Challenger Community News May 4 2016 by Challenger Community News

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May 4, 2016 • FREE

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Amara Evans

Armani Barbary

Ayanna Hemphill Jones

Jordan Cannon

Kaylene Adams

Marissa Hodges

Nashid Fulcher

Nia Hawkins

Introducing the 2016

Jabberwock Contestants PG. 10

The Ed Parson, Sr. Sunday Morning Memorial Softball League Season Opener Set for Sunday May 15! PG. 5

The UniverSoul Circus Returns to Town! Founder Cedric Walker Reflects on the “The Greatest Show You Don’t Want to Miss!”

PG. 3

Citizens of Rochester and Buffalo

MUST STAND UP FOR INDIA CUMMINGS

PG. 2

Citizens of Rochester and Buffalo Must Stand Up for India Cummings! Community Echoes Sheriff’s Silence, Justice for India Cummings Hangs in Balance

njustice is fiendish. It has a cogent way of cloaking the lie as the truth. For example, police officers and/or officers of the law are gatekeepers of information. This influence is so mighty that it can give life where hope was absent, or cast a dark light that transforms fiction to fact. Upon the accrual of a few missing reports or semi-accurate depictions, a new story is devised often favoring those who have taken an oath to serve and protect. Heart-wrenchingly, too many officers are purveyors of this ironic realityshifting power. Attacking this problem is one of the key subtext pieces of today’s wrestle for black civil rights. Essentially, missing details kill people. This article was devised and designed to highlight how India Cummings was a victim of this above-described subtext and how Buffalo and Rochester citizens are victims of this as well. February 21st, India Cummings was pronounced dead at the Buffalo General Medical Center. To this very day, no autopsy was released. And Craig D. nothing has been said by the Erie County Sheriff’s Office to explain such a CARSON sudden and bizarre death. Although the Buffalo News has done a relatively good job of piecing together what India did and may have been experiencing, the general public knows very little about how she was handled. Justice requires this part of the story. This is our true dilemma. As an attorney, I have been trained to take in all of the facts, then work from the whole truth and nothing, but the truth. From the point she was arrested to the point she died, it is as if the narrator of the story fell asleep on the job. Pitiful, slash unacceptable. Since we do not have the full story, let’s do what only lucid and diligent justice seekers must do. Let’s briefly recap and finish the story. Want to hear it, here it goes...........on February 1st, India Cummings, 27, of Lackawanna, New York ingested what was believed to be K-2. She was one of the rare cases that had a bad reaction to this substance. She then called 9-11 to no avail. Feeling 9-11 was not reacting quick enough, India made desperate attempts to save her own life. The K-2 seemingly caused INDIA CUMMINGS uncontrollable erratic and violent behavior which led to her stealing a car and causing multiple car accidents. India became a shadow of herself. Proof of this was that she didn’t even recognize her own mother at her February 9th arraignment. For a person with no previous record who was known by her family as a calm person, it is sensible to say, the incidents on these days were thoroughly out of character. This violent person that India became more than likely, elicited the lack of treatment that occurred. Historical fact indicates that officers of the law return the aggression that is given to them. In many cases, police brutality is when officers utilize pinned up aggression and return more than the needed amount of force. Additionally, when racism, idiosyncratic prejudices and anti-social schemas of each person are triggered, police brutality is often spawn. During the 16 days India was in the jail, it appears that the officers did not fully make the connection that she needed help. Or, the officers understood that she needed help and could care less. Too many of the officers there seem to perceive the Erie County Holding Center as merely as a place to die, not as a temporary stop before trial. This is no surprise, considering the alarming rate of deaths and suicides the Erie County Holding Center has had in the past decade (which was the highest in New York and 5 times the national average in recent years). Most similar to India is Richard Metcalf, Jr, who was actually a 35-year old white male who died in November 2012. He went in with cuts on his face and left without a pulse. His death was ruled a homicide due to a heart attack and blunt force trauma. Interestingly enough, Mr. Metcalf had boot marks on his body. To make matters worse, the citizens of Rochester and Buffalo have not done their job to shed light on this case. I would argue that we, collectively, are hypocrites. With protest, we can right this wrong that is upon us. Specifically speaking, protest is a tool best used to highlight issues that otherwise do not obtain high level media coverage. Unfortunately, there are so many different things fighting for our attention. In this media war for our waking consciousness, our community is most well adjusted when we focus on issues that uplift and preserve the well being of our people. Up to this point, the rallies collectively have been organized by the Buffalo AntiRacism, B.L.A.C.K. & Frederick Douglas. In total, we have had approximately 15o-200 people attend a handful of rallies. In contrast,Trump rallies in Rochester and Buffalo had in excess of 500 Anti-Trump activists in total over their two respective days. This sheds light on the commitment of our community to this topic. Again, we must proclaim that Black Lives Matter because this comparison at minimum implies that India’s life has little to no value in comparison to other events catching society’s attention. I propose a solution. There are five ways to get involved: 1) attend the rallies in support of India Cummings (see B.L.A.C.K. page:www.facebook.com/blacklife585), 2) post daily about India Cummings on social media, 3) write the Erie County District Attorney encouraging their office to press charges against officers at the holding center, 4) write a thoughtful op-ed column to the Buffalo News and/or The Challenger and 5) share your stories about brutality in the Erie County Holding Center. If everyone that reads this article does one of the above suggested items, we will most certainly prevail. From the author to those reading this, we do need your help. Don’t front on us. For everyone that ever said the phrase “black lives matter,” now is the time to prove it. Craig D. Carson is a native Rochesterian from the Thurston Road section of the 19th Ward. He is member of B.L.A.C.K., or Building Leadership and Community Knowledge, a black-led grassroots collective. He also has his own law practice in downtown Rochester, New York.

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Around Town The Following Events @ The

Baobab Cultural Center 728 University Ave 585-563-2145

•DELTA SIGMA THETA Rochester Alumnae Chapter will host a talk back/discussion on the 2016 Election and the Black Lives Matter Movement May 4 at 6:00 p.m. •YOGA with Jim Thompson: INTERMEDIATE TO ADVANCED: Tuesday evenings 5:45 - 7:15; BEGINNING TO INTERMEDIATE "EASY" YOGA: Wednesdays, 5:457:15. •AFRICAN WORLD HISTORY CLASS - Tuesdays, 7:30 pm. Instructor/Facilitator Michael Campbell. •WEST AFRICAN DRUMMING WITH FANA BANGOURA: Saturdays: 14-Adult 9:30-11am; Youth 13 & under: 11am-12pm.

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

AREA BRIEFS

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

The UniverSoul Circus Returns to Town!

Dr. Howard-Bostic to Deliver Keynote Founder Cedric Walker Reflects on his 22 years with Address at 50th Annual NAACP Dinner “The Greatest Show You Don’t Want to Miss!” Dr. Chiquita D. Howard-Bostic, Chair of the Department of Sociology and Geography and Assistant Professor of Sociology and Criminal Justice at Shepherd University in Shepherdstown, West Virginia, will deliver the keynote address at the Buffalo Branch NAACP’s 50th Annual Medgar Evers Dinner Sunday, June 12 at 6 p.m.. at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center. This year’s honorees are: Youth Award - Jesana Gadley, Anastasya Wilson and Lamont Yancey (posthumous); Rufus Frasier Human Relations Award, Felton L. Davis; Daniel Acker Community Service Award, Shawn Fagan; Medgar Evers Civil Rights Dr. Howard-Bostic Award, Rev. Terrence Melvin. Advance paid reservations are required. Tickets are $60 per person and can be obtained by sending check or money order to the Buffalo NAACP at 395 E. Ferry Street, Buffalo, NY 14208 by June 3rd. There will be no ticket sales at the door. Overseer, Dr. James A. Lewis, III, is Dinner Chairperson. Frank B. Mesiah is president of the Buffalo Branch NAACP .

Mayor Brown, Attorney Ross, to be Honored at Leadership Buffalo Luncheon Buffalo Mayor Byron Brown and Attorney Trini Ross of the US Attorney’s Office, will be among those honored at the 13th annual Leadership Buffalo Values Awards Luncheon on Thursday, May 5 at the Hyatt Regency Buffalo from noon to 1:30 p.m.. Mr. Brown will receive the Diversity Award and Attorney Ross, the Openness to Change award. Registration opens at 11 a.m. To RSVP www.leadershipbuffalo.org/values

Afro-American Historical Association to Host Annual Family History Dinner The 39th Annual Family History Dinner/Annual Meeting will be held on Thursday, May 5 at 6:15 p.m. at the Emerson School of Hospitality, 86 West Chippewa Street. Presenters will be Fern Beavers and Dr. Sharon Amos. Their presentation is entitled “Centenarians: We Have A Story to Tell.” Moments in history will be shared by 10 women who have experienced life for more than 10 decades. The Williams Wells Brown Award for the support of the preservation of African American History will be presented to Christine Parker and the Western New York African American Group. The Afro-American Association’s Presidents Award will be presented to Pamela Fordham and Sandra Bush Williams.

Greater Eastside Field of Dreams Block Club Neighborhood Cleanup The Greater Eastside Field of Dreams Block Club is having a neighborhood cleanup May 21. We will Meet at the Corner of Detroit and Paderewski Drive at 11 am. We are Looking for volunteers and sponsors to assist us in our effort to improve our living and working conditions for our families neighbors and friends. Our working Area will be on the following streets between Broadway and William Street: Coit Street, Detroit Street Townsend Street, and Wilson Street. Adjacent streets include Peckham Street and Paderewski Drive. Please contact Donna Edwards Project Manager Cleanup Committee Chair person (716) 939-5574. Our Mission: To Improve the Quality of life: for our Families, Neighbors, and Businesses. Let’s tell a positive story as we bring light to a sometimes troubled area!

hen the UniverSoul Circus pitches its Big Tent in Buffalo’s Outer Harbor next month it will be the first time in five years this city will have the opportunity to experience “the greatest show you don’t want to miss,” thanks to the extraordinary vision of its founder Cedric Walker. A few weeks ago Walker and his entourage were in town to meet with the area’s movers and shakers and to wrap things up for the highly anticipated June 1-5 performance. It was Mr. Walker’s first visit to Buffalo and he was impressed with city’s “personality,” which he described as incredible, purposeful and unpretentious. It was in fact, at the urging of Econuel Ingram, a close friend and Buffalo native, and a personal invitation from Mayor Brown, that convinced him to bring the circus back. “After 22 years it’s a warm feeling we’re getting in this market and lots of different markets more than anytime before. It seems like there’s a growing acceptance and love of the UniverSoul Circus,” he reflected. He attributes that love and the longevity of the circus to the Creator . “God had something to do with this project from the very beginning because I didn’t have a lot of means and resources and we’re still here,” he said humbly (his life story is amazing…the stuff that movies are made of.) “I think one of the purposes of the circus was and still is, to fill a void in American family entertainment…to reflect Black Cedric Walker culture, so what we’re doing is very important to our culture and I think people are proud of that, because we’ve managed to gain the confidence of the public with our brand. They know when they come to see the show we’re not going to let them down.” An understatement coming from the soft-spoken founder, who brims with enthusiasm when he talks about his uniquely phenomenal dream come true. What can we expect from this year’s circus? High energy, non stop world class family entertainment - a joyful interactive experience, and an awesome example of global diversity. “The UniverSoul Circus is always evolving,” Cedric continued. For example, he said we can expect to see “ motorcycles flying in the air” and such dangerous acts like the Globe of Death. In addition to The Caribbean Stilt Walkers, one of the show’s staples, they have added 30 foot puppets . It’s all festive and a part of our culture from throughout the diaspora, he continued. Although many of the performers come from parts of Africa and the Caribbean, there are also acts from China, Argentina, Columbia and Asia. “We’re living in an age of diversity” he said. 'The young generation lives diversity…and urban culture drives global culture. (i.e. the hip hop style).' “Our culture embodies that..so you got kids from China, Russia and they all admire American rap and dance.” The world, he said, is essentially “grooving to our beat and it is very diverse.” And because of the show’s cultural mix he continued, a lot of people want to be a part of it. “One thing the UniverSoul Circus can do, is we can bring people together,” he said with pride. “The ending displays 27 flags from 27 countries - all performing in the show.” Whenever he gets the chance, he said he likes to talk and encourage the children. “I always like to let them know that your vision is something God gave you…its very simple and it evolves with age. The key is that the ‘wanna be’ (in you) is a gift from God. With faith and belief in yourself He will make it all come to fruition. I’m a living testament to that. We all want to be something and that ‘wanna be’ never stops.” See you under the big top! (Tickets are now on sale and will be available in the community soon at Doris Records. Watch and listen for more information about an upcoming live radio remote with WBLK and the Circus in the coming week at Doris Records.)

The MOVE Massacre

n Mother’s Day, May 13, 1985, American police units used an unprecedented tactic on a group it sought for arrest: an aerial bombing. This year marks the 31st anniversary of that assault on Osage Avenue. Eleven people including five children ages 7 to 13 were killed in the bombing. There were nearly 500 police officers gathered at the scene, ferociously well-armed — flak jackets, tear gas, SWAT gear, .50- and .60-caliber machine guns, and an antitank machine gun for good measure. Deluge guns were pointed from fire trucks. The state police had sent a helicopter. The city had shut off the water and electricity for the entire block., at one point allowing the fire to rage. The police admit to shooting over 10,000 rounds of bullets at the house in the first 90 minutes of the siege. -MOVEMOVE was a Philadelphiabased radical movement dedicated to Black liberation and a back-to-nature lifestyle. It was founded by John Africa, and all its members took on the surname Africa. In 1981 the group MOVE had relocated itself into a row house in West Philadelphia. MOVE soon faced complaints from neighbors about its political activities, which included loudly airing political messages during all times of the day But the sole adult survivor of the massacre, Ramona Afrika, makes it clear that was Continued Page 14

Challenger Community News â&#x20AC;˘ May 4-10, 2016 â&#x20AC;˘ www.thechallengernews.com

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Purchasing your first home in the City of Buffalo? Up to $5,000 in funding, provided by the City of Buffalo Owner Occupied Housing Assistance Program, is available to assist with closing cost and down payment expenses towards the purchase of your single-family home in the City of Buffalo. Call today to find out if you qualify! Call Heart of the City Neighborhoods, Inc. at

BU RA

(716) 882-7661

Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency

www.hocn.org 191 North Street, Suite 1, Buffalo NY 14201

ATTORNEYS

DOG TRAINING

Terrence D. McKelvey Attorney at Law 181 Franklin St. Suite 101 (716) 847-2606

Dogman’s K -9 Obedience Training

Law Office of Daria L. Pratcher, PC “Everything Real Estate” 523 Main Street (716)541-8574

ELECTRICIAN

Attorney FritzGerald Tondreau 1133 Kensington Ave. /1610 Genesee

1-888-400-6811/ 716-222-9119 TondreauLaw.com

AUTO Ben’s Downtown Tire

50 Sycamore (cor. Elm) (716) 856-1066 or 894-1483

Colston Enterprises 716 E. Ferry (Near Fillmore) (716) 894-3910

CELL PHONES Ansar Cellular Communications & Fragrance Store 1371 Fillmore @ E. Utica (716) 884-2373

BAIL BONDS GIST BAIL BONDS

A-1 Bail Bonds 855-2514 or 854-2128

For More Info: advertising@ thechallengernews.com

1963 Fillmore Avenue (716) 807-8163

Empire Electric (716) 634-0330

FLORISTS Maureen’s Flower Market 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600

HAIR SUPPLY Main Hair & Beauty Supply 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247

HOME/PROPERTY INSPECTION Majadi Enterprises Inc.

(716) 316-7776

majadienterprise@aol.com

TAILORS Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633

TRANSPORTATION SERVICES MEREA WORLD Transportation Service City To City State To State Safe & Dependable • Specializing in Round Trip & Over Night Trips Text or call 716 939-8892

Let’s Play Ball!

The Ed Parson, Sr. Sunday Morning Memorial Softball League season opener is Sunday, May 15 by Renata Toney The Ed Parson, Sr. Sunday Morning Memorial Softball League season opener is Sunday, May 15, 11 AM at the field named in his honor on Fillmore Avenue. League Commissioner James Hartley and Deputy Commissioners Demetrius Richards and Sonya Fields are primed to lead an exciting 15-week season, including three playoff games and the major league championship showdown. Most importantly, with great distinction the trio continues to carrying on the torch ignited by the late local sports legend, Ed Parson, Sr. Since the late 19th century, baseball has been an important pastime in African-American culture. Sunday Negro League games were important social events, times to wear one's finest clothing, catch up on the news, and meet old friends passing through town. Founded in 1959, Ed Parson, Sr. launched the Sunday Morning Memorial Softball League with a bold vision to design a local African American baseball and basketball alliance. With the financial backing of the late Marshall Myles, a prominent East Side socialite and businessman, they recruited the city’s most versatile all-high players forming some of the most powerful squads in the region. The

first baseball games sponsored by local bar owners were played at the ‘Ape Yard’, a field bordering School 87 on Clinton Street. Today nearly six decades later new generations of Black life continue to flock to the league on Sundays in the identical tradition-to see their favorite teams, hang out, buy food from concession stands or just come to laugh. Located on Fillmore Avenue between north of Delavan Avenue between the Kensington Expressway, it’s a time of family get-togethers, seeing old friends, and meeting new ones. “I just love it,” says Commissioner James Hartley who started going to ballgames with his uncle in 1962 and has managed the league for eight seasons. “It’s a fun, family-oriented destination. The league has grown to be a great outing for dads to take their kids and that’s so needed in our community.” Deputy Commissioner Sonya Fields has played softball since age 12. She remembers her first game when the league’s home field was at Dors ballpark in the late 70s. “After that, I couldn’t stop going, returned each year. I enjoy reuniting with people you haven’t seen in years,” said Sonya who received her Deputy Com-

Deputy Commissioner Demetrius Richards, Commissioner James Hartley and Deputy Commissioner Sonya Fields . Photo Credit: Darren ‘Doc’ Thomas missioner appointment in 2013. “I’m proud to help manage an operation where so many men of color bring their kids on Sundays. We look out for each other, it’s a big family.” As the first female Deputy Commissioner in the league’s history, Sonya is breaking down barriers. In addition to African American men, women were the subject of discrimination in baseball frowned upon as ‘improper’ behavior. Toni “Tomboy” Stone made history in 1953 when she joined the Negro Leagues, making her the first woman ever to play professionally in a men's league. “Sonya adds tremendous value to the governance of the league,” said Deputy Commissioner Demetrius Richards whose history with the league dates back 16 years. “The three of us work collectively as a solid team and can depend on each other to get things done. We run a safe, recreational activity that delivers joy on Sundays.”

A future goal is to get Ed Parson, Sr. posthumously inducted into the Western New York Sports Hall of Fame. “Mr. Parson is an unsung hero and deserves the recognition,” pointed out Demetrius, “it’s long overdue. We would also like to solicit sponsors.” “This season we have seven teams competing,” says Hartley. “People of all ages and families are invited to come out to the Ed Parson, Sr. Field on Sundays and join us for a relaxing good time. Transportation is not an issue, catch the bus, we’re on a bus line.” “We’d love more teams. I’m sending out a special invitation to the Buffalo Firefighters, NYS Correction Officers, City of Buffalo and Erie County staff,” challenges Demetrius. “Deadline to register is Sunday, May 22. Contact us at (716) 308-1899 or edparsonsoftball@yahoo.com. Let’s play ball!”

Renata Toney is a Challenger contributing writer, rrrenata@ aol.com.

Tai Chi for Health: Local Classes Have Begun! Learn Tai Chi in three months, in twice a week beginner’s classes at the Community Health Center of Buffalo, 34 Benwood Avenue. Classes are held Mondays and Thursdays from 6 to 7 p.m. Tai Chi is a way to improve your health through better circulation, balance and flexibility to reduce stress. For more information visit The Taoist Tai Chi website at buffalko.taoist.org or call (716) 876-7218. To speak with an instructor call Bill Jungels AT (716)5537639 or Harry DeLano at (716)479-1157. The Taoist Tai Chi Society USA – Buffalo Center is located at 968 Kennore Avenue. Call 876-7218.

Health Note: A new book “How Not to Die” by Dr. Michael Greger, reveals how to eat and live for a long, healthy life “The power is in our hands and on our plates,” he says, adding that the vast majority of chronic disease and premature deaths can be prevented through simple changes in diet and lifestyle. A healthy diet is based on real food, as processed foods are part of the problem.“It’s almost too easy. People want some kind of trick or magic bullet or something. But when people actually take those three words — Eat Real Food — to heart, they can revolutionize their health.

FAITH & FAMILY

Worship That Transcends Conference and Breakfast A “Worship That Transcends” Conference and Breakfast, hosted by the Latter Rain Cathedral’s Worship & Liturgical Arts Dept., will be held on Saturday, May 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at The Latter Rain Cathedral, 9 Bristol Avenue, Lockport. The key facilitator is Minister Wynetta Hall – McElveen. Tickets are $25 and now on sale at Doris Records. For more information or to register contact Vanessa at (716)946-0693 or Precious (716) 712-4420.

Miracle Missions Mother’s Day “Serenade If you are looking for something special to do with your mother on Mother’s Day, then please join Dr. James A. Lewis III and the Miracle Missions church family as we honor the mothers of the community. This year we will be honoring mothers that have made many outstanding contributions to the community and their families. Please join as we celebrate Mother Jean Hunter, Frist Lady Wanda Bunton, Jessie Wells, Minnie Prude, Mother Lillian Morey, Madeline Scott, Mother Margaret Martin, Ella Parham, Willa Parrett and Tempthia (Kim) Battles. The event will include a Motown Reviews performance, dinner, dancing and a Chinese auction. Donation $50.00 for adults and $25 for children under 12 years of age. For more information and tickets please call 830-4916 or 913-0941.

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

National Day of Prayer

The National Day of Prayer Task Force for Buffalo and all of Western New York will sponsor the National Day of Prayer in Downtown Buffalo on Thursday, May 5 from 12 noon to 2 p.m.. This annual event is known as the Prayer in the Square. The event will be promoted with Concerts of Prayer. These are smaller events, using worship and prayer together to seed the ground for the needs in the Buffalo area. In Rochester the National Day of Prayer initiative 2016 will be held from 11:15am to 12:15pm at City Hall located 30 Church St. Rochester, NY. For further information contact Bishop David J. Singleton at globalassignment@yahoo.com or by phone: 585-509-0455 Prayer will be conducted according to the National Day of Prayer oversight and pray in seven areas. Those areas are: Praying for Government, Praying for Education, Praying for Business, Praying for Media, Praying for Families, Praying for Military and Praying for Churches. These are the very fabric that make up America and we need to intercede on their behalf like never before. The theme verse this year is, Isaiah 58:1a. “Shout it aloud, do not hold back, raise your voice like a trumpet.” For more information go to http://www.wnyprays.org/

FAITH & FAMILY

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Weddings Retirement Graduation Parties Repass Outdoor Summer Picnics - up to 1,000 people & More

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

2669 Union Rd. @ William St. Cheektowaga, NY 14227 Free Parking Phone: 668-8668

SAM AND THE FOX STREET KIDS: Community activist Samuel A. Herbert says he always finds peace when he’s around children. When he hosted a cookout for the Kids of Fox Street (pictured above) he had just as much fun as they did! “I had a wonderful time with these children. I kept my word (by hosting the event) and they had fun and enjoyed themselves! And that’s what it’s all about… our children… they do matter.”

Pastor Green & The Visionaires

Susan & Friends Anniversary Mother’s Day Concert

Susan and Friends will present a Mothers Day Concert May 7 at 5 p.m. at Praise Tabernacle 704 William St. The program will include Favaa, Delivered, Pastor Deas & the Men of God, Sons of Thunder, The Ensemble, Men in White, Isaiah Marshall, Denise Smith, Gussie Mitchell &Wandering Five and the Gospel Diamond. Evangelist Candy Mingo will serve as MC. The featured artist is Pastor Green & The Visionaries. For more information call Susan at (716) 807-7212.

WORSHIP THIS WEEK!

Entertainment/Lifestyles

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

ON STAGE *Alex Bugnon, May 28 @ 7pm New Golden Nugget. Advance tickets $30. *“Detroit 67” on stage at the Paul Robeson Theatre at the African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten Avenue, May 6 – May 29, Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday 4:00pm. Directed by Aaron Moss, starring Annette L. Christian, Heather Reed, Candace Whitfield, Shabar Rouse and Gary-Kayi Fletcher. Special Mothers Day Dinner Sunday May 8th $50 Per Person Dinner at 4 p.m. Sand 6 pm. Call For Reservation And Menu. Special rate with coupon $20.00 per person on May 7, 13, 22, visit website www.aaccbuffalo.org or for more info email paulrobesontheatrebuffalo@gmail.com

*Marsha McWilson Friday, May 27, Buffalo Convention Center, 7 p.m. donation is $30. For tickets or info 8327542 or 741-1908. *The Larry Salter Soul Orchestra featuring Alissa Todd in concert for a Mother’s Day Tribute on Saturday, May 7 from 5-8 p.m. at the Doris W. Jones Family Resource Center, 3001 9th St. Niagara Falls. Free admission.

*Farragut North, on stage at Road Less Traveled Theater, 500 Pearl Street, April 29 – May 22, Thursday/Friday/ Saturday 7:30 p.m. & Sunday 2 p.m.; featuring Richard Satterwhite, Peter Johnson, Danica Riddick and Xavier Harris Tickets $20 @ 629-3069.

*Muhammad School of Music Voice of My Heart Recital Series, “Beethoven & Ballerina” featuring Maestro Henri Star Muhammad Orchestra and Ballerina Amirah Muhammad, Sunday, May 15 at 3 p.m., Aloma D. Johnson Charter School, 2408 Main Street; $20 advance, $25 @ door; (716)570-5064 or 881-5088.

Party Over Here

*Juneteenth Second Annual Gala Event, “Harlem Nights Gimme that Swing 2016!” On Friday, May 15, 5 to 11 p.m. at the Statler City Ballroom, 107 Delaware Ave. Admission is $75. juneteenthofbuffalo.com or call (716) 891 - 8801. Tickets are at Doris Records.

*Gospel Jazz Concert The P.E.A.C.E. Inc., in collaboration with The Marshall Badger Band (Don’t Badger Me Productions) will present “Gone But Not Forgotten,” a Mother’s Day Gospel Jazz Concert on Saturday May 7 from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Renovation Church, 567 Hertel. Tickets are $10 and $15 at the door or Renovation Church and Doris Records. Call 8428700 for more information.

Party Over Here *National Spades League Competition, Friday, May 6: doors open7:30 p.m. ; 8 p.m. show; 9 pm. games. The Metropolitan Entertainment Complex, 1670 Main Street hosted by Comedian Ernie Bivins; $20 per player, $15 per spectator; Tickets @ Doris Records, New Style Records, Trade Fair Mart; for info (716 335-1529. * A Happy Mother’s Day Celebration will be held on Friday, May 6 at the Dorothy Collier Center, 118 E. Utica from 4 to 6 p.m. featuring a fashion show and spaghetti dinner. Come and have fun!

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Entertainment/Lifestyles

Larry Salter’s Soul Orchestra to Present Niagara Falls’ Alissa Todd in Concert The Larry Salter Soul Orchestra of Buffalo will be featuring Alissa Todd in concert on Saturday May 7 at the Doris W. Jones Resource Building located at 3001 9th Street in Niagara Falls, NY. This performance is a “Mother’s Day Tribute.” The event will be from 5 to 8p.m. and is a free with limited seating. Alissa was born and raised in Niagara Falls, NY. She is a graduate of Niagara Catholic High School and she received a BA Degree in Musical Theater Arts from Marymount Manhattan College in NYC. She currently resides in New York City6 and has appeared in several Off Broadway productions including Sweet Charity and Smokey Joe’s Café. She has provided background vocals for numerous artists and performed in various venus throughout New York City. Her most recent project was performing in an urban opera.Please call 716-282-8434 for any additional information about the upcoming concert.

Lauren Maillian 2015 43N Finals Judge Entrepreneur Angel Investor Model TV personality

Beethoven, the Ballerina and a Special Prince Tribute Pre-Professional Ballerina and National Ambassador for Brown Girls Do Ballet Amirah Muhammad will join Maestro Henri Star Muhammad and the Muhammad School of Music (MSOM) Chamber Players in an exclusive concert titled Beethoven and The Ballerina. The ballet concert set for Sunday, May 15 at 3 pm at the Aloma D. Johnson Charter School will be a fundraiser for Amirah’s upcoming 8 week New York City Ballet Summer Intensive Tour, which will include some of New York City’s top ballet companies and academies. Beethoven and the Ballerina will be styled as “A Day in the Life of a Ballerina”, and will feature Ballerina Amirah dancing newly choreographed ballets set to the Live music of Maestro Henri Star and the MSOM Chamber Players performing some of Ludwig van Beethoven’s most famous compositions. Additionally, Amirah Ballerina and Maestro Henri Star will represent a special Prince: Piano and Microphone Ballet Tribute. Music Icon Prince who recently passed away unexpectedly, was a regular supporter and contributor to Ballet companies and dancers, including Amirah’s ballet mentor Misty Copeland. Come enjoy some of Prince’s greatest music set in an intimate setting of piano, voice, and ballet. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door, and can be purchased in person, online, or by phone at Muhammad School of Music, 617 Main Street in Buffalo, (716)570-5064 email: Muhammadmusic@aol.com. Additionally, sponsorships and donations can be made online at www. gofundme.com/amirahballerina. All proceeds from the concert will go to support Amirah’s 2016 New York City Summer Intensive Tour.

WITH ECIDA AND Join us for this special event, meet guest entrepreneur Lauren Maillian, and network with winning 43North teams. Enjoy drinks and hors d’oeuvres while you network. Email colleen@43North.org for more details.

This event is presented by 43North and the following sponsors:

THURSDAY | MAY 19 | 5:00PM–7:30PM DIG AT THE INNOVATION CENTER 640 ELLICOTT ST, BUFFALO

“Southside with You”: Barack and Michelle Oba

The independent film “Southside with You,” getting ready to wow us with the epic romance o John Legend executive-produced the film and n You.” It’s our first true peek at Parker Sawyer a Robinson.

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Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

3rd Annual Dance Recital

Studio J set to Rock this Town!! On Saturday May 14 at 2 p.m. at the Tralf Music Hall, Studio J will present its 3rd annual dance recital. 'Rock this Town' is the theme for this year’s show which will highlight women/minority owned businesses in WNY. Each routine will be dedicated to a WNY business including: Peace of Mind Daycare, Cutie Pies Kids Salon, The Big Easy, Salsa for the Soul, The Ink Spot, Doris Records, The Oakk Room, The Metropolitan Entertainment Complex, La’Movement Fitness, Diamond Do Salon & Boutique, Yo-Yo the Clown, FUNSO the Clown, My Kids Daycare, Zawadi Books, The George Urban Mansion, Janie’s Emporium, Gigi’s, Paint The Town, The Challenger, The Criterion and Immaculate Images. The show will open up with a popular dance from the 1920’s called the ‘shim sham’ dedicated to Miss Barbara’s School of Dance. Two tuition-free scholarships for the 2016-2017 season will be awarded at the show. Tickets are $15 in advance, $20 at the door. They may be purchased at the studio, Walmart, the Tralf box office or www.ticketmaster.com . For more information, call (716) 83-DANCE.

YOU DON’T EVEN HAVE TO SORT IT. Put all of your recyclables in the green tote. We’ll do the rest.

CAN IT BE RECYCLED? Call 311 or visit BuffaloRecycles.org to learn more. MAYOR BYRON W. BROWN

CoB_Challenger.indd 2

7/20/15 2:47 PM

“ Stepping into Womanhood” Is Theme of 2016 Jabberwock Extravaganza

he Buffalo Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. will host Jabberwock Extravaganza 2016 Saturday May 28 at the Adam’s Mark hotel. The theme for this year’s event is “ Stepping into Womanhood.” This year’s eight lovely Jabberwock contestants include: •Amara Evans Frederick Law Olmsted School, Grade 9. Daughter of Keith Evans & Beatriz Trevino •Nashid Fulcher City Honors School, Grade 11. Daughter of Keith Fulcher & Gregelle Fulcher •Ayanna Hemphill-Jones Middle Early College High School, Grade 12. Granddaughter of Sandra Carter and daughter of Adia Hemphill •Marissa Hodges Charter High School of Applied Technology, Grade 11. Daughter of Douglas Hodges and Doreen Hodges •Jordan Cannon Health Science Charter School, Grade 12. Daughter of Jason Cannon & Davara Wright •Armani Barbary Buffalo Academy of Science Charter School. Grade 12. Granddaughter of Celeste Brown and daughter of Tasha Shanklin •Kaylene Adams Leonardo DaVinci High School, Grade 11. Daughter of Jarael Adams & Arlene Adams •Nia Hawkins Middle Early College, Grade 11. Daughter of Asantewa K. Holley, Granddaughter of Kenneth & Sharon Holley Tickets are $40 and available for purchase online at dstbuffalo.org or from any Jabberwock contestant.

Jabberwock is a part of the Arts and Letters program of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The program format began as a variety show, displaying the talents of the sorority’s members. The Jabberwock Extravaganza is the culminating event in a year long program where women

of Buffalo Alumnae nurtured the participants through classes on etiquette, personal grooming, career advancement and talent presentation. All monies raised from this event will be used to give scholarships to deserving young people throughout Buffalo and Western New York.

“Our children are our future, our life after death.” -African Proverb

VOICES 11

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Commissioner Elia Holds Secret Meeting(s) with SOME “...I could have freed a thousand more if only they Members of the Buffalo Board of Education? Yes! knew they were slaves...” By Ron Busby, Sr.

o, let me get this straight? Commissioner Elia comes to Buffalo and she meets with Mr. Sampson, Mr. Quinn, Superintendent Cash and members of the business class? Or should I say bloc? According to the Buffalo News (April 30, 2016), this meeting occurred at the Mansion on Delaware. The News described the meeting as follows: “In a private room at the Mansion on Delaware, some of the city’s most influential business leaders held court with State Education Commissioner MaryEllen Elia and Buffalo Schools Superintendent Kriner Cash. School Board majority members Larry Quinn and James P. Sampson, who is running for re-election in the West district, also attended. Elia talked about the importance of holding schools and teachers accountable for their performance in the weeks before the election.” The article does not identify the date of this secret meeting, but in a previous article, Tiffany Lankes dropped the fact that Mr. Sampson missed the Buffalo Association of Black Journalist’s candidate’s debate on April 12th Barbara because he was having dinner with the Commissioner. Or could the meetNEVERGOLD ing have taken place on March 31st when the Commissioner visited two of Buffalo’s Persistently Struggling schools to reinforce her message about the importance of students taking the standardized tests. In fact, her message was so well received that one of the principals of the schools promised to have an “opt-in test assembly” and boasted about talking a number of parents out of refusing the tests for their children. Ironically, unlike her meeting with parents, in the suburbs, the previous day, the Commissioner did not ask Buffalo parents to “trust her”. And she certainly didn’t reach out to the minority Board members and invite us to meet with her in the Mansion on Delaware. But, I’ll get back to that issue later. Let me ask this question. And I hope that some of my readers will join me in asking the Commissioner or her Board for an answer. Since when does the Commissioner of the State Education Department insert herself into local Board elections? Or even give the appearance of engaging in the process of a community selecting its School Board representatives? How many other secret meetings have been held with the parties named and unnamed? And what other topics regarding the Buffalo Schools have been on the agenda? More Charter Schools? More Buffalo School closings? Neighborhood Schools? How the moneyed class will try to influence the outcome of the Board elections? Certainly the list is endless when it comes to the machinations of the majority members of the Board. The Commissioner’s actions may not be illegal, but they are dismissive of a group of stakeholders, including Board members; they are disrespectful; they are divisive and they are not acceptable. The Superintendent also has some explaining to do.

hile there is no historical evidence that Harriet Tubman ever actually said the words in the headline, there is ample evidence that she had little interest in the limelight and absolutely zero tolerance for wishy-washy, indecisive, half-stepping people on the road to freedom. I’ve got to believe that she would greet the news that her face will soon be on the U.S. Treasury’s $20 bill with a shrug and ask “...can we use it to buy our freedom?’ Of course we’ve come a long way since the issue of our freedom has been settled, but we’re no where near any resolution on the question of Black America’s economic foundation. Tubman’s face on the new $20 won’t do a thing to change that. Like most of you I understand the symbolism, but I stop short of calling a Black icon’s image on paper currency a breakthrough. When federal contract awards to Black-owned businesses are shrinking, when the wealth gap between Black families and practically every other slice of American demography is growing, when employers do all they can to defeat legislation that would mandate a true living wage, it should be clear that no matter whose face is on the Treasury bills, Black Americans are seeing fewer of them! That’s a problem that a feel-good demonstration won’t fix. The U.S. Black Chambers, Inc. works hard to help Black American businesses grow, propelled by the belief that healthy, vibrant Black-owned businesses will result in healthy, vibrant Black communities. I’ll acknowledge that sometimes we feel like Harriet Tubman must have felt when clouds covered the moon and her tired, scared charges on the lonely road to freedom wanted to turn back... afraid of the unknown. Black America in 2016 literally cannot afford to freeze on the trail to financial freedom. We need to spend more of our dollars in our community supporting local Black-owned businesses. Affordable housing options, educational opportunities, access to adequate healthcare and healthy food choices are the freedoms that hang in the balance today. Reduced unemployment, reduced incarceration, reduced gentrification, reduced dropouts will follow from increased contracting opportunities, increased profitability, increased access to capital and increased access to expanded markets. So, like everyone else, we are thrilled that America is coming to grips with the horrors of its racist history. We are thrilled that there are efforts underway to correct the blatant omissions in this country’s true historical record. But, we are absolutely certain that changing the faces on paper money has no value unless there is a corresponding increase in opportunities to earn those dollars. I believe Harriet Tubman would agree... (Ron Busby, Sr. is USBC President & CEO, U.S. Black Chambers, Inc.)

A Decade Has Passed: “The Fight for Justice for Terrol Massey!” Reflecting on New York State’s n May 20, 2005 young Terrol Massey was quietly railroaded by an unjust criminal justice Osystem, misrepresentation of attorneys, all White jury verdict, and police bias and corruption. Passage of Historic Policies an. Terrol was caught up in a “Murder for Hire Scheme” in the Town of Amherst NY. Young he New York state budget is in the rear view mirror. New York State is Massey was 16 years of age when he was sentenced 20 years to life for 2nd degree murder, conspiracy, and possession of a weapon.Mr. Massey has served 11 years in prison. To this day, he has Tthe driving force of progress in our country with the passage of historic maintained his innocence. He has faced many challenges such as: his civil rights being violated, policies. Paid family leave and the $15 dollars per hour state-wide minimum

paid attorneys failing to represent him according to knowledge and profession, no Notice of Appeal filed etc......through no fault of his own. With that being said, we have invited The National Association for Equal Justice in America (NAEJA) to come to Buffalo. Mr. Royce Esters, who is Ceo/President) from NAEJA in Cleveland, Ohio and Bro. Jeff Mixson have agreed to intervene on Mr. Massey’s behalf. This Civil Rights organization, headquartered in Compton, California has numerous chapters across the Nation. They consist of lawyers, private investigators, ministers etc. The organization has been very active and successful, working for the elimination of racism, seeking justice, monitoring fair and equal job opportunities, promoting and dialoguing among the diverse communities, counteracting mob violence, police brutality, and police corruption. Evangelist Nora Massey (Terrol’s mother) has built a relationship with this organization over the years. Mr. Esters says, “We are an organization that has a good reputation and Justice will prevail as we get the job done!”For more information on NAEJA, visit the website: NAEJA.Bizland.com. As NAEJA comes to Buffalo, please come out out and support this cause with your presence. The organization will be hosting a two day conference in Buffalo along with other community leaders and organizations such as: Prisoners Are People Too, Bro. Baba Eng, Sis Karima Amin, Bro. John Walker and many more. It will be held on Friday May 13, from 6-8p.m. and Saturday May 14, 12 noon -3:00 p.m. at Mt. Aaron Baptist Church (Pastor Dwayne Jones)540 Genessee St. in Buffalo. (Submitted by Evangelist Nora Massey).

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

Challenger Community News P.O. BOX 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 advertising@thechallengernews.com P : 716 8 81.10 51 F: 716 8 81.10 5 3

wage. The minimum wage increase to $15 dollars per hour is truly a game changer for millions of workers across the state. In New York City the minimum wage will rise to $11 at the end of 2016, then another $2 each year after, reaching $15 by the end of 2018. The minimum wage in Buffalo would increase to $9.70 at the end of 2016, then another .70 each year after until reaching $12.50 at the end of 2020. The upstate economy Crystal will then be assessed and then a rate of increase will be determined. PEOPLES STOKES I have voted to increase the minimum wage almost every year since 2004. Working families, living wage advocates and I all pushed for the $15 dollar per hour minimum wage. The final 2016 budget reflects the closest agreement to a fair wage, it’s a result of three-way negotiations in Albany; unfortunately, the State Senate doesn’t agree with me and many others. The implementation of a state-wide minimum wage was not equal across the state. With the current membership in the State Senate it is unlikely a deal will be reached by the end of the 2016 legislative session. The Western New York Assembly Majority members fought tirelessly to meet an equal rate of implementation for our region. I plan to carry the fight for a $15 dollar per hour minimum wage in the 2017 legislative session.

Assemblywoman Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes represents the New York State Assembly’s 141st District. The district includes sections of North Buffalo, Allentown, Larkinville, and the downtown central business district, and the entire East side of Buffalo. More information on the 141st district and the Assemblywoman can be found at http://assembly.state.ny.us/mem/Crystal-D-Peoples-Stokes.

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

We respectfully submit that the opinions expressed on the editorial pages of this newspaper are not necessairly those of Challenger Community News Corporation or its advertisers.

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Phone: 716-881-1051 Fax: 716-881-1053

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

NOTICE

The resolution, a copy of which is published herewith, has been adopted by the County Legislature on the 28th day of April, 2016 and the validity of the obligations authorized by such resolution may be hereafter contested only if such obligations were authorized for an object or purpose for which the County of Erie, New York, is not authorized to expend money or if the provisions of law which should have been complied with as of the date of publication of this Notice were not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity is commenced within twenty days after the publication of this Notice, or such obligations were authorized in violation of the provisions of the constitution. KAREN M. MCCARTHY Clerk of the Erie County Legislature RESOLUTION NO. 77-2016 BOND RESOLUTION DATED APRIL 28, 2016 BOND RESOLUTION OF THE COUNTY OF ERIE, NEW YORK, AUTHORIZING VARIOUS CAPITAL PROJECTS INCLUDED IN THE 2016 CAPITAL BUDGET OF THE COUNTY, STATING THE TOTAL ESTIMATED MAXIMUM COST OF SUCH PROJECTS IS $43,683,224, APPROPRIATING SAID AMOUNT THEREFOR, INCLUDING THE EXPENDITURE OF $8,108,500 EXPECTED TO BE RECEIVED IN STATE OR FEDERAL AID AND $50,000 OF LOCAL SOURCE REVENUES, AND AUTHORIZING THE ISSUANCE OF $35,524,724 BONDS OF THE COUNTY TO FINANCE THE BALANCE OF SAID APPROPRIATION; AND FURTHER AUTHORIZING ANY AMOUNTS RECEIVED FROM THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AND/OR THE STATE OF NEW YORK AND FROM LOCAL SOURCE REVENUES TO BE EXPENDED TOWARDS THE COST OF CERTAIN OF SUCH CAPITAL PROJECTS AS INDICATED HEREIN, OR REDEMPTION OF ANY NOTES AND BONDS ISSUED THEREFOR OR TO BE BUDGETED AS AN OFFSET TO THE TAXES FOR PAYMENT OF THE PRINCIPAL OF AND INTEREST ON SAID NOTES AND BONDS. (Introduced) APRIL 14, 2016 (Adopted) APRIL 28, 2016 RESOLVED BY THE COUNTY LEGISLATURE OF THE COUNTY OF ERIE, NEW YORK (by the affirmative vote of not less than two thirds of the voting strength of said Legislature), AS FOLLOWS: Section 1.The County of Erie, New York (herein called “County”), is hereby authorized to undertake the various capital projects as described in column A of the attached schedule, each as more fully described in column G of the attached schedule and the duly adopted 2016 Capital Budget for the County. To the extent that the details set forth in this resolution are inconsistent with any details set forth in the 2016 Capital Budget of the County, such Budget shall be deemed and is hereby amended. For each of the specific objects or purposes, classes of objects or purposes and combinations of objects or purposes, as specified in column A-1 of the attached schedule, the respective estimated maximum costs, including preliminary costs and costs incidental thereto and to the financing thereof, are set forth in column B of the attached schedule, and said respective amounts are hereby appropriated therefor pursuant to the duly adopted 2016 Capital Budget for the County. The plan of financing includes the expenditure of $8,108,500 in State and Federal aid and $50,000 local source revenue expected to be received, the issuance of $35,524,724 aggregate principal amount of bonds of the County and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of the sale of such bonds to finance the balance of said appropriations, and the levy and collection of taxes on all the taxable real property in the County to pay the principal of said bonds and notes and the interest thereon as the same shall become due and payable. Any amounts received by the County from the United States of America and/or the State of New York and local source revenues are hereby authorized to be expended towards the cost of the applicable specific objects or purposes, classes of objects

or purposes or combinations of objects or purposes or the redemption of any notes and bonds issued therefor or to be budgeted as an offset to the taxes for the repayment of the principal of and interest on said notes and bonds. Section 2.Bonds of the County in the respective principal amounts set forth in column C of the attached schedule are hereby authorized to be issued pursuant to the provisions of the Local Finance Law, constituting Chapter 33-a of the Consolidated Laws of the State of New York (herein called the “Law”) to finance said appropriations. Section 3.The respective periods of probable usefulness for said specific objects or purposes, classes of objects or purposes and combinations of objects or purposes for which said $35,524,724 bonds herein authorized are to be issued, within the limitations of §11.00 a. of the Law, is set forth in column F of the attached schedule. Section 4.The County intends to finance, and the Comptroller of the County is hereby authorized to advance such amounts as are necessary to pay the costs of the respective specific objects or purposes, classes of objects or purposes and combinations of objects or purposes described in Section 1 hereof, prior to the issuance of the bonds or bond anticipation notes herein authorized, out of any available funds of the County on an interim basis, which respective amounts are reasonably expected to be reimbursed with the proceeds of debt to be incurred by the County pursuant to this Resolution, in the respective maximum amounts of bonds herein authorized. This Resolution is a declaration of official intent adopted pursuant to the requirements of Treasury Regulation Section 1.150-2. Section 5.Subject to the provisions of this Resolution and of the Law, and pursuant to the provisions of §21.00 relative to the issuance of bonds having substantially level or declining annual debt service, §30.00 relative to the authorization of the issuance of bond anticipation notes or the renewals thereof, and of §§50.00, 56.00 to 60.00 and 168.00 of said Law, the powers and duties of the County Legislature relative to authorizing the issuance of any notes in anticipation of the sale of the respective amounts of bonds herein authorized, or the renewals thereof, relative to providing for substantially level or declining annual debt service, relative to prescribing the terms, form and contents and as to the sale and issuance of the respective amounts of bonds herein authorized, and of any notes issued in anticipation of the sale of said bonds or the renewals of said notes, and relative to executing agreements for credit enhancement, are hereby delegated to the Comptroller of the County, as the chief fiscal officer of the County. Section 6.Each of the bonds authorized by this Resolution and any bond anticipation notes issued in anticipation of the sale thereof shall contain the recital of validity prescribed by §52.00 of said Local Finance Law and said bonds and any notes issued in anticipation of said bonds shall be general obligations of the County of Erie, payable as to both principal and interest by general tax upon all the taxable real property within the County. The faith and credit of the County are hereby irrevocably pledged to the punctual payment of the principal of and interest on said bonds and any notes issued in anticipation of the sale of said bonds or the renewals of said notes, and provision shall be made annually in the budgets of the County by appropriation for (a) the amortization and redemption of the notes and bonds to mature in such year and (b) the payment of interest to be due and payable in such year. Section 7.The validity of the bonds authorized by this Resolution and of any notes issued in anticipation of the sale of said bonds, may be contested only if: (a) such obligations are authorized for an object or purpose for which the County is not authorized to expend money, or (b) the provisions of law which should be complied with at the date of the publication of this Resolution are not substantially complied with, and an action, suit or proceeding contesting such validity, is commenced within twenty days after the date of such publication, or (c) such obligations are authorized in violation of the provisions of the Constitution. Section 8. This Resolution shall take effect immediately upon approval by the County Executive.

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

EM P LOY M EN T

VEHICLE

AUCTION

HELP WANTED Need Helper to assist with day to day odd jobs & driving. Must have clean drivers license, no pet allergies and be available 4hrs per day. Serious available candidates only. Please contact 874-9128.

Vehicle Auction of Richard Gadley vehicle 2004 Ford Explorer XL vin#1FMZU73E94UB78060 May 21 at 9 a.m. at Lark’s Enterprise,726 Sycamore Street.

ROOMS ROOMS FOR RENT: Delavan-Humboldt area, Bailey-Delavan. $325$480. Everything included. (716)818-3410.

NEWS BRIEFS

Administrative Assistant

East Side of Buffalo apartment complex seeking FT Administrative Assistant. Responsible for administrative duties relating to the operations of a residential rental property. The ideal candidate is a self-starter with customer service experience and strong organizational skills. Must enjoy paperwork!! Knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel is a plus. Some work experience in a rental office setting preferred, but not required. High School Diploma or G.E.D. required. Bilingual a plus! Starting salary $13.50/hr. plus benefits. EOE. Send resume and references to: HR, 215 Broadway, Buffalo, NY 14204 or fax to (716) 854-2981.

JOBS

LEGAL NOTICE Bids

Virginia Felons Get Back Votes

MR. AMAZING!

Robert Johnson, one of Buffalo’s local body builders, has done it again! On March 12 Robert, at 70-yearsyoung, competed in the Mr. Buffalo Bodybuilding Contest held at the Niagara Falls Conference and Event Center where he won in 3 Master Divisions; 1st Place in the over 70 division ; 1st place in the over 60 division; and 3rd place in the over 50 division. Robert , who started bodybuilding (and competing) at age 50, was inspired by a former co-worker Yvette Hicks who was also a body builder and competitor . The amazing Capricorn is currently training to participate in the Buffalo Marathon May 29th. His motto: “Don’t let age stop you from reaching your goals. Whatever you do, do for the Glory of God!” Congratulations Robert!

Gov. Terry McAuliffe of Virginia used his executive power recently to restore voting rights to more than 200,000 convicted felons. The action effectively overturns a Civil War-era provision in the state’s Constitution barring felons from voting for life, aimed, he said, at disenfranchising African Americans. The order will enable all felons who have served their prison time and finished their parole or probation to register to vote. Most are African Americans, a core constituency of Democrats, Mr. McAuliffe’s political party. The order comes amid intensifying national attention over harsh sentencing policies that have disproportionately affected African Americans. (-NYT)

LEGAL NOTICE Bids

NFTA Procurement Invitation to Bid

4572 - Brake Chambers and Air Bellows Download Bids from www.nfta.com

REQUEST FOR BID Mark Cerrone, Inc. is requesting bids for the Buffalo Niagara International Airport Runway 14/32 Rehabilitation project in Buffalo, NY for all scopes of work detailed in contract documents. DMWBE Pre-Bid Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 5/11/16 @ 3:30pm. Documents can be obtained by contacting Estimating@markcerrone.com or Phone 716-282-5244, Fax 716282-5245. Bids due to MCI by 5/16/16 at 12:00PM electronically or in person at 2368 Maryland Ave., Niagara Falls, NY 14305. Certified Disadvantaged Business Enterprise participation is strongly encouraged.

LEGAL NOTICE Bids LEGAL NOTICE Bids COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS For

Ralph Wilson Stadium 2016 – RE-BID of Adpro Field House Artificial Playing Surface Replacement Sealed bids for General Construction Work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 10:30 AM local time on May 17, 2016, at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/WBE requirements may apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/dpw

COUNTY OF ERIE ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS For

Erie Community College Science Technology Engineering and Math (STEM) Building Separate sealed bids for:(1)General Construction, (2) Masonry, (3)Exterior Wall, (4) Interior Wall Assemblies, (5) Plumbing & Fire Protection, (6) HVAC & HVAC Controls, (7) Electrical & Fire Alarm work for the above project will be received by the County’s Commissioner of Public Works in Suite 1400 of the Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York 14202 until 2:00 PM local time on June 1, 2016 at which time they will be opened and read aloud. MBE/ WBE requirements apply to this project. Additional information must be found at: www.erie.gov/ dpw/

Buffalo Employment and Training Center 77 Goodell St., Buffalo, 856-5627/ Fax 7856-5670 www.workforcebuffalo.org The BETC is here to help with your job searching needs. Free services to all jobseekers looking to find better paying work, an exciting new career, or wanting to upgrade skills to become more marketable in today’s marketplace. Orientation Times: Monday – Thursday, 10 am or 2 pm. LEGAL NOTICE Public Hearing LEGAL NOTICE PUBLIC HEARING Notice is hereby given that a public hearing will be held in the Rath Building, 6th Floor Resource Room, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202, on Friday, May 20, 2016 at 2:00 p.m., for purpose of adoption of amendments to the Appendices of the Rules for the Classified Civil Service of the County of Erie and the Towns, Villages, Special Districts and School Districts within the County. These amendments deal with the request to include the titles of Household Assistant Long-Term Care Facility and Housekeeping Attendant LongTerm Care Facility from the Erie County Medical Center in the Labor Class of the Classified Civil Service of the County of Erie. A full set of proposed amendments will be available for inspection during business hours (9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.) at the Personnel Department (Room 604), County of Erie, Edward A. Rath County Office Building, 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York.

LEGAL NOTICE RFP ERIE COUNTY YOUTH BUREAU 2017 REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS TO PROVIDE YOUTH DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS The Erie County Youth Bureau (ECYB) is pleased to release its 2017 Request for Proposals (RFP) for Youth Development Programs on May 3rd, 2016. Applications from eligible not-for-profit 501 (c) (3) organizations & local youth bureaus will be accepted until May 31st at 5:00PM. Eligible programs will promote positive youth development to address long-term juvenile delinquency prevention within Erie County. The application may be downloaded from the ECYB website or by contacting Ben Hilligas, Youth Bureau Director, at 716-923-4051 or benjamin.hilligas@erie.gov. An informational meeting will be held on May 17th at 10:30AM at Erie 1 BOCES, Building B, Room B2b (355 Harlem Road, West Seneca, NY 14224).

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Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

Pine Grill Jazz Reunion Update

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5767-8866-5252-7788-2018-1871-1303

101

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Let go of things you can’t control and allow your thoughts to become more positive. Positive thoughs and this elevated vibe attracts all good things in your in your life.

1-20-25-30-31-57#46

996

515 140 Challenger Hits

Midday 839- Sagittarius, Capricorn (bx) 694- Pisces, Gemini (Str) ZR, Aquarius, Aries (bx) 001 – ZR (bx)

Evening 480- Luckie Duckie (bx) 242- Quick $, Luckie Duckie (bx) 170- Virgo (str), Sagittarius (bx) 684- Hot Tips, ZR, Luckie Duckie (bx) 263- Pisces, Aries (bx)

LUCKIE DUCKIE

133-202- 335 -2015-4444-1871-0978

134-431-143

648*123*104

980-422-809-981-989-970-990-080-800515-996-390-196-102-581-752-319-408378-352-126-189-444-886-514- 332-522112-432-421-423

3-Way Winning Numbers Last Year

05/12/2015 Evening 05/12/2015 Midday 05/11/2015 Evening 05/11/2015 Midday 05/10/2015 Evening 05/10/2015 Midday 05/09/2015 Evening 05/09/2015 Midday 05/08/2015 Evening 05/08/2015 Midday 05/07/2015 Evening 05/07/2015 Midday 05/06/2015 Evening 05/06/2015 Midday 05/05/2015 Evening 05/05/2015 Midday 05/04/2015 Evening 05/04/2015 Midday

7-8-6 9-3-2 0-5-3 7-6-3 1-3-9 4-8-4 3-1-6 4-3-1 3-0-0 4-2-7 9-2-1 5-5-7 6-0-9 7-5-5 5-0-5 7-8-5 3-0-5 9-9-1

2015

Buffalo Community it time to GET READY for the 27th year of the Annual African American Cultural Center’s Pine Grill Jazz Reunion I & II. On Sunday, August 7 & 14 Martin Luther King, Jr. Park will come alive with the jazz sounds of the old Pine Grill Night Club. Come out and meet, greet old and new friends for a rousing, foot stomping, hand clapping good time. THIS YEAR THE CONCERT WILL BEGIN AT 3:00PM Any musical groups preferably jazz who are interested in performing, send a press packet to Paulette D. Harris e-mail address pauletteharris12@gmail.com For more information the African American Cultural Center at 884-2013.

MOVE continued

not the reason for that bombing did not happen because of some complaints from neighbors,” she said during an NPR interview. “This government had never cared about Black folks complaining about their neighbors or any other people complaining about their neighbors. They bombed us because of our unrelenting fight for our family members, known as the MOVE 9, who have been in prison unjustly going on thirty-two years now, as a result of the August 8th, 1978 police attack on MOVE.” Political prisoner MUMIA ABU-JAMAL stated: “May 13th, 1985 is more than a day of infamy, when a city waged war on its own alleged citizens, but also when the city committed massacre and did so with perfect impunity, when babies were shot and burned alive with their mothers and fathers, and the killers rewarded with honors and pensions, while politicians talked the media mediated mass murder. ...Eleven men, women and children died, and not one killer was even charged with a misdemeanor. The bomb set off a fire that quickly spread. In addition to killing 11 MOVE men, women and children, the fires eventually burning down 61 homes, leaving 250 people homeless. Philadelphia is tactually he second American city to use explosives on its own constituents and became known as “The City That Bombed Itself”. The first was in Tulsa, Oklahoma on May 31st, 1921, when police dropped dynamite on the flourishing Black neighborhood of Greenwood, also known as “The Black Wall Street,” afterwards re-zoning it to make way for a railroad.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

“Ask The Lawyer” Forum Re-Scheduled

The May 4th scheduled We Are Women’s Warriors meeting and “Ask The Lawyer Forum” has been postponed until the May 18 meeting from 5:30 to 7:45 at the Merriweather Library. For more information call 894-0914.

Wednesday May 4

Friday May 6

Pre-Kindergarten Art Show by Buffalo Public School students and Community Based Pre-K Classrooms: Buffalo City Hall Lobby, 10 a.m. opening reception; entertainment by pre-k students.

Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. (after midnight), Channel 20.

Happy Mother’s Day Celebration: Dorothy Collier Center, 118 E. Utica from 4 to 6 p.m. featuring a fashion show and spaghetti dinner. Come and have fun!

The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wed. and Thurs. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle. Dinner free! 8856348. Line Dance Fitness For Seniors: Hustle For Health at the Gloria J Parks Community Center 3242 Main St 11am - 12pm age 50+ FREE Instructor Phyllis Caver 716 832 -1010 www. HustleForHealth.com Thursday May 5 Afro-American Historical Association of the Niagara Frontier Annual Family History Dinner & Annual Meeting: 6:15 p.m., Emerson School of Hospitality, 86 West Chippewa. Tickets $25. 834-4982. Friday May 6 National Spades League Competition: 7:30 p.m. doors; 8 p.m. show; 9 pm. games. The Metropolitan Entertainment Complex, 1670 Main Street hosted by Comedian Ernie Bivins; $20 per player, $15 per spectator; Tickets @ Doris Records, New Style Records, Trade Fair Mart; for info (716 3351529. Golden Age Center’s Annual Mother’s Day Celebration: The Salvation Army, 960 Main St., 8:30 a.m. – 2 a.m.; breakfast, lunch, gifts, line dance workshop with Foxie Brown and more! $10. For tickets 888-6261.

Kemetic Study Group Formed A Kemetic Study Group based on the Metu Neter series, a modern practice of the spiritual tradition of Ancient Egypt, will be held on Sundays from 4-6 p.m. at 333 Hollenbeck Street in Rochester. Join us! For more information contact Ausar at (585)743-8527.

Monday May 9 African Consciousness Workshop: 6-7:45 p.m., Merriweather Library; Jefferson @ Utica every Monday; public invited. Tuesday May 10 Celebrating Historic Jefferson Avenue! will be the topic of the Ellicott District Meeting on Tuesday, 5 p.m. at the Merriweather Library. Wednesday May 11 Khametic Ascendants: 9-10 a.m. & 12:30 a.m. (after midnight), Channel 20. The Durham Central City Baby Café: every Wed. and Thurs. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. 200 E. Eagle. 885-6348. Line Dance Fitness For Seniors: Hustle For Health at the Gloria J Parks Community Center 3242 Main St 11am - 12pm age 50+ FREE

Thank You! African American Cultural Center Executive Director Agnes Bain (center) thanks Medaile College students Simone Rose and Linda Peters.

DON’T COUNT OUR YOUNG ADULTS OUT!

The African American Cultural Center wishes to thank Simone Rose, President of the Black Student Union and Linda Peters President of the Alliance Dance Club of Medaille College. They presented a talent show and donated the proceeds to the Center. We were ever so grateful for this much needed support and so proud of our young adults whom we are into our community more than we think they are.

$$ Earn Cash $$ Selling from our multi-million dollar inventory of seasonal and everyday goods. Visit our HUGE showroom in Depew. $ NO MINIMUMS! NO RISK! BIG PROFITS! $ Open 7 days a week. Call Matt for an appointment at 672-2212

Challenger Community News • May 4-10, 2016 • www.thechallengernews.com

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Home Buying Seminar

Tuesday, May 17 | 5:30-7:30pm Frank E. Merriweather, Jr. Library 1324 Jefferson Ave.

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4/29/16 3:19 PM