December 22, 2010

INSIDE ROCHESTER

Kwanzaa Festival 2010 Starts December 26th Kwanzaa means “first fruits of the harvest,” is a time to celebrate African American people, our ancestors and our culture. We seek to honor our past, evaluate our present and commit ourselves to a more productive future. Africans and African-Americans of all religious faiths and backgrounds celebrate Kwanzaa in 2010.

The festival will take place in Rochester in the following locations: *December 26: Umoja (Unity): Baobab Cultural Center, 728 University Avenue, 3-6 p.m. *December 27: Kujichagulia (Self-Determination): Phillis Wheatley Library, 33 Dr. Samuel McCree Way, 2-5 pm *December 28: Ujima (Collective Work & Responsibility): North Street Recreation Center, 700 North Street, 2-5 p.m. *December 29: Ujamaa (Cooperative Economics): Rochester Museum & Science Center, 657 East Avenue, 5-9 MARSHA p.m. *December 30: Nia (Purpose): Memorial Art Gallery, 500 University Avenue. *December 31: Kuumba (Creativity): Frederick Douglass Resource Center, 36 King Street, 5-9 p.m.

For more information: call the Kwanzaa Hotline at 585-234-KWAN (5926)

JONES

Business Profile: Embellish Takes Care of Business

If you are looking for the perfect place for creative cutting: then go no further. Embellish is the place for you. Located at 1352 Culver Road, Embellish offers advance weaving, sew-ins and weaves; creative coloring, precision hair cuts, nail care, and focuses on preserving healthy hair. It’s a mantra that owner Shamille McCullough swears by. “Ladies always use a leave-in conditioner,” explains the graduate of Continental School of Beauty and West Irondequoit High School. “I was blessed with a gift to do hair.”

As the owner of her own salon since the age of 25, McCullough explains that mixing business with hair designs comes easily. “They just do,” she adds.

“It’s just a gift. We use products and services that work. I used to work with my doll’s hair and I got beat for cutting other people’s heads.” McCullough explains adding that the word Embellish means “to add and make beautiful.”

Continued next column

“I really have to understand my clients as a business owner. You also have to be very patient with their wants and needs. I hope to continue helping my trainees advance their careers.”

She also adds that ladies should learn how to use a chemical process before they over process their hair and damage it further. Signs that your hair may be in trouble: it’s dry and weak and a hair strand with no elasticity.

“I tell my women clients to stay away from using curling irons every day...it’s a myth that you need it,” she continues. “Never use bleach in your hair or finishing products with high concentrations of alcohol. These are some of the quickest ways to ruin your hair.”

Her previous shop was located at 469 North Goodman Street and she decided it was time for a change. “In this location, I am attracting more diverse clientele. My new location is a little smaller, but I like where we are.”

With a staff of six full-time and two part-time staffers, Embellish is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. McCullough adds weekends are busy. On Saturdays, it is open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. If necessary, Embellish will open on Sundays for special “hair” emergencies. Call her at 697-0803.

Trribute to First Ladies of Rochester The Willing Workers of New Bethel CME Church will host a Recognition Luncheon on Saturday, February 12, to recognize and pay tribute to the First Ladies of Rochester. The Recognition Luncheon is for First Ladies, of Churches in the Rochester area and nearby cities; those who are current, and those who are retired and those who are widows. The event will be heldl from noon to 2:30p.m. at the Diplomat Banquet Center, One Diplomat Way, Rochester, NY. the theme is, “Obedient Christian Women of Faith Empowered

by God’s Love”

Explore. Interact. Decide.

• Explore options available for learners of all ages, Pre-K to Adult.

• Interact with students and staff at each school’s exhibit to learn more about what they have to offer.

• Placement staff will be on hand to assist with the school selection process, and if you decide…early registration will be available!

Rochester City School District

School Choice

EXPO

Saturday, January 8, 2011 9am-3pm Rochester Riverside Convention Center 123 East Main Street Page 2

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December 22, 2010

Only Chris Collins Top Ten Buffalo Will Host Dr. Maulana Cultural Organizations Karenga, Creator of Kwanzaa wanzaa is a cultural celebraSurvived Budget Cuts tion of Family, Community

Are a B r i e f s

NEW COMMISSIONER: Abdel Nuriddin, formerly of Buffalo, has been named he new chair of Human Relations Commission in Greensboro, Carolina. Dr Nuriddin was first appointed to the Commission in 2005.

His appointment made the front page of the Muslim Journal. Dr. Nuriddin and his wife, Connie, who also hails from Buffalo operate Genesis Health & Nutrition Center . His appointment made front page news in the December 3 America Muslim Journal.

Congratulations Dr. Nuriddin!

Report Finds Chemical In Buffalo Tap Water A new study conducted here in Buffalo shows there’s a dangerous chemical inside.The Environmental Working Group tested the water in 35 US cities, and in 31 one of them, including Buffalo, the water contained hexavalent chromium also know as chromium six.

The amount found in Buffalo’s water is slightly higher than the chemical’s limit proposed last year in California.

The government is now considering setting a limit for hexavalent chromium in tap water. The chemical has been linked to leukemia in animals and

OUTSTANDING! Nija Wallace, four and a half and a kindergarten student at the King Center Charter School in Buffalo was recognized at an awards ceremony held on Friday, December 10 for maintaining a 90 to 100 percent in math and reading. Nija is the daughter of Velita Wallace of Baltimore and granddaughter of Annie Price and niece of Colette, Elvis Stephens of Buffalo, NY. We are so very proud of you, love you and keep up the good work!

REPORT:Quarter of Buffalo Homicide Victims are Children, Young Adults One in four homicide victims in the City of Buffalo this year have been children and young adults under the age of 21, according to news reports Much of the violence has been attributed to local gangs.Two 15-year-olds, a 16-year-old and two 17-year-olds are among the 54 homicide victims in the city. Several of the victims are 20-yearsold. Robert Lowery of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Buffalo is helping to launch a new anti-gang initiative aimed at teachers and parents, who attended separate seminars on Wednesday at Buffalo United Charter School on Manhattan Street in the city. Lowery said he hopes to expand the program to other schools next year.

Buffalo Region Nation’s 6th Most Segregated According to a newly released analysis of census data, the Buffalo Niagara region is one of the most racially segregated communities in the United States.

Among the 100 largest metros in the U.S., Erie and Niagara counties ranks as the sixth most residentially segregated metropolitan area in the country when it comes to Whites and blacks living near each other. Ranking ahead of Buffalo: Milwaukee ranked #1; Detroit #2, New York city #3, Chicago #4 and Cleveland #5. St. Louis, Youngstown, Ohio, Syracuse and Cincinnati ranked # 7,8,9 & 10 respectively.

Support Our Advertisers December 22, 2010

For many decades, organizations such as Irish Classical Theater, African American Cultural Center, Ujiima Theater, Big Orbit Gallery, City Ballet, El Museo Gallery, CEPA Gallery and Shakespeare in Delaware Park, among others, were mainstays for funding in Erie County budgets.

These culturals were promoted by elected officials such as Leg- BETTY JEAN GRANT islators William Robinson, Minnie Gillette, Roger Blackwell, Barry Robinson, Crystal Peoples, George Holt, Demone Smith and lately, Barbara Miller Williams and this writer. From a few thousands dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars; the legislators made sure that these cultural organizations, especially those in the African American Community, were included in the budget.

The argument that many, if not most of the urban officials used, was that since there are no county roads or bridges in Buffalo and everyone who qualifies, whether they live in the city or the suburbs, receives food stamps and Medicaid; city taxpayers needed their cultural supported financially if any county funds were being distributed. Imagine my surprise this year when we received the budget from the county executive and there was not one cultural organization of color in the mix. Mr. Saul Elkins of Shakespeare in Delaware Park states this fact of omission every time he speaks about the lack of funding for 47 of Erie County’s small to midsize cultures. When there are 13 African American and Latino cultural organization left out of funding, one has to try to determine what message County Executive Chris Collins is trying to give us?

The deal that Chris Collins seemingly ‘pulled out of a hat’ at the last minute to fund the culturals was a deal that Robert Gioia presented to the County Executive at least two months ago. The deal was that if the county would put $100,000, the Foundation for the Arts would put up or match that amount four to one. Collins told him no and reportedly rejected the offer outright. It was only after the taxpayers of Erie County marched, demonstrated and called the Republican Legislators with threats of non support in next year’s election, that Collins and his Republicans saw the handwriting on the wall. If Mr. Collins had simply left the culturals in the budget or at the most, accepted the Foundation for the Arts’ initial offer, a lot of pain and anguish would have been avoided.

The 47 culturals are not out of the

K

and Culture. Created in 1966

by Dr. Maulana Karenga, Kwanzaa builds on the five fundamental activities of Continent.al African "first fruit" celebrations: ingathering; reverence; commemoration; recommitment; and celebration. This Years Theme is "A CALL TO ACTION FOR OUR YOUTH AND OURSELVES". Each night will focus on ways to use Kwanzaa Principles to address issues affecting our YOUTH. Maulana Karenga Buffalo has one of the Largest Kwanzaa Celebration in the Country.

Highlighting this years celebration Buffalo will host the Creator of Kwanzaa, Dr. Maulana Karenga on Tuesday, December 28 7pm at the Frank Merriweather Library. Mayor Byron Brown will open the Buffalo Kwanzaa celebration on Sunday, December 26 at Performing Arts High School. Rev. Darius Pridgen will be the Opening Speaker talking about his ENOUGH is ENOUGH campaign. WBLK's Chris Reynolds will Speak on Dec. 30, bringing his KNOW THYSELF campaign to the Kwanzaa audience. Childrens Kwanzaa will be at New Skateland on Opening day, Dec. 26 from 1-4 pm. Every Night of Kwanzaa will be a celebration with Dancing, Drumming, Poetry and illumination on the Principles of the NGUZO SABA. For More infomation call Sam Radford at (716) 578-3571.

Complete Kwanzaa Schedlule Page 20 BETTY GRANT /CHRIS COLLINS continued woods yet. As of this post, the legislative body has not approved or seen a copy of legislation that would transfer $100,000 to the foundation. Will the cultural organizations that were left out of the budget receive this money? Will they receive the same amount that they would have received from the county? Who will choose which organization to fund? Will the African American Organizations be included in the final doling out of money? At this time, your guess is as good as mine. Stay tuned.

And while we are on the subject; the deal for the libraries is still being discussed and reviewed by the full legislature. Nothing has been set in concrete, yet.

A GOOD CAUSE: The Mary B. Talbert Civic & Cultural Club Coat & Clothing give-away at EOC recently was a great success and the EOC student and the community benefited from the club’s outreach. Deborah Thompson was the event chairperson and Cheryl Olive is the Mary B. Talbert Civic and Cultural Club President.

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In The Spirit!

News Update

From Our “Ignoracist”* Files:

Activists Tour Georgia Prisons After Protests End Denise Stewart, BlackAmericaWeb.com

NYS Senator Antoine Thompson continued to serve his constituents this holiday season as he engaged in a number of activities, among them, conducting a toy giveaway to the delight of eager students at School 61; the school which he attended as a child. He was also joined by members of his staff for his annual serving of dinner to people at the City Mission. Job well done!

A group of activists in Georgia on Monday had its first tour surveying prison conditions in that state following a peaceful end last week to non-violent protests at several lockups.

Monday’s tour came as a result of a Friday meeting with members of the Concerned Coalition to Respect Prisoners’ Rights and Georgia Deputy Prison Commissioner Derrick Schofield.

On Dec. 9, prisoners at several state corrections facilities refused to work because they said they were fed up with the lack of adequate access to medical care, extremely low wages for work and limited opportunities for higher education. Prison officials responded to the work stoppage by placing several facilities on a lockdown that lasted until Dec. 14, when most prisoners began returning to work.

“They simply said, ‘We are not going to work as slaves any longer,’” said former Black Panther leader Elaine Brown, who has helped coordinate the coalition and assists with public relations.

“The prisoners’ peaceful protest was historic in scope and in the unity of thousands of black, brown, white, Muslim, Christian and Rastafarian prisoners, including those at Augusta, Baldwin, Calhoun, Hancock, Hays, Macon, Rogers, Smith, Telfair, Valdosta and Ware state prisons. It ignited protests and support actions all over the country and even rumblings of similar protests in other prisons in other states,” Brown said.

When the work stoppage began, many prisoners were transferred to other facilities in an attempt to scatter those who were believed to be organizers, she said.

At the Friday meeting, activists told corrections officials that prisoners are still suffering from beatings, tear-gassing and other documented violent tactics employed to break the strike and force the men back to work without pay. The prisoners’ demands remain on the table, and the Coalition delegation will continue to raise these issues and others with Corrections Department officials, Brown said.

Blacks doubt death in small Southern town is a suicide--they want answers now (FinalCall.com) - The idea of a so-called post-racial America was widely discussed, debated and even seen as an achievement by some with Barack Obama’s inauguration as president of the United States.

For Blacks in Greenwood, Mississippi, the notion that America has gotten beyond race isn’t popular today. Many are angry over the recent mysterious hanging death of Frederick Jermaine Carter. “`This is 2010 and we still have Black people hanging from trees? They’re saying he hung himself but I have doubt in my mind that he actually did that.

That wasn’t his character. This wasn’t a suicide, this was a homicide,” said Sunflower, Miss., Mayor Michael Pembleton, Jr. to The Final Call.

The body of Mr. Carter, 26, was found Dec. 3 hanging from an oak tree in the predominately White North Greenwood area of Leflore County. The young man lived in neighboring Sunflower County, located several miles away.

Mr. Carter’s stepfather told law enforcement that he was working in the area with his stepson when Mr. Carter wandered off.

County Sheriff Ricky Banks reportedly told the media the young man had a “mental condition and a history of wandering off.” He also publicly stated that he saw no signs at the scene pointing towards it being a crime or murder.

Mr. Banks said evidence shows Mr. Carter dragged an old frame of a nearby table, leaned it against the trunk of the tree and commenced to tying himself to the tree limb.

Photos from the scene of the death, show the deceased and the area around where the body was found. (R) Some Blacks say police did not properly mark off the place where the 26-year-old died and may have allowed for contamination of the scene if foul play occurred.

“The frame probably broke, possibly because Carter kicked it out from under himself,” Mr. Banks told reporters.

Pictured above, Leonard Lane, member of FATHERS, volunteers and other sponsoring members pose during their highly successful Toy giveaway. The annual event, which drew upwards of 1,000 or more, was held at the Bob Lanier Center. Hats off to these great community workers!

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The preliminary autopsy results by the Leflore County Coroner’s Office declared it a suicide.

The deceased man’s family and community leaders don’t accept the official explanations and are calling for further investigation.

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SIGN OF THE TIMES:

A sign excluding Black people from a future business (“Gentlemen’s Club”) is enraging some people in a small Wisconsin town. The owner posted his ‘No Negros Allowed’ sign after he says he had some problems with Black people in the past and needed to make a policy against them. And he says it’s his right to discriminate.

But one African American professor says the second he opens his business, he’ll be in violation of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Sarah Palin Disses Michelle Obama Over First Lady’s AntiObesity Campaign Sarah Palin took a shot at Michelle Obama during Sunday’s episode of her reality TV show, “Sarah Palin’s Alaska,” alleging the first lady’s antiobesity campaign attempts to deprive Americans of dessert.

While searching for s’mores ingredients on a family camping trip, Palin remarked: “Where are the s’mores ingredients? This is in honor of Michelle Obama, who said the other day we should not have dessert.”

Mrs. Obama has been a key proponent of an initiative to improve children’s health by encouraging better diets and sufficient exercise. In May she announced her “Let’s Move” program, which promoted dessert alternatives, among other dietary suggestions.

One in 3 American children is overweight or obese, putting them at higher risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and other illnesses.

Obesity is even more prevalent among Black and Hispanic children. Some public health experts say today’s children are on track to live shorter lives than their parents.

But Palin has maintained that Obama’s effort to combat child obesity — which was recently aided by the passage of the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act — is one that seeks to take away “God-given rights to make our own decisions.”

During an appearance on Laura Ingraham’s radio program last month, Palin complained: “Instead of a government thinking that they need to take over and make decisions for us according to some politician or politician’s wife priorities, just leave us alone, get off our back.”

(A new word we just made up – combination of ignorant and racist.)

December 22, 2010

HEALTH MATTERS

The Truth about Food Additives

H

By Dr. Maoshing Ni

ave you looked at the ingredients on your cereal box lately?

Today’s supermarkets are often stacked with packaged foods that are plagued with nasty additives, used to increase flavor and maintain freshness -- they may add to shelf life, but these additives subtract from your life span. Read on to find out more about these hard-to-pronounce common food additives and why you should avoid them if you want to increase your own longevity.

1. BHA and BHT Manufacturers often add these to food to prevent fats from going rancid.

Breakfast cereals, rice, potato chips, chewing gum, and foods that contain animal fat and shortening usually include these additives. Although you would need to consume 125 times the amount added to foods, there is still concern regarding their safety.

2. Sodium Chloride Salt has been used as a preservative for centuries and is an important part of electrolyte balance in our bodies. However, too much salt can lead to high blood pressure, cardiovascular health, and kidney failure. Most canned foods

and packaged foods contain excessive amounts of salt. Make sure to read the nutrition facts label so that the sodium content doesn’t exceed 5%. Over use of salt can also desensitize your taste buds, making you forget the taste of real food. Use herbs and spices as an alternative and shake that salt habit for good!

3. Sugar Natural sources of sugar that come from fruit, milk, and some vegetables contain multiple nutrients. However, consuming added sugars from processed foods can lead to weight gain, obesity, and diabetes. Baked goods, yogurt, salad dressings, sauces, and bottled drinks often contain excessive amounts that will surely give you a sugar rush! Watch out for these names in the ingredients: high fructose corn syrup, glucose, confectioner’s sugar, dextrose, maltose, fruit juice concentrate, molasses, powdered sugar, sucrose, syrup, invert sugar, malt syrup, corn sweetener, corn syrup.

4. Artificial Sweeteners Most “sugar-free” and diet drinks, gums, candy bars, gelatins, and lowcalorie desserts compensate for the lack of sugar with artificial sweeteners. Equal, Sweet n’ Low, Splenda and most other artificial sweeteners contain one or more of the following: asparatame, sucralose, acesulfame-K. Some studies show that they may cause cancer in rats. Those with an enzyme disorder known as phenylketonuria should avoid asparatame because it contains phenalalanine.

If you are trying to avoid sugar to help with your weight loss goals, you are on the right track, but artificial sweeteners are not the answer, Instead, try using powerful herbs that assist you in naturally losing weight. B-Slim is blended from specially selected Chinese herbs whose qualities are said to control appetite and craving, eliminate bloating, improve digestion, increase fat metabolism, regulate blood sugar, gently relieve constipation and balance the body.

5. Trans Fats Did you ever wonder how that same blueberry muffin you saw six months ago on the grocery shelf can still look so good? In order to preserve its freshness, manufacturers will often transform a liquid oil into a solid fat. This process known as “hydrogenation,” increases inflammation and can increase your risk for heart disease. That muffin may make your mouth water, but it will elevate your “bad” LDL cholesterol, and make your “good” HDL plummet!

Extra caution should be taken when a package boasts “trans fat free.” Anything below 0.1 grams of trans fat per serving is acceptable on food labels. So if you end up eating enough servings,

Dr. Abdul Alim Muhammad Returns to Buffalo: Back by Popular Demand

D

r. Abdul Alim Muhammad Returns to Buffalo: Back by Popular Demand The National Health Minister of the Nation of Islam and personal physician of the Honorable Louis Farrakhan will return to our city on Thursday, December 30 thru January 2, 2011. The Abundant Life Road Clinic is based in the D.C. area and comes to Buffalo periodically, throughout the year.

Dr. Alim will be participating in our annual Kwanza Celebration on Thursday, Dec. 30 at 7 p.m. at the Pratt Wiullert Center, 422 Pratt Street. He will also be speaking at Muhammad Mosque #23 on Sunday, January 2 at 5 Walden Avenue at 11 a.m.

Dr. Alim has a robust practice in our area, with scores of patients whose vastly improved health is a testament to the effectiveness of “autonomic response testing,” which allows the body to tell the doctor what it needs, as opposed to the other way around.

On his last visit here, there were many who where unable to be seen, because appointments filled so quickly. After

severa request (and a few threats) we had to bring him back. Now is the time to schedule your appointment if you’d like to be seen. The Millions More Movement had the opportunity to question Dr. Alim on the technique.

Here, the doctor responds: “The biggest problem in medicine has always been the inability to make an accurate diagnosis. The ability to treat is no better than the ability to make a diagnosis. Modern technology with all its marvels and wonders has not solved that problem. In fact, it may have made matters worse with an avalanche of information that makes matters more confusing. Taking sophisticated computer aided pictures of a back ache does little good for the sufferer, although big bucks are made in the process by the providers. So what’s the solution? The solution is to be in direct communication with the body itself and allow the body to tell its own story in its own way. How to do that?

Through autonomic response testing, also called nutrition response test-

ing or simply muscle testing. Actually, the most sophisticated computer in the world is the autonomic nervous system, the body’s own intelligence that operates, Dr. Alim Muhammad regulates and controls all of the billions of functions that the body must carry out in order for there to be life in the body.

Autonomic response testing communicates directly with this massive intelligence of the body, finding out what is wrong and what to do about it and in what exact sequence over time.

Properly done, autonomic response testing reveals the exact cause of medical problems, conditions and disabilities that take away from life’s potential.

Amazingly, a full autonomic response

Continued Page 16 December 22, 2010

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WNY’s first ever Hip-Hop & Dance Step Stage Play Hits the Stage in January The members of the Buffalo Board of Education are reviewing resumes for the vacant East District seat.

To be eligible, an individual must: be a citizen; be a qualified voter; never have been convicted of a felony; and have lived in the East District for the last year.

Interested applicants should mail or e-mail their resume to: Buffalo Public Schools James Kane 801 City Hall Buffalo, NY 14202 jkane@buffaloschools.org Resumes must be postmarked or emailed prior to noon January 7, 2011.

Interviews of valid applicants will follow shortly after this date. www.buffaloschools.org

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he phenomenon of popular dance and step movies such as Step Up, How She Move and Stomp the Yard has influenced youth of all ages to start groups and perform all over the nation.

This phenomenon will now make it to the theater stage in WNY’s first ever Hip-Hop & Dance Step Stage Play “Let’s Get It In” written and co-directed

by Buffalo’s own Phil Davis. Buffalo Theater veteran Willie Judson also codirects the play. The dance routines are choreographed by Tenika Jones and Shanika Williams (Instructors at Center Stage Dance Studio). The step routines are choreographed by Pastor Duane Thomas (Adviser of Kappa Phi & Kappa Lambda Gamma Jr. Sorority Inc).

The play is loosely based on the “Stomp the Yard: Dance & Step Competition” that has been taking place annually at McKinley High School and the Forbes Theater since early 2008. The play highlights what goes on at the competitions but also behind the scenes with the teams that compete; from the practicing to the drama between rival teams.

It teaches youth the importance of respect for self and others and using the gifts given to them in spite of others hate and jealousy.

As always Alemaedae Theater wants to give the youth not just a show filled with entertaining dance and step shows but also a clear cut inspirational message. The show consists of many talented dancers and steppers who also double up as actors that range from as young as 10 years old to over 25.

From Top Left To Right: Teyana Walker, Cierra Monroe, Chris Titus, Jamil Crews, Tayler Clinton, Brittany 'Bria' Edmond, Zeke Titus. Bottom Left To Right: Charles Everhart, Annette Christian, Sierra Wimpy, Cody Mane, Chantel Cashaw, Kayla Doctor. Also Featuring Kia Ramsey, Andre Cashaw, And Kiara Jackson.

This is definitely a family event for all ages.

The show takes place Sun. Jan. 9th, 2011 @ 4p at the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts Theatre located at 450 Masten Ave. (Corner of E. Ferry). Tickets are $15 at Doris Records, True Bethel Bookstore and online at www.atpgalaxy.com. $20 at the door.

For more information on this and other events call 716-602-6253.

MIN. DR. ALIM RETURNS Continued

test can be done in relatively short time, no more than 20 to 30 minutes, with a completeness and accuracy that is unrivaled by any other modality.

Because the individual being tested participates directly in the process, the certainty of diagnosis and treatment is shared equally by the individual and the practitioner, ensuring a high level of compliance. Almost anyone can be tested anytime,anywhere with complete safety and assurance of good results. The new paradigm in healthcare has arrived...”

If you would like to be seen by Dr. Alim, or to receive general information on the Millions More Movements Ministry of Health, please contact us at (716) 948-5100 Page 6

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December 22, 2010

Buying Black in Buffalo This page is designed to encourage our readers to spend as much as they can with African American businesses during the holiday season, even if it’s not but $10 or $20 - it will be cash well spent.

The numbers show African-American spending power now passing $1 trillion a year. Recycling some of that money back into Black-owned businesses is just plain good, economic sense.

Things may be a bit tight this holiday season, but people are still buying. We first did this guide in 2008. A few establishments did go out of business, but It was good to see that many of the businesses are still operating! Last weekend we identifed a few more as we canvassed the area for as many Black-owned retail outlets as we could find for gift-giving ideas. We came across some great merchandise and some great; prices.

So, before you head for the mallor when you come from the mall check out the business in your own community. Our Shoppers guide on pages 10 & 11 also offers some nice alternataives. Happy Shopping!

Gelsey’s Fashions

199 Allen nr. Elmwood. Young men’s clothing and accessories.

Gelsey’sfashions@verizon.net.

882-0424

Cindy’s Hats

893-5613 2500 Walden Avenue Hats, Jewelry One of a Kind Fashions 3000 Flea Market on Saturdays & Sundays Bailey Ave. Custom made fashions, Call for appointment Mon. thru Fri furs, shoes & more. 783-9796

Hobby Boyz 838 E. Delavan. “Gifts for all occasions” www.gifts4all.com or 818-2691.

King City 2660 Bailey Ave. Clothing and more.

American Dollar

168 Elmwood 882-0033 Electronics including Laptops, Flat Screens, computer games, IPods, Boost Mobile &

Images of You African & Egyptian Art 1353 Jefferson Ave. Oils statues & more.

KJ Fashion 439 E. Amherst. “Little Jazzy Shoes

3133 Bailey Ave. They don’t call it “Jazzy for nothing.’ High fashion shoes and boots for ladies and children. 8357690.

New York” might be a better name for this awesome boutique. Everything for the young at heart from sneakers and shoes to clothing and accessories.

332-1246.

Mr. G’s

1300 Jefferson Ave. (in the M&T Plaza). A host of good buys from clothing & accessories for the young and not so young, to wigs and hair. 881-2735.

New Style Records 2995 Bailey Ave. 834-071

Our World Boutique

The owner likes to play up the fact that he does indeed carry the “ultimate in Black greeting cards.”

But there is so much more at Our World Boutique, located at 863 E. Ferry (near True Bethel Church).

Quality items from lamps, books, Bibles, Afro-Art, body oils, bangles and more. Also boxed Christmas and Kwanzaa Cards. The perfect holiday gift buying outlet. You have to check out the huge variety for yourself! The boutique is open up until the holidays until 9 p.m. daily.

After the holidays they’re back to closing at 3 p.m. Call 884-9673 or 903-0449 for more information.

3142 Main Street 725-6215 cell: 472-0372 Nice variety of women’s clothing and accessories, including hats, belts, jewelry, scarves and more.

Apple’s Haberdashery

Antique & Vintage Wardrobe Salon Tri Main Center 2495 Main Street Site 414a 866-949-3274

Stone Cold Fashions

Class Act Boutique 40 Allen St. If its oils you want, 40 Allen St. is a ‘Class Act.” Also carries clothing for men and women. 602-8128.

Doris Records 286 E. Ferry St.

D&D Aromas High quality fragrances.

Free delivery. 353-0897.

Flight 104

883-2410.

Eye on History/Eva Doyle, books,

puzzles and everything Afro-centric.

New Obama puzzles. 847-8010.

Lonnie B’s Beads

81 Allen St. Give an unforgettable gift of Lonnie B’s exquisite jewelry design.

884-9418.

December 22, 2010

Pamela

Nett’s Variety

2888 Bailey Avenue Great variety of themed Christmas stockings, hats, scarves, T-Shirts , handbags, incense and plenty of candy!

104 Elmwood at Allen. Beautiful gift ideas from artifacts to clothing , oils and jewelry. Many items hand made.

Real cool stuff. 882-1925.

2820 Bailey Ave. Wo m e n ’s clothing, shoes & accessories.

817-3244

IF YOU ARE AN AFRICAN AMERIACAN OWNED BUSINESS AND WE MISSED YOU, PLEASE EMAIL US AT: advertising@thechallengernews.xcom or call 881-1051.

A Spring Listing is being planned.

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Watch Night services ENOUGH IS provide spiritual way to E N O U G H ! bring in New Year C I T Y W I D E

T “Chasing The Glory!” is Theme of Watch Night Service “Chasing the Glory: One People.

One Place. Seeking One God” is the theme of a Watch Night Service on Friday, December 31 at 10 p.m. at Buffalo Christian Center, 512 Pearl Street. The event is being hosted by Pastor Arthur H. Boyd, Pastor Ted Howard, Pastor Jeremiah Snell, Sr. and Pastor Steven Easley, Sr. and their churches, Second Chance Ministries, Edison Street Community Church, Greater Joy Baptist Church and Liberty Missionary Baptist Church. All are welcome!

Kenya Christians Punish Pastor Caught Cheating A pastor has been found cheating on his wife with a policeman’s woman in Kenya . People of the Christian community offered him no grace, especially because he was preaching in a crusade about adultery. They beat them both, put them naked and forced them to kiss in public.

he typical image of New Year’s Eve is a group of revelers with party hats and noisemakers, ringing in the new year with champagne and Auld Lang Syne.

But on that same night, churches welcome the coming year in a different way with a Watch Night service.

Methodism founder John Wesley originated Watch Night services in the mid-18th century, sometimes calling them Covenant Renewal services. The original services were spontaneous prayer services designed to deepen the spiritual life of Methodists.

In Methodist tradition, Watch Night was considered a time for recommitment, said the Rev. Cynthia Wilson, an Atlanta-based worship leader. The unity of the congregation was renewed, the covenant with Christendom was renewed, folks testified and sang.

Wilson noted Watch Night services have special significance in the African-American community, where they date back to the days of slavery.

At the end of the year, owners tallied their property and often sold slaves to pay debts, Wilson said. They didn’t know after tallying if they’d be separated. New Year’s Eve was often the last night a family of slaves would be together.

Watch Night took on even more significance during the Civil War. When President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, it was to take effect Jan. 1, 1863. Slaves sat up the night before, waiting for their freedom to arrive at midnight.

Today, it’s a time the church comes together to celebrate life itself. As it’s said in the Black church, “it’s celebrating surviving dangers seen and unseen,” Wilson added.

“The service is always upbeat, folks rejoice in making it to the end of another year. There’s a time of testimony and sharing how we’ve progressed and been blessed.

It’s also a safe alternative to a New Year’s Eve party. Attendees typically stay at the church that night, and the church hosts a breakfast in the morning.

PRAYER

Continues next week at Ha’naniah Lutheran Tabernicle 900 Genesee st Between Herman and Gilford Hosted by: Pastor Kenyatta Cobb Contac# 7169543330 Eld Wiggins Monday December 27th thru Friday December 31th 6pm to 7pm nightly

Did You Know…

A recent survey by USA Today indicates that while most call Christmas a holy day that is primarily religious, their actions say otherwise. Many skip church, omit Jesus and zero in on the egg nog…

worship this week Page 8

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December 22, 2010

Call for Appointment 563-0994

HAPPY HOLIDAYS.

OUR NEXT PUBLICATION IS JANUARY 12, 2011 December 22, 2010

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December 22, 2010

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

OUR NEXT PUBLICATION IS JANUARY 12, 2011

December 22, 2010

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entertaiment

Joseph Wooten and The Union: “I Matter”

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The Union & Wooten

OU matter, yes? Think about families in Western New York who most certainly matter during this holiday season yet have nothing to eat. Jump aboard this event with Joseph Wooten to support The Food Bank of Western New York. Because YOU matter.

That’s what 3 time Grammy nominated artist Mr. Joseph Wooten will be presenting to the Tralf Music Hall on December 29, at 8 pm, when he brings his prodigious brand of soul, heart, and music to the stage. Joseph Wooten, no stranger to the bright lights, and international venues, will be performing for the first time with Buffalo’s gospel greats “The Union.” With songs such as “I Matter, and a vast collection of compositions that ring true to the human spirit of desires, and dreams, ambitions, and goals.

Wooten is the keyboardist for the legendary Steve Miller Band, taking him from Japan, to Europe, Hawaii, and throughout the United States. When not on the road with Steve Miller, he performs with his brother Victor, 5 time Continued Page 13

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December 22, 2010

entertaiment WOOTEN AND UNION

continued

Grammy recipient. Joseph also performs with an elite group of hand picked musicians called Freedom Sings, organized by the First Amendment Center in Washington, D.C, presenting a multi-media experience celebrating The First Amendment and free expression. Joseph is currently featured in the November issue of LifeShine: Following Your Joy and in International Keyboard Magazine Joseph’s career began at an early age, sharing the stage with Curtis Mayfield, War, and The Wooten Brothers. In the 70’s, Joseph shared the stage with The Temptations, Stephanie Mills, Dexter Wansel, Ramsey Lewis, and Maze. Joseph also sang back up vocals for Whitney Houston on her debut album, as well as Kenny G. Joseph also contributed numerous compositions on two of Victor Wootens Grammy nominated CD’s.

The Union has had a strong presence in Western New York, and the entire East Coast, for the past 25 years. This gospel trio has been featured twice on the Bobby Jones Gospel Hour, opened for the late Rev. James Cleveland, Delois Barrett Campbell, The Winans, Shirley Caesar, Keith Pringel, Vicky Winans, Douglas Miller, and Billy Preston. The Union performed background vocals for Phoebe Snow, CeCe Penniston, Sara Dash and Dorothy Norwood at the Apollo Theatre during a human rights benefit, sponsored by Reebok. They have appeared alongside Gregory Hines, Ziggy Marley, Richard Gere, and others.

The Union is active in community performing the American and Canadian Anthems for the NFL, and the NBA. Their tight, clean, melodious, and impassioned voices bring a blend of voices that is rare, and a real joy to hear. In Joseph’s words, “We want to do good with what we have to work with in life; we have a chance to be the things that other people and ourselves are looking for . . . to inspire in a few different ways through lifestyle, music, how we conduct ourselves on stage, and afterward, and to inspire to move, to lead by example, to be able to present good music, from good musicians . . . we want to be able to expound goodness for the evening as best as we know how, so we can catch the next opportunity when it shows up.”

When the curtain goes down, on December 29th at the Tralf, all will be able to say as the song “I Matter” suggests: “This is what I got to see, see that no one means more than me, and one day, when my days are numbered, headed to my final slumber, I’ll say that I was here, I was here, I was here, and I matter . . . and YOU matter too.”

Please bring non perishable food items to the Tralf on Dec 29th to help feed OUR hungry neighbors in Western New York along with The Food Bank of Western New York!

Submitted by Jacqueline Lewandowski, Community Web Producer

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

12092 FN11 Challenger 6.634x5:Layout 1

11/22/10

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ON STAGE *Buffalo East, 1412 Main St., 5:30 p.m. Sundays, “Take Flight Open Mic,” hosted by Verneice Turner w/music by Take Flight. 713-9340.

KINFOLK!

*“Let’s Get It In” Hip-Hop Dance & Step Stage Play Sun. Jan. 9th, 2011 @ 4pmBuffalo Academy For Visual and Performing Arts Theatre450 Masten Ave. Buffalo, NY. Tickets $15 at Doris Records, True Bethel Bookstore, and online at www.atpgalaxy.com Admission $20 at the door.Call 716-602-6253 *Wednesday, December 29 @ 8 pm Tralf Music Hall, IN CONCERT, Joseph Wooten, with Buffalo’s own, THE UNION. Zuri Appleby on bass, Wade Hawkins on keyboard, Daniel Powell on drums, and Nashville native, Paul Allen on guitar, with Buffalo Select Chorus opening. Tickets: Tralf Box Office 622 Main Street Buffalo 716-852-2860. *Snoop Dogg With Special Guests, Jan. 27, 1011, The Rapids Theatre, 1711 Main St., Niagara Falls; 716.205.8925, Tickets Ticketmaster 1-800-8953000.

*Feb. 5, 2011, Salt N Pepa, Shea’s Performig Ar Ts Center, 7 P.M., Tickets $39.50 & 49.50, At Shea’s Box Office, Doris Records, Ticketmaster.

Com Or Charge By Phone 800-7453000.

*Live Piano Jazz: Free every Friday from 6-9 p.m. Diana M. Reeves on vocals Mr. Larry Henderson on drums. Hot Stuff Southern Cafe’, 829 Main St., NF,282.7883.

PRODUCED BY THE INDEPENDENT HEALTH FOUNDATION AND WNY UNITED AGAINST DRUG & ALCOHOL ABUSE

A NIGHT OF FAMILY FUN! Buffalo’s Biggest Drug- and Alcohol-Free New Year’s Eve Celebration

F R I D AY , D E C E M B E R 31, 2 0 10 PRESENTED BY

December 22, 2010

5–10 p.m. • Buffalo Convention Center Tickets available at Wegmans FirstNightBuffalo.org • (716) 635-4959

KINFOLK DELIVERS: Papa Emile Latimer and the Latimer Experience presented the debut of “Kinfolk” Dec. 4 at the Gateway Gallery on Elmwood Avenue near Allen. It was one fantastic show. The $10 cover was tantamount to being “free” for the incredibly talented performance which featured the timeless soul of Papa Emile and a one time appearance of two of his cousins, Shenole and Ishlam from the New York City area Rounding out the electric experience was Gaga on keyboard, Jose Arroyo on bass and Yvette on vocals.

(Also on hand to show their support were other talented members of the Latimer Kinfolk family – Emile’s daughter, singer Kunjani Latimer, dancer/ chorographer Gi Lyons and granddaughter Endaya). Shenole was outstanding on the sax and every other instrument he choose to pick up that evening (his singing wasn’t bad either!) and Papa Emile on the drums was in rare form. A real treat was that most of the music was original, interspersed with timeless jazz classics like “Summertime.” The only downside was that it was billed as a “one time only appearance.” Hopefully Kinfolk will decide to get together again to share with us, another awesome Latimer Experience

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The Coolest Man in the Room: What Progressives Don’t Understand About Obama

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By Ishmael Reed

ot all of my White teachers viewed me as a discipline problem. To the annoyance of my fellow students, one teacher selected me regularly to lead assembly programs. A high school teacher insisted that I learn about the theater. She was an America-firster who supplied me with right-wing pamphlets and magazines that I’d read at breakfast and she didn’t seem bothered by my returning them with some of the pages stuck together with syrup.

But most of them did see me as an annoyance, and gave me the grades to prove it.

I’ve been thinking recently of all those D’s for deportment on my report cards. I thought of them, for instance, when I read a response to an essay I had written about Mark Twain that appeared in “A New Literary History of America.” One of the country’s leading critics, who writes for a prominent progressive blog, called the essay “rowdy,” which I interpreted to mean “lack of deportment.”

Perhaps this was because I cited “Huckleberry Finn” to show that some white women managed household slaves, a departure from the revisionist theory that sees Scarlett O’Hara as some kind of feminist martyr.

I thought of them when I pointed out to a leading progressive that the Tea Party included neo-Nazis and Holocaust deniers — and he called me a “bully.”

He believes that the Tea Party is a grass-roots uprising against Wall Street, a curious reading since the movement gained its impetus from a rant against the president delivered by a television personality on the floor of the Chicago Mercantile Exchange.

And I’ve thought about them as I’ve listened in the last week to progressives criticize President Obama for keeping his cool.

Progressives have been urging the president to “man up” in the face of the Republicans. Some want him to be like John Wayne. On horseback. Slapping people left and right.

One progressive commentator played an excerpt from a Harry Truman speech during which Truman screamed about the Republican Party to great applause.

He recommended this style to Mr. Obama. If President Obama behaved that way, he’d be dismissed as an angry black militant with a deep hatred of white people. His grade would go from a B- to a D. What the progressives forget is that Black intellectuals have been called “paranoid,” “bitter,” “rowdy,” “angry,” “bullies,” and accused of tirades and diatribes for more than 100 years. Very few of them would have been given a grade above D from most of my teachers.

When these progressives refer to themselves as Mr. Obama’s base, all they see is themselves. They ignore polls showing steadfast support for the president among blacks and Latinos. And now they are whispering about a primary challenge against the president. Brilliant! The kind of suicidal gesture that destroyed Jimmy Carter — and a way to lose the black vote forever.

Unlike white progressives, Blacks and Latinos are not used to getting it all.

They know how it feels to be unemployed and unable to buy your children Christmas presents. They know when not to shout. The president, the coolest man in the room, who worked among the unemployed in Chicago, knows too.

Ishmael Reed is the author of the forthcoming novel “Juice.”

Source: New York Times

SEASON’S GREETINGS! Page 14

EDITORIALS

In Praise of the End of “Don’t Center of Hope: A Reason to Be Thankful...

Dear Editor: Ask Don’t Tell” As this special season of caring, sharing, and hope draws to a close, let us (An open letter from President Obama)

Dear Citizens: The Senate hasvoted to end “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell.”

When that bill reaches my desk, I will sign it, and this discriminatory law will be repealed.

Gay and lesbian service members -- brave Americans who enable our freedoms -- will no longer have to hide who they are.

The fight for civil rights, a struggle that continues, will no longer include this one.

This victory belongs to you. Without your commitment, the promise I made as a candidate would have remained just that.

Instead, you helped prove again that no one should underestimate this movement. Every phone call to a senator on the fence, every letter to the editor in a local paper, and every message in a congressional inbox makes it clear to those who would stand in the way of justice: We will not quit.

This victory also belongs to Senator Harry Reid, Speaker Nancy Pelosi, and our many allies in Congress who refused to let politics get in the way of what was right.

Like you, they never gave up, and I want them to know how grateful we are for that commitment.

I will make sure these messages are delivered -- you can also add a comment about what the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” means to you.

As Commander in Chief, I fought to repeal “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” because it weakens our national security and military readiness. It violates the fundamental American principles of equality and fairness.

But this victory is also personal.

I will never know what it feels like to be discriminated against because of my sexual orientation.

But I know my story would not be possible without the sacrifice and struggle of those who came before me -- many I will never meet, and can never thank.

I know this repeal is a crucial step for civil rights, and that it strengthens our military and national security. I know it is the right thing to do.

But the rightness of our cause does not guarantee success, and today, celebration of this historic step forward is tempered by the defeat of another -- the DREAM Act. I am incredibly disappointed that a minority of senators refused to move forward on this important, commonsense reform that most Americans understand is the right thing for our country. On this issue, our work must continue.

Today, I’m proud that we took these fights on.Thank you.

President Barack Obama

remember the reason for the season -- the birth of our savior and hope, Jesus.

He came to make every day Christmas and provide us with hope for a better future. And, He left it up to us to determine what that future will be like.

Thanks to the Center of Hope rising from the shell of the old Wonder Bread Factory and the Eastside Redevelopment Task Force Our community has much to look forward to and be thankful for as we begin the new year 2011 We can be thankful that another ten blocks of our community have been cleaned and cleared, that the residents have a cleaner and better neighborhood.

We are thankful for the summer work provided to over 50 of our youth. We are thankful that many of those youth have made longer lasting changes in their lives -- that they have decided that they no longer want to stand in the line for handouts, that they recognize they possess valuable talents, skills, and ideas which they want to develop to the best of their ability. We are thankful for the financial help the Wendt Foundation and the Oishei Foundation have provided to make our summer and continuing programs possible. We are thankful that recreational and dance facilities are being provided to positively channel the seemingly boundless energy of our youth. We are thankful for the youth who participate in our programs: after school help, job training, dances, and recreational activities.

Did you know that there are more Black families earning $75,000 or more a year than below the poverty level? We can help ourselves, our neighbors, our friends, and our relatives move from merely surviving to more productive and self-fulfilling lives. We can double the money we give right now through a matching grant from the Oishei Foundation. The Center of Hope through the Eastside Redevelopment Task Force has received that matching grant from the Oishei Foundation. For each dollar you donate, our children will receive two to be used toward providing them with educational and recreational activities at the Center of Hope. Please call today 570-9165 or 240-0690 with your donation. Make your gift double itself during this matching grant. And if you can, continue the Christmas season throughout the year with regular planned giving to our community.

Here are a few suggestions for helping make our community not only a better place to live but one in which others will want to live. Be a good neighbor. Clean your yard and the space in front of your house. Know who your neighbors are and what their needs are. If they are seniors, shovel their walks, driveway, etc.

Notice I didn’t say, “Ask if you could…” Just do it. Our streets are not your trash can. Do not litter. Better yet, speak up when you see someone littering.

Teach your children by example not to litter. We are proud of our neighborhood and want to show our pride by the way in which we treat our neighborhood.

Check on the elderly, shut-ins, disabled. Volunteer to go shopping for them or help them shop, for their daily needs as well as for Christmas presents. Call or visit someone in a nursing home or hospital. If you do not know anyone there ask if who are the residents who never or seldom get visits and you become their regular visitor. Give everyone the best smile you have.

Lower your voice the louder you are hollered at. Do not let others determine your reaction. In a word, carry this season’s spirit of good will, giving, and sharing with you throughout the coming year. You will be profoundly happier and greatly appreciated for doing so.

Richard Tahara VP Eastside Redevelopment Task Force Board The Meaning of The above image/logo, part of the Challenger flag, corresponds to one of the 81 chapters in Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching. This particular tetragram corresponds to number 27, defined as “The Skillful Exchange of Information.” (From R.L Wing’s book, The Tao of Power.)

“The truth, always the truth--at all costs”

“What is planted cannot be uprooted.What is well embraced cannot slip away.”

I CHING

Published by Challenger Communityy News Corporation P.O. Box 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 Phone: 716. 881-1051 Fax: 881-1053 Email: advertising@thechallengernews.com

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December 22, 2010

I Rest My Case...

T

Part II - Conclusion

he truth is that in August 2010, when the Comptroller’s audit update was released, I was just as shocked as Mayor Brown to discover that the Death Master had not been purchased. The checks and balances that are supposed to exist in City Hall had failed us both. The Mayor then ordered the Legal department to conduct an investigation.

The investigation was headed up

by Corporation Council, David Rodriguez. In the media, Mayor Brown referred to that report as the basis for his deciKARLA to fire me.

THOMAS sion For some reason though, his legal team objected to it being entered into evidence during the proceedings -and Mr. Battle upheld their request.

Despite their objections, Mr. Battle did, however, accept other evidence that showed that my efforts to oversee Comp and Benefits had been compromised by the Comp and Benefits Director, who prevented her staff from seeking assistance from me or sharing any information with me. It should be noted that the Mayor’s legal team subpoenaed the former Director of Comp and Benefits to testify at my termination proceedings; however, they never called her.

The final sad truth is that an article appeared on the Buffalo News website at 12:01 a.m. on September 2nd, where Councilmember Joseph Golombek “cocked the gun” and called for my removal. Mayor Brown came behind him and pulled the trigger 14 hours later that same day, stating in a television news interview that he was firing me and not paying out my contract. This all occurred one week BEFORE Golembek’s Primary race for the assembly seat against one of Mayor Brown’s most staunch detractors – Sam Hoyt, Assemblyman of the 144th District. He must have thought firing me would help Golombek. It didn’t. Sam Hoyt sailed to victory and retained his Assembly seat.

The bottom line is: No matter what decision Mayor Brown makes, he is going to be criticized, chastised or fire baptized. The journalistic sensationalism, misapplication of the facts, and lies masked as half-truths attempted to depict me as a “scorned crony“or “whistleblower“. In actuality, I put the blame where it belonged and the only reason the spin doctors couldn’t accept it was because the truth wouldn’t sell papers. Thank God Brian Meyer (Buffalo News Reporter) came to every hearing and finally saw real the light.

Despite what has been written, under my leadership, great strides have been December 22, 2010

made in correcting decades old problems that have existed through several administrations. Getting to the root of those problems caused me to disturb processes that no longer worked and only served to hide fault, block progress and empower the wrong people.

I changed the dynamics of communication, “outed” slackers, streamlined processes, and redistributed power.

But no one can promise perfect performance, especially in City Hall.

Here, managers are constantly asked to do more with less and less just isn’t enough. I’m no martyr, but HR is in better shape than when I found it. The new Director of Compensation and Benefits started August 30th and is doing an outstanding job. There are new procedures in place to enhance bill accuracy and timely payment - and they are working! Dead retiree’s and employees have been removed from all databases. The Social Security Death Master has been purchased and is being used. The Mayor has restored the Senior Accountant position to the budget, allowing for the hiring of our wonderful new Senior Accountant.

Earlier this week, he also appointed a new Director of Labor Relations. For the first time in 2 years, I am doing one job -- mine!

If Mayor Brown sustains his original decision, I will be memorialized as the First African American Human Resources Commissioner in New York State history to be fired by the African American Mayor who appointed them.

Some have called it Black on Black crime. I have 16 years in the State pension system and I worked hard for every single one of them. I came to City Hall a respected human resource professional and the Chairwoman of the very political organization responsible for the Mayor ascending to his seat.

I have been called many things, but “incompetent” is not one of them. And it certainly is not a label I am willing to simply accept and go away.

This has been a grueling process. It’s taken its toll on my biological, political, church, and community families, and on my Human Resources team.

I want to thank you all for standing by me every hour of this nightmare.

Thanks to my girlfriends, Sistas, Brothers and my unforgettable, friendly neighborhood Kangaroo who came to direct supporters to Room 209 in City Hall. I’ve seen sides of people I love that I didn’t even know existed.

I’ve seen colleagues become cowards and friends treat me like an enemy or a total stranger. I’ve gotten menacing emails, had my home vandalized and received threats from blocked calls.

However, I’ve found support in places I never would have dreamed and new friends who felt my pain and weren’t afraid to comfort me. I’ve done all I could do to right this wrong and bring

Young Black Males are In a State of Crisis: Community Interest Report From Brotherman’s Progress

By Bro. Charles Burgin

T

he Buffalo Public Schools, District Parent Coordinating Council (parents representatives) voted unanimously to support our Nonviolence Pro Mentoring of At-Risk Youth Petition. This was truly more than a symbolic gesture as that very same day The Council of Great city Schools released a stark report detailing the status of young Black males in the United States. The nation’s young Black males are in a state of crisis.

This report is likely to make people angry and it should.We hope that this is a louder and more jolting wake-up call for the nation than the country is used to hearing.” The authors of the study recommend having a “White House Conference on the status of Black males and develop a sweeping call to action.” Other recommendations include “building a support network to mentor Black males; increasing the number of Black male counselors in schools across the country; and encouraging school districts to better target their programs and interventions for the need of Black males.”

Hopefully Schools Superintendent Dr. Williams will accept the recommendations of The Council of Great City Schools regarding more Black mentors and Black counselors to work with our young Black males. He can get behind our petition and we can really build an unity movement amongst all progressive people, education, civic, business, government, faith-based and media organizations. I’m sure that there are some people and organizations that did not want to wholly and fully embrace the idea of specifically building up the young black males lest it appear to be favoring one race over another. Now we have this national movement which will be sanctioned by the White House and school districts across the country. Imagine the possibilities. At some point I will also be seeking a meeting with Dr. Williams to see about getting some of that stimulus money released for more mentoring programs and counselors in light of The Council of Great City Schools

light to dark details that threatened to reduce the integrity of who I really am. So, as we bring this chapter to a close, I ask my community to do the only thing I’ve asked for throughout this entire ordeal – Keep me lifted. I ask Mayor Brown and Mr. Battle to weigh all evidence submitted carefully and to be fair. The punishment doesn’t fit the crime – and if it does not fit, you must acquit! Keep me or pay me. I rest my case.

report. I did have an opportunity to speak with Supt. Williams during our nonviolence unity day event held at City Hall recently. He specifically indicated to me that he is interested in a certain part of the city to place a youth program to help stop the senseless violence and some of the problems that are brought into the schools from “beefs” on the streets.

For the past four years, I have served as a volunteer mentor at Enterprise Charter School. My goal is to eventually start a professional mentoring program to service our youth with a life-skills foundation based on knowing their true identity and how to think for themselves--not fall victim to mass incarceration etc. I have given a few presentations on nonviolence and self help to the elementary and junior high students. At present, I am finishing up a video presentation to be utilized in High Schools and community forums.

The subject matter deals with Black self hate, (challenging the myth of Black inferiority) fratricide, (brother killing brother) Black rage, (critical thinking) along with media amorality, respect for self, family and females.

Stop! Don’t even go there! Yes they need God but unfortunately the Law does not allow for us to proselytize in the schools. If you give them a sound foundation for critical thinking, they will find God on their own. It is a shame but we all know that many of the youth of today did not have a proper parental upbringing. That is why we need to increase the number of mentoring programs. So all you progressive black role models who are not already serving, it is now time to man-up, stand-up and mentor-up!

On the back of one of my tee shirts, I have the words “In order to love the people, you have to serve the people, and when you start benefiting more than you serve, then you’ve stopped serving.” I can honestly say for the last seven years, that I have received no financial benefits of any kind from anyone while serving my community!

It was all about the love!

I have no hidden agendas. It just deeply disturbs me when I see our young black uneducated males being set up for mass incarceration or early graves. Them not knowing that the “system” had reserved a cell for them even before they were born! Now we have “The New Jim Crow.” Some people that really don’t know me think that I am a very angry man.

Yes it is true that I’m angry but there is a sensitive side of me that cries real tears when our babies such as 14 year-old Nancylia Salter or 15 yearold Dominique Mayes are gunned down by young men who look just like them. Hold it! Before any of

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Bro. Burgin petitioning to save our children.

you mothers take me to task for not mentioning your loved one’s lost to senseless violence, I want everyone to know that every morning when I arise it takes me longer and longer to say my prayers which includes so many of the souls of our murdered children. God rest my brother Bernard’s soul but the murder of some of these young children trouble me more than his murder with an AK-47 while holding a Bible or Koran. At least he was a fully grown man and had lived many years. He would only think it right that I cry out NO MAS! NO MAS! Stop killing our babies!

Man the hell up!! Do something before it really is your kid’s turn to die senselessly!

31 Weapons are the tools of violence; All decent men detest them.

Weapons are the tools of fear; A decent man will avoid them Except in the direst necessity And, if compelled, will use them Only with the utmost restraint.

Peace is his highest value.

If the peace has been shattered, How can he be content?

His enemies are not demons, But human beings like himself.

He doesn’t wish them personal harm.

Nor does he rejoice in victory.

How could he rejoice in victory And delight in the slaughter of men?

He enters a battle gravely, With sorrow and with great compassion, As if he were attending a funeral.

Page 15

employment Catholic Charities has an excellent professional development opportunity available for the following position:

Catholic Charities has an excellent professional development opportunity available for the following position:

Responsible for all Behavioral Health Clinical referrals made in Erie and Niagara County.

Conduct telephone assessments to determine appropriateness of referral for mental health services.

Maintain scheduling logs and calendars for urgent appointments.

Assist clients in obtaining insurance information needed for prior authorizations. Maintains computer system for tracking referrals & generate monthly intake reports.

Act as agency resource person and liaison for behavioral health referrals and communications. Ideal candidate will possess Bachelor’s degree in a Human Service field & two years paid relevant experience, excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Must be proficient in Word, Excel, Access and Medical Manager.

Responsible for developing, implementing and evaluating individualized client plans of care and facilitating overall program activity schedule. Communicate effectively with caregivers, service vendors, and staff/co-workers.

Complete all assigned documentation as required. Facilitate large and small group, individual activities in accordance with the program activity calendar. Assist with food serving and one-on-one client feeding assistance when required and provide personal hygiene assistance.

Other assignments and duties as required to ensure safety and appropriate client care. Ideal candidate must possess an Associates Degree with Personal Care Aide (PCA), Home Health Aide, and Nurses Aide Certification with one year direct care experience with age 60+ population. No weekend hours or on-call required for position.

Intake Coordinator

discover allenhurst bid S

Affordable monthly rent based On 30%of your gross annual Wages and utility allowance Deduction. Updated 2 bedroom Townhomes. Attached garages.

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42A Oxford Avenue Amherst, NY 14226 838-5850 or 853-1548 realabrese@mjpeterson.com www.mjpeterson.com

Interested & qualified candidates may forward resume & cover letter with Job # 201090 to:

Catholic Charities

741 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14209, Attn: Human Resources.

EOE/M/F

A.C. Ware Manor Apartments A Great Place to Call Home 134 Spring Street Buffalo, NY 14204 (716) 854-0636 Fax 854-0631

IMMEDIATE OCCUPANCY For Seniors 62 Yrs. And Older One Bedroom Apartments Include Appliances Wall-to-Wall Carpet Off Street Parking Laundry Facilities Community Room Electronic Door Entry System 24-Hour Surveillance Cameras Located on Major Bus Lines

Give Us A Call For More Apartment Information

(716) 854-0636

Office Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

bidS NFTA Procurement

Invitation to Bid Prefabricated Bus Shelters 1/12/2011 Actuarial Services, 1/11/2011

Scrufari Construction Co.

Seeking M/WE subcontractors to quote 1) Williams Center Rehab @ SUNY Fredonia – Bid Date: Jan. 5, 2011 2) Rockwell Hall Rehab @ SUNY College at Buffalo – Bid Date: Jan. 12, 2011 EEO Employer 282-1225

Scrufari Construction Co.

Seeking M/WBE subcontractors to quote Preliminary Treatment Facilities – Town of Grand Island, NY Bid Date: January 5, 2011 EEO Employer 282-1225

TO ADVERTISE CALL 881-1051 FAX 881-1053

0r email to advertising@thechallengernews.com Closed Thursdays Page 16

Tuesdays 12 NOON - 1 P.M.

Program Assistant

Interested & qualified candidates may forward resume & cover letter with Job # 201065 to:

Catholic Charities

741 Delaware Ave, Buffalo, NY 14209. Attn: Human Resources.

EOE/M/F

Buffalo Police Department 2011 Recruitment Exam Date Set Hiring Campaign’s Tagline: “You Have the Right to Make a Difference” Urges Applicants to Seek Rewarding Career in Law Enforcement The City of Buffalo Police Department is looking for qualified individuals to take the Buffalo Police Test on April 23, 2011.

Mayor Byron W. Brown and Police Commissioner Daniel Derenda have launched an aggressive new police recruitment campaign designed to generate interest and educate potential recruits about the professional and personal benefits for choosing a career with the Buffalo Police Department and encourage them to register for and take the upcoming police enrollment exam. The last exam was administered by the City in 2007.

“We are calling on qualified candidates to answer our call to serve and protect the residents, businesses and visitors of the City of Buffalo,” said Mayor Brown. “This is a great opportunity to change lives and be proud of what you do. Buffalo police officers play an extremely important role in ensuring our residents enjoy a good quality of life, as well as upholding and enforcing the laws that protect residents and visitors alike.”

The BPD has also established a group of police ambassadors who will be actively recruiting potential candidates at local malls, colleges/universities, churches and community centers, providing information about the benefits of becoming a Buffalo Police Officer. This public outreach component of the campaign provides an opportunity for local citizens to meet one-on-one with police officers, ask questions and learn how they can sign up to take the test.

“Buffalo Police Officers make up a modern, urban police force,” said Commissioner Derenda. “Officers are challenged day in and day out with situations that are potentially dangerous to quiet moments where advice and guidance can shape a young person’s life forever. Each day at work is a rewarding opportunity to be a leader in our community.”

Deadline for test registration is March 16, 2011. The test will be given on April 23, 2011.

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements (Note: other requirements are listed in the attached exam booklet): - Must be between the ages of 19 and 35 on exam date - Resided continuously in Erie, Niagara, Genesee, Wyoming, Cattaraugus or Chautauqua County for at least 90 days prior to March 16, 2100 - 60 college credits hours or 2 years of continuous military service Anyone interested in learning more about becoming a BPD Police Officer and to register for the test can visit www.BuffaloPoliceTest.org, a web site designed specially as part of the campaign, in the city call 311 or contact: City of Buffalo Department of Human Resources/Civil Service Administration 65 Niagara Square, 1001 City Hall Buffalo, NY 14202 716-851-9614 The Buffalo Police Department offers excellent benefits to becoming an officer. Salaries range from $48,895 to $64,095, benefit packages include health, dental and optical coverage, vacation/sick pay, retirement plan and a continued education stipend.

ADVERTISING PAYS * 716.881.1051

YOUR HEALTH: FOOD ADDITIVES continued

you could be consuming more grams of trans fat than you think. To be on the safe side, read the ingredients and stay away from anything with the words “partially hydrogenated.”

6. Sodium Nitrite Most luncheon meats, hot dogs, bacon, and smoked foods contain this additive in order to add flavor and enhance the red color. Although the preservative may prevent bacteria growth, it has been linked to various types of cancer, so it is best to steer clear.

7. Olestra If you have a craving for potato chips but don’t want the added fat you may be tempted to reach for a bag of fat-free chips. The synthetic fat known as “Olean” prevents your body from absorbing the fat but some reported side effects include anal leakage, gas, and cramps. Try baking your own potatoes with a drizzle of heart-healthy olive oil instead and put your belly at ease.

8. MSG Monosodium glutamate is often added to dressings, canned goods, sauces, soups, flavored salty packaged chips, and a host of other processed foods. Although it may enhance the flavor of food, MSG has been linked to headaches,

CHALLENGERCN.COM • (P) 716 881-1051 (F) 716 881-1053

Continued Page 17

December 22, 2010

FOOD ADDITIVES continued rapid heartbeat, nausea, chest pain, and overall body weakness.

9. Food Colorings Colorful foods are just as much a treat for our eyes as they are for our taste buds. However, it is best to rely on Mother Nature’s rainbow palette of foods. Artificial colors are often made with petroleum and have been linked to cancer. Blue 1 and 2, found in beverages, candy, baked goods and pet food, have been linked to cancer in mice. Red 3, used to dye cherries, fruit cocktail, candy, and baked goods, has been shown to cause thyroid tumors in rats. Green 3, added to candy and beverages, though rarely used, has been linked to bladder cancer. Studies have linked the widely used yellow 6 -- added to beverages, sausage, gelatin, baked goods, and candy -- to tumors of the adrenal gland and kidney. So think twice the next time you reach for that hot pink cupcake that looks like it can glow in the dark!

10. Potassium Bromate This chemical leavening agent is added to white flour, breads, and rolls to increase volume. It is banned in Europe, Canada, and the United Kingdom but legal in the United States. Like most food additives it is a carcinogenic and caution should be implemented because small amounts in bread can create a risk for humans.

Services Held for Marla Avery Funeral Services were held for Marla Avery Dec. 10 at United Memorial Funeral Chapel.

Marla was born in Buffalo, New York on Friday, May 25, 1973 to Salahuddin Muhammad and the late Deborah Jean Knight. She was raised in Durham, North Carolina by Evelyn Torrain.

On Wednesday, December 7, 2010 she departed this life.

Marla’s high spirited and fun loving personality always added to friendlyevents. Her laugh was truly unforgettable. She will be greatly missed by everyone who loved her.

Marla leaves to mourn her passing her children Sherrelle and Marlina Avery, a god daughter Candice Williams; a grandson Javion Avery; her father Salahuddin Muhammad, a beloved foster mother Evelyn Torrain; a grandmother Adeline Lewis; siblings Tascheen Avery, Kim Avery, Jatone Carthon, Kenny Avery and Tafik Muhammad; a niece Jasmine Avery; nephews DeQuan Hunter and Jordan Carthon; two treasured cousins Michael Avery and Malcolm Melson, other cousins, family and friends.

Thank You The family of Marla Avery would like to extend our deepest appreciations to everyone that has shown love and compassion toward us during this very difficult time.

peace

Homegoing Celebration Held for Taylor Leigh Lewis Homegoing services were held for Taylor Leigh Lewis on Oct. 25 at Zion Missionary Baptist Church.

Pastor, Dr. Robert E. Baines officiated.

Taylor was the free-spirited angel gifted by God to Tamar Daynean Lewis and Neil Ronald Knight on March 19, 1985. Born and raised in Buffalo, Taylor’s charisma won her many friends as she attended Buffalo Public School No. 17, West Hertel Middle School, South park High School and Riverside High School where she graduated. She also attended Highland Middle School in Jacksonville, Florida while her family lived there for a short time from 1998-2000.

While in high school and after she graduated, Taylor worked fro the American Cancer Society as an Office Assistant and Weekend Manager. She later took on additional employment with My Kids Daycare.

Taylor was a very vibrant and energetic person who loved and enjoyed life.

On October 18, 2010 at the tender age of 25, Taylor Leigh Lewis transitioned from this life into eternity. Taylor’s sweet and peaceful presence will be missed by her parents, Tamara Daynean Lewis and Neil Ronald Knight brothers Jordan and Austin Lewis and sister Jennifer Leiws; grandmother Ora Lee DelGado; aunts and uncles Andrea (Keith) King of Atlanta, GA, Craig (Maryetta) Lewis of Buffalo, NY, Dawn (Brian) Perkins of Phoenix, AZ, Allahna (Jason) Gursky of St. Petersburg, FL, Sandra (Jack) Knight and Donald (Dina) Knight; cousins Kristen, Lauren, Lila and Marissa; beloved companion Demar Harvey and many, many other relatives and dear friends.

Delaware Y offers New Years Eve Bash for Kids Children ages 5 years old an up will enjoy summer camp fun-in December!

Join us for our New Years Eve Bash on December 31 from 10:00 am – 2:00 pm at the Delaware Family YMCA. We’ll sing camp songs, toast marshmallows, swim, and make crafts all in the warmth of the Delaware Family YMCA branch. Lunch will be provided and additional child care will be offered from 7:00-10:00 am and 2:00-5:00 pm for an additional fee. Call the branch today at 875-1283 or stop by.

Girl Scouts Sing at E.C.M.C Girl Scouts from Troops #30744 and #30355, and their Troop Leaders, come to the Erie County Medical Center singing carols, bearing Christmas cards, decorated bookmarks and holiday cheer today (Wednesday, December 22 at 5:30 p.m.), in the first-floor lobby of ECMC, 462 Grider St.Troop Leader Reola Wiley says: “This is our second year singing to the residents of the skilled nursing unit, and the ECMC staff. The holiday season is a wonderful time for the girls to share the spirit of the season.”

December 22, 2010

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Page 17

NUMBERS

SUN12/12

NEW YORK NUMBERS MON12/13

TUES 12/14

WED 12/15

THURS 12/15

SAT12/18

FRI 12/17

MID- 740 MID-842 MID- 735 MID- 681 MID-282 MID-977 MID-005 EVE-418 EVE-776 EVE- 741 EVE-990 EVE- 297 EVE- 319 EVE- 753

WIN 4 TAKE 5

MID - 6783

EVE- 2977

MID- 4877 EVE-0552

MID-9732 MID-5983 EVE-3221 EVE-3063

3-9-11-33-36 14-23-26-28-38 16-19-20-23-39 5-10-27-31-33

HOT TIPS

3-7-15-22-34

6-19-26-31-39 1-5-10-22-29

4-21-27-32-33-36#22

998-996

213-514

THE NUMBER BOOK

648-022

006-111

23-34-36-40-52-53#25

860-311

CHALLENGER HITS MIDDAY

EVENING

LUCKIE DUCKIE

740-ZR & NUMBER BOOK (BX) 842- NUMBER BOOK (BX)

418- QUICK $$ (STRAIGHT)* 741-ZR (BX) 990- LUCKY DUCKIE (STRAIGHT)* 990- QUICK $$ (BX) 297-NOVEMBER & QUICK $$ (BX) 319-LUCK Y DUCKIE* (STRAIGHT)

134-431-143

648*123*104

980-422-809

981-989-970-990-080-800 390-196-102-581-752-319408-378-352-126

On-Going Events

189-444-886

ZAKIYYAH’S RUNDOWN 619-650-759-918-956-709-301-965-605-700941-359-615-036-770-983-490-118-109-147685-958-936-407-714-127-799-038-759-159 BUFFALO BETTY Aquarius-236-438-943-318 * Pisces-404-107-105-429 Aries-469-418-165-538 *Taurus-566-206-359-528 Gemini-146-328-516-419 *Cancer-569-304-123-829 Leo-678-517-046-435 *Virgo-569-506-257-539 * Libra-139-719-059-427 * Scorpio-102-408-213-439 Sagittarius-428-324-859-839*Capricorn-105-607-327-549

541-390 999-259

S A N TA’ S X M A S SPECIALS 005 -133 -202 -298 - 5 1 2 7 - 11 7 - 5 2 7

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quick money $$$$ 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-525 583-269-508 grandma’s pics 605-132-240 999-356-010 790-111 MA RUTH SPEAKS THE TRUTH!

300-000-666648-711-910816-123

Page 18

MID-8152 EVE-3731

LOTTO

MID- 0978 MID- 6286 EVE- 9596 EVE-8143

DANCE

Dance Lessons with Smooth Steppers: Urban Line Dance, smooth style Ballroom, Steppin’ and Swing; CRUCIAL Center, 230 Moselle St., Saturdays at noon; Tuesdays at 6 p.m. $3; 633-7813. *Line Dancing With Pearl Harris: 6-7 p.m. Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt St. donation $2. Wednesdays *Community Dance and African Drumming Classes: African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten Avenue, 3 p.m. Saturdays and 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; $15 monthly; visit www.africancultural.org more information *Line Dancing Lessons, First Shiloh Baptist Church, 15 Pine St., 6:30 p.m. Fridays.

847-6555. Free. *Line Dance Lessons: 10 a.m.-Noon; Martha Mitchell Center, 175 Oakmont St.; 444-2046 or 833-1038, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursday 6-7:30 pm; $2 *Line Dance by George Patterson: 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 896-7021, Mondays & Thursdays. *June-Teenth Afrikan Family Time Drum Dance and Song: 6-8:30 p.m.; GatewayLongview Family Resource Center, 347 Ferry Street. Fridays * Argentine Tango Every Monday with Travis Widrick 7 - 10 p.m. 1st hour beginners lesson,The Gallery @ Chow Chocolat, 731 Main St. *Salsa Night Every Wednesday with Calvin and Fanny 7 - 10 p.m .1st hour beginners lesson The Gallery @ Chow Chocolat 731 Main St. *Latin Night 1st/3rd Friday with Chun Poh, Salsa, Merengue, ChaCha, Bachata 8 p.m.- midnight, Chow Chocolat 731 Main St. *Urban Ballroom Stepping, Swing, Beginners Salsa (all classes $3, 633-7813); Tuesdays 6-7 p.m. Urban Line Dancing; 7-8 p.m. Ballroom Stepping; Saturdays 1-3 p.m. Ballroom Stepping, West Coast Swing, Beginners Salsa. *Urban Line Dance: Learn some of the latest hot line dances,Mondays Old 600 Club, Mondays 7-9 p.m.; Wednesdays 6:15-8 p.m., ,St. Philips 15 Fernhill.

POETRY

*Open Mic Poetry: 6:30-9 p.m.; EM Tea Coffee Cup Café, 80 Oakgrove St.

EXERCISE

*Senior Fitness Class: 9:45-10:45 a.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021; Wednesdays December 22, 2010 CHALLENGERCN.COM • (P) 716 881-1051 (F) 716 881-1053

CALENDAR OF EVENTS Wednesday December 22

Wednesday December 22

EM Tea Coffee Cup Café and 2nd Cup Annual Winter Carnival: 6-8 p.m.; Broadway, Downtown location, adjacent to library; call 884-1444 or 840-0048.

Erie County Prisoners Rights Coalition Holding Center Demonstration 5-6 p.m.; Delaware at Church, Strategy Meeting, 14 Allen Street 6-7.

SEE YOU AT KWANZAA! COMPLETESCHEDULE PAGE 20

On-Going Events

PRESENTS

WOODLAWN HOMES BY

Saturday January 8 Taoist Tai Chi Society Open House: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., 968 Kenmore Avenue; 876-7218 for more information

Call for Appointment 563-0994

4Beds - LV – DR – 1.5 Baths APPLIANCES INCLUDED

WEEKLY MEETINGS

*Stop The Violence Coalition Meeting: 5:30 p.m. 742 Delaware Ave. 882-7882.

Fridays. *Buffalo Local Action Committee Meeting (BLAC): 6:30 p.m. Pratt Willert Center, 422 Pratt St. Thursdays *TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): 6 p.m.; Edward Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Ave.; 834-6095. Mondays *African Consciousness Workshop: 6-8 p.m.; Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue. Mondays *The Israel of God Bible Study Class: 6 p.m.; 372 Feugeron Ave.; 897-2270.

Wednesdays *Health and Healing Circles: 3:30-5 p.m.; CAO, 70 Harvard Pl.; 903-3290, Wednesdays *Moot Senior Center “Best Breakfast in Town”: 9-10:30 a.m. 292 High St., Wednesdays *Men and Women Support Groups: 5:30-7 p.m.; 1333 Jefferson Avenue; hosted

by Group Ministries, Inc. Thursdays *Alcoholics Anonymous First Step Group: 8-9 p.m.; Memorial Medical Center Auditorium, 621 10th St. Niagara Falls. Fridays *Narcotics Anonymous: 5-7 p.m.; Memorial Medical Center Auditorium, 621 10t St. Sundays *Senior Bridge Club/Poker Club: 1-4 p.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021.

BARNES REAL ESTATE

Income Restrictions Apply

Call: Keith L. Barnes, 894-5324 or 861-2727 “HAPPY HOLIDAYS” & THANK YOU FOR ANOTHER GREAT YEAR

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!

LICENSED CHECK CASHING bob@transfermarketing.com

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December 22, 2010

CHALLENGERCN.COM • (P) 716 881-1051 (F) 716 881-1053

Page 19

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT. OUR NEXT PUBLICATION WILL BE JANUARY 12. SEE YOU T HEN !

Buffalo Kwanzaa 2010

“Kujichagulia – A call to action for our YOUTH and OURSELVES !!!”

All programs will be from 7:00 – 9:00pm unless otherwise noted December 26, 2010 - Sunday Umoja-Unity Opening Ceremony Buffalo Academy of the Visual and Performing Arts 450 Masten Ave. Corner of Ferry St. Host- Sam Radford and Joanne Peters Performers - Tradition Keepers/ NJOZI Poets, Jomo & Community

Drummers and Dancers Speaker Rev. Darius Pridgen – Enough is Enough Campaign Children’s Kwanzaa 1:00 – 4:00pm New Skateland 33 E. Ferry St. Host Vonetta Rhodes & Jerome Williams

A HolidAy filled witH

December 27, 2010 - Monday Kujichagulia-Self Determination The African American Cultural Center 350 Masten Ave. Featuring the African American Dance Troupe and Poetry Host – TBD (Mrs. Banner) December 28, 2010 - Tuesday Ujima-Collective Work &Responsibility Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Library 1324 Jefferson Ave. Corner of Jefferson Ave. and E. Utica St).

Host: Sharon Holley – Mike Hill Performers-Daughters of Creative Sound

fun, leArning And love.

This year, make sure children’s books are on your HolidaY SHoPPiNg liST! Visit a bookstore

Speaker - Dr. Maulana Karenga , Creator of Kwanzaa December 29, 2010 - Wednesday Ujamaa-Cooperative Economics Ha’niah Tabernacle of GOD 900 Genesee St. Host – Sabriah Amin & Vonetta Rhodes Performers – HTG Choir Spiritual Karamu- Open Mic Black Chamber of Commerce Speaker - Rev. Kenyatta Cobb

or go online...and read To Your kidS! Happy Holidays from read to Succeed Buffalo

Read to Succeed Buffalo lt all starts here.

December 30, 2010 - Thursday Nia-Purpose Host: Jomo & Sophie Okono Pratt Willert 422 Pratt St. Performers – Healing Hands

392 Pearl Street | Buffalo, New York 14202 | P: 716.843.8895 | ReadToSucceedBuffalo.org

Panel - Chris Reynolds – Know Thyself Campaign Dr. Alim

RTS100199_TheChall_Holidays_V1N1.indd 1

11/22/10 10:39:05 AM

Muhammad - MMM & Charles Barron –Freedom Party

December 31, 2010 - Friday Kuumba-Creativity JFK Center 114 Hickory St. Host: Johnson Family Karamu Feast and Open Mic Night Please feel free to bring a dish to share (no red meat, alcohol, pork) January 1, 2010 -Friday Imani-Faith Happy New Year! Spend the day at home with family and friends. Take this time to engage in quiet reflection, focus on what you have learned during the week of Kwanzaa, reflect on who you are, and maintain a quiet, humble, and calm attitude with regards to self and neighbors.

Vending will be available Every Night Please come prepared to support our vendors. Shopping will begin at 6:15pm.

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December 22, 2010