April 2, 2014 by Challenger News

2 INSIDE ROCHESTER Rochester’s Dexter Fugerson Casted for Sequel to “Vampire Diaries”

APRIL 2, 2014

AROUND TOWN

By Gwen McIntyre

exter D. Fugerson of Rochester is currently working on the sequel to the show “Vampire Diaries” which is called the “Originals.” The show can be seen every Tuesday on the channel the CW. Just recently, one of the executive producers and directors recognized Dexter’s talent while he was working on the set and encouraged him to audition for a role in an upcoming episode as a drummer in an African band (one of his many gifts). As it turned out, Dexter got the part and has since filmed for the episode. The episode is scheduled to air on the channel the CW on Tuesday, April 15 at 9 p. m. at an awesome opportunity and experience! Dexter, a 2007 graduate of Rochester’s School of the Arts where he majored in Visual Arts, went on to attend Canisius College in Buffalo, where he declared two majors - one in Television Radio Broadcast and Communications and the other, Digital Media Arts. In 2011, Dexter graduated from

Canisius College with a Bachelor’s Degree. In 2012, he decided to trust God and move to Atlanta, unemployed but hopeful that there would be greater opportunities for him in the field of television production. After about a month of job searching, he was hired by BET as a Production Assistant. His employment there was brief as Warner Brother Studios contacted him and offered him a long term position with their company also as a Production Assistant where he is currently employed. Some of his filming accomplishments to date; •Pilot show- “Resurrection” on ABC in the Spring of 2013 •Pilot show- “Halt Catch Fire” on the AMC Network •Being Mary Jane – BET (brief) •Under Cover Boss – the

The Clarissa Street Reunion Committee is currently taking applications for vendors for their upcoming 19th Reunion in Rochester,NY. If interested in becoming a vendor call our voicemail# 585-2344177 or email us: festival@ clarissastreetreunion.org . . Apply early for the best placement.

RABJ to Host 10th A nniversary Brunch “Orkin” episode – on ABC My name is Gwen McIntyre, and I am the extremely proud mother of Dexter D. Fugerson!

A MOTHER’S DAY CELEBRATION

THE PER F MOTHER ECT ’S DAY GIFT

CharlieWilson SUNDAY MAY 11th - 7pm

ROCHESTER AUDITORIUM THEATRE BOX OFFICE 800.745.3000

The Rochester Association of Black Journalists (RABJ) celebrates its 10th Anniversary as a chapter of the National Association of Black Journalists in April. The local organization will celebrate this accomplishment throughout the year with a series of events, the first being a spring membership breakfast on Saturday, April 5 at the WXXI Studios, 280 State St., at 10:30am. For information phone 585-739-2691.

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*SOHO Rochester, The Small Business Show, Wednesday, April 2, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Riverside convention Center. www.sohorochester.com

APRIL 2, 2014

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WNY AREA BRIEFS

Council President Pridgen Sets Sights On Gentrification In the Fruit Belt Council President Darius G. Pridgen has filed a resolution, aimed at protecting neighborhoods threatened by gentrification.

REMEMBERING THE KING: Betty Jean Grant, 2nd District Legislator, and “We Are Women Warriors,” community and family empowerment group, present “Martin Luther King Remembrance”, Wednesday April 2 from 5:30 to 7:45p.m. At the Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue. Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King was assassinated on April 4th, 1968. Join us as we remember Dr. King and the trials, tribulations and triumphs of the civil rights movement through African Drumming by Daughters of Creative Sound, Spoken Word by “Devotion”, Oration from Taharka Odinga, Storytelling, Songstress Juanita Simmons and more. This event is free and open to the public. For information call Karla at 894-0914 or Legislator Grant at 602-5877.

Felony Charge Against Ferguson in School Gun Case Dropped: Still Faces Two Other Charges

Longtime community youth worker Dwayne A. Ferguson had the most serious charge against him dropped in city court last week but still faces two other charges after he was found carrying a loaded handgun at Harvey Austin Elementary School on Sycamore Street and arrested last February. Ferguson, longtime president of the MAD DADS Buffalo chapter and a volunteer with Buffalo Peacemakers, has worked with at-risk youth in various capacities over the years. The February incident, where he worked for an after school program at Harvey Austin School, resulted in the school being placed on lockdown and about 15 police cars responding to an anonymous call that there was a man with a gun on or near the school property. There were about 60 youth in the school at the time for after school programs. Ferguson pleaded not guilty and was released on his own recognizance. Ferguson, who has a permit for the gun, still faces a felony charge of criminal possession of a weapon on school grounds and a misdemeanor count of obstructing governmental administration.

Public Meeting on Master Plan for Downtown

A public Visioning Workshop is scheduled for Monday, April 7 at 5:30 p.m. at the Innovation Center, 640 Ellicott St. Tis workshop gives neighborhood residents an opportunity to give t heir input on the “Master Plan” for downtown Buffalo’s progress to date. The project is being managed and administered by the Buffalo Urban development Corporation (BIDC) in partnership with the Mayor’s Office of Strategic Planning and the Buffalo Niagara Partnership. Funding for this project was provided by National Fuel and National Grid.

60th Anniversary of Bennett-Wells Post

The Bennett-Wells American Legion and Auxiliary Post #1780 will celebrate its 60th anniversary o Saturday, April 12 at the Post located at 1356 East Delavan Ave. at Cortland. The “Meet and greet” takes place at 2 p.m. followed by the program and diner at 4 p.m. For more information call Johnny at 896-1614; Henry, 856-5229, Alice 200-1779 or Faye at 348-8554.

The resolution calls on the Fruit Belt Advisory Committee to the Buffalo Common Council to create a subcommittee focused on establishing a position on the gentrification of the Fruit Belt. The Committee will propose suggestions for addressing the concerns of gentrification and is asked to present their ideas to the Council no later than June 3, 2014. It looks at potentially different ways to protect longterm residents, including allowing homeowners to reduce the assessed value of their homes or freezing their home assessments for a finite period of time. Council Presidents Pridgen is also requesting that Corporation Counsel inform the Council no later than April 15, 2014 of any federal or state laws that would potentially block a City attempt to limit property tax increases for long-term residents.

Pictured (l-r): Clifford Bell, Reva Betha, Nya Lockett, Joyce Mathis, Tamara Onyskiewicz, Johnnie Mayo, Duane Crockett.

Congregation Supports The Frank E. Merriweather Branch Library Community Members of the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, located Charter to Close on Brunswick Boulevard, enjoyed an afternoon at the Merriweather Branch Library following morning services on Sunday, March 30, 2014. The group ranged in age from seniors to infants. Children were happy to be able to log onto computers using their own cards. The group borrowed music CDs, books and movies. Some members of the group regularly participate in genealogy research in the William A. Miles Research Center for African American Studies. Others attend monthly meetings and cultural activities. Many of the regular visitors noted that there is always a beehive of activity at Merriweather—children reading, tutors and mentors meeting with students, and the computer lab busy. Merriweather has the reputation of being the most popular branch in the system, and no one in the group doubted the possible veracity of this assertion. Some of those in attendance are pictured above. (Ed. Note: Hats off to the members of The Lutheran Church

of Our Savior! The Merriweather Library, located on the corner of Jefferson and E. Utica, is a true treasure in our community and Librarian Sandra Bush is unparalleled in her dedication and commitment to serving her people. Among other outstanding features, the state of the art facility houses the largest African American history section in all of Erie County. And although the auditorium is widely used, we have to do more! We invite everyone to become a member of the library today – bring the family, and check out books and other materials! Its free! Funding on the library depends a lot on its circulation. See you at the Merriweather!)

TRAGIC FIRE ON FILLMORE: FUND SET UP TO AID HOMELESS FAMILY The community continues to mourn the loss of life during a tragic, fast moving fire at 1400 Fillmore Avenue Sunday morning (March 23) that left 7-year-old, Alexavier Torres-Santiago dead and his family, who move d here from Puerto Rico this past November, homeless. When firefighters got on scene, the building was fully involved in flames. Crews attempted to go inside, but the fire was too bad, and they had to pull back. The cause is still under investigation. Alexavier and his three siblings attended Frank Sedia Academy School 30. He was described as an excellent student and a leader in his class by the school principal. School officials announced last week that a fund has been set up to aid the family. School Superintendent Dr. Pamela Brown called it a tragedy and said she would make a personal contribution to the fund and encouraged others to do so. Donations can be sent to M&T Bank, 130 Grant St., Buffalo,NY 14213. The benefit fund account number is 9864160693. Also, the family lost all of its furniture and clothes and is in need of a refrigerator, dining and living room sets and six beds. They also need clothing. Information on types and sizes can be found at buffaloschools.org Donations can be brought to Asbury Shalom Zone, 520 Seventh Street on the West Side.

Despite a valiant year-long struggle to stay open, a State Supreme Court Justice ruled in favor of the state Education Department last week to close Community Charter School because of poor student performance; dismissing the school’s lawsuit against the state. A preliminary injunction had allowed the school to stay open this year and the school will remain open until the need of June. But t he court decision leaves 316 children in kindergarten through sixth grade having to find a new school. Community Charter, located at 404 Edison Ave., has been open since 2002. In a prepared statement, Daniel S. Ricigliano, president of the school’s board of trustees said that the school’s closing “confirms our belief the state has turned a blind eye to our efforts to provide a safe, nurturing, learning environment in one of the inner-city’s more depressed neighborhoods.”

Valora Blackson Appointed Valora Blackson has been appointed to the American Association of University Women New York State Board of Directors for the 2014-2016 term as their new Diversity Director. Her term begins this summer. The American Association of University Women is the nation’s leading voice promoting equity and education for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research.

National/International NEWS

BlackAgendaReport Ministers: Marissa Alexander Should Cop a Plea Calling her case a “distraction,” a group of Black ministers in Jacksonville, Florida, are urging Marissa Alexander, who has already served three years in prison for firing a gun to deter her abusive husband, to plead guilty. Prosecutor Angela Corey is threatening to put Alexander away for 60 years. Opio Sokoni, president of the local Southern Christian Leadership Conference, said Corey and the ministers make “strange bedfellows.” “Some of these pastors are the same ones that said, not too many weeks ago, that Black people should received the death penalty in greater numbers,” said Sokoni.

APRIL 2, 2014

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Oil and Environmental Racism in Albany, NY Moral Mondays Move to Georgia and South Carolina Nearly 40 people were arrested in demonstrations demanding that southern states expand Medicaid to cover more poor people, in line with Obamacare. Moral Mondays protests, which began in North Carolina, have taken root in Georgia and South Carolina. Author and activist Kevin Alexander Gray said “the poorest of the poor” are hard to organize. “That group doesn’t have the financial wherewithal to come to a protest,” he said. “They’re not thinking about a protest, they’re thinking about survival.” c h alleng e rc n. c o m

Huge numbers of railroad oil tanker cars are parked only feet from a poor housing project in Albany, New York, prompting fears of an explosion like the one that claimed dozens of lives in Quebec, Canada, last year. “Since the expansion of fracking in North Dakota” and elsewhere, “ports have received a lot more oil,” said Vivian Kornegay, an Albany councilwoman. “We’re talking about an environmental injustice against low income people living in a housing project,” said Kornegay. “That community hasn’t been given a voice or any consideration” in the shale oil fracking boom.

Temple University Firings Bode Ill for Black Studies “Temple is a pivotal institution for African American Studies, and what’s happening there may be a bellwether” for other campuses, said Dr. James Turner, founding director of the Africana Studies and Research Center at Cornell University. The recent firings of professors Anthony Monteiro and Muhammad Ahmed (also known as Max Stanford) provoked intense opposition in North Philadelphia’s Black community, which also blames the university for encouraging gentrification.

Deporter-in-Chief... President Obama “must be made accountable” for deporting more immigrants than any other president in U.S. history, said Jesus Iniguez, of Presente, a Latino organization that claims 300,000 members. Obama doesn’t have much time left to save his legacy, said Iniguez. “The only thing that has evolved these past six years has been more intrusive and toxic laws” targeting immigrant communities. Afro-Colombians Displaced

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“The main demand of AfroColombians is land,” said Charo Mina-Rojas, director of the Afro-Colombian Women’s Human Rights Defender Project. Colombia has the largest population of internally displaced persons in the world, most of them Black.

ASBESTOS INJURIES

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APRIL 2, 2014

BUSINESS DIRECTORY

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HEALTH MATTERS E-Cigarettes and the dangers of liquid nicotine

he New York ties Writes: “A dangerous new form of a powerful stimulant is hitting markets nationwide, for sale by the vial, the gallon and even the barrel. “The drug is nicotine, in its potent, liquid form — extracted from tobacco and tinctured with a cocktail of flavorings, colorings and assorted chemicals to feed the fast-growing “electronic cigarette industry. “These “e-liquids,” the key ingredients in e-cigarettes, are powerful neurotoxins. Tiny amounts, whether ingested or absorbed through the skin, can cause vomiting and seizures and even be lethal. A teaspoon of even highly diluted e-liquid can kill a small child. “But, like e-cigarettes, eliquids are not regulated by federal authorities. They are mixed on factory floors and in the back rooms of shops,

and sold legally in stores and online in small bottles that are kept casually around the house for regular refilling of e-cigarettes.” -A Danger to children and Grown UpsThe bottles of liquid nicotine in houses where e-cigarettes are used can pose a deadly danger to both children and grown-ups. ‘Parents should be aware of this danger in their home. The refill bottles, of any size, are highly concentrated and even a mouthful could be a medical emergency for a small child,.’ said Poison Center managing director Dr. Jill Michels. Nicotine is not only highly addictive, but it is a deadly poison. Cigarette companies know that using nicotine in regular cigarettes can “hook” people into become lifetime consumers of tobacco products. E-cigarettes have come into vogue as

Everyone Deserves Healthcare sign up for Aﬀordable Healthcare or Medicaid

call for assistance The Community Health Center of Buﬀalo, Inc. 716-986-9199 ext. 8895

DJ’S

Pratcher & Associates 1133 Kensington (716) 838-4612

DJ Kenny Kutz (716) 400-7358

AUTOMOTIVE

a way to wean people off regular cigarettes and avoid the ill health consequences caused by the tars contained in burning tobacco. As e-cigarettes have become more common bottles of nicotine liquid used to refill the e-cigarettes are now commonly found in homes of smokers. Liquid nicotine, comes in more than 200 flavors including raspberry, key lime, and peaches and cream. But the Centers for Disease Control and the American Association of Poison Control Centers say the names contradict the hidden risks. The nicotine in these bottles is unregulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and the concentration varies as to manufacturer. Thus, some nicotine concentrations in the bottles may be so strong that if ingested or even absorbed through the skin, it could cause illness including nausea and vomiting. Larger amounts can cause seizures. Many bottles comer in bright colors and are appealing to children, the poison center says. Nicotine bottles should be kept “up high and out of the reach of children,” the poison center says. When it comes to liquid nicotine, the danger to children is not just drinking it, but simple contact with the skin. Anyone who suspects they or their child has been exposed to nicotine should contact the Poison Center as soon as possible at 1-800222-1222.. This is a nationwide, toll free 24/7 number that will connect you to your local poison center in a matter of moments. All calls are confidential.

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ATTORNEYS

DOG TRAINING

Colslton Mobile Auto Repair 720 E. Ferry * 896-3910

Dogman Jo Dog Trainer 1963 Fillmore * 807-8163

BAIL BONDS

EATERIES

A Bail Company Inc. Ken Thomas (716) 867-0073 Judy Bunk (716) 830-1512 Southtowns (716) 570-0849 Rochester (585) 749-7879

The Corner Store Deli & Grill 1733 Genesee * 895-2009

BARBER SHOPS Klassic Kuts 1471 Kensington 836-3260 SOLO Unisex Salon 3081 Main St. 833-2553

BOOK STORES

Zawadi Books 2460 Main St.* 903-6740 holleykenneth@yahoo.com

CAR WASH Fast Eddie Hand Car Wash 1736 Fillmore* 891-5575

CHILD CARE Cookieland Group Day Care 24 Barthel Miss Cookie*893-0590 Dean’s Day Care 61 Montana Ave. 716-896-1751 Debbie’s Little Scholars 484 Hickory St. (716) 304-6820 First Impressions Day Care 847 Walden Ave. 716-533-8075 Kim’s Building Blocks Day Care 1479 E. Delavan Ave. 895-8693

DELI / VARIETY Grant’s Variety Shop 1055 E. Ferry St. 893-0704

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Tomatoes 1393 Kensington*835-3663

ELECTRICAL EMPIRE ELECTRIC 716-634-0330

Joseph Burch Insurance 4180 Bailey Avenue (716) 830-3417

LIQUORS & WINES Bellamy’s Liquor Store 405 E. Ferry * 884-4066

ON LINE BOUTIQUE Online Boutique We Love Styles welovestyles84@gmail.com

ONE STOP Mandella Market & Citgo Gas 272 E. Ferry cor. Jefferson 716-882-0288

PHONE SERVICE

FLORISTS

Boost Mobile

MAUREEN’S FLOWER MARKET 441 Ellicott St. * 852-4600

1286 E. Delavan (716) 551-0304

HAIR SALONS Althea’s Hair To Go Natural 727 Main St. (716) 883-2000 www.hairtogo.com Anointed Hands African Hair Braiding 369 Trenton Ave. 939-5077 (Macy) Chanel’s 2462 Main Street * 563.9575 Woody & Manuel’s AFRO STYLES 862 E Delavan * 896-9386 Karen’s Salon & Spa 413 Jefferson Ave. 812-9666 Miracle Tranition 2 3339 Genesee * 481-1321 Serenity Hair Boutique 221 Jefferson Ave. (716) 812-0663

360 Eggert Rd. (716) 939-3900 Town Gardens Plaza (716) 768-3887

PHOTOGRAPHY ICU Photography 716-578-3462

PROPERTY INSPECTION Majadi Enterprises, Inc. Willie A. Price CSI 716-316-7776

PRINTING Totem8 Design + Print (716) 404-9258

SHOES

Shoe Heaven 1455 Broadway St. Cor. of Swinburne St.) 716-818-6639

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

INSURANCE Able Insurance Jeff Moore/Broker 1798 Main St. (716) 883-5212

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

WINDOWS Priced Right Windows USA 710 Kensington Ave. (716) 833-2500 578-7873TAILOR

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APRIL 2, 2014

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Spring Fair The Ministry of Encouragement Inc. will host a Spring Fair through their Sistas united self help group on April 5 from noon to 4 p.m. at 1325 Main Street in the old Packard Building, 2nd floor community room. There will be health screenings, give aways, fun for the children and more. The event is FREE. For more information call 883-3978. Elder LaRenz LPickens is President.

Women’s Conference at Mt. Olive

Rev. Lewis

63rd Birthday Celebration Set for Rev. James Lewis

The 15th Annual Walterine Stribling Women’s Conference sponsored by the Great Lakes Baptist Association, Women’s Auxiliary- CHRIST OUR SPRIRITUAL ROCK- will take place on Saturday April 5, from 8-3p at Mt. Olive Baptist Church, 701 E. Delavan Ave. Rev. William Gillison is host Pastor. Preregistration is highly recommended. Call 875-3524. Registration fee of $30 includes breakfast, lunch and materials for choice of ten inspiring workshops to enlighten, equip and empower Kingdom building. On-site registration and breakfast begin at 8 a.m. Pre-conference Prayer, praise and Worship Service will be held on Friday April 4 at 7 p.m.

On April 6, at 4 p.m. you are cordially invited to come and celebrate with Miracle Missions FGC. 406 Sycamore at Kane St. will celebrate Sr. Pastor Dr. James A. Lewis III, 63rd birthday. Guest speakers include Father Ron Sadjack & Gospel Choir of St. Martin de Porres RC Church, also 5 years old anointed MarQues Diallo, of TBBC. Music selections will be provided by Miracle Missions FGC Praise & Worship Team with WNY Mass Chapter Choir, Music by Bilah, Soloist Rosemary Logan Peete and Carol Milhouse. You won’t want to miss this great event. Come and show your support for City-Wide Prayer Against VioWNY’s greatest Master of lence Lenten Season Schedule Prayer 6-7 p.m. Lenten Ceremonies. Free will offerServices 7 p.m. ing. For more information call 510-3284. Wednesday, April 2 Walls Memorial African Methodist Episcopal Zion Church 455 Glenwood Avenue - Pastor Errol Hunt, Host Pastor

Enough is Enough!

Wednesday, April 9 Centennial AME Zion Church 127 Doat Street - Pastor Craig Douglass, Host Pastor

“So Perfect”: Buffalo’s Harold Travis Releases New Inspirational/Gospel Single

uffalo’s Harold Travis has released his first single, “So Perfect” and its generating major airplay at radio stations across the country, and is being warmly embraced by its listeners. During a recent Atlanta radio interview he talked about “So Perfect” – a breakthrough inspirational/ gospel he was inspired to write after a terrible accident a few years ago. He said that “God spared my life” and from that day forth he “decided that my music would be nothing but God.” He said that he hopes his music “would get across to those not only in the church but outside the church…especially youg people.” The single is awesome, and destined to go far. -Who is Harold TravisHarold Travis was born to sing. A native of Boligee, Alabama, he was raised by his mother Isabel Travis in Buffalo, New York. His mother discovered his talent when he was only seven years old. After discovering his angelic voice, she entered him in the local church choir at Lincoln Memorial. HT, as friends and family call him, honed his skills while working in the family’s grocery store, singing every chance he could for anyone who would listen. While in Buffalo, HT formed a group called Variations of Love and recorded the #1 song “I’ll Always Love You,” and gained national and international attention. Soon after he toured with legendary singer Rick James, and had the liberty of recording many songs with the late artist including the hit “Lucy’s Rap”. He then toured and recorded with several other acts, including Whitney Houston, brothers Ronnie and Charlie Wilson of the Gap Band, Ralph Tresvant, and Bobby Brown, where he was a part of the B Brown Posse. Although he sang and performed for thousands of adoring fans across the world, Harold felt as though there was something missing in his musical life. Singing for weddings and home going services of family and friends led him to the realization that “Singing for the Lord, I felt something deep inside that I hadn’t felt in a long time.” Harold finally realized that gospel music is the only thing that would

fill the void. Harold exudes charismatic, soulful melodies displaying confidence that can only be inherited from years of experience. At times it seems as though his music takes the listener on a blissful journey from classic to traditional gospel, never shying away from a new age blend of harmonies. With such passion and driven conviction for the Lord, Harold Travis is sure to leave an impact on a troubled soul.

Harold Travis

8 ENTERTAINMENT Buffalo Philharmonic welcomes Ellis Hall in tribute to music icon Ray Charles

APRIL 2, 2014

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ON STAGE

The Protégée of the Father of Soul is Paying Symphonic Tribute to his Mentor on Saturday, April 5 at Kleinhans Music Hall. Ray Charles was among the most influential musicians of the twentieth century. Considered the father of soul, he won 17 Grammy awards and released more than 250 albums in his 58-year career. His hits like “Georgia,” “Hit the Road, Jack,” and “What’d I Say” are woven deep into pop culture, covered over and over by modern artists and heard in films, television and commercials. There is perhaps no one better to pay tribute to Ray Charles or interpret his iconic music than Ellis Hall. In a career spanning over four decades, Hall has solidified a reputation for soul-searing rhythm & blues, and has electrified audiences throughout the world. A master of the guitar, bass, piano, keyboards, and drums, Hall has also made a mark as a songwriter, arranger, and producer. He is best known for his work with the magnetic soul sensations Tower of Power, where h e was lead singer and keyboardist in the mid-1980s. In 2001, Hall met Ray Charles, who was so taken with Hall’s performance power that he took the artist under his wing. The following year, Charles signed Hall as the only other artist on his label Crossover Records. Following this major honor, Hall went on to work with Charles on the astounding album “Straight Ahead,” featuring an array of guest artists and garnering a top single, “Gotta Get the Money,” which landed at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100. Since 2006, Ellis has worked with some of the world’s most well-known conductors, including Jeff Tyzik in Rochester. It was Tyzik who first referred to Hall as the “Ambassador of Soul,” after Ellis had jokingly commented, “I spent a lot of time working on my ambassadorship.” The moniker stuck. Hall has enjoyed an eclectic career that includes serving as a lead voice in the animated blues/soul band The California Raisins, and the whimsical Beetlejuice for a Universal Studios show. He acted and sang in a variety of movies, and was an advisor to Jamie Foxx on the set of the movie Ray. The musicians of the orchestra are looking forward to performing with Ellis and providing a new twist on the music of the great Ray Charles. “A lot of people assume that as classical musicians, we’re very stodgy and stuck-up in our tastes in music,” said BPO bassist Brett Shurtliffe in a preview for this concert. “We don’t often hear Ray Charles’ music in a symphonic setting and I really feel the two should blend amazingly well together and make something very special.” The concert takes place at 8 p.m. Saturday, April 5 at Kleinhans Music Hall, 3 Symphony Circle, Buffalo. Tickets are available by calling (716) 885-5000 or visiting bpo.org.

*The Beautiful Music Band will feature special recording artist Johnal from GM Records this Friday April 4th at the Groove Lounge, 1210 Broadway 8pm-12am.

*“The Trojan Women” starring Lorna C. Hill, Ujima TheatreLoft, 545 Elmwood Ave., now thru April 19 Thurs-Sat @ 8pm and Sun @ 6pm ; tickets $15 to $25; 883-0380 or www.ujimatheatre.org

*David Michael Miller and the World Famous Campbell Brothers, April 1, 15, 29, Central Park Grill, 2519 Main St. Buffalo. www.davemillermusic. com

*Charlie Wilson, Sunday, May 11 at 7 p.m., Rochester Auditorium Theatre, tickets @ Auditorium box office and ticketmaster.com 500745-3000.

*“N’Dias (The Mix),” World Beat Band, plus Daughters of Creative Sound, Kleinhans Music Hall, Friday, April 4. Doors open at 6 p.m.

*Tyler Perry’s “Hell Hath No Fury” ROCHESTER April 9, The Auditorium Theatre, BUFFALO April 10, 7:30 p.m. Shea’s *James Cotton and the James Cotton Blues Band, Friday, April 11 at 8 p.m., Kleinhans Music Hall; call 885-5000 for tickets; klein*Alemaedae Theater Productions world premier of the movie “SKP TRCRZ”, Wed April 16 @ 7:30 p.m., Market Arcade Theatre 639 Main St. written and directed by Phil Davis. For more info: 716.602.6253 and WWW. ATPGALAXY.COM Tickets $10 at Doris Records and WWW. ATPGALAXY.COM; $15 @ box office day of event. Hilarious comedy film surrounding the rise and fall of a corrupt collection agency starring Taura “Chyna” Stephens, Donald Capers, Greg Chaffee, Damond Rainey, John Stover Jr, LaTonya Granberry, Jennifer L Holmes, Carmen Swans, Jon Cesar, Daniel Keith Barone, Rasheedah Muhammad, Robert Ranic, Leslie Butcher, Char Urban, Daysha Witt, Thomas Brown, Joe Nuchareno, and more. SUPPORT OUR ADVERTISERS!

APRIL 2, 2014

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Hustle for Health!

Groundbreaking Health & Fitness Program Mixes Meditation, Nutrition & Aerobic Line Dancing

Hustle for Health Seniors Launch Party to Take Place at the Friends to the Elderly Center, 118 East Utica on Friday, April 11. hen the upbeat W 2’o’clock promo plays on WBLK weekdays to

make way for the next on-air personality, and raps “who ya rockin with?,” everybody knows its Jazzy T. But what most are probably not aware of is that “Jazzy” is more than just a pretty face and engaging voice who takes your shout outs and plays all the latest music. Much more. At just 31 years young, married and the mother of a 5-year old daughter, Jazzy T is a college graduate (Michigan State Magna Cum Laude!), a savvy

businesswoman (she and her husband Ruben own JR Galactic, a production and branding company), and is the co-founder of of a groundbreaking health and fitness program called Hustle for Health. A healthy MOVEment that was started right here in Buffalo, the program mixes meditation, nutrition and aerobic line dancing that gets results and its is grabbing national and International attention. Jazzy, a native of Detroit, recently explained that classes are now forming in her home town and Brook-

ONLY AT

K L E I N H A N S

by Paul Natkin

 MUSIC HALL

James Cotton James Cotton and the

Blues Band

Fri. Apr. 11, 8pm Blues legend and Grammy winner James Cotton comes to Kleinhans with his band for one night only, with opening act Dive House Union.

A WBFO Buffalo Blues Bash Event.

CALL (716)885-5000 | kleinhansbuffalo.org

lyn College in New York has also expressed an interest in the program. In the meantime the Buffalo community continues to benefit from the Hustle for Health wellness program with classes focused on fun dance exercises as well as healthy eating and thinking habits.` “You can burn up to 350 calories in a session,” Jazzy explained, in one fun, uplifting, stress relieving class that ends with a health postworkout meal suggestion. Next Friday, April 11th, Hustle for Health will launch a new program, Line Dance Fitness for Seniors at the Friends to the Elderly Center at 118 East Utica Street at 10 a.m. And beginning April 25 the Hustle for Seniors will be held on Fridays from 10 to 11 a.m. for six weeks at t he Center. Also beginning May 5th, Hustle for Health for all ages will feature a family program for ages 10 and up on Mondays at 6 p.m. at the Grider Community Center. Additional upcoming events include a Spring Into Action fundraiser at the George Urban Mansion from noon to 5 p.m. on May 3. And on June 14th, Hustle for Health will take part in the Juneteenth Parade and put on a stage performance with DJ Maestro, the creator of all the original and instructional music used in Hustle for Health dance moves. Hustle for Health’s newest dance song, “The Survivor Slide,” was created to promote Breast Cancer Awareness. Past events have included a Hustle for Health Kids Program for Girl Scouts of WNY. “We’ll be doing another Girl Scout Session in the Fall,” noted Jazzy. Earlier this year Studio J hosted an 8 week Hustle for Health Cardio Program. Jayme Smith, one of the Hustle for Health dance instructors, is the owner of Studio J on Kenmore near Main St. Jazzy, who’s official title is Community Outreach Director, explained that Hustle relies on professionals like Jayme to lead the workout sessions. The program’s Youth Dance instructor is

HUSTLE FOR HEALTH! (L-R) Maria Provenzano, Jazzy T, Jayme Smith. PHOTO WILL JONES/Black WNY

Charlotte Cardwell. Also, Hustle has a certified nutritionist and holistic health coach, Taina Jorda-Cid, MS who provides personal consultations and meal plans. “The all-new Hustle For Health wellness program is helping the community eat better, think more positive and get active!,” a program press release states. “After a long Winter, Hustle For Health presents the Spring into Action tour, introducing the “Survivor Slide” song/dance for Cancer Awareness and the Hustle for Health Kids & Senior Citizens program, available to organizations, com-

panies and individuals who are starting on their journey towards a healthier lifestyle. Hustle for Health’s mission is to enhance the physical, emotional and social wellness of the community via fitness classes, at-home DVD and online support by way of the Health Coach Blog at www.HustleForHealth.com” Said Jazzy: I would definitely encourage anyone reading this article to contact me at (716) 404-9444 about having a program in their facility.” Join the MOVEment – Hustle for Health!

GENERATIONS

APRIL 2, 2014

WORDS: Poetic Giant Ishmael Reed to Present At Linguistic Feast

shmael Reed to celebrate the transforming potency of language in all its forms and varieties at fourday festival

Ishmael Reed, one of the most important living writers of the 20th century, will be amongst an array of much-published and awardwinning poets including Edward Sanders and Steve McCaffery that will descend on the Burchfield Penney Art Center to take part in the four-day festival of readings, interviews, music and dance. The Burchfield Penney in partnership with Just Buffalo Literary Center, The Poetry Collection of the University Libraries, University at Buffalo, State University of New York and SUNY Buffalo State will present WORDS, a celebration of the written word April 9 – 13, 2016. The launch event, the fourth in The Center’s quarterly

series, will welcome Ishmael Reed, joined by leading, local and national writers and performance artists including Michael Basinski, Michael Colquhoun, the Doug “Trigger” Gaston Trio, Judith Goldman, Tennessee Reed, Annette Daniels Taylor, Jon Lehrer and Jeff Simon. WORDS also marks National Poetry Month, inaugurated by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, and held every April to celebrate poetry and its vital place in American culture. “Ishmael Reed helped to create a historic epoch in Buffalo, a time at mid -20th century at which we in Buffalo responded to the challenges of racism, dug ourselves out of the pain of urban riots and created from the intellectual, spiritual and physical rubble new lives for ourselves as Buffalonians and Americans,” remembers Anthony Bannon, Ph.D., Burchfield Penney executive director. “Reed participated as a young man in this

AT THE CENTER

Ishmael Reed

analysis and discovery of solutions through his writing, presence on the radio and voice as poet and critic as someone who appreciated and taught the beauty and power of words and sounds in literature and in music. He led us to profoundly new understandings and confidence to carry forward.” Bannon also credited Reed after leaving Buffalo for staying in touch. “He didn’t leave us behind. He moved on to New York City where

APRIL 9 — 13 2014

Join us April 9 —April 13 for a celebration of the written and spoken word. Experience an inspired weekend of readings, special appearances, activities and performances, led by Ishmael Reed. For more information, visit www.BurchfieldPenney.org/words

his voice and presence became stronger with other Buffalonians within the East Village where during the 1960s he again participated in a movement of free expression from the constraints of the past and led us again as Americans,” said Bannon. “But importantly, never forgetting where he came from, what he learned and what he learned here. Reed carried the message to the West Coast serving as a distinguished professor instrumental and transformative as previously to an exciting scene in the San Francisco Bay area. Now remembering all the while where he came from and where he learned his first truths, he returns to us filled with the legacy of Buffalo while preparing a new book that speaks of the genesis.” The catalyst for WORDS was the Burchfield Penney anthology Mortal and Immortals which represents 35 years of our commitment to poetics, or the theory of poetry. “In addition to the readings, this is our first attempt at having a conversation with Ishmael Reed at The Center,” said Don Metz, Burchfield Penney associate director. Reed’s presentations Saturday, April 12 include a conversation at 6 PM facilitated by Buffalo News Arts and Books Critic Jeff Simon followed by a reading at 8 pm. “As a novelist, satirist, poet, essayist, jazz musician, playwright, songwriter, anthologist, editor, publisher and all around enlightened troublemaker,” said Simon, “Ishmael Reed has probably done more to unclog the hypocrisies and stupidities of American culture than any other writer

Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com

Local Writer Releases Novel: “Trayvon’s Revenge” A new writer has released a novel that offers an alternate view and dramatization of the night Trayvon Martin was killed by George Zimmerman in Sanford, Florida. The novel titled “No Justice No Peace: Trayvon’s Revenge,” is the first published novel by Buffalo’s own, Trey Branson. Trey Branson is a young author and freelance journalist who hasn’t lived nearly long enough to have much of a bio, but he’s working on that. He prides himself with having a unique style of writing, which not only captivates his audience, but also brings them into the world of his characters. He’s always been a writer, but never put his skills to use until he was forced to. During a 10-year incarcera- Trey Branson tion in the State of New York Department of Corrections, he penned his first novel and fell in love with the feeling of putting his imagination on paper. Since then, his hobby has turned into his craft. Trials and tribulations aside, he learned from his mistakes and uses his colorful past to enlighten his readers. His personal story has all the makings of a novel in itself- a man who has overcome obstacles, weathered many storms and still has the tenacity to take on any challenge. He’s more than just an author…his words come from a different place- experience. The novel is available for digital download. You can also purchase it on Smashwords.com, Amazon.com, iBooks.com, and Barnes & Nobles.com. For additional information and to read full excerpts from the novel, log onto www.TryavonsRevenge.com Email: TreyBranson360@gmail.com

of his generation.” Admission is free to the conversation with gallery admission; tickets for the reading are $5 for members, $7 seniors/students, $10 general public. Advance tickets are available by calling 716-878-6011 during gallery hours or through PayPal on the Burchfield Penney web site. The festival will include more than 50 live and taped local readings and also spill over into the worlds of music and dance. For a full schedule of activities, go to www. burchfieldpenney.org Ishmael Reed has published more than 20 books of poetry, prose, essays, and plays, as well as penned hundreds of lyrics for musicians ranging from Taj Mahal to Macy Gray. His work is known for its satirical, ironic take on race and literary tradition, as well as its innovative, postmodern technique. Just Buffalo Literary Center recently honored Reed with the 2014 Literary Legacy Award. Reed was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee in 1938, but grew up in the working class neighborhoods of Buffalo, New York. He attended the University at Buffalo and was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Letters from the University in 1995. He also received an honorary Doctorate of Letters from Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte, North Carolina in 1998. He taught at the University of California-Berkeley for more than 30 years, and has held positions at California College of Art, San Jose State University, Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, and the University of the Antilles in Martinique. His many awards and honors include fellowships from the MacArthur Foundation, the Guggenheim Foundation, and the National Endowment for the Arts. He has won the John Oliver Killens Lifetime Achievement Award, the Barbary Coast Award, the 2008 Blues Songwriter of the Year Award, the Phyllis Wheatley Award, the Lila Wallace Reader’s Digest Award, the Langston Hughes Medal, and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Poetry Association, among many, many others. Reed also founded the Before Columbus Foundation, an organization devoted to promoting original, innovative, and neglected writing from the Americas.

APRIL 2, 2014

Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com

THE RADFORD REPORT

Briefing On Fiscal Crisis Of Buffalo Public Schools

. Nils Olsen, Jr., Chairman of the Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority addressed delegates of the District Parent Coordinating Council on Tuesday, April 1, 2014 at the Stanley M. Makowski School located at 1095 Jefferson Avenue in Buffalo. Chairman Olsen briefed parents of Buffalo Public School students on the school district’s fiscal crisis and the devastating impact planned budget cuts to nonmandatory services in the school district will have on core education services. The Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority was created by the State of New York to oversee the financial operations of the City of Buffalo and other covered local organizations, including the Buffalo Public Schools. As recently reported by Chairman Olsen, the Buffalo Public School District is facing an astounding $1.8 billion in non-pension related retirement costs. In addition, the district is facing a structural budget deficit approaching $100 million. Over the past two years the district has used approximately $27 million of reserve monies to fund current obligations and plans to spend nearly $70 million of reserve monies over the next four years to cover ongoing costs. The use of reserve funds to finance ongoing operations is unsustainable and within four years the district will have little to no reserve funds to draw upon. Drastic and devastating cuts in services to students are planned to begin almost immediately. In June, 2014 the Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority adopted a resolution that concluded “the District is faced with a significant level of risk that it will encounter a fiscal crisis at some point during the out years. Such a fiscal crisis would diminish

Continued Page 12

“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

In Suppport of City Honors High Dear Editor: My wife and I are fortunate enough to have two out of three children currently attending City Honors. I don’t consider myself an expert on City Honors, but I know what is not. City Honors is not this magical place where the teachers are so much better and they have more resources. City Honors doesn’t make the students, students make City Honors. So when people come down the halls and observe the positive learning environment they are in awe. They assume that at City Honors they are doing something different and they want their son or daughter to become a part of it. There are some wonderful teachers at City Honors. Dr. Kresse, is and amazing principal, the vice-principals are equally as awesome. However City Honors would not be City Honors without the students. The students are the reason for the nice safe learning environment. They only let in honor students and I stand behind that policy, that’s why they have “honors” in the name. I sat behind a grandparent from a visiting school at a basketball game and he had the audacity to say if you open up City Honors doors to East High school students it would be tremendous. I responded if you combine City Honors with East, it would no longer be City Honors it would be equivalent of Bennett High School. (90% plus graduation rate with 27% graduation rate= 58.5% graduation rate) City Honors takes the best of the best. The best students aren’t usually the students with behavior problems. The children with the best grades aren’t usually gang members. That is the big secret right there. I support City Honors stringent requirement. They control who they let enter the halls and cultivate smart students. In the beginning I said two out of my three children are in City Honors. There is also a myth that if you get one kid in City Honors its that much easier for another sibling to get in. That is 100% incorrect; tell my middle child he got in because of his brother. The same child that took the entrance exam three times. The same child that maintains a 94-97 grade point average and all 4’s on his New York State Exams and received a rejection letter twice. When those letters came and we cried and he felt rejected, we didn’t let rejection deter us. We found out why he didn’t make it, my son’s essay writing skills were average at best, so we went out and purchased essay writing books and got him a tutor. He took the test again and again and he finally got in. we told him even if he never made it in, that wouldn’t define him and stop him from being the best student he can be. So any one that says its’ easier for someone to get in, because they have a sibling already there, tell me how that process was easy? To think that your child should get into City Honors because of the proximity to your house is utterly preposterous. I teach my kids that they have to earn everything in life, nothing is given. I wish every child could attend City Honors that deserve to be there, but its not meant for everyone. If your child doesn’t meet the requirement for admission then your child shouldn’t be there. My children didn’t get to City Honors by osmosis. We spent many a night at the kitchen table and on the living room floor doing homework. When homework wasn’t given Spectrum workbooks and comprehensive curriculum books sharpen their skills. My wife and I just don’t leave our children’s education in the hands of the school; we are their first teachers. I believe there should be more schools run on the City Honors model. If your child is a B average student, put them in a school filled with other B average students and so on and so forth. Let us leave the honors schools for the honor students and if there are more honor students than City Honors can handle create another honors school. If a kid wants to test out the B average school into and honor school, let them.

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-A Black Star News Guest Editorial-

OPINIONS OPINIONS

Obama’s Affordable Care Act: “Over 7,000,000 Served”   Arthur L. Jones III

Obama delivers on his vision -- it’s a terrible day of mourning for Karl Rove and Co.

n support of the Affordable Care Act (ACA), President Barack Obama traveled highways and flight paths throughout this great nation. Mr. Obama stated his case. And like Francis Albert “Frank” Sinatra; a.k.a. Ol’ Blue Eyes; a.k.a. The Chairman of the Board himself, Mr. Obama did “Obamacare “ his way. I’m writing this column at 10:14pm ET on Monday, March 31st. On this – Obamacare’s deadline day – there were people standing in lines in San Antonio, TX. There were people waiting in lines in Miami, FL. There were people sitting in buildings in Los Angeles, CA. There were Americans in many states on the phone. All working and speaking with Navigators specially trained to help them sign up for healthcare coverage for themselves and their families. There is no hocus pocus going on. There are no smoke and mirrors; and no sleight of hand. These are real people with real families who in real lines at real facilities to gain access to real healthcare coverage in cases of real illness. These folks aren’t just poor people. These folks aren’t relegated to people of color. These folks aren’t just members of the middle class. And believe it or not, these folks aren’t just progressives. Conservatives are signing up. People in the middle are signing up, too. I’m not one to gloat. I don’t have to say “I told you so.” The Obama administration publicly declared nearly one year ago its forecast that seven million Americans would sign up under the Affordable Care Act. That milestone was passed before last weekend. The President staked everything on this: his reputation, his credibility, even his legacy. He was in the most treacherous of high stakes, political poker games; and he knew when to hold ‘em, when to fold ‘em, and refused to walk away. He stated what he wanted to do; and found a way to do it. The President was right. The numbers speak for themselves. The surging interest speaks for itself. Over on the Fox News Channel, you would think that someone just stole Christmas. Already, they’re crying “cooked books.” They are beside themselves with anger, disappointment, and confusion. Where is the imminent death spiral of Obamacare? Where is the utter collapse of healthcare.gov? Where is America’s complete refusal to sign up for Affordable Care Act benefits? Apparently, you can find those things the same place as Bigfoot, the Lochness monster, and Chupacabras – in a parallel, pocket universe. Friends, this is the beginning of the end. Oh, I don’t mean the beginning of the end for Obamacare. This is the beginning of the end of the conservative war against Obamacare. They had 54 turns at-bat to repeal it – and they struck out every single time. They had 54 shots to replace it – and they missed every single one. The failure of the Obama administration’s goal of 7 million signees was their last, best hope to continue their totally futile mission to oppose healthcare reform. There is speculation that the final number of brand new Affordable Care Act enrollees could be 8 million, 9 million, or even 10 million people. We’ll find out in the next few weeks. What we do know is this: the new Affordable Care Act enrollees are happy. The President is happy. The Obama administration is happy. Progressives are happy. Pretty much everyone is happy except for those who live in the conservative media bubble. To them, this is just cause for gloom and doom. Bad news, conservatives. You can cancel any plans for progressives to run away from Obamacare in 2014 primaries and elections. Smart progressives will run hard on Obamacare because it is, in fact, a winner. For the first time ever, recent polls indicate that more Americans favor the ACA than oppose it. Even that worm has turned. I’ll admit that I was very concerned last October and November when all the healthcare. gov technical glitches were revealed. It looked really bad for a bit. But as usual, the President stood up, spoke up, and got things done. And here we are. The media pundits can finally move on. Obamacare is the law of the land. It’s not going anywhere – period. Smart conservatives should turn the page and start thinking about how to make it better. If we replace the “B” with an “M” it would be like the signage at every McDonald’s location: over 7 million served…  I also love the diversity in City Honors student body. My children are friends with children who parents, range from doctors and lawyers to fireman and teachers. My children even went to school with children of a vice president of a multi-million dollar construction outfit. You tell me where else in public education are you going to get that in the City of Buffalo, but at City Honors? -Alfred Garey

• 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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CLASSIFIEDS THE RADFORD REPORT continued

BIDS

PREHEALTH ACADEMIC ADVISOR

Responsibilities: The Prehealth Advisor will provide professional advisement to students who seek admission to the highly competitive health schools of medicine, dentistry, optometry, podiatry, chiropractic, veterinary, and physician assistant schools. The Prehealth Advisor will assist students with academic planning related to the student’s abilities and interests; conveying and interpreting the University’s academic rules and regulations, academic prerequisites and programs, majors, and courses of study; and will refer students to appropriate campus offices. Minimum Qualifications: Master’s degree in education, higher education or relevant field is required for this position. A minimum of 2 years of higher education experience (i.e., university, college setting) required. Excellent communication/presentation and written skills. Ability to multi-task and respond effectively and accurately in a fast-paced environment. Preferred Qualifications: Prehealth academic advising experience at the higher education level. Salary: $42,801-$45,000 Cover letter, resume, references, and application must be submitted online using the UB Jobs website: ubjobs.buffalo.edu with Posting #1400135. Applications must be received by the posting deadline of 4/26/14. No phone calls or emails please. The University at Buffalo is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employee/Recruiter.

BUFFALO CHALLENGER Issue:

4/2

Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority Serving the Buffalo Niagara Region

Deadline: 3/28, Noon Size: 2 col (4”)RAIL x 4.5” MAINTENANCE MANAGER, Price: $171.00 020-14-N Job Number

The Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority is a multi-modal entity committed to providing efficient, professional transportation services that enhance the quality of life in the BuffaloNiagara, New York region. The Manager, This is highly responsible supervisory and delegated administrative duties inherent in coordinating a large and extensive rail system and facilities maintenance and repair program. Quals: Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical or Electrical Engineering is preferred, or a related field and five (5) years experience in the operation of a rail maintenance facility, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience. Interested persons should visit www.nfta.com to view complete job description. To apply: Send cover letter, resume, and NFTA-Metro employment application (available at www.nfta.com) to: NFTA-Metro Human Resources - Job #-020-14-N 181 Ellicott Street Buffalo, NY 14203

Application Deadline: April 18, 2014 M/F/D/V/EOE

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or eliminate the District’s ability to preserve essential services, maintain mandated State and Federal programs, and meet the State’s constitutional requirement to provide a sound, basic education of the children of the City of Buffalo.” The 10,000 Strong Campaign is an initiative by parents, members of the faith-based community, block clubs, and community groups to inform parents of Buffalo Public School stuMaster’s degree in higher dents, who are attending education or relevant failing schools, of their right ﬁeld. Minimum of 2 years Executive Director of higher education expeunder federal and state law rience, preferably in preto have their child or chilNeeded health academic advising. dren transfer to a school in Excellent communication Immediate opening at and presentation skills “good standing.” The deadFoster Care agency. and ability to multi-task in line for parents to request a fast-paced environment. Master’s degree in Social that their children be transfer Work or equivalent Cover letter, resume, refto a school in “good standerences, and application required. Send resumes ing” is April 30, 2014. Remust be submitted online to SMB Foster Care using the UB Jobs webquest must be made online at site: ubjobs.buffalo.edu. Agency, PO Box 851, www.buffaloschools.org. No phone calls or emails Buffalo, NY 14209 or please. The monthly meetings of FAX (716) 884-3595. the District Parent CoordiPosting # 1400135 nating Council at the StanThe University at Buffalo ley M. Makowski School are is an Equal Opportunity/ open to the general public Afﬁrmative Action Employee/Recruiter. BID and all are invited and encouraged to attend. NFTA Procurement For additional informaBUFFALOtoNEWS Invitation Bid tion on the 10,000 Strong 4403 - CRIMINAL Campaign, please contact Issue: 3/30 & 4/2 (includes Tuesdays Free) BACKGROUND Mr. Samuel L. Radford, Deadline: 3/27, Noon CHECKS III, President, District ParDownload Bids from ent Coordinating Council at Size: Line Ad www.nfta.com (716) Cost: $674.80, includes 30 days web 578-3571.

Ad Proof

Account Bookkeeper, PartTime With Partial Benefits Enlarged Qualifications:High school diploma + 2 - 3 years experience in performing bookkeeping and record keeping for a multi – funded nonprofit.ACADEMIC Computer literate ADVISOR/ with knowledge PREHEALTH of Microsoft Word and Excel.Please send Responsibilities: resume, two Provide references by advisement to students April 8, 2014 to S. Shears, who seek admission to Niagara Action competitiveCommunity health schools and assist students Program, Inc.,with1521 Main academic planning. Street, Niagara Falls, NY Min. Qualiﬁcations: 14305.EOE

BID Buffalo City School District Advertisement for Bids Sealed proposals for the following project will be received at the office of Plant Services, 403 City Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14202. On Tuesday, April 22, 2014 at 9:00 AM, proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud for: Boiler and Ancillary Equipment Replacement at: PROJECT 0039-013 P.S. 39: Dr. Martin Luther King Multicultural Institute PROJECT 0090-011 P.S. 90: Dr. Charles R Drew Science Magnet PROJECT 0091-016 P.S. 91: B.U.I.L.D. Academy Bids will be opened for the following four (4) prime contracts: General; Electrical; HVAC; Plumbing. Beginning Monday, March 31st, bidding document packages may be viewed and purchased through Avalon Document Services online Planroom website at http://www.avalonbuffplanroom.com , under “Public Jobs”, or ordered by phone at 716-995-7777. Owner can assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or other misinformation obtained via other bid document distribution resources. Please note that required bid bond is 10%. The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. Any questions regarding this project, please refer to Juan Perez, RA, 716-816-3610. Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning ADVERTISING DATE: Thursday, March 27, 2014

APRIL 2, 2014 Challenger Community News •

LEGAL NOTICE Legal Notice COUNTY OF ERIE DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT AND PLANNING} 95 FRANKLIN STREET BUFFALO, NY 14202 County of Erie, New York EMERGENCY SOLUTIONS GRANT The Erie County Department of Environment and Planning is seeking proposals from qualified service providers to provide relocation and housing stabilization services to individuals and families that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and operation costs for emergency shelters that serve the homeless. Funds may be used to provide relocation and housing stabilization services to individuals and families that are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and operation costs for emergency shelters for the homeless. The RFP #1413VF can be found at: http://www.erie.gov and a complete copy of the package can be obtained by contacting Diane Cadle at 716-858-6927. All correspondence, communications and/or contact with the County in regard to any aspect of this proposal shall be with Diane Cadle. Prospective proponents, or their representatives, shall not make contact with or communicate with any representatives of the County, including employees and consultants, other than the designated person in regard to any aspect of this proposal. Final proposals are due to the Department of Environment and Planning at 95 Franklin St., Room 1053, Buffalo, NY 14202 by 4:00 pm (EST) on April 28, 2014. Erie County reserves the right to reject any and all proposals and waive any informality. Maria R. Whyte Commissioner of Erie County Department of Environment and Planning

BID Buffalo City School District Advertisement for Bids Sealed proposals for the following project will be received at the office of Plant Services, 403 City Hall, Buffalo, NY, 14202. On Thursday, April 17, 2014 at 2:00 PM, proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud for: Boiler and Ancillary Equipment Replacement at: PROJECT 0031-012 P.S. 31: Harriet Ross Tubman School PROJECT 0037-009 P.S. 37: Futures Academy PROJECT 0091-014 P.S. 91: B.U.I.L.D. Academy PROJECT 0094-015 P.S. 94: West Hertel Academy PROJECT 0050-007 P.S. 99: Stanley M MAKOWSKI ECC PROJECT 0204-021 P.S. 204: Lafayette High School Bids will be opened for the following four (4) prime contracts: General; Electrical; HVAC; Plumbing. Beginning Monday, March 31st, bidding document packages may be viewed and purchased through Avalon Document Services online Planroom website at http://www.avalonbuff-planroom. com , under “Public Jobs”, or ordered by phone at 716-995-7777. Owner can assume no responsibility for errors, omissions, or other misinformation obtained via other bid document distribution resources. Please note that required bid bond is 10%. The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. Any questions regarding this project, please refer to Juan Perez, RA, 716-816-3610. Paul McDonnell, AIA Director of Facilities Planning

ADVERTISING DATE: Thursday, March 31, 2014

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APRIL 2, 2014

Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com

legal SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS. Index No. 2013606519. STATE OF NEW YORK. SUPREME COURT - COUNTY OF ERIE. HSBC BANK USA, N.A., Plaintiff, -vsCHERYL ALLEN, INDIVIDUALLY AS HEIR AND AS ADMINISTRATRIX OF THE ESTATE OF CHARLOTTE A. ROBERTS, DECEASED; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE; UNITED STATES OF AMERICA; TODD C. ROBERTS A/K/A TODD ROBERTS, SR., AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF CHARLOTTE A. ROBERTS, DECEASED, if living and if he be dead, and all persons who are wives, lienors, heirs, devisees, distributees, successors in interest of such of them as may be dead, and their husbands and wives, heirs, devisees, distributees and successors in interest all of whom and whose names and places are unknown to Plaintiff; TIMOTHY J. ROBERTS, AS HEIR TO THE ESTATE OF CHARLOTTE A. ROBERTS, DECEASED; CAPITAL ONE BANK; TARGET NATIONAL BANK; LVNV FUNDING, LLC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE CIVIL ENFORCEMENT-CO-ATC; NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE CCEDCHILD SUPPORT ENFORCEMENT SECTION; THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK O/B/O CHIEF CLERK OF THE CITY COURT OF BUFFALO; “JOHN DOE” AND “JANE DOE” said names being fictitious, it being the intention of Plaintiff to designate any and all occupants of premises being foreclosed herein, Defendants. Mortgaged Premises: 15 LINWOOD TERRACE, BUFFALO, NY 14209. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): YOU ARE HEREBY SUMMONED to answer the Complaint in the above entitled action and to serve a copy of your Answer on the plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days of the service of this Summons, exclusive of the day of service, or within thirty (30) days after service of the same is complete where service is made in any manner other than by personal delivery within the State. The United States of America, if designated as a defendant in this action, may answer or appear within sixty (60) days of service. Your failure to appear or answer will result in a judgment against you by default for the relief demanded in the Complaint. In the event that a deficiency balance remains from the sale proceeds, a judgment may be entered against you, unless the Defendant obtained a bankruptcy discharge and such other or further relief as may be just and equitable. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME If you do not respond to this summons and complaint by serving a copy of the answer on the attorney for the mortgage company who filed this foreclosure proceeding against you and filing the answer with the court, a default judgment may be entered and you can lose your home. Speak to an attorney or go to the court where your case is pending for further information on how to answer the summons and protect your property. Sending payment to your mortgage company will not stop this foreclosure action. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. That this action is being amended to include the possible heirs of Todd C. Roberts a/k/a Todd Roberts, Sr., as said individual could not be located. ERIE County is designated as the place of trial. The basis of venue is the location of the mortgaged premises. Dated: February 12, 2014. /s/________________ Mark K. Broyles, Esq. FEIN, SUCH & CRANE, LLP Attorneys for Plaintiff Office and P.O. Address 28 East Main Street, Suite 1800 Rochester, New York 14614 Telephone No. (585) 232-7400 (SECTION: 89.79, BLOCK: 3, LOT: 14). NATURE AND OBJECT OF ACTION The object of the above action is to foreclose a mortgage held by the Plaintiff recorded in the County of ERIE, State of New York as more particularly described in the Complaint herein. TO THE DEFENDANT, the plaintiff makes no personal claim against you in this action. To the above named defendants: The foregoing summons is served upon you by publication pursuant to an order of the Hon. Michael Pietruszka, a Justice of the Supreme Court of the State of N.Y., dated February 24, 2014 and filed along with the supporting papers in the Erie County Clerk’s Office. This is an action to foreclose a mortgage. The premises is described as follows: All that certain plot, piece or parcel of land, with the buildings and improvements thereon erected, situate, lying and being situate in the City of Buffalo, County of Erie, and State of New York, being part of Lot No. 63, Township 11, Range 8 of the Holland Land Company’s Survey and according to map filed in Erie County Clerk’s Office under Cover No. 852 is known as Subdivision Lot No. 15, described as follows: COMMENCING at a point in the northerly line of Linwood Terrace one hundred (100) feet west of the west line of Linwood Avenue; thence west along the north line of Linwood Terrace thirty-six (36) feet; thence north at right angles and along the east line of Lot No. 16 on said map one hundred twenty and forty-three hundredths (120.43) feet to the north line of lands owned by said James W. McKay; thence easterly along said McKay’s north line of forty-two and eighty-one hundredths (42.81) feet to the northwest corner of Lot No. 14 on said map; thence southerly one hundred nineteen and thirty hundredths (119.30) feet to the north line of Linwood Terrace at the place of beginning. Premises known as 15 Linwood Terrace, Buffalo, NY 14209.

INDEX NO.: 800370/2013. Filed Date: 2/27/2014. PROPOSED SUPPLEMENTAL SUMMONS. MORTGAGED PREMISES: 137 CLARENCE AVENUE, BUFFALO, NY 14215. (SBL #: 90.31 – 1 – 21). STATE OF NEW YORK. SUPREME COURT: COUNTY OF ERIE. MIDFIRST BANK, Plaintiff, -againstUNKNOWN HEIRS TO THE ESTATE OF CHARLIE SHAW, if they be living and if they be dead, the respective heirs-at-law, next-of-kin, distributees, executors, administrators, trustees, devisees, legatees, assignees, lienors, creditors and successors in interest and generally all persons having or claiming under, by or through said defendants who may be deceased, by purchase, inheritance, lien or inheritance, any right, title or interest in or to the real property described in the Complaint, NEW YORK STATE DEPARTMENT OF TAXATION AND FINANCE, DEBORAH MERRIFIELD, COMMISSIONER ERIE COUNTY DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES, UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, ARROW FINANCIAL SERVICES, LLC, THE PEOPLE OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK, PEGGY BELK, ADRIANNA PORTER, JOSEPH PORTER, Defendants. TO THE ABOVE NAMED DEFENDANT(S): You are hereby summoned to answer the Amended Complaint in this action and to serve a copy of your answer, or, if the Amended Complaint is not served with this Proposed Supplemental Summons, to serve a notice of appearance on the Plaintiff’s attorney within twenty (20) days after the service of this Proposed Supplemental Summons, exclusive of the day of service (or within (30) days after the service is complete if this Proposed Supplemental Summons is not personally delivered to you within the State of New York); and in case of your failure to appear or answer, judgment will be taken against you by default for the relief demanded in the Amended Complaint. NOTICE YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME IF YOU DO NOT RESPOND TO THIS SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE MORTGAGE COMPANY WHO FILED THIS FORECLOSURE PROCEEDING AGAINST YOU AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT, A DEFAULT JUDGMENT MAY BE ENTERED AND YOU CAN LOSE YOUR HOME. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY OR GO TO THE COURT WHERE YOUR CASE IS PENDING FOR FURTHER INFORMATION ON HOW TO ANSWER THE SUMMONS AND PROTECT YOUR PROPERTY. SENDING PAYMENT TO YOUR MORTGAGE COMPANY WILL NOT STOP THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION. YOU MUST RESPOND BY SERVING A COPY OF THE ANSWER ON THE ATTORNEY FOR THE PLAINTIFF (MORTGAGE COMPANY) AND FILING THE ANSWER WITH THE COURT. Dated: New Rochelle, N.Y. February 17, 2014. Signed Pursuant to 22 NYCRR Section 130-1.1-a /s/_________________ Jonathan Pollack, Esq. McCabe, Weisberg & Conway Attorneys for Plaintiff 145 Huguenot Street, Ste. 210 New Rochelle, NY 10801 p. 914-636-8900 f. 914-636-8901 HELP FOR HOMEOWNERS IN FORECLOSURE NEW YORK STATE LAW REQUIRES THAT WE SEND YOU THIS NOTICE ABOUT THE FORECLOSURE PROCESS. PLEASE READ IT CAREFULLY. SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT YOU ARE IN DANGER OF LOSING YOUR HOME. IF YOU FAIL TO RESPOND TO THE SUMMONS AND COMPLAINT IN THIS FORECLOSURE ACTION, YOU MAY LOSE YOUR HOME. PLEASE READ THE SUMMONSAND COMPLAINT CAREFULLY. YOU SHOULD IMMEDIATELY CONTACT AN ATTORNEY OR YOUR LOCAL LEGAL AID OFFICE TO OBTAIN ADVICE ON HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF. SOURCES OF INFORMATION AND ASSISTANCE. The State encourages you to become informed about your options in foreclosure. In addition to seeking assistance from an attorney or legal aid office, there are government agencies and nonprofit organizations that you may contact for information about possible options, including trying to work with your lender during this process. To locate an entity near you, you may call the toll-free helpline maintained by the New York State Banking Department at 1-877-226-5697 or visit the Department's website at www.dfs.ny.gov. FORECLOSURE RESCUE SCAMS Be careful of people who approach you with offers to "save" your home. There are individuals who watch for notices of foreclosure actions in order to unfairly profit from a homeowner's distress. You should be extremely careful about any such promises and any suggestions that you pay them a fee or sign over your deed. State law requires anyone offering such services for profit to enter into a contract which fully describes the services they will perform and fees they will charge, and which prohibits them from taking any money from you until they have completed all such promised services.

ChallengerCN.com

APRIL 2, 2014 Challenger Community News •

NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS

SUN 3/23

MON 3/24

TUES 3/25

WED 3/26 THURS 3/27 FRI 3/28 SAT 3/29

MEDIA EVENT

NETWORKING

“Meet the Black Media,” a free networking event for all aspiring journalists and others pursuing careers in media, MID-240 MID-105 MID-514 MID- 813 MID-228 MID-359 MID-783 will be held at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 10, in the Bulger Communication Center at SUNY Buffalo State. 3-WAY EVE-111 EVE-994 EVE-556 EVE-517 EVE-418 EVE-618 EVE-654 The program will begin with a screening of the docu mentary “The Black Press: Soldiers Without Swords.” That will be followed by a panel discussion and Q&A with black media professionals, who will offer tips on getting MID-0487 MID-5976 MID -2440 MID- 1857 MID- 2783 MID-9218 MID-6835 started in media. A reception will follow. WIN 4 EVE-4539 EVE-9856 EVE- 8779 EVE- 4370 EVE- 2149 EVE-5483 EVE-5396 The panelists will be: reporter Brittni Smallwood of WIVB-TV; reporter Harold McNeil of The Buffalo News; public relations consultant Jennifer J. Parker, president of the Black Capital Network and Jackson Parker Com1-13-22-24-26 1-3-8-15-17 2-4-20-26-29 3-17-18-34-37 15-20-24-25-26 6-7-8-36-38 13-15-19-28-38 munications; editorial writer Dawn Bracely of The BufTAKE 5 falo News; Eva M. Doyle, Buffalo Criterion columnist and WUFO radio host; and Al-Nisa Banks, editor and publisher of The Challenger. 4-10-11-18-25-28#27 7-29-30-37-42-53#26 Food and refreshments will be served. The event, in LOTTO room West 2, is sponsored by the Buffalo Association of Black Journalists; the SUNY Buffalo State Communication Department, Business Department and Office of Eq uity and Diversity; and Tops Markets.

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3-Way Winning Numbers this Time Last Year 04/10/2013 Evening 04/10/2013 Midday 04/09/2013 Evening 04/09/2013 Midday 04/08/2013 Evening 04/08/2013 Midday 04/07/2013 Evening 04/07/2013 Midday 04/06/2013 Evening 04/06/2013 Midday 04/05/2013 Evening 04/05/2013 Midday 04/04/2013 Evening 04/04/2013 Midday 04/03/2013 Evening 04/03/2013 Midday 04/02/2013 Evening 04/02/2013 Midday

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Hua Hu Ching

-TenThe ego is a monkey catapulting through the jungle; Totally fascinated by the realm of the senses, it swings from one desire to the next, one conflict to the next, one self-centered idea to the next. If you threaten it, it actually fears for its life. Let this money go. Let the senses go. Let desires go. Let conflicts go.Let ideas go. Let the fiction of life and death go. Just remain in the center, watching. And then forget that you are there. REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS The Erie County Department of Mental Health (ECDMH) is issuing a Request for Proposals to provide New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services PART 817 Chemical Dependence Residential Rehabilitation Services for Youth RFP # 1414VF. Qualified providers eligible to respond to this Request for Proposals must currently be certified (including Emergency Certification) by NYS OASAS as a current provider of this service for which proposals are being sought within this RFP. The RFP and associated forms can be obtained at: httpww://w2.erie. gov/purchasing/index.php?q=requests-proposals-amp-construction-bids . Responses must be received no later than noon on April 30, 2014, prior to 3 p.m., and submitted per specifications delineated within the RFP.

The Erie County Department of Mental Health (ECDMH) is issuing a Request for Proposals to provide New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services PART 819 Community Residential Services and Supportive Living Services RFP # 1415VF. Qualified providers eligible to respond to this Request for Proposals must currently be certified (including Emergency Certification) by NYS OASAS as a current provider of Part 819 services for which proposals are being sought within this RFP. The RFP and associated forms can be obtained at: httpww:// w2.erie.gov/purchasing/index.php?q=requests-proposalsamp-construction-bids . Responses must be received no later than noon on April 28, 2014, prior to 3 p.m., and submitted per specifications delineated within the RFP.

APRIL 2, 2014

EVENTS CALENDAR

Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com

Newly Formed Support Groups for Teens P.E.A.C.E Inc. has formed a new group called “Supporting Children Living with Grief and Trauma” for ages 13-18 years old. The group meets every first Saturday of each month at the Jesse Nash Center/ Sherman L. Walker H.S. Center, 608 William St. from 1- 2:30 p.m. the sessions are designed for families and friends who have lost a loved one to homicide. For more information call 842-8700. P.E.A.C.E stands for “Parents Encouraging Accountability and Closure to Everyone.”

Early Bird Registration for Lovejoy Lions Football Team Register now for the Lovejoy Lions Football Team and receiver a discount of $20. From now through May 16 the registration fee is $130. Starting May 17 the registration is $150. The fee is nonrefundable. For more information or concerns please call Coach Willie at 716-877-8993, Coach Charles at 716-833-0213, and Coach Mark at 716444-7689.

Wednesday April 2

Thursday April 3

Learn More About Babies, Birth And Breastfeeding At The Central City Baby Café : free drop in center at the Durham Outreach Center, 200 E. Eagle Street every Wednesday and Thursday 5:30-7:30 p.m. Free Dinner. Call Doris 885-6348.

Juneteenth Committee Chairs/Volunteers Meeting: 6 p.m., Merriweather Libdrartg, Jefferson @ Utica; for 39th Annual Festival.

Matt Urban Center Community Housing Fair: 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at Autumnwood Center, 1800 Clinton St.

“Green Pastures” is Legends & Legacies Next Film Legends and Legacies film # 18 The Green Pastures will be shown on Saturday, April 5, 2014 from 3:00- 5:00 p.m. at the Merriweather Library. This is a film for the entire family. Starring an all-Black cast, it features music, comedy, and inspiration. Originally released in the 1930s it sold thousands of tickets each week and ran for five successful years. Admission is free and the public is invited to attend. For more information call Eva Doyle at 847-6010. See You at the Events!

Basketball for Hospice: McKinley High School, 1500 Elmwood Ave; faculty game and more; 3:30 p.m., $2 Saturday April 5 Durham’s Central City Baby Café Bash & “Labor of Love” 1st Anniversary: 200 E. Eagle St., 12 noon, free admission, guest speaker, information, fun, refreshments and more; for more info call Doris at 885-6348. Ministry of Encouragement FREE Spring Fair: Hosted by Sistas United, noon to 4 p.m., 1325 Main St. (on riley Side) 2nd floor community room; 883-3978.

Fruitbelt Coalition’s Easter Egg Hunt! The FruitBelt Coalition is sponsoring their first Easter Egg Hunt. There will be fun activities at the Pratt Wilert Center, 422 Pratt Street, Saturday, April 5 from 11am – 1:30pm for ages 1-12. Enjoy candy, prizes, activities, and more! Call Dr. Benjamin Cashaw at 893-6428 to confirm your attendance.

Sunday April 6

Friday April 11

Hustle for Health: Free Line Locust Street Art FREE Dance Fitness for Seniors Movie Night: 7-9 p.m., 138 launch;10 am-11am, 118 E. Locust Street “Son of the Utica. South.” Saturday April 12 Thursday April 10 Bennett Wells Post #1780 Media Networking Event 60th Anniversary Celebra“Meet the Black Media”: 6 tion: 1356 East Delavan @ p.m., Bulger Communica- Cortland, 2 p.m. Meet and tion Center, Buffalo State Greet, 4 p.m. dinner; 896College. Open to public. 1614, 856-5229, 200-1779, 348-8554.

ChallengerCN.com ima g e s o f u s

HAPPY 80TH! Family and friends of Margaret English (3rd from left seated top photo) celebrated her 80th birthday on February 14 at St. Columba-Brigid Hall. Among the images above: BUILD Academy staff and Rev. Jacqeline Brown celebrate Mrs. English; and family members Michelle, Chantell, Tina, Destiny and Jeremiah honor Mother English!

APRIL 2, 2014 Challenger Community News â&#x20AC;˘