they decided to switch from creating a vodka to creating a premium cognac manifesting Mingo Imports that allowed them to distribute wine and spirits of their own creation . “It took from 2014 until 2019 for our goals to manifest," s aid Charles. "We worked on the brand through that entire time frame…getting prepared for what would be our empire. The vodka tasted amazing but we decided on Cognac which was a no brainer. Our distiller creates a superior product and this made sense as our first market product,” he said. With their high quality and professionally packaged, shelf ready product in hand and a little help from a childhood friend, Fred Mills (who had a long history with Try It Distributing Company and who they gave their first tasting), they were invited by the Vice President to present

their Cognac XO product. Both the VP and lead sales rep were impressed and it became the first of many orders. “This led to us being the very first cognac brand in their 90 year old plus brand portfolio," said Charles. Our brand is built on teamwork with my wife, distiller, graphic designer Christopher Banks and our first two brand representatives Kevin Neely and Anthony Walton, who have been there since the day of conception and are still heavily involved behind the scenes.” Charles’s passion to own, create and self realize comes from his Native American and African ancestry. "Many were political fighters. they freed themselves from slavery, owned their own land and created family businesses. We are inspired by this history and are focused on replicating this success,” said Stephanie.

Mapping their success at a steady pace of industry growth, respect and longevity with a brand slogan “Our Taste is Our Integrity, ” the brand is carried in major spirit retail stores throughout WNY like Premier Wine & Spirits, East Ferry Liquors, International Wine and Spirits, On The Rox, among others and making the grade in a competitive industry where few African American millennials have a seat at the table. In 2020 Acquired Taste XO won an international wine and spirits tasting competition ranking Silver92 coming in second to Jay-Z’s Dusse Cognac XO. “We understand the challenges our ancestors must have faced in creating their own businesses. We also understand that some of those same challenges exist today….” noted Stephanie. Local supporters of the brand include Radio Redd Roxx, of hip hop weekly, Adri V the Go Getta of WBLK, celebrity chef Darian Bryan chef to the Buffalo Bills, video director Denzel Williams, Jamil Crews of Crews Media, Lindsey Taylor of Beau Fleuve Music & Art Festival along with other local lovers of cognac. Their current products on the market are Acquired Taste Cognac XO (aged 10 years), Acquired Taste Cognac VS (aged 2 years and

made available earlier this year), and their Acquired Taste Cognac VSOP aged 6 years that will be available this summer 2021. Keep up with Acquired Taste Cognac’s and Mingo Imports on their social media pages: On Facebook @atcognacus and on Instagram @acquiredtasteus and @mingoimports

SUPPORT SMALL BUSINESS

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

Friday, May 28 & Saturday May 29

African American Cultural Center to Host African Dance & Music Festival By Engracia Sampaio-Dunn

inally a chance to dance, relax and have fun! The African American Cultural Center's Dance and Performance Company will host a community African Dance and Music Festival on Friday May 28 at 7 p.m. and Saturday May 29 at 5 p.m. in Martin Luther King Park. The event will honor the late Baba Chuck Davis- founder of Dance Africa, The African American Ensemble and a holder of the Bessie Awards. It’s also being held to support our local artists and musicians who have been negatively impacted during this pandemic. Kakilambe, the African American Cultural Center’s Dance and Performance Company, under Dance Director Lynette L. Simmons/Photo Glenn Murray the direction of Lynette Simmons and Eric Ansuade, will headline both nights of the festival. The featured artists/ groups will include local Reggae Band "Neville Franceis and Riddim Posse" as the opening act, followed by Ghanian acts Al Hassan Yawusa, Christian Horla Kutte, David E. Nyadezor and Esther Dordzo. Local Buffalo performers Griffin Brady and Ringo Brill will be showcased as well. To support small local businesses, The African Marketplace will be present with vendors selling food and merchandise. Sponsors such as the City of Buffalo, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Jericho Road Community Health Centers, and many more have agreed to provide much needed health information/ resources to all attendees. Additionally, through these donations, the AACC will also be providing PPE bags with sanitary items as well as grocery bags with food items, snacks and drinks for all attendees. As we all emerge from pandemic isolation, let's all be mindful of all CDC, New York State and Erie County COVID regulations. Social distancing will be enforced as well as mandatory usage of masks.

Carnegie Art Center To Host Art Exhibition MY COLOURS OUR TRUTH Featuring the WNYUrban Arts Collective “MY Colours OUR TRUTH” On View During the Month of May at The Carnegie Art Center, 240 Goundry Street. Gallery Hours Wed/Thurs 6-8pm Fri/Sat 12-4pm. Admission is free Go to www.carnegieartcenter. org or call the center at (716) 694-4400 For more info.

Blanc Photographie

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

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

"Eid Mubarak! Blessed Eid" Taylor Hunter Elected First African

fter a month of abstaining from food and water, Muslims around the world celebrate the end of Ramadan with a feast. What is Eid al-Fitr? Eid, which is Arabic for 'feast' or 'festival', is celebrated by Muslims to mark significant events in the Islamic lunar calendar. In the 9th month, commonly known as Ramadan, Muslims far and wide observe fasting from dawn to dusk. Eid al-Fitr is the festival of the breaking of fast where family and friends come together to indulge in a spread. When is Eid? This year, Ramadan began on the evening of Monday, April 12 and ended the evening of Wednesday, May 12 — which then marks the beginning of Eid al-Fitr. How is it celebrated? While Eid al-Fitr usually lasts for three days, it can stretch out to a month-long celebration depending on cultures and countries. It is a time when Muslims wear new clothes and decorate their homes. The first day of Eid usually starts with a communal prayer before gathering at home to celebrate with a banquet of sweet and savoury foods. Specially made sweets and cookies are shared, and gifts or money packets are given to children and the elderly. Eid al-Fitr is also a time when Muslims are encouraged to forgive and seek forgiveness. Eid al-Fitr shouldn't be confused with the other Eid celebration, Eid al-Adha which is celebrated on the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Eid al-Adha is known as the festival of sacrifice which also follows the completion of the annual Holy Pilgrimage of Hajj. "Eid Mubarak" is a festive greeting that means "Blessed Eid" similar to wishing someone "Ramadan Mubarak". Blessed Eid to all our Muslim friends!

The Community Health Center of Buffalo, Inc, is offering FREE Virtual Mental Health First Aid Training!

Mental Health First Aid is a program that teaches individuals how to identify the signs and symptoms of mental illness. It raises awareness about mental health and reduces stigma. Participation requires online access with a computer or tablet. Spots for these trainings are limited. Our next trainings are scheduled for June 2nd and June 16th from 9 am-3 pm. For more information contact Karl at kshallowhorn@chcb.net Be sure to follow us on Facebook or visit our website at: www.chcb.net

American Student Government Association (SGA) President at SUNY Cortland

aylor Hunter was a member of the National elected on April 23 as Society of Leadership and the first African AmerSuccess since 2019. ican Student Government Miss Hunter is the daughter Association (SGA) presiof Robert and Dawn Hunter, dent at SUNY Cortland. , the granddaughter of Rosa She will serve her term as Hunter and Elizabeth Hubpresident during her senior bard and a member of the school year in 2021-2022. Durham Memorial A.M.E. As exciting as this achieveZion Church. Her family ment is, winning has been is extremely proud of her, part of Taylor’s DNA having and how she has persevered had many personal accomthrough many obstacles. plishments as a track runKeep soaring and bustner. Her first most memoing through those glass rable triumph was during ceilings.!The best is yet to her Freshmen Year when she come! became an NCAA Division President Taylor Hunter 3 All American for running in Cortland’s 4x100 Relay Team. She was also part of Cortland’s SGA, 2019-2020 SUPPORT BLACK the Tapestry Charter School elected Deputy of Student BUSINESS Track and Field Team that Advocates within SGA, She is a young adult member of won 4 Straight Small School 4x100 Relay Team Champi- the NAACP since 2018, and onships in New York State. Taylor is also the current "Knowing when to stop you can avoid elected Director of Diversity, any danger." -Tao Te Ching Equity andBuffalo Inclusion withinAd.qxp_Layout 1 5/7/21 30191 HR Challenger 10:29 AM Page 1

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

NYS Announces New Homebuyers Assistance Program New York State Homes and Community Renewal and the State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) have recently announced a series of new programs to help first-time homebuyers in New York. SONYMA's new DPAL Plus Program (Down Payment Assistance Loan Plus offers help to first time homebuyers with down payment and closing cost assistance. Qualified applicants can get up to $30,000 towards those costs. For more information go to https://hcr.ny.gov/homebuyers

The Loan Origination Process "Happy Mothers Day" this month with a Heartful of Love!! Well here we are again. "Congratulations" your purchase offer has been accepted and signed by all parties! So I guess you're wondering what comes next... Ok so let's get started. Your realtor will submit the contract and all signed documents to your attorney. The purchaser and seller Attorneys will review the contract, issue an "Attorney Approval" providing all details are acceptable. Loan Officer ~ Mortgage Application Items to be submitted: Two years current W2 tax returns Two month current bank statements / other verified funds One month current pay stubs / other forms of verified income Other items may be required During this time the loan is submitted with all of the above information Underwriting / Processing: All of the items as stated, are submitted for "Underwriting" at the lending bank. Should there be any need for additional information, the loan officer will advise you on the details. Be mindful to respond as soon as possible for your loan to be processed on time. Here are some items the underwriter has to review: ~The sales contract, Income, credit report, funds, appraisal and all other items to determine an approval. Appraisal: The purchaser will pay for an appraisal that is ordered by the lending bank. It is used to review the " value" and "condition" of the property being financed. The Appraisers will focus on other properties that have recently closed as comparable: closed price, size, location. style and other details. If there are any concerns cited, they will be disclosed to the loan offer for review with the purchaser and both the agents on the transaction. Commitment Letter: Once approved by the underwriter, the commitment letter is processed. It will be issued to the purchaser, their agent and attorney. This letter discloses: Purchaser information, type of financing, amount(s) and any items that may require more paperwork, explanations and other details. Once issued, all items have been satisfied if any, the underwriter will "release the loan clear to close". Well this has carried you to the final chapter to close: The Agent /Loan Officer will prepare you for these steps ~Purchase of homeowners insurance on the property; must submit proof prior to closing to your attorney ~Title Insurance is ordered by your attorney: Coverage protects the owner as long as they own/or have an interest in the property. ~Search and Survey: The search will identify ownership and liens on the property, any current and previous owners. The survey shows the layout of the property~ dimensions and any encroachments that may require further review. These are usually ordered by the seller's attorney. ~The "final walk through" with your agent will be scheduled at most 24 hrs before the closing date. The purpose is to make sure the home is still in the same condition as when it was viewed. Hopefully all is good! ~All parties will be contacted for the closing date and location ~Funds for closing will be disclosed (3 days notice) in advance ~For your closing: Certified funds, identification and homeowners policy, along with other items as requested by the Attorney. The mortgage and the loan process includes you and many professionals to make it happen! You are now closed and "WITH KEYS ~ CONGRATULATIONS" It's A Great Time to Market& Locate a New Home! Hawwao Wajed / Real Estate Salesperson~Notary a s kh a w a @ kw. co m 716~867~4377 Cell

Local•National•World

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

2021 Excellence In Education Awardees!

Sara Basior

Timothy Aguglia

George Davis

Tanika Shedrick

John Starkey

Sharon Sobierajski

Barbara Fitzgerald

Kim Jones

Matthew Frank

Michael Meyer

Gabrielle Threet

Julia Davis

he Virtual 2021 Excellence In Education Awards hosted by Friends For A Better Buffalo took place on May2. This year’s outstanding awardees included: •George Davis of Math, Science, Technology Preparatory- Music & Arts Teacher of the Year •Timothy Aguglia of Lorraine Elementary - Special Education Teacher of the Year •Kim Jones of Buffalo Academy for Visual & Performing Arts - Counselor/Social Worker of the Year •Barbara Fitzgerald of Hamlin Park Claude & Ouida Clapp Academy - Support Staff of the Year •Gabrielle Threet of Persistence Preparatory Academy (K-3rd Grade Teacher of the Year) •Sara Basior of South Buffalo Charter - 4th thru 6th Grade Teacher of the Year •Michael Meyer of School 81 - 7th thru 8th Grade Teacher of the Year •Julia Davis of Harvey Austin -Teacher Aide of the Year •Matthew Frank of McKinley Vocational - High School Teacher of the Year •Wilfredo Garcia of Frank A. Sedita Academy - Assistant Principal of the Year •Tanika Shedrick of BUILD Academy - Elementary School Principal of the Year •Jeremy Howard of Harvey Austin - Substitute Teacher of the Year •John Starkey of Lafayette International - High School Principal of the Year •Sharon Sobierajski of Frederick Law Olmsted - Trailblazer of the year went to an educator with 50 years of teaching our youth. CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL THE OUTSTANDING AWARDEES!

Jeremy Howard

Wilfredo Garcia

"Knowing when to stop you can avoid any danger." -Tao Te Ching

ARE YOU REGITERED TO VOTE? The deadline to register to vote is May 28 for the Primary Election which is June 22.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

National•World Update

INDICTED: Two weeks after former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin was found guilty on all counts in the murder of George Perry Floyd, Jr., a federal grand jury in Minneapolis returned two indictments that were unsealed recently . The first indictment charges former Minneapolis Police Department (MPD) officers Chauvin, 45; Tou Thao, 35; J. Alexander Kueng, 27; and Thomas Lane, 38, with federal civil rights crimes for their roles in the death of Floyd last Memorial Day.The three-count indictment alleges that all four defendants, while acting under color of law, willfully deprived Floyd of his constitutional rights, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 242.The State’s case against Thao, Kueng, and Lane is scheduled for August 23, while Chauvin’s sentencing in the State’s case is slated for June 25.

St. Louis Elects First Black Woman Mayor St. Louis, Mo. has elected Tishaura Jones as the city’s first Black woman mayor. At her victory speech, Jones pledged to continue working hard for equality. “It’s time for St. Louis to thrive,” she told a cheering crowd of supporters. “It’s time to bring a breath of fresh air to our neighborhoods. I will work to address inequities in the delivery of city services, and I will not stay silent when I see racism, homophobia, xenophobia, or religious intolerance. I will not stay silent when I spot any injustice,” she declared.

Covid-19 Vaccines: Why some African Atlanta's Keisha Lance Bottoms, Won’t Be States Have Leftover Doses Seeking Reelection Malawi has been left with 16,400 doses of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine, while South Sudan has 59,000 - all now past their expiration date, April 13. Both countries say they have decided to destroy these consignments, donated via the African Union, despite the World Health Organization (WHO) asking for them to be kept while it investigates whether the expiration date can be safely extended. The Democratic Republic of Congo, meanwhile, says it cannot use most of the 1.7 million Oxford-AstraZeneca doses it received under the global Covax scheme, for poorer countries. Only about 1,000 of the doses had been administered by the end of April.And most of this batch - with an expiration date of June 24- is now being sent to Togo and Ghana, one of the countries to have already used up its initial vaccine supply. Why have vaccines not been used? The Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine can be stored safely in normal refrigerated conditions for up to six months after production. And the African Union is now redistributing batches originally delivered to South Africa in February, with a April 13 expiration date. The South African government decided not to use them, concerned the vaccine offered insufficient protection from the variant prevalent in the country. New variants causing concern in Africa And, in late March, one million doses were sold on to the African Union to give to other African countries. But some, such as South Sudan, say they were not made aware of the expiry date. Nigeria, meanwhile, said it would be unable to use all the doses in time. So some were reassigned to neighbouring Togo and Ghana. And some were even sent to Jamaica. -BBC News Africa

News that the rockstar mayor of Atlanta, Keisha Lance Bottoms, won’t be seeking reelection shocked the airwaves. At one point, Bottoms was supposedly on the short list of possible Biden running mates and was poised to make another run at being mayor of Georgia’s capital. The announcement stunned supporters . “As Derek and I have given thoughtful prayer and consideration to the season now before us, it is with deep emotions that I hold my head high, and choose not to seek another term as mayor,” Bottoms said in an open letter, referring to her husband, Derek Bottoms, the Washington Post reports. The Post notes that Bottoms was “well-positioned to raise money and win a second term” but decided not to seek reelection. "This is a decision made from a position of strength, and not weakness," she said.

Erie County Legislator April Baskin Launches Pathway Forward Package of local laws will confront disparities in government services with the goal of making our community more fair, equitable and just.

Erie County Legislature Chair April N. M. Baskin has introduced a package of local laws, dubbed “The Pathway Forward” that is intended to tackle systemic inequalities in our community. The local laws will address disparities in health care, impose greater transparency on the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, modernize the county’s Minority and Women Owned Business legislation, increase the languages used on county materials and provide funding for local artists. The Greater Buffalo Racial Equity Roundtable released a report in November 2016 called the Racial Equity Dividend. The report details the consequences of division by race in the Buffalo Niagara region and found disparities in four key sectors: Education and Job Readiness, Criminal Justice and Safety, Quality of Life and Neighborhoods and Income and Wealth. “We have to make structural changes to Erie County’s policies if we want to provide opportunities for upward mobility,” said Chairwoman Baskin. “Taken comprehensively, the Pathway Forward will increase opportunities for communities that have been chronically underserved. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed the vast differences in healthcare outcomes between residents in different parts of our community, which is why I am proposing the creation of an office that will focus solely on improving healthcare for individuals who have suffered neglect under our current system. I also wanted to open up new opportunities for entrepreneurs and local artists, who have traditionally faced hurdles when bidding on county projects. I am also asking that the Sheriff’s Office provide better care to individuals with mental health issues. And we must do a better job of providing immigrants and refugees with better access to county services if we want to successfully integrate them into our community.” The five local laws that comprise the Pathway Forward are: The Erie County Office of Health Equity Act: The COVID-19 exposed many flaws in our systems and greatly exacerbated the existing disparities between race, income, and gender in our society. This local law will address those disparities by creating an office whose sole responsibility will be to ensure Erie County’s health programs and policies address inequities and are executed in an equitable manner. India’s Law of Erie County: India Cummings experience and unfortunate death exposed the need for real reform in our local criminal justice system. This law seeks to expedite the mental health evaluation process and increase transparency for families when their loved one suffers a serious mental health episode in Erie County’s jails. It is vital to the safety of all residents that we provide the proper care and treatment and hold people to the appropriate locations while they are incarcerated. The Erie County Minority and Women Enterprise Equality and Modernization Act: This law will consolidate the 5 local laws that currently govern contracting with minority and women business enterprises into one law, strengthen minority and women owned business hiring by updating the goals to address current disparities, and introduces a workforce hiring component to ensure workers on Erie County projects reflect the diversity of our population. The Erie County Language Access Act: The Language Access Act will provide Erie County the opportunity to engage with some of our most vulnerable residents, English Language Learners. Many of our English Language Learners are from Erie County’s vast refugee community, where they escaped oppressive regimes and dangerous situations. The Language Access Act will support pro-active engagement with our English language learning community and show some of our most vulnerable residents they are welcomed, safe, and supported here in Erie County. The Erie County Percent for Public Art Act: As Erie County continues to strengthen its public infrastructure, it is important we grow our public art portfolio. This law seeks to increase investment in public art by funding art projects via large-scale public works projects. As we transform our roadways and bridges and restore and redesign major buildings, this law will projects not only fulfill our practical needs, but also our visual and inspirational needs.

After serving decades in prison for a crime they did not commit, The Buffalo 5 have suffered enough injustice! Tell DA Flynn to Take the Legal Knee off their necks so they can breathe!!

FREE THE BUFFALO 5!

The community is asked to call D.A. John Flynn (716) 858-2424 Extension 1, and ask him to NOT oppose the Motion To Vacate Indictment 41-413.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

India Walton Introduces The People’s Budget” India Walton, Working Families Party endorsed candidate for Mayor of Buffalo, took to the front steps of City Hall on Monday to introduce her vision for The People’s Budget, an alternative to the status quo in Buffalo with emphasis on transparency, public participation, and truly addressing Buffalo’s systemic problems. Ms. Walton outlined her vision for expanding public engagement, implementing participatory budgeting, and eradicating poverty. The founding director of the Fruit Belt Community Land Trust, India Walton is a registered nurse and community organizer and a member of the coalition that created the Buffalo Police Advisory Board.

Community Partners: Pictured in top photo Gloria Parks Senior Drive Thru Lunch Team; above with Spectrum donation to senior program is Roseann Scibilia (left) and Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes.

Senior Program at Gloria Parks On the Move!

ARE YOU REGITERED TO VOTE? The deadline to register to vote is May 28 for the Primary Election which is June 22. You can register at the Erie County Board of Elections,134 West Eagle St. Call 858-8891 for more information.

The Senior Program at Gloria J. Parks Community Center has been operating remotely for most of the past year due to the pandemic. To keep seniors safe, outdoor activities are awarded in the warmer weather months, and remote activities via Zoom meetings and phone calls. The Senior Program is preparing to increase its in-person activities late this spring. Two special events have been held in recent weeks to prepare the senior membership. For the first time in a long time, seniors were invited to lunch March 24. But to be safe, Senior Director, Phyllis Caver planned a drive-through lunch event at the Kensington Bailey Neighborhood Housing Services Center at 995 Kensington Avenue. Sixty (60) seniors received a delicious catered meal courtesy of a generous donation from D’Youville College and Dining by Chartwells, the food service vendor serving D’Youville College. In addition to receiving a free catered lunch, seniors renewed their memberships, and more but most importantly they re-connected emotionally with Senior Program staff and each other, at a safe social distance. The second special event was a lunch meeting of members of the Senior Program with Assembly Majority Leader Crystal Peoples-Stokes and Michael Meyerhofer of Spectrum Communications on April 16 at the Kensington Bailey Center. Ten seniors gathered socially distanced to enjoy an indoor lunch and seated exercise class. Mr. Meyerhofer presented Executive Director, Roseann Scibilia with a donation of $1,500 to support the senior program. Assembly Majority Leader People-Stokes commended the seniors for keeping active with exercise and socialization through the Gloria J. Parks Senior Program. Associate Director of Human Services Michael Tritto stated, applauding D’Youville College and Dining by Chartwells and Spectrum Communications. "These partners understand how difficult the past year has been for our seniors and wanted to do something to show they cared about our community, ”he said. The Gloria J. Parks Senior Program hopes to re-open inperson, indoor programming later this spring pending public health recommendations with COVID safety. In the meantime, the staff will be providing remote and outdoor activities. Memberships are free for adults 60 and older. For more information, call Senior Program Director Phyllis Caver at the Gloria J. Parks Community Center at 832-1010 ext. 206.

VOICES

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

An Open Letter To Mayor Byron Brown Dear Mayor Brown, From the day you opened your first campaign office many years ago in downtown Buffalo until very recently, I have been one of your most fierce defenders and a loyal supporter. I Love Buffalo. I thank you and the County for the gift of a free makeover for my entire home AND my garage. I am very well pleased with the work , but I do not want to live in my brand new home because my once very nice “neighborhood” is slowly turning into the “hood.” Running a City is like running a business. As a business owner I welcome information and concerns from my customers. After all, if no one tells me about an issue or problem, I would not know and cannot resolve the matter. For the past four months I have lived in Amherst, while the contractors worked on my home. As a result of living in Amherst I am in a position to share with you not what I “think or heard” but "what I know for a fact.” Even though where I have been living is only about eight miles from my home, it is a whole new world. Living in Amherst is not only quiet, but it is very peaceful. People are neighborly and they take pride in their property. In four months I have not heard loud and vulgar music and people are not loud and cussing each other out. I have not seen one young person with his pants hanging off his behind and no young women in their pajamas at the stores. I have not seen ANY homes, garages or stores in disrepair and I have not seen the streets and sidewalks littered with debris. The cost of living in the suburbs is much higher than it is in the City but you SEE where your money goes. The quality of life is at least literally one thousand times better than living in the City even though there are many more people living in a concentrated area. Cleanliness, Peace and Quiet reign in the burbs. Why? Because of accountability and enforcement. I do not buy the notion that people behave poorly because it is ingrained and they know nothing different. What I know for sure is that they would not dare disrespect the suburbs the way they disrespect our City. IF I WERE MAYOR... If I were Mayor I would strictly enforce the existing laws, like the Noise Ordinance instead of making new ones. I would focus on “Quality Of Life” matters. If I were Mayor I would bring back the Traffic Division and put radar back on our streets. I would (after a warning) have the Traffic police give tickets to those speeding through our streets, not just in School Zones. Those who are violating the Noise Ordinance by disturbing the peace when they BLAST their music either in their vehicles, driveways, backyards or homes would get tickets. If I was Mayor I would hold home OWNERS and absentee landlords accountable for the behavior of their tenants and the guests of their tenants. I promise you that if a homeowner knew they would be given a fine because of the behavior of their tenants, this nonsense would STOP. If I was Mayor I would hire more Housing Inspectors if necessary and do a Blitz on run down and abandoned properties. Every time I ride past a property that is in terrible disrepair I shake my head and say, “SOMEBODY owns this mess and should be held accountable.” A few years ago, one of my neighbors and I walked our block with a Housing Inspector who made note of violations and mailed warnings to the violators. Disabled vehicles that had been parked in driveways with no insurance or license plates for MANY YEARS suddenly disappeared. People began cutting their grass and took care of peeling paint outside their homes. If raising taxes will improve the “Quality Of Life” in the City, I am all for it. It occurred to me that if all City of Buffalo property and business owners were assessed something as low as $20 per year we could have more much needed services. I am not a politician nor do I desire to be one. I am a Senior Citizen who is tired of always having to fight for better living conditions because “SOMEONE” is clearly not doing their job. -Dorothy Wagstaff

OPEN LETTER:

An Election That Matters: Vote for Kim Beaty for Sheriff JUNE 22!

By Nathan McMurray

im Beaty has 30 plus years of experience as a police officer. She has trained thousands of junior officers on the issues you care about, like better policing, de-escalation, compassion. Even her opponent was one of her students. So why isn't this highly accomplished woman our candidate in Erie County? You’d have to ask the Erie County Democratic leadership. People assume elections are about choosing the best person for the job. We sometimes begrudgingly accept that the best person isn’t available, so we choose between the lesser of two evils. But here’s the part that’s even tougher to take. Often, the best person is there, overlooked, pushed aside, neglected, isolated, or disregarded . . . used as a pawn in someone else's game. That’s what’s happening to Kim Beaty. I know, they label me the bad guy, because I don’t take their talking points. I never kiss the ring. And I speak out. So let me keep walking down that path and let me state clearly. In this moment, this inflection point for our nation, Erie County’s leadership pushed aside the more experienced African American woman, who is supported and endorsed by the Service Employees International Union, the Criterion, and large portions of the African American community in Buffalo (including the vast majority of prominent African American clergy) to suit the interests of white suburban politicians who have been fundraising for her opponent. There I said it. And you can choose to act or not act upon that information. Now the political machine (operated by the party Chairman who is also the Commissioner of the Board of Elections—which is just not normal and doesn't happen anywhere else) is mobilizing not just to beat Kim, but destroy her. The online assassins are out in force telling you (over and over) that she dropped out of the race (i.e., that this is all somehow her fault). Does that make sense? Others are dragging up petty things from decades ago to defame Kim. I actually read (a front page story) in the Buffalo News recently about how Kim allegedly insulted someone’s wig—30 years ago! Not last weeks, or month, or year. 30 years ago! Here’s the truth. She’s the better candidate. She was forced out, and now she’s fighting back. Kim says the party boss who pushes the endorsements told her, “You don’t look like a sheriff.” He apparently thought that she would not appeal to White voters in the suburbs. He says that he never said that. He’s calling her a liar. Well, either he’s a liar, or Kim’s a liar. I believe Kim. For her to refuse to be kept out, to fight back, already shows amazing integrity. I understand the emotional (and financial) trauma people go through when they run for office. It isn't easy, physically, mentally, or in any other way, especially when the party establishment is indifferent or antagonistic towards you. This is why we need to help Kim. The good news is the party boss—nor the committees, and their chairs, many of whom work for the party boss—doesn’t chose. They endorse. The people choose. If you are a Democrat in Erie County you can vote for Kim on JUNE 22 (early voting June 12). Kim’s opponent may be hurt reading this because of his aspirations to lead. If he wins— and he likely will given that the party machine is almost unbeatable, with resources, elected official support, and manpower earned and coerced that few grassroots candidates can withstand—I will support him fully. I am not attacking him. I am supporting her. He would be far superior to our current sheriff, the White supremacist maniac who turned our local holding center into a house of horrors. But right now, while we have a chance to fight for someone more experienced, more in tune with our values, simply better, we gotta fight for Kim! Mahatma Gandhi broadly stated, “You should be the change you need to find on the planet.” In other worlds, you want to fight Trumpism? Fight hate? Change America? You can put a sign up in the suburbs. You can go to a march in the city. But you can also vote. Right here. In Erie County. In Buffalo, In the suburbs where they say she doesn't stand a chance. VOTE FOR KIM JUNE 22. Every vote will send a message. Think about where we are and what this could mean. Last year, there were some sad days in our country and some sad days in Buffalo. Police officers beat our fellow citizens in the streets of Niagara Square (and Rochester!). Politicians from our region cheered a White supremacist coup in Washington. I stood and watched our now sitting Congressman (billionaire Chris Jacobs) essentially tell you all that #BlacksLivesMatter is a terrorist organization and spread conspiracy as his colleagues and the Buffalo elite looked away. To elect an African American woman (here) who is with us, who is so ready, and who will be a champion against such hate, is the exact type of change we need to find for Western New York! May the best woman win. HELP. HER. WIN.

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE BID NOTICE TO BIDDERS FOR THE TOWN OF LANCASTER DOG CONTROL FACILITY 525 PAVEMENT RD. Sealed bids for the Lancaster 2020 Dog Shelter Project – 1,680 Sq. Ft. (with optional 392 Sq. Ft. garage) will be received by the Town Clerk at her office in the Town Hall, 21 Central Avenue, Lancaster, New York on or before 10:00 A.M. local time on May 26, 2021 at which time they will be publicly opened and read aloud. This contract will be funded wholly or partially with NYS funds, and as such, is subject to all State rules and regulations pertinent thereto, including, but not limited to, State policy of encouraging the participation of minority and women business enterprises as sources of suppliers, equipment, construction and services. A 30% goal is required for this project. Contract Documents may be examined at the office of the Town Clerk and at the office of the ENGINEER, Wm. Schutt & Associates, P.C., 37 Central Avenue, Lancaster, New York 14086 between the hours of 9:00 A.M. and 4:00 P.M., except Saturdays, Sundays and Holidays. Contract Documents may be obtained at the office of the ENGINEER. Proposals shall be made and received upon the following conditions: Each proposal must be accompanied by the deposit of a certified check, payable to the Town of Lancaster, for a sum equal to five percent (5%) of the total amount of the Bid, or a bond with sufficient sureties in a penal sum equal to five percent (5%) of such total bid amount, conditioned that if the proposal is accepted, that he will execute within fifteen (15) days from the date of the acceptance of the proposal, a suitable security bond in the amount of the Contract, conditioned for the faithful and prompt performance and completion of the Work specified in the Contract. All bid deposits except that of the successful bidder will be returned. Upon acceptance of his Bid, if the successful bidder fails to enter into a Contract pursuant to the requirements of the Contract Documents, or fails to give the further security prescribed in this Notice, with the same time limited therein, then the check deposited as aforesaid and the monies standing to the credit of the same, shall be forfeited to the Town as liquidated damages, or the payment of the bond enforced for the benefit of the Town. The Town of Lancaster reserves the right to waive informalities in or to reject any and all bids. Consulting Engineers: William Schutt & Associates, P.C. 37 Central Avenue Lancaster, NY 14086-2143 (716) 683-5961 By the Order of the Town Board of Lancaster, Erie County, New York Diane Terranova Town Clerk Date: May 6, 2021

LEGAL NOTICE BID

POST YOUR AVAILABLE JOB POSITIONS CONTACT ADVERTISING@ THECHALLENGERNEWS. COM

REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority (BMHA) requests responses to a Request for Proposals (RFP) for Section 8 Project Based Vouchers from qualifying Affordable Housing Providers. The BMHA will accept proposals which addresses the affordable housing needs of very low income families (incomes at or below 50% of the median income as published by HUD), including elderly and disabled individuals/families, as well as individuals and families with unmet special needs. Interested parties should send email to rfpresponse@bmhahousing.com or visit bmhahousing.com. Proposals must be received no later than 3:00 pm (EDT), Wednesday, June 2, 2021.

LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS 134 West Eagle Fuel Tank Replacement (REBID) Project No. 2020-800-01 Sealed bids for General Construction work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin St, Suite 1400, Buffalo, NY 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on Monday, May 24, 2021 at which time they will be opened & read aloud. MBE/WBE, Apprenticeship program, and Local & Disadvantaged Workforce requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw. Attention is called to COVID bid procedures on the County’s website.

LEGAL NOTICE BID Bids will be received by RP Oak Hill Building Co., Inc. for the Buffalo Museum of Science – North Entry Project on 5/19/2021 at 11am. Please fax bids (716-822-4367) or email (bids@ rpoakhill.com) prior to 11:00am. The scope of work includes site work, concrete work, masonry, steel, roofing, glass/glazing, doors/frames/ hardware, painting, flagpoles, etc. The contract documents may be examined at Construction Exchange or can be purchased at Avalon Printing, (P: 716-995-7777). This project is prevailing wage. City of Buffalo Apprenticeship Program applies. ***W/M/DBE & SDVOB participation is encouraged.

LEGAL NOTICE BID Scrufari Construction Co. seeking M/WBE/SDVOB subcontractors to quote NYPA – Service & Relay Building Floor Rehabilitation – Bid Date: Wed., May 19, 2021 We are an EEO employer – 716-2821225

LEGAL NOTICE BID COUNTY OF ERIE REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS & PROPOSAL New York’s Renewable Energy Future REV Procurement Project No. 20DSL0063 The County of Erie Department of Public Works is partnering with two State University of New York (SUNY) campuses and a community college (the Consortium) to set goals to procure renewable energy to offset their greenhouse gas emissions. The Consortium is seeking proposals for cost-effective large-scale renewable energy projects. The Consortium will consider new-build electric generation projects utilizing only noncombustion based renewable energy technologies such as solar photovoltaic and wind, in varying sizes and stages of development provided the successful Bidder(s) present a suitable opportunity for the Consortium entities to enter into a virtual Power Purchase Agreement(s) (“vPPA(s)”). Proposals for the above project are to be submitted to UB-Compliance@ buffalo.edu with RFP #20DSL0063 Response – “vendor name” in the subject line. Proposals will be accepted until July 2, 2021 3:00 PM EST. Electronic copies of the RFP and related forms are available at the New York State Contract Reporter at https://www.nyscr.ny.gov/.

LLC'S

Notice of Formation or a Domestic Limited Liability Company

Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company

NINE-FIVE SHOGUN, LLC. Art of Org. Filed with SSNY on 03/19/2021. Office: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent of LLC upon whom process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail copy of process to the LLC, 48 Marilyn Dr, Cheektowaga, NY 14225. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. April15,22, 29, May 6, 13, 20

Name of LLC: 2727 Elmwood Ave, LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with NY Dept of State: 04/13/2021. Office of the LLC: 394 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202 Erie County. The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 394 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202. Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpose. No specific duration attached to LLC. April 29, May 6,13, 20,27 June 3

Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company Name of LLC: JMMR, LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with NY Dept of State: 04/13/2021. Office of the LLC: 394 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202 Erie County. The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of process to the LLC at 394 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202. Purpose of LLC: Any lawful purpos No specific duration attached to LLC April 29, May 6,13, 20,27 June 3

Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company SMASH ZONE LLC. Filed with SSNY on 03/29/21. Office: Erie County. SSNY designated as agent for process & shall mail copy to: 2560 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214. Purpose: Any lawful. April15,22, 29, May 6, 13, 20

Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company Rental And Travel Services, LLC . Art. of Org. Filed with the SSNY on {03/18/2021}. Office. Erie County. SSNY designated as agent of the LLC upon whom process it may be served. SSNY should mail copy of process of the LLC, 82 Clay St Buffalo, NY 14207. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. May 6, 13,20,27 June 3, 10

Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company

Top City Estates LLC Articles of Organization filed on 03/29/2021 in Erie County. The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NY SOS shall mail copy of process to 333 Humboldt Parkway, Buffalo NY, 14208. No dissolution date. Top City Estates LLC will serve as a real estate holdings company. April 22, 29, May 6,13, 20,27 Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company A Natural Eye Home Inspection LLC Notice of formation LLC, Art.of.Org filed with SSNY 1/28/21 office: Erie County.USCA.Inc designated agent of upon whom may process against it may be served.SSNY shall mail process to 7014 13th ave suite 202, Brooklyn NY 11228. Purpose of LLC:Any lawful purpose under Ny llc act. April 8,15,22,29 May 6,13 Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company Name of LLC: For Love With Love LLC Date of filing of Articles of Organization with the NY Dept of State: March 30 2021 Office of the LLC: Erie County The NY Secretary of State has been designated as the agent upon whom process may be served. NYSS may mail a copy of any process to the LLC at 94 homer ave Buffalo NY 14216. Purpose of LLC: For Love With Love with produce natural soap and detergents. April 22, 29, May 6,13, 20,27

Notice of Formation of a Domestic Limited Liability Company Suga Soul LLC Arts. of Org. filled with the SSNY on 02/09/2021. Office: Erie County. SSNY is designated as an agent of the LLC upon whom the process against it may be served. SSNY shall mail a copy of the process to the LLC, 505 Berkshire Ave. Buffalo, NY 14201. Purpose: Any lawful purpose. April15,22, 29, May 6, 13, 20

A D V E RT I S E Y O U R L L C C O N TA C T U S AT THECHALLENGERNEWS. C O M / C O N TA C T

The Pike Company and LECESSE Construction actively encourage participation from M / WBE certified firms. Contact Kathy Rooney, Diversity & Community Engagement Manager, to discuss potential opportunities. 1.800.264.7453 | www.thepikecompanies.com | info@pikecos.com

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

EMPLOYMENT Coordinator of Communications

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SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS

We pay MORE for Experience First Student is proud to serve the communities of Western NY and is excited to be adding to their family of School Bus Drivers. If you’re looking for a rewarding driving opportunity where you can contribute to your community in a meaningful way, consider a position on the First Student Team.

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Lincoln Memorial Church is seeking a part-time Coordinator of Communication to work directly with the Pastor to develop and implement communication strategies for the Church and its ministries. Responsibilities Include: -Enhancing the church's internet presence -Community outreach -Developing messaging to promote the church's ministries. -Embracing Christian teachings -Being available for Sunday worship and other church activities and services -Completing other administrative tasks as needed Qualifications: Minimum 2-year college degree or relevant communications experience experience in social media development proficiency in use of Apple software, Keynote, Pages, other programs experience in public relations and marketing

To apply go to: rodneywshngtn@gmail.com

LEGAL NOTICE RFP COUNTY OF ERIE 95 FRANKLIN STREET DEPARTMENT OF SOCIALSERVICES BUFFALO, NEW YORK County of Erie, New York RFP RELEASE The Erie County Department of Social Services is seeking proposals from qualified agencies to provide Post Adoption Services. The RFP #2021-024VF can be found at http:// www.erie.gov and a complete copy of the package can also be obtained by contacting Carrie Godfrey, ECDSS, at 716-858-6086, or via Carrie.Godfrey@erie.gov. All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with the ECDSS contact person listed on the specific RFP. Prospective proponents, or their representatives, shall not make contact with or communicate with any representatives of the County, including employees and consultants, other than the designated person in regard to any aspect of this proposal. Final sealed proposals are due to the Erie County Department of Social Services, 95 Franklin Street, Room 804, Buffalo, New York 14202, by 4:00 p.m. (EST) on June 4, 2021. Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality. Marie A. Cannon, Commissioner of Social Services

Seeking Pastor The White Rock Missionary Baptist Church is prayerfully seeking a Pastor, called by God to effectively carry out His mission and vision for the church. Minimum qualifications include: licensed or ordained Baptist minister; bachelor’s degree from an accredited college/university and or theological seminary: and five (5) years of ministerial experience. Qualified applicants must email a letter of interest to whiterockmbcbflo@gmail. com no later than June 30th 2021 to receive further application requirements.

Associate Director (Accounting Lead) Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Associate Director (Accounting Lead). For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

Buffalo State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to respect for diversity and individual differences.

Full-time Clinical Supervisor for the campus Speech-Language-Hearing Clinic Buffalo State, State University of New York, seeks candidates for the position of Clinical Supervisor. For a full job description and to apply: https://jobs.buffalostate.edu.

Buffalo State is an affirmative action/equal opportunity employer and committed to respect for diversity and individual differences.

Downtown Braymiller Market Starts Hiring Process New fresh-produce market, set for late spring opening, readies staff. The new downtown Braymiller Market is expected to open in late Spring; in preparation, the owner is moving to recruit, hire and train an essential and diverse workforce for the store at Ellicott and Clinton streets, across from the Central Library. Braymiller owner Stuart Green expects to hire around 60 employees for the 20,000-square foot retail and wholesale food operation.. https://www.ciminelli. com/development www.201ellicott.com Braymiller Market will offer career opportunities at many levels required to support a vibrant wholesale and retail food operation offering full and part time opportunities. All ages and experience levels are welcome to apply. Applications may be filled out online at www.braymillerjobs. com. Braymiller Market is committed to its new urban community and is excited to be partnering with the City of Buffalo through its Buffalo Employment Training Center as a recruitment source for employees. https://workforcebuffalo.org/betc

Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •May 13, 2021

community calendar Join The Dorothy Collier Community Center’s FREE Virtual Book Club! The Dorothy Collier Community Center’s FREE Virtual Book Club started a new book on Friday, April 30th @ 11AM. Participants are reading Terry McMillan's latest book, "It's Not All Downhill From Here" For information or to register call (716)882-0602. • Here's the link to register or send to a friend to register: https://form.jotform.

ARE YOU REGISTERED TO VOTE?

AARP NY Brings Back Chef Alexa for Another Virtual Plant Based Cooking Class! Join AARP and Chef Alexa on Wednesdy, May, 19 and 26 at 6p.m. each time to learn how to make healthy Plant-Based diet focusing on natural minimally processed foods made from plants that meet our daily nutritional need! Go to aarp.com to register or come by the challenger website for the link. This free event is for both members and non members. follow Chef Alexa on social media @eatoffart.

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FULL MOON WATCH May 26 is the Full Flower Moon The Full Flower Moon is named for the abundance of flowers during this time. Celebrate this moon! Plant a sapling or make yourself a flower headband. There is a lot of energy coming from the moon tonight, and it’s the perfect time to recharge. Put emphasis on yourself while paying attention to your emotional, mental, and physical state.

CITY HALL NEWS UPDATES •Ohio Street Lift Bridge Closed to Vehicular and Pedestrian Traffic Until Summer 2022 The Ohio Street Lift Bridge, between Louisiana Street and Ganson Street, is now closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic to facilitate a major $15 million bridge repair and rehabilitation project. The bridge is expected to remain closed until Summer 2022. Detour signs are posted rerouting drivers, cyclists and pedestrians to Michigan and Ganson streets. Commercial and recreational water traffic will be maintained for the duration of the project.

The Juicery in Delaware Park Now Open!

•It’s Spring Bulk Trash Pick Up Time! Masten District residents are reminded to follow all posted parking restrictions to make way for Bulk Trash collection, which will take place through Saturday, May 15th. Residents are also asked to have all their bulk trash items at the curb, so it’s ready for pick up. Bulk trash collection will take place every day this week, not just on regular garbage and recycling days. In addition to following rules on what can be put in bulk trash, residents are reminded that ALL posted parking restrictions will be enforced to make way for trash collection. Bulk Trash Week Rules: - Posted parking restrictions will be enforced during bulk trash weeks. - Curbside bulk trash piles cannot not exceed 12 ft. long, 3 ft. wide and 3 ft. high. - Electronic trash, such as televisions and computers, are not allowed to be placed in bulk trash. - Tires are not permitted to be disposed of in bulk trash.

The Juicery has reopened in Delaware Park 7 days a week Monday - Sunday from 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Menu items include Pita pockets, salads, acai bowls, smoothies, milkshakes and ice cream. For more information visit www.thejuicery716.com

Remaining Bulk Trash Schedule: •Masten District – Week of May 9 •Lovejoy District – Week of May 16 •South District – Week of May 23 •Delaware District – Week of June 6 •North District – Week of June 13 •University District – Week of June 20 If you've got old tires, you can also get rid of those this spring at the Broadway Garage at 187 Broadway. Drop off dates are April 4, May 22, July 24 and September 11 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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Challenger Community News • t hec hallengernews.com •MAY 13, 2021

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