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INSIDE ROCHESTER
MAY 2, 2012
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
around town Magnificent Africa
Minister Franklin Florence
Community Recognition Dinner Tribute to Honor Minister Franklin Florence Jesse Jackson Jr. to Keynote Gala
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esse Jackson Jr. to Keynote Jesse Louis Jackson, Jr. , U.S. Representative for Illinois’s 2nd congressional district who has served since the special election in 1995, will be the keynote speaker at the Community Recognition Dinner and Tribute in honor of Minister Franklin Florence at the Rochester Riverside Convention Center at 6 p.m. on Friday, May 4. Mr. Jackson, a member of the Democratic Party, is the son of civil rights leader Jesse Jackson. WHEC-TV Anchor Janet Lomax will serve as Mistress of Ceremonies. The Hon. David Gantt is honorary chair. Senior Minister Franklin D. Florence, pas- Rep. Jackson tor of Central Church of Christ on Plymouth Avenue, has committed his life to the task of preaching the Gospel. In his youth, he was one of the “boy preachers” who traveled extensively as teenagers with esteemed ministers such as Evangelist Marshall Keeble. Prior to accepting the pastorate of the Central Church of Christ, he served as Pastor of the West Palm Beach Church of Christ in Florida, and for several years as the pastor of the Reynolds Street Church of Christ (now known as the East Henrietta Road Church of Christ). Franklin D. Florence, is well known in the Rochester, New York community and nationally as “Minister Florence,” the name that became synonymous with his social activism as the first President of the F. I. G. H. T. Organization (Freedom-Independence-God-Honor-Today). His activism is fueled by his strong conviction that Christians and the church must be leaders in causes for social justice and equality. His conviction has not always been deemed favorable in many religious circles where the thought was (and often remains) that the church should separate itself from the social/political arena. Minister Florence is a dynamic personality and a visionary pioneering leader. He has been blessed to see - and countless others have enjoyed - the rewards of his social justice efforts. The Rochester community and area communities owe him a debt of gratitude for the sacrificial work he has done in helping to open doors to fair employment and subsidized housing. He has also been a consistent voice and presence for quality academic and social education in our public school system. Minister Florence has also been intricately involved in programs to improve correctional institutions, and he was one of the Ministers who labored so desperately to prohibit the massacre at the Attica Correctional Institution in the 1970’s. His papers that document his involvement in this crusade and others are on file at the University of Rochester Library. Minister Franklin D. Florence,is a spiritual man and a student of the Scriptures who is deeply committed to the Gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. He has made many sacrifices for its furtherance. He is a “Much-in-Demand” Preacher of the Gospel and has been called to preach for Gospel campaigns all over the United States of America. Untold numbers of people have committed their lives to Christ as a result of Minister Florence’s “Scripturally Sound” preaching and teaching. Because of his knowledge of the Holy Scriptures, his spiritual insights, and his tenacity, he is frequently called to local and out-of-state congregations to help solve problems to bring about greater unity in the Body of Christ. In so doing, he heeds the words of the Apos-
The Magnificent Africa exhibit is now on display at the Baobab Cultural Center, 728 University Avenue, Rochester. It is a pictorial history of the beginning of man, the beauty and grandeur of the African continent, and a celebration of African genius. Through a series of nineteen large, colorful panels, the story of African migration and trade routes, classical civilizations and great empires, ancient writings, scholarship in math and sciences, and excellence in the arts - from textile making to architecture - is told. It brings to light why a continent so rich in natural resources was admired and desired by many, and why its people, skilled craftsmen and women, became valuable to the New World. Displayed through May, 2012. Terry Chaka is gallery manager. For more information (585)563-2145. *Frances Hare Creative Events: Dance encounters, 215 Tremont, door, #8 on the 1st floor. *On Sunday, May 6th, "Family Day Arts and Crafts Fair," 11 a.m.-5 p.m., in the same location (see above). *Traditional Dance Intensive is $50 for the 3 hours: the craft fair is three dollars. *When Sculpture and Dance Connect: A Dialogue on the Visual and Performing Arts with Albert Paley and Garth Fagan. Join the conversation as two world-renowned artists share their thoughts on the inspiration and challenges behind creating their work. A performance by the Garth Fagan Dance Company will be a catalyst to the dialogue between Albert Paley and Garth Fagan on Friday, May 18 at 8pm in the 3rd floor Garth Fagan Dance Studio Theatre on 50 Chestnut Street in Rochester, NY.
tle Paul in 1 Corinthians 1:10: “Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”
SHOWSTOPPERS! New Edition gave fans their mone’s worth Sunday evening during a great performance in Rochester. Upwards of 7,000 or more reportedly attended the long awaited concert. The not so bright spot was a corny female Millie Jackson wannabe, co called comedian who was even booed by the audience! Photo by Jerome Davis
It’s about
showing in our city!
SATURDAYS, 9 am to 1 pm
May 5: Genesee Valley Park, 131 Elmwood Ave. May 12: Cobbs Hill Park, Norris Dr. & Culver Rd. May 19: NE Neighborhood Service Center, 500 Norton St. FREE T-shirt, coffee, donuts and a picnic lunch!
Volunteer today! Call 311
cityofrochester.gov/cleansweep
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• MAY 2, 2012 Challenger Community News •
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Lackawanna School District Violates Voting Rights of City’s Minority Residents Charges Stop the Violence Chair Coalition: African American, Arab Americans File Question’s Brothers Death Complaint With Department of Justice!
WNY AREA BRIEFS
Hon. Arthur O. Eve
EOC Seeks Nominations for Arthur O. Eve Education/Community Service Award The University at Buffalo Educational Opportunity Center is seeking nominations for their annual Arthur O. Eve Education and Community Service Award. This award honors the legacy of Mr. Eve, the former Deputy Speaker of the New York State Assembly, whose dedication and commitment helped make educational attainment a reality for members of the community. This award will be presented to an EOC student or alumnus who demonstrates leadership, advocacy, community service, and/or commitment to education. For more information or to submit a nomination, please contact Sandra Bunkley at (716)849-6727 ext. 164 or e-mail sbunkley@ buffalo.edu .
Freedom Party Alive and Well! The local planning committee for the Freedom Party will hold an organizational meeting to plan endorsements and petitioning for the up coming elections for judges and other political offices. The meeting, which is open to the public, will be held on Saturday, May 19 at 11 a.m. at the 2nd Cup Restaurant, Broadway at Ellicott. Honest, well meaning, hard working volunteers are welcome. For questions or concerns call 896-0858
Murray Holman, chairman of the Stop the Violence Coalition, is questioning his 45-year-old’s brothers recent death. He was reportedly killed when a car he was hanging from crashed on Cambridge Avenue. Holman pointed out that the female driver of the car had yet to be identified. He feels that drugs played a role in the tragic accident. Holman said his brother, Lamont ‘Monty” Holman, who “didn’t have a violent bone in his body” had suffered from schizophrenia for the last 30 years or so. Holman said he was disappointed that he did not hear from Mayor Brown in light of all the anti-violence and community work he has performed. Anyone with information is asked to contact police at the TIPCALL 847-2255 or text a tip on the department’s website, www. bpdny.org
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espite a local judge’s ruling upholding the Lackawanna City School Board’s polling site for School Board Elections at the Bocce Court Building as its first Ward polling place, members of the African American and Arab American community are moving forward with their plans and have filed a complaint with the Department of Justice on charges that the voting rights of city residents are being violated. The following statement was released by the African American/ Arab American coalition: When the Lackawanna Public School District board of trustees held its regular meeting at the Martin Road Elementary School last week, the residents and the community protested the resolution reducing the school board trustee election polling places from 11 to 4. The Afro-American, Arab American and Hispanic residents of the first Ward view the selection of the Bocce Court as the single polling place in the First Ward as a covert attempted to willfully disenfranchise minority voters the right to vote. The Board of Education of the Lackawanna City School District has willfully disenfran-
PROUD! Dorothy Wagstaff of Princess Photography is proud to announce the arrival of her first grandson, Maison Alexander Wagstaff. Maison was born on April 21, 2012 at 1:11 a.m. at Highland Hospital in Rochester, N.Y. Maison’s proud parents are Tomicka C. Wagstaff and Matthew Alexander Wagstaff. Maison’s big sister’s name is Madison N. Wagstaff.
Scholarships Offered
The Buffalo Association of Black Social Workers, Inc. has scholarship applications for college students that are studying in the field of Social Work and Human Services. Applications may be received via email: buffaloabsw@yahoo.com The deadline for applications is May 20, 2012. Buffalo Association of Black Social Workers Inc., PO Box 1721, Central Park Station, Buffalo, NY 14215
“Keeping Our Children Out of the Criminal Justice System” Topic of Discussion “Keeping Our children Out of the Criminal Justice System” is the topic of a community discussion on Wednesday, May 2 from 5;30-7:45 p.m. at the Merriweather Library, Jefferson at Utica. Invited speakers include: Attorney John Elmore, Attorney Edward Earl Key, Judge E. Jeanette Ogden, Judge James McLeod and former NYS Senator Antoine Thompson. The event is sponsored by the “We Are women Warriors” Community and Family Empowerment Group. For more information contact Legislator Grant at 536-7323.
chised minority voting in the City of Lackawanna by enacting a resolution that designated four polling sites in the city of Lackawanna for the May 15 trustee election. The designated polling place in the Second Ward is centrally located at Queen of Angels Church Hall. The polling place for the Third Ward is centrally located at the middle/ high school complex on Martin Road. The designated polling place in the First Ward is not centrally located, nor is it easily accessible by public transportation nor are there any continuous side walks along Rule 5 for thee residents to walk to the site, nor are the handicapped able to access a safe route to the site. Furthermore the only pedestrian traffic can be allowed. On April 24 representatives from the Afro-American and Arab-American communities of the First Ward met with the US Attorney and his staff in Buffalo and with the lead US Attorneys Office Voters Rights Specialist in Washington, D.C. and filed a Civil Rights/ Voter Rights Complaint against the Lackawanna Public School district. The African American and Arab American communities of the First Ward are demanding an immediate “Stay”from the re-
duction of the polling sites to the New York State commissioner of education. In April of last year, the Commissioner issued a “Stay” when the same body tried to have one polling district in the entire City of Lackawanna. The commissioner indicated to the Board of Education of the Lackawanna School District that their actions were “illegal.” Papers filed with the Commissioner’s office indicated that this was a direct violation of the Voting Rights Act of 1965, however the Commissioner mentioned it but could not rule on the matter as it was not within his jurisdiction. Presently the Board of Education of the Lackawanna City School District has a long standing history of violating the rights of minorities. They have settled two cases and have two cases pending presently.
State Education Commissioner, Dr. John B. King Jr. (at head of table listens as Council Member Demone Smith makes a point. Also seated at the table, Assemblywoman Crystal Peoples-Stokes, Bro. Sam Radford and CAO head Nate Hare.
‘It Ain’t Over’: Parents Meet With State Education Commissioner: Are Told To Keep Working Towards A Solution
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embers of the District Parent Coordinating Council and several local elected officials met yesterday with State Education Commissioner, Dr. John B. King Jr., who was in Buffalo for the NYSUT conference. The Commissioner expressed his support for the children of Buffalo, and encouraged parents to continue to advocate for a solution to the suspended funding currently being held up due to the failure of the Buffalo Teachers Federation to sign off on an evaluation agreement. Parents have been urgently seeking options, and have met with and received pledges of support from the Buffalo Board of Education, Mayor Bryon Brown, and now Commissioner King over the past several days. The clock is ticking with millions of dollars at-risk for children in the most challenged schools of Buffalo. Also at stake is the potential closure of Lafayette High School, which will be unable implement its school turnaround plan with the pull-out of Johns Hopkins University as a partner as of May 1st. While it looked like the chance for a resolution might be over with the passage of yet another deadline to submit a new evaluation plan, and the status of the hearing that Superintendent Amber Dixon and other District officials attended on Thursday likely taking several weeks to hear back on, parents are taking matters into their own hands and are asking for help from all stakeholders to strike a deal that is in the best interest of their children. “We have been told by Commissioner King that he is willing to continue to work through this process. He doesn’t want to withhold funds, but there are federal laws in place that require a teacher evaluation protocol signed off on by all parties before money can be released. We are all confused about what the Buffalo Teachers Federation wants. First they didn’t want to be measured on attendance and we worked though that. Now they are bringing up issues with English Language Learners and Special Education children. We need to get to the heart of the matter here and move past this,” says Samuel Radford III, President of the District Parent Coordinating Council. The District Parent Coordinating Council is asking for an emergency meeting with the BTF and Superintendent Amber Dixon to come up with an agreement that addresses all concerns. They plan to mobilize the support of the State Education Commissioner, Board of Education, Mayor, and many parents and community partners who are all calling for an end to a three year squabble which has taken vast amounts of time, energy, and resources of teachers, parents, and the District. “This situation has caused a huge disruption at our school,” says Dr. Wendy Mistretta, PTO President at International School #45. “The way that teachers are evaluated may not be ideal. But it seems like the BTF keeps changing what their issue, which is just what they are accusing the State of doing. We need to move past this and focus on the learning of our children and working together as parents, teachers, and community to support our students”.
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National/International NEWS Courageous Black Secret Service Woman Revealed Scandal
MAY 2, 2012
A Black Secret Service agent is being hailed as the heroine in what is reportedly the worst scandal in the agency’s history.
Atlanta Bar Owner Posts Sign Calling President Obama a N*gger
An Atlanta bar owner posted a sign outside his restaurant that says, “I do not support the N*gger in the White House.”he sign, posted outside the Georgia Peach Oyster Bar in Paulding County, Georgia, has caught the attention of many onlookers. In an interview with Atlanta’s Fox 5 news, bar owner Patrick Lanzo says that he’s been posting outrageous signs for years, and this is no different. Lanzo, of course, says that he is not a racist, but just enjoys using his free speech to call the President a n*gger. “I don’t feel bad about anything whatsoever,” said Lanzo. “Therefore, they can go out and put their own sign in their own yard and I will not be offended.”
Paula Reid is the 46-year-old special agent responsible for blowing the whistle on the sex scandal that turned the esteemed agency into so much fodder for the 24-hour news cycle and cable talk shows. Reid, the head of the service detail down in Latin America, discovered that at least 11 agents, including two supervisors, had brought prostitutes back to their hotel rooms in Cartagena, Colombia, just days before the president arrived for an international summit. Such action posed a significant security risk for the commander-in-chief. Officials are praising Reid for her swift action. “She acted decisively, appropriately,” said Maine Sen. Susan Collins, the ranking member of the Homeland Security Committee, and one of Congress’ lead investigators into this incident, on ABC’s “This Week” on April 22. The other, New York Congresswoman Carolyn Maloney from the House Oversight Committee, added, “I talked to [Secret Service Director Mark] Sullivan last night, and he was commending her leadership, too. She really went in there and cleaned up the mess.” In the wake of Reid’s probe, six agents have been fired, six others are being investigated and 11 military personnel are also under scrutiny. Officials are also examining whether this incident was part of a pattern. “I recognize that the vast majority of Secret Service personnel are professional, disciplined, dedicated, courageous. But to me it defies belief that this is just an aberration,” Collins said. “There were too many people involved. If it had been one or two, then I would say it was an aberration. But it included two supervisors. That is particularly shocking and appalling.”
ATTENTION FORMER COKE OVEN EMPLOYEES
If you or a family member worked in the Coke Oven Division at Bethlehem Steel or any other Coke Oven Facility in Western New York or elsewhere, you should consider the following: • Coke oven emissions are a potent cause of lung cancer and other cancers; • Coke oven emissions are composed of gases and dust, which are harmful to your lungs and skin; • Former coke oven workers, even if they smoked cigarettes, may have valuable claims that can be pursued in Court against companies such as Koppers and Wilputte.
If you believe you or a family member is suffering from or died as a result of a cancer from work on coke oven batteries, you should consult a lawyer. ONE WESTERN NEW YORK LAW FIRM HAS EXPERIENCE IN THIS AREA
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Charles Taylor
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
BlackAgendaReport U.S. Hands Off Mali! The Tuareg rebellion that has cut the West African nation of Mali in two is the result of colonial boundaries and decisions that “left out a nomadic people without any kind of land base of their own,” said Anna Edwards, of Defenders of Freedom, Justice and Equality, in Richmond, Virginia. The “destabilization of Libya” by the U.S. and NATO left thousands of Malian Tuaregs jobless. Peace activists should demand that the U.S. not intervene in the conflict, said Ms. Edwards, who has visited Mali several times. “The bulk of U.S. aid to Mali is implemented through AFRICOM, and the desire to find a base on African soil.”
Court finds Charles Taylor Cholera Deaths Up in Haiti return of the rainy season has brought an increase in deaths Guilty of Aiding War Crimes The from cholera, which has killed 7,000 Haitians and sickened half Judges at a war crimes tribunal in the Netherlands convict the former Liberian president of aiding and abetting atrocities in neighbouring Sierra Leone
a million since its introduction by MINUSTAH, the United Nations military occupation force. The UN has the responsibility to commit the resources to control the disease “because they brought it there, but they’re still denying it,” said Mark Weisbrot, co-director of the Center for Economic and Policy Research, in Washington. “This is the rainy season, and once again they’re not prepared for it. I think they just don’t care enough.”
In an historic judgment, the UN-backed court at The Hague last week found Liberia’s former president, Charles Taylor, guilty of war crimes. He was convicted of abetting murder, rape, and the forced enlistment of child soldiers during Sierra Leone’s notoriously brutal civil war. Sierra Leone victims cheered the verdict. However it drew anger from Liberians.
Tear Down U.S. Prison Gulag
It was the first war crimes conviction of a former head of state by an international court since the Nuremberg trials of Nazi leaders after World War II.
Diana Ross Afro Brillo Pads Cause Racial Controversy A new company is being accused of racism after releasing some afro style sponges that are getting the attention of the public. The British company Paladone is under fire for the release of the products, featuring caricatures of Diana Ross, using her hair for a brillo pad. Critics have accused of the company of making products that are similar to those considered derogatory toward blacks during slavery and Jim Crow.
“It’s a counterinsurgency before there is an insurgency.” That’s how Los Angeles activist Clyde Young views America’s incarceration of 2.4 million people, most of them Black and Latino. The Stop Mass Incarceration Network plans actions in New York, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Chicago and the San Francisco Bay area on April 19, a National Day of Resistance to Mass Incarceration. Statutes like Florida’s Stand Your Grand Law encourage racist vigilantism, said Young. “They’re nothing but new forms of lynch laws, where any citizen…can shoot a person down on the street, and be exonerated.” In Atlanta, activist Joey Johnson said George Zimmerman, Trayvon Martin’s killer, was “acting out a larger, racist societal project. It requires a deeper, systemic change if we’re going to get to the root of it, and not constantly be dealing with the phenomenon.”
Occupy Harlem to Rally for “All the Trayvons” “It’s essential for us to build a united front against racist killings,” said Dr. William Sales, an organizer of Occupy Harlem’s rally and march, April 21. “We have to move against what has emerged as a New Jim Crow. It’s really a form of terrorism that is more associated with the Old Jim Crow than with law enforcement,” said Sales, an associate professor of African Studies at Seton Hall University. For information, call 646.812.5188. Justice Wanted: Plan Needed
Trayvon Martin Update Sharpton, Trayvon’s Family Call for Peace To mark the 2oth anniversary of the deadly riots that engulfed Los Angeles following the 1992 Rodney King verdict civil rights activist Al Sharpton and Trayvon Martin’s parents are urging peace at events. Sharpton spoke to Yahoo News before he and Martin’s family addressed a church on Thursday night. “Twenty years ago I came out here after that protest after the verdict and tried to discourage the violence, and 20 years later now I’m here with Trayvon’s parents and we’re saying we don’t want violence,” he said. After four white police officers were acquitted in the recorded beating of Rodney King on April 29, the city exploded into one of the deadliest riots in American history, leaving 54 dead and causing $1 billion in property damage. Sharpton, who now hosts a show on MSNBC, says much has changed since then, and he doesn’t expect the racially charged debate over Martin’s shooting to end in violence if George Zimmerman, who is Hispanic, is acquitted.
MAY 2, 2012
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
HEALTH MATTERS
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Popular Kids' Drinks to Avoid
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TO YOUR HEALTH! The Buffalo Chapter of the Links Inc. will host their Health & Human Services Facet Forum & Luncheon this Saturday, May 5 at the Millennium Hotel. Pictured above with members of the Buffalo Chapter, seven youth groups recently geared up for service at Saturday’s forum/luncheon. Approximately 30 youngsters will serve as guides, escorts and assistants. PHOTO PRINCESS PHOTOGRAPHY
Links Health to Present Health and Human Services Forum
EAT TO LIVE!
The Links “It’s Your Health: Let’s Protect It!” Forum and Luncheon will be held on Saturday, May 5 at the Millennium Hotel Buffalo, 2040 Walden Avenue. The donation is $20 The forum will be held from 8:30-11:30 a.m. a.m . Forum Presenters include:
Join Us for an Open House Find out why more than 20,000 students attend SUNY Empire State College. Join us for an Undergraduate Information Session and Open House where you’ll learn about: • • • •
degrees and programs onsite study credit for qualified life experience tuition and financial aid
Bring college transcripts for review and receive assistance with the admissions and financial aid process.
May 3 5:30 – 8 p.m. AppleTree Business Park 2875 Union Road Cheektowaga
RSVP at Eric.Bridges@esc.edu Or call 716-686-7833
Miriam Callahan, Project Coordinator Erie County Dept. of Senior Services; Hannan Imani, PA. Diabetes and Endocrinology Center of Western New York; Dr. Deborah Erwin, Roswell Park Cancer Institute; Jeffery J. Grace, M.D., Clinical Director, Buffalo Psychiatric Center; Henry L. Taylor, Ph.D. Chairperson, Department of Urban Studies, SUNYAB; Alzheimer ‘s - Buffalo General Hospital. Forum Co-chairs are Johnnie M. Mayo and Janice Y. Ferguson. The event’s luncheon will be held at Noon. Lisa A. Nicholas, M.D., from the UCLA Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Assistant Clinical Professor David Geffen from the School of Medicine at UNLA will be the speakers. Cecelia B. Henderson and Linda C. Brown are luncheon co-chairs. “It’s Your Health: Let’s Protect It!” is a major community project which focuses on “A.D.D.” (Alzheimer’s’, Dementia, Depression), plus the Big “O” (Obesity)!” It is ¬a project of the recently established Health and Human Services Facet with Conference follow-up activities focusing on resources and advocacy. Link Constance B. Eve is chairperson of the Health and Human Services Facet and Link Johnnie M. Mayo is chapter president.
Diabetes 101 FREE Class
A FREE one-hour Diabetes class will be held Tues., May 8 at 1:30pm - Cheektowaga Sr. Ctr. 686-3930. Please call to Pre-register.
s childhood obesity rates continue to balloon, sugary beverages are emerging as a prime culprit. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, sweetened beverages are the largest source of empty carbs, in the form of added sugars, in children’s diets, and the extra calories are helping to expand young waistlines. Even among adults, sugary drinks have been linked to not-sosweet effects that include weight gain, type 2 diabetes, and heart problems. A recent study in the journal Circulation suggests that men who drink 12 or more ounces of a sugar-sweetened beverage a day are 20 percent more likely to develop heart disease than men are who abstain. Most Americans--including kids--get too much sugar. The AHA recommends that men get a total of no more than 36 grams of sugar a day, the equivalent of 9 teaspoons, and that women get no more than two-thirds that much. Children are advised to limit their sugar intake to 12 grams a day, or 3 teaspoons. During 2001 to 2004, however, children ages 4 to 8 consumed 21 teaspoons per day on average. While Debbie Beauvais, a registered dietitian and spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, doesn’t think sugary beverages should be singled out as causing childhood obesity, she does recommend that kids--and adults--opt instead for water, milk, or small portions of 100 percent juice. Low-fat and fat-free milk are rich in calcium, and pure juice, she says, offers lots of nutrients. *Hi-C. These little cartons may deliver all the vitamin C your kid needs in a day, but Hi-C is only 10 percent juice. A single 6.75-ounce serving contains 90 calories and 25 grams of sugar. That’s more sugar per ounce than in a regular Coke. *Hawaiian Punch. Eight ounces has 70 calories and 17 grams of sugar. With just 5 percent juice, this drink also includes preservatives and artificial flavors and colorings such as “red 40” in its ingredient list. *SunnyD. It might taste like orange juice, but SunnyD Tangy Original is just 5 percent juice. Along with 80 percent of the recommended daily vitamin C, your kid will also get 11 grams of sugar in a 6.75-ounce bottle. *Capri Sun. One 6-ounce pouch packs 60 calories and 16 grams of sugar. *Dannon Danimals. These 3.1-ounce yogurt smoothies may look healthy, but they only have 10 percent of the recommended daily calcium based on a 2,000 calorie diet-slightly more for a kid’s 1,600 calorie diet-plus 70 calories and 14 grams of sugar. There are healthier ways to quench a juvenile thirst. Here are some tips: *Choose water. The Institute of Medicine recommends that kids ages 4 to 8 get about 5 12-ounce glasses of water each day, and that older kids and teens get between 5½ to 8 glasses, depending on age and gender. *Use pure juice, not juice drinks. Juice shouldn’t replace apples, oranges, grapes, and other fruits-it doesn’t have the fiber content of whole fruits, and nutrition labels show that even pure, all-natural juice has considerable sugar. But it’s in the juice, not added to it, and the juice offers far more than just empty calories. New research published in the journal Public Health Nutrition shows that drinking pure fruit juice is linked to improved nutrition in 2- to 18-year-olds. *Limit juice portions to 1 cup a day. “Portion size is most important,” says Beauvais. Four to 8 ounces a day is plenty for children. Serving sizes have increased over the years, so be careful-one juice box typically is about 7 ounces. Dilute with water if you have concerns. By U. S. News & World Report
Starbucks to Stop Using ‘Crushed Bug’ Dye NEW YORK — Starbucks Corp. says it will stop using a red dye in its drinks that is derived from crushed bugs. The Seattle-based coffee chain said it will swap out cochineal extract, which is made from the juice of a tiny beetle, and instead use lycopene, a tomato-based extract. Cochineal dye is widely used in foods and cosmetics products such as lipstick, yogurt and shampoo. Starbucks had used the coloring in its strawberry flavored mixed drinks and foods like the raspberry swirl cake and red velvet whoopie pie. The company says the items will be reformulated by the end of June.
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FAITH BASED
72-Hour Non-Stop Prayer and Full Gospel WNY Installation and Impartation Service for Apostle Frederick A. Gelsey Sr. State Conference Join True Bethel Baptist Church, 907 East Ferry Street, for 72 hours of Non-Stop Prayer May 1, 2 and 3 beginning at 6 a.m. Special guests include Bishop Kenneth Robinson of Little Rock, Arkansas; Prophet Michael Shakespeare of Detroit, Michigan; Dr. Kim Yancey James of Newark, N.J.; and gospel recording artist Pastor Tasha Cobbs (Smile) from Atlanta, Georgia. Join True Bethel for prayer for our families and celebrate the National Day of Prayer for 72 hours! The theme will be: “Strengthening The Family – Men – Women – Youth.” Services are: 6 a.m. Morning Glory; 12 Noon, Day Manna; and 7 p.m. Worship Experience. Doors will be open the Entire 72 Hours. See you there! For more information call (716) 895-8222.
An Installation and Impartation Service for Apostle Frederick A. Gelsey Sr. will be held Sunday, May 6 at 5 p.m. at One In Christ Temple, 940 Broadway in Buffalo, where Apostle Frederick A. and L.A. Gelsey are pastors. Officiating the service will be Dr. George Agbonson of Christ Restoration Ministries. Apostle Gelsey will be ordained as Apostolic Overseer Apostle Gelsey of Christ Restoration Ministries of WNY.
An Evening of Music
St. Ann’s Church will host an Evenig of Music featuring Al Ferguson & Company on Saturday, May 12 at St. Columba-Brigid Hall, 75 Hickory St. at 6:30 p.m. For ticket information call 852-
•MAY 2 , 2012 Challenger Community News •
Mothers Day Luncheon at First Shiloh The Sunshine Benevolent Circle of First Shiloh Baptist Church will host a Mother’s Day Luncheon at the church in the E.J. Echols Fellowship Hall on Saturday, May 12 at 1 p.m Tickets are $15. For more information call 847-6555.
Harriet Tubman Workers of St. Luke AME Zion Mother & Daughter Luncheon The Harriet Tubman Workers of St. Luke AME Zion Church, 314 E. Ferry St., will present a Mother and Daughter Luncheon, Saturday, May 12 at 1 p.m. at the Church. Donation is $15 and children under 12, $7.50. All proceeds will go to the Harriet Tubman Foundation. For more information call 883-0961.
ChallengerCN.com
• MAY 2, 2012 Challenger Community News •
Regal Writers Guild The Regal Writers Guild (RWG) will be hosting a meet & greet for independent authors, writers and publishers, Saturday May 5. THE RWG main objects include to inspiring, honoring and promoting independent authors, writers and publishers, and helping them achieve excellence with their literary skills. The event will take place at the East Delavan Branch library at 1187 E. Delavan Ave. Buffalo, NY 14215. Dr. Melody Barclay is the President of the REGAL WRITERS GUILD, and you may contact her at (716) 603-5436 for more information or visit the website at http://regalwriters.webs. com
Whispers
The man whispered, "God, speak to me" and a meadowlark sang But, the man did not hear. So the man yelled, "God, speak to me" and the thunder rolled across the sky. But, the man did not listen. The man looked around and said, "God let me see you." And a star shone brightly. But the man did not see. And, the man shouted, "God show me a miracle." And, a life was born. But, The Man Did Not Notice. So, The Man Cried Out In Despair, "Touch Me God, And Let Me Know You Are Here." Whereupon, God Reached Down And Touched The Man. But, The Man Brushed The Butterfly Away and walked on. I found this to be a great reminder that God is always around us in the little and simple things that we take for granted even in our electronic age. -author unknown
“I love the Lord because He hears my prayers and answers them. Because he bends down and listens. I will pray as long as I breathe! Psalm 116:1-2 TLB
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WUFO Pre-Mother’s Evening with Ruben SantiagoDay Luncheon Hudson to Launch New Role WUFO Mix 1080 AM presents the Pre-Mother’s Day Luncheon featuring Buffalo Best Contest Winners Lewis Banks, Alfrieda Richardson and Latosha Payton as musical guests. The luncheon will be held on Saturday May 12, 2012 at Templeton Landing located at 2 Templeton Terrace from 11am-2pm. The luncheon will feature powerful guest speaker Michelle Taylor from hit WUFO show My Saving Taylor. As part of the occasion, WUFO also hosts a small fashion show featuring area merchants showcasing, men, women, and children attire. The Mother’s Day Luncheon is significant in this community because of the impact that it has on women of various generations.
“Cast Down But Not Forsaken”
The play, “Cast Down But Not Forsaken”will be performed on Saturday, May 5 at 5 p.m. at Open Door COGIC #5 Inc., 1103 East Ferry Street. Donation os $10. The play is written and directed by Irene LaMar of the Open door COGIC.
Model Program Here
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he Cultures of Giving Legacy Initiative (CGLI) will host an evening with Ruben Santiago-HudsonTony and Obie award winning actor and playwright Ruben SantiagoHudson, Monday, May 7 from 7 to 9 p.m. at WNED TV studios, Horizons Plaza Enjoy a reception and on-stage interview with Santiago-Hudson as he helps launch “Success Looks Like Me”a new role model program for local youth living in low-income communities of color. The Lackawanna native will share his journey from Lackawanna, New York to success on-stage, in film and television. Claudine Ewing of WGRZ -TV 2 will be the guest interviewer. Ticket price - $100 per person. Tickets available at www.TheCGLI.org or call 716-852-2857. -About Ruben Santiago-HudsonThe Lackawanna, NY born actor is Santiago-Hudson also an accomplished writer and director. This season Ruben starred on Broadway in Lydia Diamond’s play Stick Fly. Santiago-Hudson co-starred for three seasons as NYPD Captain Roy Montgomery on the hit ABC series, Castle. His screenplay debut,Lackawanna Bluesfor HBO, received the Humanitas Prize, a Christopher Award, National Board of Review Honors, a NAACP Image Award; in addition to Emmy, Golden Globe and WGA nominations. Lackawanna Blues is based on the true story of Ruben Santiago Jr. and his life growing up in Lackawanna, New York during the 1950’s and 1960’s. “Success Looks Like Me” is the message we hope to give to the children of Buffalo who live in low-income communities of color.
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ENTERTAINMENT on stage
*Saturday, June 9th Diaab Entertainment Presents Lalah Hathaway 7:30 pm & 10 pm Shows. $45 Advance | $49 Day of Show Tickets on sale at Walmart, Doris Records, & The Tralf Box Office. Charge by phone: 1-800-7453000 716-852-2860 “Her name is legendary. Her music is timeless. Her lyrics touch you at the core. Her voice possesses rich warmth that soothes your ears and holds you close.” *Madea Gets A Job: Starring Tyler Perry, First Niagara Center, Thursday, May 17, 7:30 pm. Tickets on sale at the Box Office; Charge by phone at 888-223-6000; www.tickets.com or www.tylerperry.com
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*Ujima Presents: The Scavenger’s Daughter written and directed by Gary Earl Ross May 4 – 27 TheaterLoft • 545 Elmwood Ave. Thurs., Fri., Sat. @ 8pm • Sun. @ 6pm • $25 general • $20 seniors • $15 students SPECIAL DISCOUNT FOR ELDER CARE WORKERS - $20 Reservations call Box Office 8830380 • Subscriptions & Group rates call Administration 883-4232 TICKETS AVAILABLE ONLINE AT: www.ujimatheatre.org OR http://www.brownpapertickets. com/event/244270 *Kenny Woo Entertainment presents a Pre Mothers Day Concert Sat. May 5 @ 7 pm starring Juanita Duncan, Nikki Hicks, Leon Copleland, Linda Najar, Cherisse Freeman, The Unity Band & The Kenny Woo Band, at the Tralf; $25 in advance, Tralf Box Office, Mandella Market & Doris Records.
*”THECALL”: Enjoy great food while being the first to view the 5th Anniversary Edition of the hit comedy play “The Call” live on screen Sun May 6 at The Oakk Room Restaurant 1435 Main St. Doors open 5:30p. Dinner served @ 6p. For more info call 716-602-6253 or visit www. atpgalaxy.com. This play was sold out both nights of its performance at the Buffalo Museum of Science and was witnessed by over 800 people. It was selected to have a stage reading of the play in the Black Theatre Festival in Winston Salem, NC in the summer of 2007. It received rave reviews both locally and nationally which resulted in 5 years of various successful productions. This play is written by Phil Davis Sr and directed by Willie Judson. Starring Phil Davis Sr, Rasheedah Muhammed, Greg Chaffee, Andre Colon, Michael Morel, Donald Capers, Roger Killian, Candace Whitfield, Daphne Morales, Debbi Davis, Shantel Webb, Da Shaun Baldwin, LaTonya Granberry, Taura “Chyna” Stephens, Monique Webb, Sasiya Davis and Harold L. White. Featuring performances by youtube sensation the “Sweet Dancerz”.
*Anchor Bar, each Friday night @ 9PM The Jazz Example; Darryl Washington on drums; Greg Piontek on bass; Doug Gaston on Piano, Band Leader Bilal Abdullah on Tenor Sax; and vocalist Lady Lita.
The Play: “Three Sistahs”: May 4-27, on Stage @ Paul Robeson Theatre, Sunday, May 13 @ 6 p.m., Soul Food Dinner @ 4 p.m.; $45 per person; $25 children 4-12; Featuring Voices Of Mary Craig, Annette Christian, Falisha Young.Director Jones and cast member Mary Craig will appear on “WNY Living” at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, April 14, 2012 on CHANNEL 2 WGRZ On Your Side. Mother Daughter Sister Friend Tea Social: Sunday, June 24 from 2-4 p.m., donation $30 per person; $100 per family table of four; with the BPO Quar tet featuring Sal Anodina.
MAY 2, 2012
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
Throwdown, throwback dance party featuring 93.7 WBLK’s DJ Stoney The National Black MBA Association (NBMBAA) Western New York Chapter will present Soul Bowl, a 70s, 80s throwdown, throwback dance party featuring 93.7 WBLK’s DJ Stoney combined with moonlight bowling with a soulful twist. The adult event takes place Saturday, May 19, 8 PM – 1 AM at the Kerns Avenue Bowling Center, 163 Kerns Avenue, Buffalo. Donation is $20 per person (includes 2 games of bowling, shoe rental and party). Proceeds benefit the chapter’s youth leadership programs. For tickets or to make a donation, email rrrenata@ aol.com.
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MAY 2, 2012
AROUND TOWN Marnetta Malcolm *Sunday, May 13 (Mother’s Day!)…Mint Condition … The Tralf &pm Tickets $50 at Tralf box office…more info tralfmusichall.com Thursday, May 17 Tyler Perry’s ‘Madea Gets A Job’….. First Niagara Center (HSBC Arena) One Big Show… 7:30pm….ticket on sale at First Niagara box office, tickets.com and charge by phone 888-223-6000
Robert M. Johnson of Buffalo, with only six weeks of training, entered the Mr. Buffalo Bodybuilding Championship March 31 and placed 3rd in the Men’s Master Over 60 category. Not bad for being 66 years old!! Robert, who competed in his first body building contest when he turned 50, has been collecting trophies ever since! Congratulations Robert!
Friday, June 8 “Beautiful in Black” Boat Ride….Miss Buffalo II…Put on your favorite black outfit and Join me , DJ Papa Trini and our friends for a boat ride to remember…. food from 6 til 7pm boarding at 7:30pm….call 892-1377 for $30 tickets…
Register Now for 2012 Jumpin’ Jambalaya Summer Program Fun! June-August. 884-2013.
Friday, June 8th “Beautiful in Black” Boat Ride….Miss Buffalo II…Put on your favorite black outfit and Join me , DJ Papa Trini and our friends for a boat ride to remember…. food from 6 til 7pm boarding at 7:30pm….call 892-1377 for $30 tickets… Saturday, May 19th “Soul Bowl” …Kerns Bowling Center …163 Kerns Ave….presented by The National Black MBA Assoc WNY Chapter…. bowl and with legendary DJ Stoney….come dressed in your favorite outfit from the 70’s and 80’s….donation $20…benefiting youth leadership programs Wednesday, May 9th…Talent’s Birthday Comedy Jam… The Tralf…Starring Tommy Davidson…featuring comedians Joe Claire, Thea and Bro Man, two shows 7:30 & 10pm tickets at Doris Records, Ticketmaster and The Tralf box office …
Seeking Jazz Musicians
The Family Resource Center, 347 E. Ferry St. is looking for musicians to play in jazz ensemble. Call Bilal Abdullah at 783-314.
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
Robeson Theatre Closes 2011-2012 Season With The Musical “Three Sistahs”
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he Paul Robeson Theatre at the African American Cultural Center closes its 2011-2012 season with the elegant musical Three Sistahs, premiering Friday, May 4 at 8 p.m. at the African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten Avenue. Three Sistahs is directed by Thomas W. Jones II, who in 1978 founded Jomandi Productions, now the third largest African American theatre company in the United States. Jones wrote book and lyrics for Three Sistahs, the intimate story of Bradshaw sisters Olive, Marsha and Irene – set in 1969 Washington, D.C. – as they reunite, reveal and reconcile their past and present following the death of their brother in war. The story was created by Janet Price, and the music composed by William H. Hubbard. In addition to his renown for Jomandi Productions, Jones has directed, written and performed nationally and internationally in more than 200 plays. He has garnered numerous recognitions for his artistic vision, including, among others: Best Director for Samm Art Williams’ Home and his own Bessie’s Blues; three New York Audelco Award nominations, the Dramalogue Award, the San Diego Critics Award and the NAACP Phoenix Award. In 2000, he and his Jomandi co-founders to created VIA International Artists, Inc. and subsequently VIA Theatrical. In addition to Three Sistahs, recent works include Point of Revue, Two Queens One Castle, and Cool Papa’s Party, and he is currently working on an after-hours cabaret series based on Delores Bundy’s Brown Sugar Diaries. With musical direction by Frazier Thomas Smith, the PRT production of Three Sistahs features the powerful vocals of Buffalo stage veterans Mary Craig and Annette Christian, and newcomer Falisha Young. The three portray Olive, Marsha and Irene, respectively, as secrets are shed
People Magazine Names Beyonce “World’s Most Beautiful Woman”
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rammy-award winning singer and new mother Beyonce has been named the world’s most beautiful woman for 2012 by People magazine.
The 30-year-old entertainer was awarded People’s top spot after she and her rapper husband Jay-Z welcomed their first child, a daughter named Blue Ivy Carter, who was born in New York in January. “I feel more beautiful than I’ve ever felt because I’ve given birth. I have never felt so connected, never felt like I had such a purpose on this earth,” the singer told the magazine. Beyonce topped the magazine’s annual list and joined other women who have held the title including Michelle Pfeiffer, Julia Roberts, Nicole Kidman, Halle Berry, Jennifer Aniston, Angelina Jolie and last year’s winner Jennifer Lopez. The former Destiny’s Child singer, who married Jay-Z in 2008, is preparing for her first post-baby concert in Atlantic City, New Jersey next month. (Reuters) What makes Beyonce beautiful? She’s gorgeous, she’s a music icon at the age of 30. She has the “new mom” glow. Beyonce speaks about motherhood in the issue from labor and delivery to breastfeeding to a lot more. The motto of the 2012 issue is ‘Beauty is Timeless’ revealing woman of all ages that are beautiful. Some other beautiful woman are Jordin Sparks, Alicia Keys, First Lady Michelle Obama, Selena Gomez, Rihanna, Zoe Saldana, Jennifer Hudson and many more!! and sibling sparks fly during the last night together in their childhood home. Three Sistahs runs through Sunday, May 27. Curtain is 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday; 4 p.m. on and 4 p.m. on Sunday. General admission is $27.50; $25 for seniors and students with a valid I.D., and $20 for children ages five to 13. Group rates are available. The 16th Annual PRT Moth-
er’s Day Soul Food Dinner Theatre will be held on Sunday, May 13, 2012. Dinner begins promptly at 4 p.m.; curtain is at 6 p.m. Admission is $45 for adults; $35 for children ages five to 12. For reservations, tickets and group sales call Paul Robeson Theatre at the African American Cultural Center at 716884-2013, email africancultural350@gmail.com. Tickets are also available online at www.africancultural.org
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GENERATIONS
Congratulations MLK Boys’ Team!
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hen the boys’ basketball team at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Multicultural Institute started out their season in November, they knew that they wanted it to be a season to remember and after their first few practices, they knew it would be. The team, made up entirely of seventh and eighth grade students, knew that not only did they want to have a winning season, but also they wanted to be the positive leaders of the school. When the boys began practicing in November they were under the guidance of experienced coaches: Ms. Marie Serio and Mr. Eric Mcillwain, Mr. Christopher Traugott. From the start of the season the boys were instilled with the idea that playing basketball and having fun are important, but it is most important to receive a sound education--both on and off the court. The boys regularly attended scheduled practices that consisted of conditioning, technical skills, and basketball strategies, as well as school work and homework. The boys took their positive position in the school to the next level when, on the day of their championship game, they decided to give back to all of the teachers who have worked hard for them. The students decided that during the school day they would all wear matching attire consisting of a blue dress shirt, black tie, dress pants, and shoes instead of their normal jersey attire for a game day. Instead, the players decided that they would give their jerseys to staff members who they look up to including current or former teachers or non-teaching staff. The goal was to show the other students in the building that these adults have played a role in shaping them into the young men and student athletes that they are. It was a special and moving sight to see so many staff members wearing MLK’s white and blue jerseys. The boys from Dr. Martin Luther King Multicultural Institute (MLK-School No.39) finished their season with an undefeated 10 and 0 record. Not only did the players end with a winning season, but also five out of the eight, eighth grade young men received high school acceptance letters from the high school of their choices: Hutch Tech, Bishop Timon, St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute and Cardinal O’Hara. In addition, our girl’s basketball team made us proud of their effort, sportsmanship and cooperation. CONGRATULATIONS!
An Essay Contest for Juneteenth
The Juneteenth Essay Contest is open to students in grades 4 - 12. The deadline for this contest is May 14. Students are invited to write an essay 1 - 2 pages in length. All essays must include a summary of the history of Juneteenth. Participants must answer several questions about this important festival. Details of the rules for this contest will be available at the Frank E. Merriweather library or by calling 847-6010 or 533-9547. Prizes are: $35 first place, $25 second place and $20 third place. All completed essays should be taken to the Merriweather library located at 1324 Jefferson avenue prior to closing time on Monday, May 14th. This contest is being sponsored by Retired teacher Eva M. Doyle and the Juneteenth Festival, Inc.
Canisius College Hosts Hispanic Youth Music Project
Canisius College will host the Hispanic Youth Music Project on Saturday, May 5, at 7 p.m. in the Montante Cultural Center, located at the corner of Main Street and Eastwood Place. The event is free and open to the public. Donations will be accepted at the door. A reception follows the presentation. The Hispanic Youth Music Project will present an evening of music and dance representative of several Spanish-speaking countries. For more information regarding the Hispanic Youth Music Project, contact the Modern Languages Department at Canisius College, at 888-2835.
Ballin’ For a Cause Charity Basketball Tournament The 5th Annual Ballin’ For a Cause Charity Basketball Tournament is on its way for another exciting year Saturday June 2 - Sunday June 3 at a brand new location - the Buffalo Niagara Court Center. The much anticipated tournament expanded in 2011 with a week full of special events and 2 days of tournament games. Ballin’ is drawing attention from teams in Buffalo and Surrounding Areas, Niagara Falls, Rochester, Syracuse and New York City and committments from teams from other states such as Michigan ,New Jersey and Maryland. Entering into the 5th year of the existence, the tournament committee has announced it will raise this year’s grand prize to $5,000. Teams are not only competing for a cash prize and trophy, but raising awareness and proceeds for local charities and non-profit youth organizations in the WNY area. Games start at 9a.m. both days, with some of the area’s best players competing. The eventful tournament is matched with a week full of special events starting Tuesday May 29 and finishing up on Sunday, June 3. The Annual “All Start Event” consists of a 3 point contest, slam dunk competition, local artist performance, and celebrity all-star game attraction. Founded by local marketing and promotional company Crown Entertainment & Promotions, the tournament’s main focus is to bring awareness to local charities and non-profit organizations in WNY. Over the years the event has caught the attention of many politicians, star athletes, supporters and teams from various cities throughout New York State. Future plans include expanding the tournament nationally beginning in the Fall of 2012 in cities such as Baltimore , Charlotte , Philadelphia and Cleveland. Visti our website at www.ballinforacause.com
MAY 2, 2012
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
EDITORIAL
11 Public Schools, Public Insanity and Fair Elections Now! On the Left Side of History: Political Racism 101... Prisoner Imam Jamil Al Amin MAY 2, 2012
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
Dear Editor:
I
have been an Education advocate for years. I have worked with numerous organizations trying to make a positive impact and be a good influence on and in the education system. I can no longer stand by and not say that the Buffalo Public School system, as most public school systems in inner-cities, is fully engulfed and controlled by an institutionalized racist system of Ideologies. It simply is not designed to educate the children and serves as a pipeline to prison. What angers me most is that we now have a lot of African Americans in that system who help perpetuate it. With the Two Tier System that we have in Buffalo, it further perpetuates a racist ideolBryon ogy and agenda. It creates low performing McIntyre schools and “separate but unequal” situations. One set of schools is “test In, “ the other set is “fall In and out. “ The “test in” schools are schools like City Honors, Hutch Tech and Olmsted where you must take a test to get in. The “fall in and out” schools like Riverside, Grover and most of the elementary schools outside of the Olmsted Group, everybody else attends. The “test in” schools have a small number of children with special needs. The “fall in” schools are overwhelmed with them. This system virtually guarantees a pipeline to prison. It is estimated that as much as a third of the adult population that resides in Buffalo is functionally illiterate. The reality is that it is sort of like church: the people that need the moral compass and the spiritual guidance, don’t go, but those that feel the desire to be morally good do. In this school system the people that need the good education the most, don’t get it, but those that understand the importance of education for their children’s future know that and get it. Fact: The Buffalo Teachers Federation refuses to sign off on an Evaluation that the ENTIRE STATE has signed off on. Even the state’s union. Fact: The Buffalo Teachers Federation has had TWO years to come up with an evaluation that meets the requirements of the law. Fact: The cosmetic rider that the teachers have, cost the District and Buffalo tax payers $4.9 Million this year alone. Fact: There is no Summer School for Kindergarten to grade 6 which we are paying for (it’s not a school bill). Fact: The “Say Yes” program will allow eligible high school graduates from Buffalo Public Schools to go to collage free. That means no student loans to pay back. Do you realize what that means out here in the real world? That means they can get a collage education and start a life without the burden of a student loan on their back. This alone will give them a better quality of life and will ensure that the children of these graduates will do much better in school and also be prepared to obtain a better quality of life. It will break the cycle of under education and poverty. Questions To Ask A Teacher: *Ask any teacher, why the Union won’t sign off on the contract that will restore $5.6 Million this year, and bring $51 Million next year directly to the worst schools that will help teachers and students directly and immediately? *Do they not want Black and Brown children to make it? Attendance and teaching Special Education Children is not a deal breaker in the rest of the state and country! The entire country is using the teacher Evaluation system, why not Buffalo? I realize that most teachers are White, over 60%, I also realContinued Page 13
Important news: our Senator, Kirsten Gillibrand, is now a cosponsor of the federal Fair Elections Now Act - a bill that would create a Fair Elections system for federal campaigns. The fight for Fair Elections not only has widespread support here in New York - 3 out of 4 voters want it - but there’s also a nationwide push to remove the corrosive influence that CEO campaign contributors have on our elections and our democracy. Senator Gillibrand is doing exactly what we elected her to do: making a strong stand in support of the best interests of her constituents. Our elected leaders at the national level are taking action. It’s time that our elected officials here in New York pass Fair Elections now. Governor Cuomo and Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver have already committed to bringing Fair Elections to New York, but the Senate has not. We need to keep the pressure on.
For weeks now, we have been holding events, from Long Island to Buffalo and all places in between, showing how Fair Elections is just plain old common sense. It’ll restore people’s faith in our elected leaders, spur civic engagement, and make our democracy more responsive to our needs. We’re up against a powerful lobby of well-heeled corporate interests who have the finances to silence us. We can’t let them win. Just because your wallet is thicker doesn’t mean your opinion should hold more weight. A hedge fund manager’s vote shouldn’t matter more than any other New Yorker. Now’s our opportunity to finally reform our broken electoral system. Karen Scharff Executive Director Citizen Action of New York
Challenger Community News P.O. BOX 474 Buffalo, NY 14209 “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
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P: 716 881.1051 F: 716 881.1053
By BAR managing editor Bruce A. Dixon
“As a SNCC leader in rural Alabama, he helped lay the foundation for what Black political power currently exists in the deep south today. “ Imam Jamil Al Amin has been on the right side, really the left side of history a long time. As a college student in the early sixties he joined and eventually led SNCC, the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, the corps of fearless young people who risked their lives organizing freedom schools, cooperatives and registering voters in the violent, Klan-infested rural south. Summoned to a White House meeting with President Johnson at the age of twenty-one he fearlessly demanded federal action to ensure the safety of SNCC workers and ordinary African Americans, when older big time civil rights leaders present were too busy being grateful for a chance to meet with the president at all. As a SNCC leader in rural Alabama, he helped lay the foundation for what black political power currently exists in the deep south today. Targeted by COINTELPRO and the FBI for his advocacy of black political and economic power, self-defense and the eradication of drugs, he was arrested dozens of times. Congress even passed a law with his name on it, specifcally intended to lock him up. While serving a 5 year prison sentence in New York, he converted to Islam, and upon his release Jamil Al Amin moved to Atlanta in 1976. In the same spirit that guided his earlier political and human rights work, he set about organizing and community building in Atlanta’s West End. He studied languages and traveled to the West Indies and the Middle East, to India, Pakistan, and Africa. He taught, learned and led by example, becoming Imam Jamil Al Amin, an internationally acknowledged leader among US Muslims. Along the way, he started several small busi-
Imam Jamil Al Amin
nesses including a grocery store and helped organize youth sports, anti-drug and anti-violence campaigns. But once you earn the FBI’s attention, you don’t lose it. Surveillance and harrassment of Al Amin continued the next quarter century. When a West End drug dealer was shot in 1995, Atlanta police arrested him despite a good deal of evidence pointing in other directions, and had to release him when another man confessed to the crime. In March 2000 two Fulton county deputies were shot in front of Imam Jamil Al Amin’s home. The apparent shooter, one Otis Jackson fled to Nevada before turning himself in, and confessed his role to FBI interviewers there. Georgia officials however, declined to request his extradition, and Jackson was pressured into recanting his confession. Al Amin was not allowed his choice of attorneys, was denied proper discovery or the chance to present evidence of his innocence at trial, and the jury pool purged of those most likely to recall his civil rights work of the sixties. Blatantly framed, Imam Jamil Al Amin was sentenced to life in prison, where his false conviction, status as a prominent Muslim leader and forty years of work in the service of human liberation made him Georgia’s most high profile
• 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.
political prisoner, though he was confined to a tiny cell 23 hours of every day. In 2007, when local and international pressure began building in earnest for a new trial and his release from solitary confinement, Georgia prison officials spirited him away to federal custody 1400 miles away in the federal supermax prison at Florence, Colorado, a living tomb where conditions of enforced isolation and sensory deprivation are widely recognized as torture. Recently more than two hundred who hunger and thirst for justice gathered on the steps of Georgia’s state capital to demand justice for Imam Jamil Al Amin, his return to Georgia for a new trial and his eventual freedom. “The next time we come back here,” declared Mauri Saalakhan of the Peace Thru Justice Foundation, “we can fill these steps, this street. We can. We must. And we will.” Brother Saalakhan is correct of course. We can and we must create the public pressure that ultimately leads to justice for our political prisoner Imam Jamil Al Amin. Only time will tell if we will. Instead retweeting and facebooking phony Kony2012 propaganda to each other, we should be “raising awareness” of and demanding justice for Imam Jamil Al Amin. Let’s make some of that happen. Bruce A. Dixon is managing editor at Black Agenda Report and a member of the state committee of the Georgia Green Party. He lives and works in Marietta GA, and can be reached at bruce.dixon(at) blackagendareport.com. Find blackagendareport on the web at www.blackagendareport.com. Quote of the Week “ I will represent the Negro people first. I will represent, after that, all the other American People.”-Adam Clayton Powell, 1944 Campaign Trail
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Amherst Professional Solutions Offers Variety of Services to Area Businesses, Individuals Amherst Professional Solutions works hard to provide superior legal services on a timely, professional and efficient basis while maintaining the highest standards of Integrity. Through diversity and teamwork, Amherst Professional Solutions offers: *Service of Process: Service of All Levels of Legal Documents. Personal Injury, Divorce Papers, Foreclosure, Child & Family Services, Hard to Serve Defendants Subpoenas, Summons & Complaints Volume Discount! We get it Served & Returned ASAP! Flat Fee for Service includes: Three Service Attempts, Mileage and Notarized Affidavits, Return Postage, Early Morning & Late Nights Attempts, Confirmation by Telephone, E-mail or Fax. Service of All Levels of Legal Documents! Summons Complaints, Subpoenas and Skip Tracing. *We also offer the following additional services: Mobil Notary Service: Time is Money - Do you need settlement documents signed and can’t seem to get there? Our professional Notaries can travel where you need them, when you need them. Let us free up your time and untie your hands by providing you the flexibility you require and the service you deserve. We have licensed Notaries ready to meet you wherever necessary in order to get your paperwork signed and notarized when you need it. Our Notaries will meet with you at a place and time convenient to you. Notarization is a way to safeguard you by eliminating forged signatures, false identities, and the back dating of documents allowing both parties to act in good faith with the insurance that all dealings will be done with honesty and integrity. *“LANDLORDS”, Are You Owed Money? Our Skip Trace, Asset & Bank Account Locator may help: Location and approximate balance may be verified. “Any and all” accounts may be attached by name and SSN/FEIN.Ò For purposes of loan or debt obligation, judgment recovery or establishing credit. Social Security Numbers (Internal Use Only). Birth, Marriage and Death Certificates, Address History, Driver’s License, Auto Tag, Vehicle Ownership Continued Page 13
BUSINESS DIRECTORY
ATTORNEYS
CHILD CARE
James P. Davis 181 Franklin St. (716) 847-2606
Debbie’s Little Scholars 484 Hickory St. (716)304-6820
Samuel P. Davis 534 Delaware Ave. #108 855-7611
Home Away From Home 84 Courtland Ave. (716) 238-1455
Terrence D. McKelvey 181 Franklin St. (716) 847-2606 Home Office (716) 839-3905
Kim’s Building Blocks Day Care 1479 E. Delavan Ave. 895-8693
Pratcher & Associates 1133 Kensington (716) 838-4612
My Precious Angels 2946 Baley Ave. (716) 896-3800
Daria L. Pratcher 136 Broadway (716) 541-8574
COFFEE SHOPS
AUTOMOTIVE Colslton Mobile Auto Repair 720 E. Ferry * 896-3910 First Klass Muffler & Brake 779 Genesee St. (716) 362-0450
BANKS Key Bank/South Campus Harrita L. West 3586 Main St. * 871-4273
Golden Cup Coffee 883 Jefferson (716) 883-7770
DELI / VARIETY STORES Grant’s Variety Shop 1055 E. Ferry St. 893-0704
DJ’S DJ Kenny Kutz (716) 400-7358
BARBER SHOPS DOG TRAINING
KLASSIC KUTS 1471 Kensington 836-3260 MASTER TOUCH 1283 E. Delavan 570-7234 / 846-5956 PRECISION CUTZ 87 Cleveland Dr. 603-1477 THE BARBERSHOP 2516 Bailey (716) 464-SHOP
BEAUTY/IMAGE Hazel Harris (716) 573-5240 elitesolutionspresents@gmail.com
CAFE’S
EM Tea Coffee Cup * 884-1444 2nd Cup * 840-0048
CLOTHING Level’s Apparel & Footwear 1455 Kensington (716) 832-0284
List Your Business TODAY!
881-1051
Dogman Joe Dog Trainer 1963 Fillmore * 807-8163
EATERIES Loretta’s Soulful Dining 479 Genesee * (716) 3819308 Matties Restaurant 1412 Fillmore (716) 597-0755 Mr. Bones 893 Jefferson (716) 464-6794 Nette’s Fried Chicken 3118 Main St. * 715-9592
HAIR SALONS
Althea / Hair to Go Natural 727 Main St. (716) 883-2000
HEATING & COOLING
Zenner & Ritter 3404 Bailey * (716) 8332463
PHOTOGRAPHY Princess Photography (716) 563-0994
REAL ESTATE
Brown Sugar 2929 Bailey Ave. (716) 835-5151
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Compositions Professional Hair 143 Kenmore Ave. 716 995-3450
Franklins Interior / Exterior Concepts 105 Commonwealth (716) 235-8818
Excellence Hair Design 59 Kenmore Ave. 835-2036
Jones Hardwood Flooring Alton Jones* (716) 9035320
F&S Tailors 2930 Genesee St. (716) 894-3742
INSURANCE
F&S Tailors & Fashions (716) 894-3742 wwwfandsfashions.com
Everything Beauty Salon & Spa 156 Elmwood Ave. 939-3355 Hair Changers 1787 Hertel Ave. (716) 602-6561
Able Insurance Jeff Moore/Broker 1798 Main St. * 883-5212
Modeste Real Estate Josephine Latifa (716) 704-0685
TAILORS
Ann Rhod’s Tailoring 3185 Bailey Ave. (716) 838-5633
Joseph Burch Insurance 2317 Main St. 551-0006 / 510-4729
TAX SERVICE
Lacy’s/Kymmy’s 179 Parkridge * 578-2880
LIQUORS & WINES
Majestic Eloquence 20941/2 Eggert Rd. 308-4873
L. Sessum Income Tax Service 1650 Fillmore (716) 894-4904
Bellamy’s Liquor Store 405 E. Ferry * 884-4066
TOWING
MEDICAL
Ron’s Towing & Recovery (716) 892-2282
Hersha / Hair to Go Natural 727 Main St. (716) 563-1734
Miracle Tranition 2 3339 Genesee * 481-1321 Miss JacQuis ExQuizit Beauty 2250 Main St. (716) 833-2250 More Hair Care Clinic 72 Allen St. (716) 886-7960 Peaches & Keys Unisex 883 Jefferson * 603-6506 Promise Hair Studio 87 W. Cleveland Dr. (716) 835-0250 Serenity Hair Boutique 221 Jefferson Ave. (716) 812-0663
The Corner Store Deli & Grill 1733 Genesee * 895-2009
Salon Toss 2527 Delaware 894-8737
West African Int. Market & Take Out 3125 Bailey (716) 833-1971
HAIR SUPPLY
Tomatoes 1393 Kensington (716) 835-3663
•MAY 2 , 2012 Challenger Community News •
Main Hair & Beauty Supply 3067 Main St. (716) 862-4247
Main Pediatrics 2800 Main St. (716) 837-0995 Rapha Family Medicine 2200 Main St. (716) 200-4122
Towing Roadside 980 Grant St. 605-6968
ONE STOP Mandella Market & Citgo Gas 272 E. Ferry cor. Jefferson 716-882-0288
PHONE SEVICE Boost Mobile 1286 E. Delavan (716) 551-0304
advertising pays. advertising@thechallengernews.com
MAY 2, 2012
CLASSIFIEDS
Challenger Community News • ChallengerCN.com
PUBLIC SCHOOLS 76
Men are born soft and supple; dead, they are stiff and hard. Plants are born tender and pliant; Dead, they are brittle and dry.
EAST SIDE APARTMENTS AVAILABLE *Two and Three Bedroom Apartments starting at $395 plus security. Apartments Section 8 Ready. Call 836-8686.
Thus whoever is stiff and inflexible Is a disciple of death. Whoever is soft and yielding Is a disciple of life. The hard and stiff will be broken. The soft and supple will prevail.
AMHERST PROFESSIONAL SERVICES continued (Internal Use Only). Boat and Aircraft Ownership, Property Owned, Purchase Price, Mortgage Amount, Corporation and DBA Affiliations, Professional Licenses, Auto Accidents, Workman’s Compensation Claims, Criminal History. *We are also able to find both personal and business bank accounts nationwide. To ensure accurate bank account information, we do not use generic account databases or Chex systems. We have a very efficient and legal searching technique which allows us to find your Debtor’s most updated information in a timely manner. *Attorneys and or Landlords that advertise in the Challenger Community News and are in need of Services will receive a discounted FLAT RATE! Call for details. For more information please call toll free: 1.855.729.6762 Fax# 716.725.0290 Or Visit our website at www. AmherstProfessionalSolutions.com
Registered to
VOTE?
NOW HIRING Local non-profit seeks Mgr, Grants & Compliance: Research local, regional & national funding opportunities. Manage grants from proposal through submission. Oversee compliance of special programs; conduct desk reviews, on-site monitoring. BA/BS req’d + 5-7 yrs. Exp. www.becwib.org. Deadline May 7, 2012. Catholic Charities has an excellent professional development opportunity available for the following position:
Switchboard Operator/ Receptionist
Full-time Switchboard Operator/Receptionist position available to answer multiline phones and customer service in a fast paced environment. For a full description of responsibilities and requirements of this position please visit our website at:
www.ccwny.org
and refer to Job #201227 when applying. EOE/M/F
legal N ot i ce
Trace Assets Protection Service LLC providing security and investigation services with an office at 67 Timberline Drive in Erie County filed articles of organization March 16, 2012 has designated the Secretary of State as agent for service of process and its registered agent for service of process is Creighton Johnsen & Giroux, 295 Main St. Suite 560 Buffalo NY 14203
bids
Are you
EM P LOY M EN T
continued ize that most teachers children DO NOT GO TO BUFFALO PUBLIC SCHOOLS, unless it is a “test in” school, (Hutch, McKinley or Olmstead) about 6%. I realize that the few Black principals we have don’t have children in school, except one. Somebody tell me what’s going on. It is time for teachers and parents to unite. I feel we have enough responsible and conscious White Teachers that are sick of the UNION POLITICS and want to help children achieve. The teachers aren’t racist, the system is. And only the teachers UNITING with the Parents can make a difference and stop petty UNION POLITICS from destroying the opportunity for all children in Buffalo. In my next column Next, I will give you some realities as to why the Buffalo Teachers Federation doesn’t want bona fied and certified coaches in the schools, unless they are certified teachers. Mind you, we are the only district in the state that does this! Is this another sign of racist ideologies at work? Bryon J McIntyre IQMInds@ aol.com
COUNTY OF ERIE NOTICE TO BIDDERS BEACH RD (CR221) & EDEN EVANS CENTER RD (CR32) REHABILITATION TOWN OF EVANS PROJECT NO. CAP-32/221-12 BID DEPOSIT $150,000 The Department of Public Works, Division of Highways, is seeking sealed bids for approx. 1.5 miles of road with bridge rehabilitation. Sealed proposals will be received at the Erie County DPW, 95 Franklin Street, 14th floor, Rm 1404, Buffalo, New York, at 10:00 a.m., May 17, 2012. Bid deposit of $150,000. required. Plans will be available for purchase at $100.00 each from May 3, 2012 through bid date. Pre-let meeting is May 10, 2012, 10:00 am at the Erie County DPW, 95 Franklin, 14th floor, Rm 1404, Buffalo, NY 14202. Bid submittal details are on the Erie County website at www.erie. gov
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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: F u l l - t i m e P a y ro l l / H R Clerk to perform clerical and administrative activities responsible for supporting the day-to-day operations of the payroll and human resource department. For a full description of responsibilities and requirements of this position please visit our website at:
www.ccwny.org
and refer to Job #201230 when applying. EOE/M/F
Catholic Charities has an excellent professional development opportunity available for the following position:
Receptionist/ Secretary
Full-time Receptionist/Secretary position available in our Immigration & Refugee Assistance Program for general office support with a variety of clerical activities. For a full description of responsibilities and requirements of this position please visit our website. EOE/M/F
www.ccwny.org
Social Worker III
Full-time clinical position in community-based office, working with diverse clients & families with multiple problems. Excellent opportunity to enhance professional and clinical development with comprehensive assessment, diagnosis, conceptualization, treatment planning, intervention and evaluation, and multi-need & multi-level service delivery in a fastpaced environment. For a full description of responsibilities and requirements of this position please visit our website at:
www.ccwny.org
and refer to Job #201231 when applying. EOE/M/F
advertising pays. advertising@thechallengernews.com
advertising pays 881-1051
Catholic Charities has an excellent professional development opportunity available for the following position:
Care Manager
Full-time Care Manager to assist homebound older adults at risk for out of home placement to attain the highest level of independent function through comprehensive assessment and care planning. For a full description of responsibilities and requirements of this position please visit our website at:
www.ccwny.org
and refer to Job #201229 when applying. EOE/M/F
Are you Registered to
VOTE?
name change Notice is hereby given that an order entered by the Supreme Court, Erie County, on the 24 day of April, 2012 bearing Index No. 001216/2012, a copy of which may be examined at the Office of the Clerk, located at 92 Franklin Street, Buffalo, New York grants me the right to assume the name Crystal Shemick Jones. My present address is: 210 Coit Street, Buffalo, NY and my mailing address is the same. The date of my birth is October 3, 1968 and the place of my birth is Buffalo N.Y.
publ i c not i ce PUBLIC NOTICE The Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority (BFSA; Control Board) invites the public to participate in a Public Forum on the Proposed 2012-13 Budget and Four-Year Financial Plan of the City of Buffalo, Buffalo School District, the Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority, the Buffalo Urban Renewal Agency, and the BFSA. It is scheduled from 5:00 PM to 6:30 PM on Monday, May 7, 2012 at the Market Arcade Building, 1st floor Conference Room. Registration will begin at 4:45 PM and public comments will begin at 5:05 PM. Comments may also be submitted directly to BFSA via email at: info@ bfsa.ny.gov, via standard mail at: BFSA, 617 Main St., Ste. #400, Buffalo, NY 14203, telephonically at: 716.853.0907 or via fax: 716.853.9052. All comments should be directed to Mr. Nathan Miller. Copies of the BFSA budget are currently available at all City Public Libraries and online at: www.bfsa.state.ny.us. Copies of the proposed budget for the City and all Covered Organizations will be available May 2, 2012 at all City Public Libraries and the City’s website at www.ci.buffalo.ny.us.
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•MAY 2 , 2012 Challenger Community News •
NEW YORK STATE LOTTERY NUMBERS SUN 4/22
NUMBERS
MON 4/23
TUES 4/ 24
WED 4/25 THURS 4/26 FRI 4/27 SAT 4/28
MID-333 MID- 401 MID-911 MID- 981 MID-328 MID-245 MID-741 EVE-303 EVE-107 EVE- 073 EVE-208 EVE-437 EVE-059 EVE-953
MID -
8469 MID- 6779 EVE- 1442 EVE- 5549
WIN 4
TAKE 5
LOTTO
HOT TIPS
MID-7514 MID-4659 EVE-2168 EVE-6585
1-12-14-17-37 8-23-31-33-36 1-18-19-24-35
6-8-32-44-47-50#20
996
123
Zakiyyah’s Run Down 662-788-919-322-666-986-568-853-578-312-468-014065-768-981-852-679-254-756-801-645-580-234-532
Billy Bye Bye Sez:
If you dream of a BED Your number should be 310. If you dream of a CAR 816; FOG 577; GRANDMOTHER 797; MONEY 499, 202,290, 221 and TOILET 681!
May Monthly Vibrations 579-143-182-243-409-
THE NUMBER BOOK
648
1-3-15-19-21
515
MA RUTH SPRING 895-7-148-326-910435-479-786-578-967623-467-896-019-690054-434-627-467-392843-256
LUCKIE DUCKIE 134-431-143
648*123*104
980-422-809
981-989-970-990-080-800 390-196-102-581-752-319408-378-352-126
189-444-886
322-522-412-432-421-423
3-Way Winning Numbers this Time Last Year
grandma’s MAY pixs
776-001-557-338888-542-893-659
Grandma’s 4-Way MyWay
1098-0067-57097998-6074-1156
quick money $$$$ 189-809-444 886-980-422 322-522-355 800-592-390 394-833-924 127-909-418 927-313-466 124-550-525 583-269-508
05/10/2011 Evening 8-8-6 05/10/2011 Midday 4-8-9 05/09/2011 Evening 4-7-4 05/09/2011 Midday 3-3-2 05/08/2011 Evening 3-0-2 05/08/2011 Midday 7-8-0 05/07/2011 Evening 0-1-2 05/07/2011 Midday 4-0-5 05/06/2011 Evening 8-3-6 05/06/2011 Midday 8-8-2 05/05/2011 Evening 2-4-9 05/05/2011 Midday 6-6-3 05/04/2011 Evening 5-3-0 05/04/2011 Midday 4-3-7 05/03/2011 Evening 3-7-1 05/03/2011 Midday 0-7-4 05/02/2011 Evening 1-6-4 05/02/2011 Midday 0-4-6
MID- 6968 MID-3430 MID-9422 EVE- 3646 EVE-5306 EVE-2341
8-15-30-34-37
4-10-19-29-37 7-10-11-17-30 3-32-40-46-50-56#34
333
888
111
CHALLENGER HITS 911-Luckly Duckie (Straight)* 981-Lucky Duckie (Straight)* 953-Quick $$ (bx) 738-Lucky Duckie (bx) 762-Ma Ruth (bx)
836-Ma Ruth (bx) 738-Number Book (bx) 590-Quick $$$ (bx) 734-Number Book (bx) 208-Quick $$ (bx) 703-Number Book (bx)
Dance! Dance! Dance!
*2nd Cup 36 Broadway St. 840-0048 7p.m. Wed. “Salsa night with Calvin and Fanny.” Beginner salsa lesson and social dance. salsacalvinfanny@hotmail. *African American Cultural Center 350 Masten Ave. 884-2013 3 p.m. Sat. 3 pm @5 p.m. Tues. Thurs. “Community Dance and Drumming.” Visit www.africanamericancultural.org. *El Museo Francisco Oller y Diego Rivera 91 Allen St. 8849693.wwwfolkloric.org. Mon through Wed: Includes meditation and yoga 912-8754. *First Shioh Baptist Church. 15 Pine St. 6:30 p.m. Fri. “Line dancing lessons.” 847-6555. Free. *Gateway Longview Family Resource Center. 347 E. Ferry St. 6 p.m. Tues. Dance lessons with the Smooth Steppers. Classes in Urban Ballroom, Chicago Steppin’ and Swing. 633-7813. *Kenan Center 433 Locust St.; Level Breakdancing class. Also 7:30 p.m. Mon. Wed. “B-Girl class.” Beginners welcome. $10; $15; Also 6 p.m. Tues; 4 p.m. Thurs. Open practice.” $5. *Urban Line dance lessons each Monday, 665 Michigan at Pilgrim Baptist Church, 6-7:30 p.m, Ernestine Wilson, instructor. *Urban Line dance lessons each Friday morning, 10:45-12:30 p.m., JFK Center,114 Clinton, Ernestine Wilson, instructor. *Line Dance Exercise Classes Tuesday-Wednesday Mornings, Martha Mitchell Community Center, 175 Oakmont Ave. 444-2046. *African Dance Classs w/Aminata, 6-8 p.m., Fridays, Juneteenth Headquarters, 1517 Genesee St @ Moselle; 948-3583.
*Line Dance Class $2 every Tuesday & Thursday Rev. Smith Family Life Center Michigan at Goodell.
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EVENTS CALENDAR
Wednesday May 2
Thursday May 3
Saturday May 5
Saturday May 5
Monday May 7
Community Discussion: “How to Keep Our Children Out of Prison, Criminal Justice System: 5:30-7:45 p.m., Merriweather Library, Jefferson @ E. Utica; hosted by “We Are Women Warriors Community and Family Empowerment Group; Legislator Grant for more info @ 536-7323.
ECC Open House @ Al Three Campuses: 4-7 p.m. 121 Ellicott St. Buffalo; 6205 Main St., Williamsville; 5050 Southwestern Blvd. Orchard Park.
Heavenly Teaching & Healthy Eating to Live More Abundantly: 6 p.m. health banquet and informational event banquet for the community; hosted by Elder Bisa Drayton and Redeemed Catering; entertainment, door prizes. For tickets and info 853-0932.
Veterans Information Event: 10 am to 1 p.m., Lockport VA Outpatient Clinic, 5883 Snyder Dr., Lockport; (716) 4383890; www.buffalo.va.gov
“Living ‘with Diabetes” Class: 1-3:30 p.m., Memorial Medical Center, 621 10th St., Niagara Falls; pre-registration required @ 278-4102.
Monday May 7
Tuesday May 8
An Evening with Actor/ Playwright Ruben SantiagoHudson: 7-9 p.m., WNED TV Studios, Horizons Plaza hosted by The Cultures of Giving Legacy Initiative “Success Looks Lie Me” launch; $100; 852-2857.
Open House Health Career Training: EOC, 465 Washington, 10 a.m. – noon; 849-6727 ext. 106 for info.
Thursday May 3 National Day of Prayer: Prayer In The Square: Niagara Square, Noon – 1:30 p.m.; WWW.WNYPRAY.COM Juneteenth Planning Meeting: 6 p.m., Juneteenth Headquarters, 1517 Genesee St. @ Moselle; 891-8801; public invited. See You at the VOTE!
•MAY 2 , 2012 Challenger Community News •
Events!
Friday May 4 Youth Prison Prevention Project Fund Raiser Featuring “The Push Up King”: 10 a.m. – 2 p.m, Edward Saunders Community Center, 2777 Bailey Ave.; (716)563-5515 or scriptures1000@yahoo.com 35th Afro-American Historical Assn. Family History Dinner/Meeting: 6:30 p.m., Emerson School of Hospitality, 86 West Chippewa St; Linda Duke guest presenter; awardees: Crystal Barton, Dr. John Craig, Hugh Macy Favor, Chris Reynolds and Linda Wheeler. Advanced reservations required. 834-4982. Saturday May 5 Links Inc: Health Forum: “It’s Your Health, Let’s Protect It,” 8:30 -11:30 a.m.; $20; Millennium Hotel Courtyard, 2040 Walden Ave. See You at the Events!
“Set Your House In Order”: An end of life educational theatrical & informational event; UB Main Street Campus, 107 Allen Hall, 5 p.m.; (716) 6038098 or (716) 894-0171.
Support our Advertisers
Join the Juneteenth Festival Planning Meetings!
T
he Juneteenth Festival of Buffalo is excited to announce the planning meetings for Juneteenth 2012. Volunteers are needed in the following areas: • Juneteenth Parade• Health Pavilion • Holistic Health • Children’s Activity Tent• Youth Activities • Book Sharing • Entertainment Stage• Heritage Tent• Arts & Culture Stage• Hosts for Juneteenth Sankofa Days• Juneteenth Street Team. We have many different activities and areas to get involved in. Lend us your area of expertise. The next Juneteenth meeting will be held on Thursday, May 3, 2012 at 6PM. at the Juneteenth headquarters located at 1517 Please call (716) 8918801.
Wednesday May 9 Regular Board of Education Meeting: 5:30 p.m., 801 City Hall, open to public.
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ChallengerCN.com
•MAY 2 , 2012 Challenger Community News •
LICENSED CHECK CASHING Western New York Check Services LLC 675 Fillmore Avenue Buffalo, NY 14212
Phone: 893-4193 (1 Block south of Broadway)
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TAX RETURNS…Big or Small $$—We cash them ALL!!! Locally Owned & Operated
Monday ~ Saturday 9 AM to 4:30 PM
LICENSED by the Superintendent of Banks Pursuant to Article 9-A of the Banking Law