SEPTEMBER 23, 2009 / Vol. 46 No. 38

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PAIDBUFFALO, N.Y.

PERMIT NO. 164

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President Obama signs historic health reform bill.

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INSIDE ROCHESTERPage 2

IT’S DRILL-O-RAMA TIME!PAGE 7

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Inside:

MARCH 24, 2010

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“The greatest wealth is health”

Fiercely Real

Stop The Violence 2010 Awards Gala to Honor Outstanding Citizens Page 3

On Tuesday President Barack Obama signed into law the most comprehensive changes to the health care system in American history with the landmark Health Care Reform Bill; accomplishing what generations of great men and women before him failed to do. Vice President Joe Biden praised Obama’s “fierce advocacy, clarity of purpose and perseverance” for the passing of the historic bill, and noted, “the greatest wealth is health,” adding that as a result of the bill’s passage Americans would become “a whole lot wealthier.” In his opening remarks President Obama declared: “Today after almost a century of trying…today after over a year of debate…today after all the votes have been tallied, health insurance reform becomes law in the United States of America.” Continued President Obama, “In the end, the bill shows that America believes in the ‘core principle’ that ‘everybody should have some basic security when it comes to health care.’” “Every day, millions of Americans go without needed health care because they have no insurance,” said Rep. Maxine Waters, a supporter of the bill. “And the cost of health care is the number one reason for bankruptcies in America. So we cannot afford inaction. Today, we have a clear choice – to start to fix the broken health care system – or to do nothing.” “This bill is not perfect,” she continued. “ I would like to have seen included measures such as a public health insurance option like Medi-care that would compete with the private insurance plans and a single

Racist Reactions Over Passage of Health Care Bill Page 4

The Top 18 Immediate Effects of Health Reform Bill Page 5

“We need to defeat these bastards.” Limbaugh & Tea Party Vow Revenge Page 4

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Winner of “Fiercely Real” Top Model Search has Buffalo Connection

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Study: Teen pot, alcohol use rising WASHINGTON – Alcohol and marijuana use among teens is on the rise, ending a decade-long decline, a new study has found. The annual survey found the number of teens in grades 9 through 12 who reported drinking alcohol in the last month rose 11 percent last year, with 39 percent — about 6.5 million teens — reporting alcohol use. That’s up from 35 percent, or about 5.8 million teens, in 2008. For pot, 25 percent of teens reported smoking marijuana in the last month, up from 19 percent.

*April 2 - May 1: FOURWALLS Art Gallery Presents Artists Stephen Dorbiala, Mr.Prvrt, ACrook(Fua), Sarah Rutherford, Downer, Biles, and Jeff Copp April 2, 6 to 10 p.m.FOURWALLS Art Gallery ,34 Elton St. *April 1 - May 15: Eye Candy Clothing Into The Woods, Fierce and RecklessJoin us opening night for a musical performance, Hor D’oeuvres, and the exhibition of three wonderful artists at Eye Candy Clothing Store.Thursday April 1st 6-9pm; show closes on May 15th *ST.PAUL PROJECT AT VENU NIGHT CLUB, Friday, April 16 The Saint Paul Project presented by FOURWALLS Gallery will be located at 151 St. Paul Street Venu Resto- Lounge CREGO REALTY THURSDAY APRIL 22nd. Live Music and Art. More details to come soon! Crego Realty,

Two Trains Running Opens At Geva As part of Geva Theatre’s five-year commitment to presenting all ten plays in “August Wilson’s American Century,” it will produce the seventh play of the cycle, Two Trains Running, opening March 30 and running

through April 25. The cast features Ronald Connor (Wolf), Javon Johnson (Sterling), Allen Edge (West), Patrese McClain (Risa), David Shakes (Hambone), A.C. Smith (Memphis Lee) and Alfred Wilson (Holloway). Wilson’s drama opened at Yale Repertory Theatre in 1990 and on Broadway at the Walter Kerr Theatre in 1992. Two Trains Running went on to be nominated for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, the Tony Award for Best Play and the Audelco Award for Dramatic Production of the Year. Two Trains Running is directed by Ron OJ Parson. The Buffalo native, now based in Chicago, Parsons, is one

of the country’s leading directors of August Wilson’s plays. He explains the draw to get him to direct Two Trains was simple: Wilson’s lyrical poetry. “Two Trains you can’t help, but get deep into the story about urban renewal,” continues Parsons. “Wilson’s works are so relevant. He is our version of Shakespeare or Eugene O’Neill. You immediately are moved by the spirit of the play. You see one August Wilson play and you want to see more. His characters are rich and deep. It also gave me a chance to come back to Rochester.” His favorite play? He’s divided between Ma Rainey and Jitney. “I’m not an August Wilson scholar. I have been in 18 of his productions either acting or directing dating back to my Ujima days in Buffalo. All I know is that future generations need to experience it, “ he adds. Bitten by the acting bug at age 12, Parsons carried his love for theater straight through to his college years at the University of Michigan and then decided to try his hand at directing. He’s been living and loving the director’s life for the last 13 years in Chicago. According to him, a good screenplay contains key elements: good development of a story. locomotive action, an interesting story and it’s hard (the screenplay) to put down. He lists favorite screenplay writers: Samm Art Williams, Lorraine Hansberry and Ed Bullings. As an accompanying event, Geva will present a reading of Jitney, the eighth play in August Wilson’s cycle, in the Mainstage on Monday, April 19 at 7:30pm. Tickets for this event are free but must be reserved in advance through the Box Office: (585) 232-Geva. NCAA Eligibility Seminar at MetroCenter YMCA Anyone interested in being a NCAA College athlete? Come to this seminar and learn more about the rules for eligibility to play Division I, II, III, and Jr. College Levels. For more information, contact Fred.kettrell at 585-325-2880 or e-mail fred.kettrell@rochesterymca.org. Around Town: *March 27: Movie Matinee: Wall-E and The Lion King: Eastridge High School Auditorium, from 1:30 to 4:40 p.m. Tickets are $2.50 per person or $8 for a family of four. *April 14: The annual Salute To Colored Troops Day, Nazareth College’s the Linehan Chapel, 4245 East Avenue from 2:30 to 4 p.m. *April 15: Booksigning: Uptown by Virginia DeBerry and Donna Grant, 6 p.m., 274 N. Goodman Street. Free and open to the public. *April 24: Booksigning: Win Win By Marsha Jones, 2 p.m., Moodmakers Bookstore, 2 p.m,. 274 N. Goodman Street. Free and open to the public.

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“Sisters Giving Smiles” Event

T h e annual “Sis-ter’s Giving Smiles” event was recently held in honor of Sandra Stanley who s u f f e r e d many years of domestic abuse. An environment of pampering and relaxation was provided to a group of 45-50 women from our local Bat-tered Women’s Shelter. The women received hair and beauty makeovers, a massage and catered lunch. As in the past, this event was held on the first Monday preceding Valentines Day as a way of providing the women with an early gift. The following spon-sors provide services and assist in making this all possible each year: Mz LaJoans, People’s Choice Kitchen, Perfection to a T, Rita Styles, Royal Heritage, Satisfactions Hair Design, Stylist Adia Johnson and Wade & Me Salon. Along with the wonderful services, each woman received a gift basket, compliments of Caring & Sharing Day-care and Valentine Hearts and Candy, compliments of Beverly Jackson of Pathways to Peace and Determined Divas. One woman was selected to receive a special gift of a rent security deposit, compliments of Riva’s Prop-erty Management. This year marks our 3rd anniversary and we are very pleased with the growth of supporters and the broad interest in making this event such a continued suc-cess.The goal is to provide this very special group of women with a heart warming experience as well as creating awareness of their importance. This is an event that our ladies will not forget.

Evangela StanleyOwner, People’s Choice

MARCH 24, 2010 Page 3

The Challenger

Area Briefs

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NEW BOOK: County Legislator Betty Jean Grant is scheduled to publish her second book of poems this spring entitled “Pockets Full of Empty Air.” This follows her first publication, the widely acclaimed “Falling Through the Crack.” To order an advance copy of “Pock-ets Full of Empty Air” or “Falling Through the Crack,” contact Mrs. Grant at (716) 536-7323.

Scholarship Applications The Buffalo Association of Black Social Workers, Inc. has scholar-ship applications available for col-lege students studying in the field of social work and human service. For applications and information, please call Mildred at 884-4725 or Lelia at 631-5339 or email us at buf-faloabsw@yahoo.com. The deadline to apply for scholarships is May 25, 2010.

Juneteenth Parade Any organizations or groups that participated in last years Juneteenth Parade that has moved or changed phone number, please notify the parade committee with your updated information for our records. You may call (716) 891-8801 or (716) 400-4479 with your information.-Youth Volunteers Needed- The Juneteenth Parade Commit-tee needs 10 people over the age of 14 years to volunteer to carry this years’s 2010 Juneteenth Parade Division Banners. For more infor-mation please call (716) 891-8801 or (716) 400-4479. Thank You.Nathelia Land is the Parade Chair-person; Cammie Carr-Torrence is Co-Chairperson/Secretary; and Beverly Newkirk is Co-Chairper-son.

Update

Buffalo Book Fair Returns! The BUFFALO BOOK FAIR, free and open to all, returns to down-town Buffalo, Lafayette Square on Washington Street and the Buffalo and Eie County Public Library July 10. Celebrating the power of reading, the popular event will feature author presentations, book signings, semi-nars, panel discussions and a variety of vendors. This entertaining literary event has attracted over 4,000 people and serves as a perfect complement to the annual Taste of Buffalo food festival that takes place the same weekend two blocks away. The two events create a powerful synergy highlighting some of Buffalo’s key features. As we say, experience the best of Buffalo - Our food - Our Culture - Our History Authors are invited to participate in the following ways: Readings with Q&A and a book signing in one of the Literary Pavilions, special presentations, and participating on panels. The event is well promoted and we reach out to authors to assist with interviews on radio and televi-sion. For more information contact Jennifer Parker, Event Manger at 716.881.6066 or email jparker@jparkerpr.com

Federal Investigators Tour Holding Center Federal investigators toured the Erie County Holding Center in down-town Buffalo Monday and Tuesday under the order of a federal judge. The Department of Justice inspec-tors included lawyers and special consultants who examined the hold-ing center’s suicide prevention tech-niques. Last week a judge ordered to allow inspectors to question employees and inmates, to which Erie County attor-ney Cheryl Green appealed unsuc-cessfully. This investigation will focus solely on suicide prevention issues at the holding center, and the results of the finding may determine if further legal action will be filed against the county.

When last we met, we discussed the topic of Black leaders under siege, exploring the pre-dicaments of both national and local officials who have found themselves under attack as a part of a continuing

campaign to deprive the Black com-munity of leadership. We parted with a few pointed questions. We continue the discussion and address those questions now, in a conversation with Eric Muhammad, Local Convener of the Millions More Movement. In addition to that role, Mr. Muhammad heads the organi-zation’s Ministry of Defense. As a former captain of the Nation of Islam’s Fruit of Islam (FOI), his responsibili-ties have now been expanded in the wider realm of the Millions More Movement. His task is to design, coordinate, and implement strategies to secure the community, from disaster preparedness and management, to the securing of our senior citizens, to the stewarding of our youth, and the building of relationships that provide us with the most potent weapon of defense; our unity.

Q. Mr. Muhammad, how should we as a community respond to the attack on Black leadership? What can we do to stop the malicious, methodical unraveling of the will of the elector-ate? Most importantly, how can we acquire a cadre of bold, uncompro-mising politicians with the courage, will and integrity to actually work for the best interests of those who send them to office? EM: First of all, there is no com-munity that is politically savvy that does not put forth an agenda to list and define those things that are needed for its survival. Jewish leaders, for example, lobby for those politicians who pledge to support Israel. Those who don’t support their agenda don’t get elected. Likewise, we have to be more intelligent in our approach. As a whole, we have not collaborated on a Black agenda. We have such things as a “Black and Puerto Rican Caucus, but the masses of us are not a part of the conversation to adopt a platform that identifies our priorities as a family. Q. Should we consequence those who get into office, but then fail to represent our will and betray our expectations? If so, how? EM: We have to make sure that our community is educated on the perfor-mance of those who claim to represent us. We have to have our finger on the pulse of our elected officials, and hold them accountable. When we’re better aware of how we’re being served, we’ll know what to do at the polls – either punish, or reward. Q. Are you saying that in time, we can set a tone or expectation that will see those who come for our votes will not even consider abandoning the will of their constituents? EM: Yes, but a part of that includes supporting our officials once they get into office. The community has to mobilize to fight for those who

KEYNOTE SPEAKER: R o l a n d W a r r e n , President of the National Fatherhood Initiative, will be the key-note speaker at the Buffalo Prenatal-Peri-

natal Network /CAPC Project 10th Anniversary Celebratory Luncheon on Friday, March 26 from noon to 3 p.m. at the Adams Mark Hotel, downtown Buffalo. Tickets are $25 per person. For tickets or more infor-mation contact Ernestine Richardson at (716) 884-6711 x208 or email edr@bpn.org

One Comunity, One Voice

represent us. We have to go from reacting to setting up strategies and plans. For example, the Justice Department found 19 serious viola-tions- misappropriations or theft of Block Grant Money intended for our blighted neighborhoods. That’s millions of dollars that could have relieved pain and suffering in our homes and on our streets. We have

to organize around our officials, letting them know that we’re aware of what’s happening, and that we’ll fight for them if they fight for us. People don’t understand how much stimulus money is intended for us that is taken by others while we’re not aware. Our streets look like

SabirahMUHAMMAD

Stop The Violence Coalition Awardees The Stop The Violence Coalition Inc. will celebrate their second annual banquet Saturday, March 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. at Harry’s Harbor & Grille. The theme is “Pressing On To Save A Generation.” The following individuals will be honored for their impact on the lives of youth in our community: *Religious Service: Pastor Tommie McClam & Minister Carlos Spen-cer *Community Service: Minister Kenny Simmons & Sam Radford *Education: Eva Doyle *Media: Chris Reynolds & Rod Watson *Arts & Culture: Bro. Henri Muhammad. Also honored will be individuals from the Stop The Violence Coalition programmatic services that press forward to answer the call of our youth: Interim Chairman Arlee “Joop” Daniels Jr.; Pastor James Giles and Pastor Tyrone Wilson for their hard work and sacrifice as program facilitators; the volunteer staff - Kechi Owunwanne, Tracey Travis, Jim O’Reily; youth - Heather Richards, Johnny Hilson, Anissa Mathews, Daryl Fortner, Jamel Davis, Diamond Collins, Shahid Taylor and Peacejam Buffalo. There will also be some surprise honorees. The celebration will include food, silent auction, basket raffles and musical performances by Miss Barbara School of Dance, Muhammad’s School of Music and United House of God Praise Dance Warriors. The keynote speaker is Detra Trueheart, founder of Young Miss Buffalo Scholarship Inc. and Trueheart Speaks. STVC chairman Marc L. Fuller will also address the gathering.

Services Set for Terrie A. Clark Terri A. Clark of Buffalo passed away at ECMC on March 17 after a long illness. Born on May 9, 1958 in Philadelphia, she was the mother of three children-Eldemarius Moreland, Davonte Clark and Robert Jackson Jr.(deceased). She was the daughter of Jennie Clark and sister of Deborah Dennis & Marie Clark. Terri will be truly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing her. She was a special niece of Gloria Williams Services will be held Saturday March 27 at 10 a.m. The funeral will follow at True Bethel Church South on Spring and Swan Street.

NAACP Accepting Award Nominations The Buffalo Branch NAACP is accepting Nominations for the following four 2010 awards; Medgar Evers (Civil Rights), Daniel Acker Community Service, Rufus Frasier Human Relations, and Youth. Nominations must be submitted in writing to the NAACP Awards Committee at 395 E. Ferry Street, Buffalo, N.Y. 14208, or faxed to 884-7243. Selection will be based on the nominee’s volunteer community activi-ties/service. Petitions will not be considered. Deadline for nominations is Friday, March 26, 2010. Presentation of these awards will be at the NAACP Dinner, Sunday, June 13 at the Buffalo Convention CenterAward Criteria Youth Award: This award is given to a youth 14 years of age or older, who has demonstrated significant assistance to the community involving but not limited to youth associations, churches, community based orga-nizations and has exemplified excellent judgment in helping others. Rufus Frasier Human Relations Award: This award is given to an individual or organization that has done a significant amount of service for the betterment of human or race relations. Daniel Acker Community Service Award: Awarded to an individual or individuals exemplifying outstanding community involvement. This involvement could include the betterment of the community as a whole. Medgar Evers Civil Rights Award: This award is given to an outstanding individual championing and speaking of the rights of the under class, or making the public aware either through the written or electronic press.

First row l-r: R. Watson, E. Doyle, A. Matthews, S. Radford, T. McClam; 2nd row: K. Simmons, H. Muhammad, H. Richards, K. Owunawanne, T. Wilson; 3rd row: Peacejam, A. Daniels, C. Reynolds, J. Giles, C. Spencer. Not pictured: Yvonne Ragan, Tracey Travis, Jim O’Reily, Daryl Fortner, Jamel Davis, Diamond Collins, Shahid Taylor.

Page 4 MARCH 24, 2010

The Challenger

WORLD NEWS ROUND-UP

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To apply, contact The Salvation Army at (716) 883-9800, extension 230, the Chautauqua County Offi ce for the Aging at (716) 753-4471, or Catholic Charities at (716) 856-4494 (if you are under the age of 60) or (716) 896-6388 (if you are over the age of 60), to fi nd the nearest agency and determine the necessary documentation to bring to the application interview. Don’t delay, as funds are limited and are available on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis. Grant amounts are determined by need, and individuals must have made at least six payments to their heating bill within a 12-month period from the date of application in order to be eligible. And, as long as you live in National Fuel’s service territory, you may qualify, even if you are not a National Fuel customer.

national insurance exchange where people could purchase the health plan of their choice instead of separate state-based exchanges with different standards…. I am also concerned that this bill should not be used to limit the right of women to reproductive choice. However she said that overall the bill will “make health care more affordable and more accessible for thousands of my constituents and mil-lions of Americans. By passing this legislation … we are taking a critically important step in the right direction.” The bill president Obama signed into law a bill passed by the House of Representatives late Sunday night aims to expand insurance coverage to 32 million Americans, set up insurance marketplaces called “exchanges,” extend subsidies to poorer Americans to buy coverage, and require busi-nesses to offer insurance. Altogether, the package costs $940 billion over 10 years. Congressional analysts estimate it will also cut the deficit by $138 billion over the same period.

GREATEST WEALTH HEALTHcontinued

Racist Reactions Over Passage of Health Care BillFrom Assassination threats to President Obama, to calling lawmakers “nigger” to “faggot” to sending racist faxes African American House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-S.C.) said he received racist faxes Monday in the wake of Sunday’s House vote approving health care reform legislation. A veteran of the civil rights movement, Clyburn told MSNBC’s Keith Olbermann Monday about the racist images faxed to his office. “If you look at some of the faxes that I got today, racial slurs, nooses on gallows, and I’m telling you, some very vicious language,” he said. “This stuff is not all that isolated. It’s pretty widespread. I hope it’s not too deep.” The racist faxes sent to Clyburn’s office follow a string of nasty comments directed at Democratic supporters of health care reform legislation. On Saturday, Tea Party protesters in a crowd egged on by Republican lawmak-ers called African American Rep. John Lewis (D-Ga.) a “nigger” and at least one protester spat on African American Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-MO). The slurs and spitting came as Lewis and Cleaver joined other Democratic lawmakers in march-ing to the House. Protesters in the same crowd called Rep. Barney Frank (D-Mass.) a “faggot.” Frank is one of a few openly gay members of Congress.-Assassination Threat- A conservative blogger who called for Obama’s assassination on Twitter is now the target of a probe by the Secret Service. The tweet from Solomon “Solly” Forrell, first reported by Gawker.com, was in response to Obama’s health care legislation that passed Congress late Sunday. The offensive tweet included the line: “We’ll surely get over a bullet 2 Barack Obama’s head!”

“We need to defeat these bastards. We need to wipe them out”Tea partiers vow revenge over health overhaul TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – A group of mostly Republican attorneys general were girding for a legal fight, filing a lawsuit Tuesday in federal court in Florida within moments of the landmark health care reforms being signed into law by President Barack Obama. Within hours of its passage, conservative commentators Glenn Beck and Rush Limbaugh — darlings of the tea party movement — were venting their anger, vowing a bloodbath at the polls on Election Day. “We need to defeat these bastards. We need to wipe them out,” Limbaugh said. “We need to chase them out of town. But we need to do more than that. We need to elect conservatives. If there are Republican primaries, elect conservatives and then defeat the Democrats — every last one of them — and then we start the repeal process.” Tea party activists said they do not see passage of the reforms that usher in near-universal medical coverage as the end of the debate. Instead, they’re looking to push for its repeal on several fronts: in the courts and during this year’s elections. “There’s going to be a whole, all-out effort for an Election Day onslaught,” said Michael Caputo, a public relations consultant who works with tea party activists on the national level, as well as in Florida and New York. “The health care process has been an incendiary issue for the tea party organiza-tions since Day 1. Losing that vote is going to inflame them more.”

16-year-old arrested for ‘all Black people’ leave Wal-Mart prankWASHINGTON TOWNSHIP, New Jersey -- A 16-year-old boy who police said made an announcement at Walmart ordering all Black people in a southern New Jersey store to leave was charged with harassment and bias intimidation, authorities said Saturday.The boy, whose name is not being released because he is a juvenile, grabbed one of the courtesy phones at Walmart’s Washington Township store Sunday evening and calmly announced: “Attention, Walmart customers: All Black people, leave the store now,” police said.The teen was arrested Friday and released to the custody of his parents; police did not know whether he had a lawyer.Authorities would not say whether the boy has a criminal record, citing the teen’s age, and would not disclose the teen’s race, saying that did not factor into the investigation.

MARCH 24, 2010 Page 5

The Challenger

Did You Know…

According to the World Health Organization, 80 percent of the world’s population relies on

herbs as a primary form of medicine.

Tuesdays 12 NOON - 1 P.M.

Maat E’s Mental Health Message

HEALTH MATTERS “Chosen to Heal”: African Nutritional Science Book Signing and Seminar

Dr. Kofi B. Asare, author of “Chosen to Heal,” will be featured for a lecture, book signing and private/family consultations on Sunday, March 28 at GROUP Min-istries Inc., 1333 Jefferson

Avenue. His lecture and book signing is free and will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. From 6- 9 p.m. he will offer private/family consultations. For an appointment call 1-888-333-4617. Dr. Asare’s appearance is being pre-sented by A Life of Peace Wellness Institute and PAMA Health. The local contacts are Torkwase Ra at 837-0248 or Prudence at 308-6489.Seating is limited, so call to reserve today!

Dr. Asare

Your GED is the “Pathway” to a better career and life. To help you reach that goal, theBuffalo Public Schools Adult Education Division has teamed up with Bryant & StrattonCollege to offer the “Pathways to Success” program, which provides all the educationaltools and support you need to succeed. And it’s ABSOLUTELY FREE!

� Start any time (enrollment is year round)� Learn at your own pace and take your GED exam only when you’re ready� Be part of a friendly, caring college community� Learn from dedicated Buffalo Public School teachers� Get one-to-one tutoring in the College’s Skills Assistance Center� Have full access to computer labs and the college library� Receive transportation assistance to and from campus� Use your GED to go to college, or work with our Career Advisors

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An End To Pre-Existing Condition: Health Insurers cannot deny children health insurance because of pre-existing conditions. A ban on the discrimi-nation in adults will take effect in 2014. 2. Small Business Tax Credits: Businesses with fewer than 50 employ-eeswill get tax credits covering up to 50% of employee premiums. 3. Seniors Get ‘Donut Hole’ Rebate: Seniors will get a rebate to fill the so-called “donut hole” in Medicare drug coverage, which severely limits prescription medication coverage expenditures over $2,700. As of next year, 50 percent of the donut hole will be filled. 4. More Young Adults Covered On Parents’ Plans: The cut-off age for young adults to continue to be covered by their parents’ health insurance rises to the age 27. 5. No Lifetime Caps: Lifetime caps on the amount of insurance an indi-vidual can have will be banned. Annual caps will be limited, and banned in 2014. 6. Adults With Pre-Existing Conditions Covered: A temporary high-risk pool will be set up to cover adults with pre-existing conditions. Health care exchanges will eliminate the program in 2014. 7. New Insurance Plans Must Include Preventative Care: New plans must cover checkups and other preventative care without co-pays. All plans will be affected by 2018. 8. The End Of ‘Recessions’ : Insurance companies can no longer cut someone when he or she gets sick. 9. Transparency In Insurance Companies: Insurers must now reveal how much money is spent on overhead. 10. Customer Appeals Process : Any new plan must now implement an appeals process for coverage determinations and claims. 11. Indoor Tanning Services Tax : This tax will impose a ten percent tax on indoor tanning services. This tax, which replaced the proposed tax on cosmetic surgery, would be effective for services on or after July 1, 2010. 12. Enhanced Fraud Abuse Checks : New screening procedures will be implemented to help eliminate health insurance fraud and waste. 13. Medicare Expansion To Rural Areas : Medicare payment protections will be extended to small rural hospitals and other health care facilities that have a small number of Medicare patients. 14. Deductions For Blue Cross Blue Shield : Non-profit Blue Cross organizations will be required to maintain a medical loss ratio -- money spent on procedures over money incoming -- of 85 percent or higher to take advantage of IRS tax benefits. 15. Nutrient Content Disclosure : Chain restaurants will be required to provide a “nutrient content disclosure statement” alongside their items. Expect to see calories listed both on in-store and drive-through menus of fast-food restaurants sometime soon. 16. Better Coverage For Early Retirees : The bill establishes a temporary program for companies that provide early retiree health benefits for those ages 55-64 in order to help reduce the often-expensive cost of that cover-age. 17. Better Consumer Information On The Web : The Secretary of Health and Human Services will set up a new Web site to make it easy for Ameri-cans in any state to seek out affordable health insurance options The site will also include helpful information for small businesses. 18. Encouraging Investment in New Therapies : A two-year temporary credit (up to a maximum of $1 billion) is in the bill to encourage invest-ment in new therapies for the prevention and treatment of diseases.

The Top 18 Immediate Effects of Health Reform Bill

Delaware Soccer Club Recruiting Youths The Delaware Soccer Club is currently holding registration for the Spring 2010 House League Season. Children in grades Pre-Kindergarten (must currently be 4 years of age) through 8th grade are eligible. Play begins the week of May 3 and concludes on Saturday, June 26. Cost of the program, including a uniform and a soccer ball is $85.00 until March 31 and $105.00 until registration closes on April 18. Individuals may register on-line through the club’s web site www.delawaresoccerclub.com, by calling the club’s office at 833-3616 for an application, or by attending one of the two in-person registration sessions. The first one is on Saturday, March 27 at Dick’s Sporting Goods at the Galleria Mall from 9.a.m. until 12 noon. The second session is on Saturday, April 17 in Delaware Park, next to the concession stand near the corner of Nottingham Parkway and Meadow Road. From 9a.m. until 12 noon. If you have any questions, please contact the club at 833-3616.

Maat E’s Mental Health Message:Thinking is being! What we think about has a direct rela-tionship to our state of being. If our minds are busy with worry and lack of faith, guess what? We will be anxious and hopeless. Thoughs are very powerful. They can direct our actions and change our mood. Practice changing thoughts next time you are in a bad mood. Think of giving thanks.

See what can happen. Have a blessed day. Peace, Dr. Maat E.

Page 6 MARCH 24, 2010

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Metropolitan United Methodist Church “Toys for Haiti” Drive The Metropolitan United Meth-odist Church located at 657 Best Street, Rev. JT Blake s Pastor, sponsored a “Toys for Haiti” Drive during the last week of January until March 7th. Over 7,000 toys were donated. On Thursday, March 18 the toys were loaded to be trucked to the Brooklyn Navel Yard in Brooklyn, New York by the 911 Fund. The toys will be shipped to Haiti by the Wyclef Jean Foundation and will arrive in two weeks. In Haiti, they will be distributed by the 911 Fund. The Metropolitan Church Family and Pastor JT would like to thank everyone who supported their toy drive. Thank you to the commu-nity, churches and individuals who took their time to buy toys for the children. Thank you and God Bless You.

Walterine Stribling Women’s ConferenceThe Walterine Stribling Women’s Conference, sponsored by the Wom-en’s Auxiliary to the Great Lakes Baptist Association will be held on Saturday, April 3, at 7 a.m. at Macedonia Baptist Church, 237 East North Street where the Rev. Herman Alston is pastor. For more informa-tion call Mr. Walterine Stribling, chairperson for further in formation at 874-6428.

Easter Egg Hunt North Buffalo Community Church, located at 350 Kenmore Ave., will host its first Easter Egg Hunt event on Saturday, March 27 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. for youths 2 to 18 years old.

Enter In Ministries Celebration The community is invited to join in the celebration with Enter In Ministries FGBC 1761 Genesee St. Sunday, March 28 at 5 p.m. Special guest Rev. Cobb and the Agape AMEZ Church.

Crystal Callahan’s Hometown Salute Weekend, “The Festival” Makes Its Way To Buffalo The movie screening of “The Festival,” a short film produced by Crystal Renee Callahan, will be held on Friday, march 26 at 7 p.m. at Evangelistic Temple & Community Church Center, Inc. 92 Hedley Place. Free will donation. Free refreshments and door prizes. The host pastor is Rev. George W. DuBois. For more information call 882-1432.

Page 7MARCH 24, 2010

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war zones, but we not only have to hold our leadership accountable, we have to support them when they’re attacked in the line of duty. Look at what (County Executive) Chris Collins is doing. He is bank-rupting the Black community, trying to make sure that stimulus money is not spent with us, withholding funds earmarked for the inner city Erie Com-munity College campus, zero bud-geting Black cultural organizations, cutting funds to day care providers while sitting on a $44 million surplus. Some of us are a party to this situation, and we have to mobilize to get Chris Collins and anyone who supports him out of office. Q. Should we be identifying and stewarding individuals whom we believe will go into office with the courage to represent us? EM: This is a two-faced approach. I want to make this clear. Neither Democrats nor Republicans are going to get us out of the condition where God himself is putting his hand against corporate America. We have to rec-ognize that the only way we’re going to be saved is by our own commit-ment to do for ourselves. Politics will not deliver us to the Promised Land. We have to galvanize the best and the brightest among us to do for self. We have to connect our young to the elders, who can flank a young politi-cian like Demone Smith, or a young mayor like Byron Brown so they can see the continuity of our struggle and enhance it. We can look at what the Hon. Louis Farrakhan is doing as an example of how we can provide for ourselves. In the history of the Nation of Islam, we saw the Hon. Elijah Muhammad take the nickels and dimes of poor people and purchase farm land, factories, airplanes, and establish international trade. Our young people have to be taught to be self governing. Too long have we been waiting for others to do for us what we can do for ourselves. More next time.

ONE VOICEcontinued from pg. 3

It’s Drill-O-Rama Time! The 37th Annual New York State Drill Team Championships and Step Show (The Drill-O-Rama) will be held this year at Kleinhans Music Hall on Wednesday March 31. This year’s competition promises to be the best one yet. “We never knew that an idea would grow from three drills to over thirty in the city of Buffalo” It seems like yesterday. The Crusaders were coming home from a national drill team championship. Some of the members sug-gested that Buffalo should have such a competition” stated Marcus Brown Sr. one of the founders. Presently there are drill teams in many of the High Schools of the Buffalo Public Schools. There are also drill teams in elementary schools, com-munity centers, and churches. The Drill-O-Rama offers an opportunity for all the teams to showcase their talents. Defending Champions (High School Division) the Academy 0f Visual and Perfuming Arts will be competing with Tech High School, McKinley High School and Bennett High School. Defending Champions (elementary division) School #53 will try to work their magic against, always chal-lenging School #6. Other groups being featured in this year’s event are Buffalo’s Finest (Senior, Junior, and Elementary), The Crusaders (Senior, Junior, Elementary), Deliverance (Senior, Junior, Elementary), Devasta-tion (Senior, Junior, Elementary) the Gospel Difference Ministries (Senior, Junior, and Step Group), and the New Life Triple Threat Drill team. There will be special performances by the Devastation Step team and the District Seven Dance Group. There will also be a special performance by Mission Impossible. This incredible group is from Nashville Tennessee. They have won many awards throughout the south. This will be their first performance in this region. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at Doris Records at 286 E. Ferry. Doors will open at 5:00pm and the competition begins at 6 p.m. There will be no tickets sold at the door. This event is sponsored by the Drill Teams United of Buffalo and Western New York and NICYO.

Page 8 MARCH 24, 2010

The Challenger

To List Your Event: Fax: 897-0442 or

email: advertising@thechallengernews.com

On Stage Listings are Free. Write: The Challenger, On Stage, 1337

Jefferson Ave., Bflo., NY 14208; or email:

editor@thechallengernews.com

ON STAGE

*Open Mic & Jam Session every Friday and Saturday New Musician’s Big “6” Club, 600 East North @ Fox; 896-6660.

*MADEA’S BIG HAPPY FAMILY, Starring Tyler Perry, HSBC Arena, Tuesday, April 27, 730 pm; Tickets on sale now at HSBC Arena Box office; all tickets.com locations including Tops Markets, Doris Records or charge by phone @ 1-888-223-6000.

*Thursday Night Comedy: The New Golden Nugget, 2046 Fillmore Ave. 8 p.m.; tickets $15.

*The Jazz Example with Larry Owens on drums; Greg Piontek on bass; Trigger Gaston on Piano, Bilal Abdullah on Sax; featuring vocalist Lady Lita;9PM,Each Friday at The Anchor Bar.

*BELLE, on stage at Ujima The-atre’s TheaterLoft, 545 Elmwood Avenue, March 5-28, Thurs., Fri, Sat. at 8 p.m. and Sun. at 6 p.m.; tickets $25 general, $20 seniors, $15 students; Reservations call 883-0380; group rates 883-4232. ujimacoinc@mac.com • www.ujimatheatre.org Purchase tickets online at: http://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/96672

*Live Piano Jazz: Free every Friday from 6-9 PM. Ms. Diana M. Reeves on vocals and keyboards. Mr. Larry Henderson on drums. Hot Stuff Southern Cafe’, 829 Main St., NF, NY 14301. 716.282.7883. www.hotstuffsoutherncafe.com

*Jazz at Lincoln Center with Wynton Marsalis, Saturday, March 20, 8 p.m., UB Center for the Arts; tickets at the Arts Box office or allT-Ticketmaster outlets & ticketmaster.com

*SOULFUL SPRING: A Soulful Spring Upscale Affair featuring Buffalo’s rising Indie artists in R&B, Neo-Soul and Smooth Jazz - Dana “DNA” Lewis, Jahnal, Drea and Will Holton - will be held at the Tralf on April 2. Showtime 8 p.m.. Tickets $25 presale, $30 day of s how and available at the Tralf Box Office and Doris Records.

*N’Dias ( “The Mix”) On Friday, April 9 Kleinhans Music Hall’s Mary Seaton Room will be transformed into a multitude of sights, sounds, rhythms and harmonies when N’Dias ( “The Mix”) performs for the first time in the prestigious venue.Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the pre-social event and African Market Place. Showtime is 8 p.m. An after party will take place at the North Lounge, 140 North St. (located in the Lenox Hotel). Tickets for the show are $15 in advance and $20 the door and can be purchased at Kleinhans.

*Buddy Guy, Wed. April 7, 8 p.m., UB Center for the Arts, Tick-ets $43.50 & $39.50, Ticketmaster & Center for the Arts Box Office; 645-2787 for info.

*FALLSVIEW CASINO & RESORT, NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA: *Gladys Knight, April 2 & 3, 9 p.m. $50; Little Anthony & The Imperials, April 9 & 10, $20; The Temptations, April 15, 8:30 p.m., $25; Smokey Robinson, June 11 & 12, 9 p.m., tickets $30; Ticketmaster.

*MAZE Featuring Frankie Beverly w/ Teena Marie & Betty Wright, April 23, 7:30 p.m., Blue Cross Arena, Rochester; tickets @ Arena Box Office & Ticketmaster Outlets & Mad Flavors Clothing.

*August Wilson’s “Two Trains Running” March 30-April l6 GEVA Theatre Center, Rochester, 232 GEVA or gevatheatre.org

*Black Chippendales Tour BUF-FALO: Club Jazzy’s Genesee St., April 1, 8 p.m., tickets Doris Records, $25 & Club Jazzys; more @ door, 585.402.4767.

*Black Chippendales Tour ROCHESTER: Club Elite, W. Main St. Rochester; 8 p.m., $25 tickets more @ door, available at The Hip Hop Center, 795 W. Main St. & Mad Flavors, 185 Lyell Ave; 585.402.4767 for info.

*Easter Jam 2010: Maino, Fat Joe, Red Café, Sat. April l3, The Conference and Event Center at Niagara Falls, 101 Old Falls St., N.F., 8 p.m.; Tickets @ Doris Records, New Style Records, West End Com-munications, Losson Market, NYC Apparel on Pine Ave. NF, Conference and Event Center; or www.ticketweb.com; 716.548.3570 or 607-8460 for info.

Last Thursday evening at the Gateway Gallery on Elmwood Avenue near Allen Street, something very special took place before a small, but appreciative audience. The debut of Abafana (which means “The Boys Are Doing It” in the South African Zulu language) were indeed, doing their thing. Newly formed, the group features Gaga Ekeh on keyboards, Emile Latimer on drums and Djembe, Frank Desire on Conga and Djembe and Sechaba Molefe on Trumpet and vocals. Sechaba, who hails from South Africa, blows his horn like the legendary South African musician Hugh Masekela (his inspiration) and his vocals are impressive; Bro. Gaga is from Nigeria, Bro. Frank from Haiti, and Master Drummer Emile – who has played with such greats as Richie Havens, and the late Nina Simone – is from the U.S. It is fitting that they call their unique, rhythmic sound, “Afro Jazz.” Sechaba returned to Buffalo from South Africa last June, and was about to return home. He thanks his friend GaGa for encouraging him to stay and try one more time to make the music happen. Sechaba credits Gaga for being responsible for the group coming together, and thanks him for convincing him to give it one more chance. After listening to Abafana perform, I thank him too… -A.B.

“The Boys Are Doing It!”

“Abafana”: (l-r) Gaga Ekeh, Emile Latimer, Sechaba Molefe and Frank Desire.

MARCH 24, 2010 Page 9

The Challenger

“Give peace a chance.”

forgive. live.

Winner of “Fiercely Real” Top Model Search has Buffalo Connection She’s a size 14 and fierce. Meet Sheridan Watson, the 17-year-old winner of Tyra Banks’ newest modeling compe-tition, the Fiercely Real Teen Model Search. Hundreds of thou-sands of teen girls sent in their best model pic-tures to Tyra.com, but only six finalists made it. After competing in five challenges, Sheridan, the 17 year old, size 14, fierce teen from New Jersey with a Buffalo connection, came out on top. She is the niece of McKinley High School Principal Crystal Barton. This year, Banks launched the first ever plus-size teen modeling search, which invited girls between ages of 13 and 19 who wear a dress size between 12 and 20 to compete for a contract with Wilhelmina Models and the cover of Banks’ MagaLine Tyra: Beauty Inside & Out. As the winner, “I’m still waiting for it all to hit me,” says Watson. “Growing up it was like modeling was not an appropriate profession for someone my size because I’ve always been curvy.” Now, she says, “I know it is possible.” Sheridan, as smart as she is beautiful, is a high school honor student and John Hopkins gifted and talented student. In addition to expanding “the narrow definitions of what’s considered beautiful,” Banks — who will continue to host this contest annually on her site tyra.com — says she’s looking to redefine the term plus-size. “The term plus-sized is so misleading so I’m renaming it Fiercely Real,” explains Banks. “What’s considered plus-sized in the fashion industry is actually average in the real world. I want women to realize that the women they see in the magazines are not the norm.” So I’m changing the term “Plus-sized” into “Fiercely Real”! The average size of a woman in America is a size 14. Our new winner, Sheridan, now represents for all the real sized women who have been ignored by the media. “

Friday, April 9, 8PM Kleinhans Music Hall, Mary Seaton RoomA traditional West African beat band led by master percussionist Alassane Sarr of Senegal, deeply rooted in the African tradition - multiple percussionists, electric guitars and bass

Tickets on sale now, just $15 in advance! 

A Truly Electrifying Performance

N’Dias in Concert

885-5000  |  bpo.org 

R-Healin Center Weekend Events The following events will take place this weekend at the R-Healing Center, 1057 Kensington Ave. *Thursday, March 25, 6-9p.m. Expressed Entertainment and Njozi promotions present the Njozi poetry slam. All 8 Njozi poets to face off against one another and teams will be chosen for the Rustbelt Poetry Slam in Lancing Michigan. Admission $10 *Join us Saturday, March 26, 7-10p.m. for a gospel explosion. Rythem & Praise, Hip Hop, Reggae, Poetry, Dance, Open Mic, good food and a good time. As Osanii Design hosts R-Healin Center’s Gospel Night Fea-turing one of Rochesters most dynamic Gospel Hip Hop artist “Creator.” Admission $5.

Spoken Word Slam Ambience will present its first annual Spoken Word Slam on Sat-urday, March 27, at BE Buffalo East (formerly Floyd’ Steel Drum), Main Street near E. Utica, from 7 to 10 p.m. Music by D.J. Spin. Admis-sion is $10 in advance and $15 at the door and can be purchased at Doris Records, 286 E. Ferry St. Competition entries are $30. Grand prize is $350. For more information call 359-6533 or 553-0783 or email rsvpinambience@gmail.com

Page 10 MARCH 24, 2010

The Challenger

©2010 The Coca-Cola Company. New York State figures based on 2008.

64 years later and our relationship is really working out.It doesn’t take a lot of effort, but every time you’ve enjoyed one of our products, you’ve allowed us to support one of our many causes such as the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. Since 1946, we’ve partnered with them to help provide a haven where kids can learn and grow in a safe environment. This long-standing national partnership has produced programs such as Triple Play, which has helped more than 1 million kids learn the importance of physical activity and proper nutrition since 2005. Locally some 193 Boys & Girls Clubs in New York State benefit more than 250,000 kids. It’s just another thing we’re doing to help make the communities we all live in a little bit better. To learn more about what we’re doing and why we’re doing it, join us at livepositively.com

©2010 The Coca-Cola Company. New York State figures based on 2008.

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MARCH 24, 2010 Page 11

The ChallengerEDITORIAL

FOOD FOR THOUGHT...

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

“What is planted cannot be uprooted.What is well

embraced cannot slip away.”I CHING

Published by Challenger Communityy News CorporationP.O. Box 474

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Speak-OutBuffalo Public School Parents Call on Governor Patterson, State Legislators and NYSED to support progress Dear Editor: Buffalo Public School Parents are concerned about what is going on in Albany and are calling on State Legislators and the Governor to reward the major turnaround going on in Buffalo Public Schools. Buffalo Schools for the first time in decades is going the right direc-tions and now is the worst time to be talking about cuts. Buffalo is facing a 35 million deficit and we need the state legislature and the Governor to acknowledge that what Buffalo is doing is what is needed to turn this com-munity around and we simply cannot afford to go back to the days 75% of our students reading and doing math below grade level. As parents we are very concerned that Albany is out of touch with what is really happening in Buffalo. Governor Patterson and Commissioner Steiner have talked about and made promises to support all students receiving a quality education. Here Buffalo is moving in the right direction to achieve that objectives and it seems as though nobody in Albany want to acknowl-edge or support such phenomenal improvement in such a short time. A positive spirit of the possibility of all of our children achieving is starting to rise in the students, parents, teachers, administrators and board members of the Buffalo schools. We need the Governor, State Legislature and Education Commissioner to get on Board and make sure Buffalo gets what it needs to continue moving in the right direction. In his press conference, on Graduation rates on March 9, Commis-sioner Steiner did not acknowledge the significant improvement in Buf-falo’s overall academic performance and diminished the improvement in our graduation rate. The Commissioner made very encouraging comments about New York City’s improvements and was encouraged they were moving in the right direction. Buffalo Public School Parents feel like Buffalo’s Numbers speak for themselves. Students on Grade level in math up from 26% in 2006 to 63% in 2009, reading scores up from 30% in 2006 to 54 in 2009. 16 schools on the SURR list in 2006 down to 4 in 2010. Graduation Rates up from 45% to 57% in 2009. In our book a 12% increase is significant not just “modest” as the Commissioner put it. It’s a long way from where we want to be, but it’s a very good move in the right direction. It seems as if the NYSED and The Buffalo School district are using different measuring systems and we as parents want some clear answers. By every account it seems as though Buffalo is moving in the right direction and deserves much more support, encouragement and acknowledgement from the commissioner. A lot of people have worked very hard to get us here and still know we have a ways to go, but the hard work and results thus far should not be minimized. The Parents of the District Parent Coordinating Council will be calling on the Commissioner to come to Buffalo and explain why his office and the Superintendent’s office have different numbers. We don’t need mixed messages. Parents are also are calling on everyone to contact State Legislators and ask them to ensure that Buffalo Public Schools are able to continue on it path to high academic achievement for all students. - District Parent Coordinating Council

- Buffalo School District PTA Presidents -Clergy

-Concerned Community Members

DarnellJACKSON

Livin’ the “Prison Life” Ain’t Easy... “Every Friday night about 800 people, mostly women and children, almost all of them African American and Latino, gather at Columbus Circle

in Manhattan and board buses for the north. Depending on the destination, the whole visiting trip can take up to 25 hours. Most of the passengers make this trip every weekend for many years and in some cases decades….

They visit loved ones in prisons located upstate in remote rural towns and villages, like Attica, Dannemora (Clinton CF), and Malone (Upstate CF).” There are over 2 million American citizens incarcerated in this country. Many of those people have family members or other loved ones on the outside. All of them, to vari-ous degrees, have been adversely affected by incarceration. “Prison life” exists both behind and beyond the wall. This journey of 5, 10, 15, 20, 30 years or more, can be pain-ful as people try to cope with the financial, physical, emotional, and mental challenges that accompany prison visitation. As rules differ from one prison to the next, it can be a part-time job just trying to keep up with the rules regarding visitation, sending packages, and managing phone calls. This can take a toll on relationships. While trying to help the one on the inside, the one on the outside needs support too. Sup-port for the one on the outside may not come from family members or friends, so support groups and online forums address the need. Visitation is key. Those who have never had to make these trips may not understand the struggle or the significance. At the next meeting of “Prison-ers Are People Too,” on Monday, March 29, 2010, at 6:30-8:30pm, at the Pratt-Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt Street in Buffalo, a new, award-wining documentary film by Melis Birder, “The Visitors,” will be screened. “’The Visitors’ is a documentary about passengers on a charter bus that leaves New York City every weekend for various prisons located in Upstate New York. Reflecting the struggles of a unique culture, living at the intersection of confinement and the free world, the story follows the coordinator of the bus, Denise, whose husband is coming home soon after 17 years of imprisonment.” This film is a powerful testament to love, life, and commitment. Our guest speaker on March 29 will be a young woman who spent many years making prison visitation trips from Western NY, traveling north to Bare Hill and Clinton Pris-ons, near the Canadian border. She traveled by bus and she traveled by car, visiting her husband, in an effort to keep love and hope alive for the family. Crystal Lane is a native Buffa-lonian who currently resides and works in the City. She can attest to the expense and the exhaustion that comes along with trying to keep a family intact when one of its mem-bers is serving time. She can also talk about the kind of strength and sense of responsibility that is required to sustain a relationship that could be diminished by the weight of a system

March 20 marked the 7th anniversary of the second U.S. –led invasion of Iraq: A war that dosen’t benefit anyone. There is no such thing as a free war. According to the Washington Post (The Iraq adventure has seri-ously weakened the U.S. economy, whose woes now go far beyond loose mortgage lending. You can’t spend $3 trillion -- yes, $3 trillion (and some 4,384 deaths) -- on a failed war abroad and not feel the pain at home.

that fails to place a high value on nurturing human beings. The film will begin promptly at 6:45pm. This program is sponsored by The Circle of Supporters for Reformed Offenders and Friends of BaBa Eng. For more information: karima@prisonersarepeopletoo.org; 716-834-8438. Documentary filmmaker, Melis Birder, was quoted in this arti-cle.)

KARIMA

AMIN

Open Up the Door and I’ll Get It Myself…

The only way we can change our city or save our city is to really face reality. Why do we allow the Republicans and Democrats to continue to put their party first instead of the people which they represent? We can’t keep doing the same things and expect change. Most of elected officials don’t even care about the deficit or poverty and violence, they only care about being reelected and don’t even support their own party candidates because they’re scared they will lose their election by standing up for the truth. They would sell their mother out to be re-elected. Instead of voting for the people’s agenda they put politics first. Look at how the Democrats stood by while they lynched Gov. Paterson with all those false accusations and lies. They targeted him just to prevent him from running for governor and they will target anyone who challenges them or their party while the rest of the party has nothing to say. How can you give raises to your elected officials when we are losing funding for education, health care, and people’s pensions that they worked all their lives for? They continue to feed their pockets off the backs of poor people. How long will our federal government allow all these millions and billions of dollars to keep being misdirected to different communities to keep their incumbents in office? Block grant funds that are embarked for poor communities keep being spent on high priced homes, condos and waterfront projects, spearheaded by people who don’t live in the city or Erie County. Why would they care about the inner city? How do we allow our elected leaders to stand idley by, while the state law that’s suppose to work for minorities keeps being ignored by our elected officials because these big unions and businesses fill their campaign coffers with thousands of dollars to run for re-election. These laws, called section 3 and title 6, have been on the books for years and have never been enforced by any of the so called leaders whether they are political, spiritual or civil right leaders who are also reaping big rewards to fund projects for their personal agendas. How can we stand by while our people are being killed in the streets and in prisons. This has been going on for years. How many billions of dollars are being spent for education yet our children are failing and being pushed through and still can’t read or pass a test. Why do they keep saying there’s no money for truant officers to pick youths off the corners when they’re suppose to be in school? Where is the money for books so our youths can study at home and be able to complete their homework. Why do we spend all this money on hiring police officers when they can’t even pay those who’ve been working without their raises or contracts being honored (and the same with the fire dept.) Where is the compliance officer that’s suppose to monitor these con-struction projects going on in our back and front yards, but we say we can’t find jobs here in the city. Why don’t our elected officials demand a commuter tax or residency for city employees? If 75% of our work force lives outside the city how can we be prospering? They make all the money in the city and take it where they live which is outside the city. But if most of our civil and spiritual leaders live outside the city, who do we have to speak for us on city residency? We need people who believe in the city not just reap all the benefits that’s here. Why are we allowing gangs, drugs and violence to run our city? who is really benefiting from all that? Is it the government, politicians, preachers or residents? Do we really want to fix the problem for real or are we fooling ourselves? It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure this one out. Are they scared that we won’t need all the jobs that go along with poverty, crime and a failing education? Isn’t it a proven fact that we would save billions of dollars on prevention and alternatives? Look at the statistics. If we made a major impact in our community with little or no funding imagine what we can do with the money that would be saved by the county, state, city and federal government by getting rid of some of these program pimps who’ve been pimping our community for years. Welfare can be eliminated overnight if we put in jobs for real and give people a chance to prove themselves. I have been an advocate of education and on-the-job-training for many years. Its time we put our votes where they count and stop being brain washed because of our political affiliation or because of the color of our skin. People of all color are suffering from the same games being played. It’s all about the haves and have nots. Where do you fit in? Like James Brown said- “open up the doors and I’ll get it myself.” But the door must first be open! Just keeping it real …(Darnell Jackson Sr. can be reached at 570-9165. )

Page 12 MARCH 24, 2010

The Challenger

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BIDSADVERTISEMENT FOR BID

The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority is requesting sealed bids to provide all labor, materials and equipment necessary or incidental to facilitate Emergency Masonry Restoration at AD Price Willert Park, BMHA Job A/E#10-13. Project is located at 95 Willert Park, Buffalo, NY 14204. Copies of the Bid Solicitation may be obtained from the BMHA’s Capital Improvements & Development Office located at 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, New York 14204 between the hours of 8:30 AM through 4:30 PM. A Presubmittal Meeting will be held at 10:00 AM, local time, on Monday March 22, 2010, at the site which is located at 95 Willert Park, Buffalo, NY 14204. The Requirements of the Contract will be discussed at this meeting and questions about scope and prosecution of The Work to be provided will also be addressed. Sealed Bids must be received by 3:00 PM, local time, on April 5, 2010, at the Capital Improvements & Development Office which is located at 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, NY 14204. Bids received after the set time will not be accepted. The contract for the above construction services will be awarded to a single firm; no joint ventures. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to waive irregularities and to reject any and/or all bids submitted.The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively solicits the same requirement from all firms interested in this opportunity.

Robert Bukowski Director of Technical Operations

Date: March 15, 2010

PROJECT: BUFFALO PUBLIC SCHOOLS: BPS #72 LORRAINE ELEMENTARY Bids: Sealed bids will be received at the office of LPCiminelli, Inc., 2421 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214 at 2:00 PM, on Thursday, April 8, 2010 for the contracts listed below.

Pre-Bid Meeting: A pre-bid meeting will be held Tuesday, March 23, 2010 at 10:00 AM, at the office of LPCiminelli, Inc., 2421 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214. All bidders are urged to attend.

Site Tours & Information Sessions: Tours of BPS #72 will be available immediately following the Pre Bid Meeting.

Contracts: The Project will be constructed using a multiple subcontract format. The following subcontracts will be bid at this time:

* 901-72A – Building Systems ** 901-72B – Balancing

* “Bidders on Contract 901-72A Building Systems MUST BE a Certified Minority Owned Business Enterprise as defined in Specification Section 00900 Development and Diversification Plan for Workforce and Business, Section II Business Development and Diversification Rules”.

** “Bidders on Contract 901-72B Balancing MUST BE a Certified Woman Owned Business Enterprise as defined in Specification Section 00900 Development and Diversification Plan for Workforce and Business, Section II Business Development and Diversification Rules”.

The following Contracts were previously bid:

Contract 100 – Asbestos Abatement / Demolition * Contract 101 – General Construction Contract 102 – Masonry * Contract 105 – Drywall/Acoustical ** Contract 106 – Painting * Contract 107 – Plumbing Contract 108 – HVAC * Contract 109 – Electrical Contract 906A-Flooring Part 1 Contract 916 – Electrical / Data (DWT) (Alternate Bid to Contract 109 Electrical)

The following Contracts will be bid at a later date:

Contract 920 – Security (DWT)

Coordination Between Contracts 100, 101, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, and 109 and Contracts 901A, 906A, 916 and 920 will be required.

Workforce and Business Diversification: It is the policy of the Program Provider to provide equal opportunity for all qualified individuals and busi-nesses, to prohibit discrimination, and to promote full realization of equal opportunity through positive continuing programs. Refer to Section 00900 of this Project Manual, Development and Diversification Plan for Workforce and Business.

Definitions: The Owner shall be defined as the City of Buffalo City School District as Agent for the Erie County Industrial Development Agency (ECIDA), Buffalo N.Y. and the Joint School Construction Board. The Owner has retained the services of LPCiminelli, Inc. as Program Packaging and Development Services Provider herein after referred to as the Program Provider. The Architect for BPS #72 shall be defined as Young + Wright Architectural.

Opening of Bids: The proposals will be privately opened.

Consideration of Bids: The Program Provider reserves the right to waive any informalities in the bid proposals, to reject any or all bids, or to issue any contract which it deems to be in the best interest of the Project.

Bidding Documents: The Bidding Documents may be obtained starting on Friday, March 19, 2010, through Reprocraft located at 282 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14202, upon the deposit of $100 per set, by check made payable to LPCiminelli, Inc. Bid deposit will be refunded to bidders returning the Bidding Documents in good condition within 30 days of the Bid Date. To obtain Bidding Documents contact Reprocraft at (716) 847-6262.

Bidding Documents may be examined at the following locations:

LPCiminelli, Inc. – 2421 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214Buffalo Board of Education Plant Services Department – Room 406 City Hall, Buffalo, NY 14202Construction Exchange of Buffalo & WNY, 2660 William Street, Cheek-towaga, NY 14227Builders Exchange, Inc., 180 Linden Oaks, Suite 100, Rochester, NY 14625-2837The Outsource Center, 1649 Fillmore Avenue, Buffalo, NY 14211McGraw Hill Construction/Scan, 3315 Central Avenue, Hot Springs, AR 71901 / http://network.construction.com. Other locations where contractors and subcontractors normally view plans.

Plan Holders List: An updated Plan Holders List may be obtained by access-ing LPCiminelli’s website at www.lpciminelli.com. The list is updated on a daily basis and can be found under “Bidding” and the school name.

Request For Information: Request for information regarding BPS #72 Bid Documents shall be submitted in writing to the Attention of Ms. Mishelle Smith at LPCiminelli’s Office, Fax: (716) 854-6655 or email: msmith@lpciminelli.com

END OF SECTION 00100

Dear Eve I’ll admit that I was in prison for five months -and- on probation a year-for fighting. The man was in a coma. Oh how I prayed for him! He is alright now-and has forgiven me. I asked God to forgive me -and- I promised Him that I would never fight again. My family has forgiven me. I even confessed my story to the church-the Congregation has accepted me. Also, I have a job. The fact is that while I was in prison, my girlfriend (I’ll call her Lydia) often visited me –and was quite supportive - I like her a lot -and- I feel as though I owe her a debt of gratitude. The problem is: Every time we’re out together, Lydia insists on introducing me as “This is Phil (the ex-con)”or “I want you to meet Phil (the felon),” I cringe (somewhat) during those introduc-tions...and have pleaded with her to refrain from giving me a title. However, she still continues to do it…I am at my wits end. How much more must I endure? Incidentally, we are both single - with no children. I am trying to turn my life around

PhilDear Phil: You have already paid the debt to society. What more do you owe? The mere fact that you have asked for God’s forgiveness as-well-as forgiveness from the man whom you were fighting with, indicates you are on the right track. It seems that you are a victim of disrespect. Why don’t you pray over this and ask for peace of mind? By the way you did not say that you love Lydia. What you did say was that you like her a lot. Therefore since there are no children involved and since you are trying to turn your life around, why feel the need to plead for respect? It may do well to end the rela-tionship. Lydia represents your past life; your new life began when you asked God’s forgiveness. Prayer is the key. Faith unlocks the door. Why not ask for a new girlfriend. When God sends one, you will know it. Be patient. He will answer. Read your bible. Jesus said “What-soever you ask in my name - that will I do” John 14: 13 and 14

Professional Office Space UB, VA Hospital area 650-1300 sq. ft. utilities included, off-street parking. 743-7344.

Board of EducationBuffalo, New York

Advertisement for Bids Sealed proposals for the following projects will be received at the office of the Board of Education – 403 City Hall, Buffalo, New York, 14202. On Tuesday, April 6, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. Proposals will be publicly opened and read aloud: Project 10-02 EXTERIOR RECONSTRUCTION P.S. 19 NATIVE AMERICAN MAGNET 97 WEST DELEVAN AVENUE BUFFALO, NEW YORK 14213 The instructions to bidders, bid forms, drawings and specifications may be examined and copies thereof may be obtained at the above listed office. Please note that required bid bond is 20%. The work will be subject to the equal employment opportunity requirements. A $100 deposit will be required for each project. If the bidding documents are returned in good condition, and returned at least 30 calendar days from the date of bid opening, deposits will be returned by mail. If the documents are not returned in good condition or after such date, all deposits shall be forfeited. Any questions regarding this project, please refer to: JIM NAPORA (716) 816-3610EDWARD J. LINDSAY, JR.ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENTAdvertising date: Monday, March 22, 2010

Board of Education Buffalo, New York

Division of Purchase 716-816-3585

**Sealed proposals will be received in Room 816 City Hall

On: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 2:00 P.M. local time for BID # 09-10-078 INSTALL PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT AT LOVEJOY DISCOVERY SCHOOL #43 Specifications and bid forms are available in Room 816 City Hall; and on websitewww.buffaloschools.org/Pur-chaseDept.cfm

Jennifer LoTempio Purchasing Agent

BIDS

MARCH 24, 2010 Page 13

The Challenger CLASSIFIED

ADVERTISING PAYS!

Construction Trainees Wanted

The OutSource Center for Human Services, Inc.

1649 Fillmore Avenue Buffalo, New York 14211

(716) 896-0838 Fax: (716) 896-2480 A comprehensive pre-apprenticeship training program. This 10 week program is designed

to help individuals learn the necessary skills so they may be more qualified and competitive when applying for construction or apprenticeship positions.

*This is an exciting opportunity to earn really good money! *How does $13.00 an hour your first year and $20.00 an hour after 4 years sound?

*We have a pre-apprenticeship training program you may enter NOW to learn the necessary skills!

What is Apprenticeship? The process of learning a skilled trade through training on the job (practical experience) plus acquiring related technical education—usually in a classroom.

Think about the Rewards!

Income: Earn more money as a journeyman than people who go to college for 4 years. Receive great fringe benefits as well! Learn while you Earn: As you work and learn the trade you’re also earning great money! No College Loans: Apprenticeships do not cost you money so you do not need to get any of those dreaded college loans! College Credits: Your apprenticeship classes may count towards a college degree! National Recognition: Your journeyman’s card allows you to go to work anywhere in the United States!

Types of Apprenticeships

Asbestos Workers Bricklayers

Cement Masons Carpenters Electricians

Iron Workers Operating Engineers

Painters Plasterers

Plumbers & Steamfitters Roofers

Plus Many More!!!

Applications are available at The OutSource Center

1649 Fillmore Avenue (at Northland Avenue)

Advocates for mentally ill consumer to help them obtain benefits and live independently. Resume to WNYIL, Inc., 3108 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214. EOE

Driver for wheelchair van. CDL required. Must have clean driving record. Resume to Transportation Dept., WNYIL, Inc., 3108 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214. EOE

Employment Peer Counselor to assist people with mental illness find employment. Resume to WNYIL, Inc. 3108 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14214. EOE

Job interviewing never seems to get any easier - even when you have gone on more interviews than you can count. You are meeting new people, selling yourself and your skills, and often getting the third degree about what you know or don’t know. Here are job interview tips to help prepare you to interview effectively. Proper preparation which help alleviate some of the stress involved in job interviews.PracticePractice answering interview ques-tions and practice your responses to the typical job interview questions and answers most employers ask. Think of actual examples you can use to describe your skills. Providing evidence of your successes is a great way to promote your candidacy.

Job Interview TipsPreparePrepare a response so you are ready for the question “What do you know about our company. Know the inter-viewer’s name and use it during the job interview. If you’re not sure of the name, call and ask prior to the interview. Try to relate what you know about the company when answering questions.WatchTake a look at my Job Interview Tips Videos, so you’ll be sure to dazzle a potential employer and leave the right impression.Get ReadyMake sure your interview attire is neat, tidy and appropriate for the type of firm you are interviewing with. Bring a nice portfolio with copies of your resume. Include a pen and paper for note taking.Be On TimeOn time means five to ten minutes early. If need be, take some time to drive to the office ahead of time so you know exactly where you are going and how long it will take to get there.

Stay CalmDuring the job interview try to relax and stay as calm possible. Take a moment to regroup. Main-

tain eye contact with the interviewer. Listen to the entire question before you answer and pay attention - you will be embarrassed if you forget the question!Show What You KnowTry to relate what you know about the company when answering ques-tions. Follow UpAlways follow-up with a thank you note reiterating your interest in the position.

EMPLOYMENT

REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL

BIDS

BIDS

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority is requesting sealed bids to provide all labor, materials and equipment necessary or incidental to facilitate Emergency Masonry Restoration at AD Price Willert Park, BMHA Job A/E#10-13. Project is located at 95 Willert Park, Buffalo, NY 14204. Copies of the Bid Solicitation may be obtained from the BMHA’s Capital Improvements & Development Office located at 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, New York 14204 between the hours of 8:30 AM through 4:30 PM. A Presubmittal Meeting will be held at 10:00 AM, local time, on Monday March 22, 2010, at the site which is located at 95 Willert Park, Buffalo, NY 14204. The Requirements of the Contract will be discussed at this meeting and questions about scope and prosecution of The Work to be provided will also be addressed. Sealed Bids must be received by 3:00 PM, local time, on April 5, 2010, at the Capital Improvements & Development Office which is located at 320 Perry Street, Buffalo, NY 14204. Bids received after the set time will not be accepted. The contract for the above construction services will be awarded to a single firm; no joint ventures. The Board of Commissioners reserves the right to waive irregularities and to reject any and/or all bids submitted. The Buffalo Municipal Housing Authority is an Equal Opportunity Employer and actively solicits the same requirement from all firms interested in this opportunity.

Robert Bukowski Director of Technical Operations

Date: March 15, 2010

FULL TIME OPENINGSGENESEE COMMUNITY COLLEGE

(State University of New York)

Genesee Community College has opened the following searches for Fall 2010: Instructor of Chemistry and Math-Master’s degree in Chemistry or related field with at least 18 graduate hours in Chemistry with adequate preparation in math to teach mathematics courses as needed. Two years of related work and/or college teaching experience is preferred. Instructor of Engineering Math & Science - Master’s degree in Engineer-ing or related field and a minimum of four years of relevant work experi-ence is required. Previous college teaching experience is preferred. Ideal candidates will possess a passion for teaching and learning, a sense of humor, a positive attitude and a willingness to embrace technol-ogy. They will strive to create and maintain personal connections with students and the college community. (S)he must be a friendly, enthusi-astic team player with a strong work ethic who contributes to Genesee’s supportive community, dedicated to effective innovative strategies for student success. Positions are targeted to begin Fall 2010. For more details and to apply online visit www.genesee.edu/about/employment. Applications accepted through April 15, 2010. Please include a cover letter, resume and contact information for four references. GCC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to fostering diversity in its faculty, staff, and student body, and strongly encourages applications from the entire spectrum of a diverse community.

Board of Education Buffalo, New York

Division of Purchase 716-816-3585

**Sealed proposals will be received in Room 816 City Hall On: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. local time for BID # 09-10-076 INSTALL PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT AT HOUGHTON ACADEMY #69 Specifications and bid forms are available in Room 816 City Hall; and on websitewww.buffaloschools.org/Pur-chaseDept.cfm

Jennifer LoTempio Purchasing Agent

Board of Education Buffalo, New York

Division of Purchase 716-816-3585

**Sealed proposals will be received in Room 816 City Hall On: Wednesday, March 31, 2010 at 12:00 P.M. local time for BID # 09-10-077 INSTALL PLAYGROUND EQUIPMENT AT WEST HERTEL #94 Specifications and bid forms are available in Room 816 City Hall; and on websitewww.buffaloschools.org/Pur-chaseDept.cfm

Jennifer LoTempio

The Erie County Department of Mental Health is issuing a Request for Proposals for Additional Chemical Dependency Outpatient Treat-ment & Assessment Services. Applicants must be OASAS-Certified Part 822 Service Providers that have a valid two or three year, Part 822 operating certificate issued by the OASAS Commissioner and is in good standing. The RFP, # 10143BC, can be viewed at http://www.erie.gov/health/mentalhealth/rfp.aspResponses must be received no later than 4:00 on April 19, 2010

MARCH 24, 2010Page 14

WEEKLY MEETINGS *Stop The Violence Coalition Meeting: 5:30 p.m. 742 Delaware Ave. 882-7882. Fridays. *Buffalo Local Action Committee Meeting (BLAC): 6:30 p.m. Pratt Willert Center, 422 Pratt St. Thursdays *TOPS Club, Inc. (Take Off Pounds Sensibly): 6 p.m.; Edward Saunders Com-munity Center, 2777 Bailey Ave.; 834-6095. Mondays *African Consciousness Workshop: 6-8 p.m.; Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Avenue. Mondays *The Israel of God Bible Study Class: 6 p.m.; 372 Feugeron Ave.; 897-2270. Wednesdays *Health and Healing Circles: 3:30-5 p.m.; CAO, 70 Harvard Pl.; 903-3290, Wednesdays *Moot Senior Center “Best Breakfast in Town”: 9-10:30 a.m. 292 High St., Wednes-days *Men and Women Support Groups: 5:30-7 p.m.; 1333 Jefferson Avenue; hosted by Group Ministries, Inc. Thursdays *Alcoholics Anonymous First Step Group: 8-9 p.m.; Memorial Medical Center Auditorium, 621 10th St. Niagara Falls. Fridays *Narcotics Anonymous: 5-7 p.m.; Memorial Medical Center Auditorium, 621 10t St. Sundays *Senior Bridge Club/Poker Club: 1-4 p.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021.

ENTERTAINMENT *The Café at Masten & Eaton Presents “Friday Evening Jazz”: 8 p.m.; 230 Masten Avenue; 883-2311. Fridays *Swinging Sundays: 8:00 p.m.-12 p.m.; Colored Musicians Club, 145 Broadway; 855-9383. *“Classic Soul Mixer”: 7-10 p.m.; Pandora’s Restaurant & Bar, 2261 Fillmore Ave. Fridays. *Dinner & Live Jazz at Hot Stuff Southern Cafe, 829 Main St., Niagara Falls; featuring Diana M. Reeves Fridays 6-9 p.m. and “Gumbo, Grits & Gospel on Sundays 2-6 p.m.; (716)282-7883.

DINNERS *Muhammad Study Group Lunches & Dinners: 579 Jefferson Ave. (corner of Jefferson & Frost); $10; 436-1460. Saturdays. *St. John’s Lodge #16 Free and Accepted Masons Charity Fish Dinner Fundraiser: 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; 17 Kingsley Street; $7; 885-5009 or 200-9129. Fridays

On-Going Events

NUMBERS

WIN 4

TAKE 5

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quick money $$$$189-809-444886-980-422322-522-355800-592-390394-833-924127-909-418927-313-466124-550-525583-269-508

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MARCH VIBRATIONS874-254-594-890-347-123-662-

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SEE YOU AT THE EVENTS!

MARCH 24, 2010 Page 15

see you at the events!

DANCE Dance Lessons with Smooth Steppers: Urban Line Dance, smooth style Ball-room, Steppin’ and Swing; CRUCIAL Center, 230 Moselle St., Saturdays at noon; Tuesdays at 6 p.m. $3; 633-7813. *Line Dancing With Pearl Harris: 6-7 p.m. Pratt Willert Community Center, 422 Pratt St. donation $2. Wednesdays *Community Dance and African Drumming Classes: African American Cultural Center, 350 Masten Avenue, 3 p.m. Saturdays and 5 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; $15 monthly; visit www.africancultural.org more information *Line Dancing Lessons, First Shiloh Baptist Church, 15 Pine St., 6:30 p.m. Fridays. 847-6555. Free. *Line Dance Lessons: 10 a.m.-Noon; Martha Mitchell Center, 175 Oakmont St.; 444-2046 or 833-1038, Tuesdays Wednesdays *Line Dance by George Patterson: 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 896-7021, Mondays & Thursdays. *June-Teenth Afrikan Family Time Drum Dance and Song: 6-8:30 p.m.; Gateway-Longview Family Resource Center, 347 Ferry Street. Fridays * Argentine Tango Every Monday with Travis Widrick 7 - 10 p.m. 1st hour begin-ners lesson,The Gallery @ Chow Chocolat, 731 Main St. *Salsa Night Every Wednesday with Calvin and Fanny 7 - 10 p.m .1st hour begin-ners lesson The Gallery @ Chow Chocolat 731 Main St. *Latin Night 1st/3rd Friday with Chun Poh, Salsa, Merengue, ChaCha, Bachata 8 p.m.- midnight, Chow Chocolat 731 Main St. *Urban Ballroom Stepping, Swing, Beginners Salsa (all classes $3, 633-7813); Tuesdays 6-7 p.m. Urban Line Dancing; 7-8 p.m. Ballroom Stepping; Saturdays 1-3 p.m. Ballroom Stepping, West Coast Swing, Beginners Salsa. *Urban Line Dance: Learn some of the latest hot line dances,Mondays Old 600 Club, Mondays 7-9 p.m.; Wednesdays 6:15-8 p.m., ,St. Philips 15 Fernhill. POETRY *Open Mic Poetry: 6:30-9 p.m.; EM Tea Coffee Cup Café, 80 Oakgrove St.

YOUTH *Girl Scouts of America: 5-8 p.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021. Wednesdays

EXERCISE *Senior Fitness Class: 9:45-10:45 a.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021; Wednesdays *Exercise for Health: 9:30-10:30; Edward A. Saunders Center, 2777 Bailey Avenue; 332-4381 Thursdays *Open Gym: 5-8 p.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021. Fri-days *Tae-Kwan-do: 6-8 p.m.; Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021. Mondays & Fridays *Senior Fitness Class: 9:45-10:30 a.m.: Delavan Grider Center, 877 E. Delavan; 896-7021. Mondays

RADIO/TV PROGRAMMING *Sen. Antoine Thompson Radio Show, Thursdays 1-2 p.m.; WUFO Radio 1080AM. *Pro-Ject Access To A-Free-Ka Radio Show: 3-6 p.m. 1080 AM WUFO; hosted by Ras Jomo; call in 837-111,, Mondays. *Khametic Ascendants Buffalo: 9 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. (nite); Buffalo Channel 20 Video showings; live speakers. Wednesdays *My Time To Be Blessed! Channel 20, Cable TV, Evangelist Gloria Caver-Robinson Gill; Mondays and Fridays 2 to 2:28 p.m. Sundays. *Umoja Presents: 10:30 p.m.; Channel 20. *Jazz Favorites: 9-10 p.m. WBFO Radio 88.7 AM with host/producer Macy Favor and guest. *What’s Happening Buffalo and WNY: 8:30 a.m. MYTV Buffalo; host Esther Smothers.Sun-days. *WHLD 1270 AM Real Distinguished Speakers Series: 3-4 p.m.; hosted by Marc L. Fuller, with guest speaker. Saturdays.

On-Going Events

WEDNESDAY MARCH 24

Board of Education Meeting: 5:30 p.m., 801 City Hall.

Cover the Uninsured Week: Martha Mitch-ell (Langfield Housing Complex) 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.; Kaleida Health available to take health insurance applications.

THURSDAY MARCH 25

Zumba Fitness Class: 5:30-6:30 p.m.; The 2nd Cup, 36 Broadway; 864-4592.

FRIDAY MARCH 26

70's and 80's Skate Reunion: Arcadia Roller Rink (The old "Arena"), Main & Amherst Street, 9pm-1am; Tickets $10 in advance, $15 at the door; Music by DJ Hassan; For more information/tickets please call (716) 240-9159

SATURDAY MARCH 27

Stop The Violence Coalition Inc. Annual Banquet: 6-10 p.m., Harry’s Harbor & Grille, tickets $50; 882-7882.

Crystal D. Peoples-Stokes Women’s History Luncheon: The Larkin Building, 726 Exchange Street; 1-3 p.m.; $75 per person; (716) 891-5445 or friendsofcrys-talpeoples@gmail.com

YMCA for Healthy Kids Day: Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; free; creative activities & more.

Workshop for Prospective School Board Members: Presented by the Erie County Association of School Boards, 830 a.m. – noon, Erie I BOCES, 355 Harlem Rd; 821-7297 or snowak@elb.org to register.

Sister to Sister Summit 2010: Buffalo State College Campbell Student Union, 8:15 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; free and open to girls ages 11-17; (716)935-6068 for info.

Zumba Fitness Class: 9-10 a.m., E. Delavan Library, 1187 E. Delavan; 864-4592.

SUNDAY MARCH 28

“Chosen To Heal” African Nutritional Science Book Signing and Seminar: Featuring Dr. B. Kofi Asare Master Herbalist, Naturopathic Doctor; 3-5 p.m. Lecture and Book Signing, free admis-sion; 6-9 p.m. private/family consulta-tions (1-888-333-4617 for appointment); Local contacts Torkwase Ra 837-0248 or Prudence 308-6389.

TUESDAY MARCH 30

STATE OF THE COUNTY COMMU-NITY MEETING: 5:30-7:30 p.m., Frank E. Merriweather Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave.; For more info Leg. Betty Jean Grant, 894-0914 (cell) 536-7323; Email: grant@erie.gov

WEDNESDAY MARCH 31

Drill-O-Rama: Kleinhans Music Hall, 6 p.m.; Tickets $15 at Doris Records; NO TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE DOOR.

THURSDAY APRIL1

Buffalo Niagara Convention and Visitors Bureau Free Seminar on Conference & Family Reunion Planning: 6-7:30 p.m., Frank E. Merriweather Jr. Library, 1324 Jefferson Ave; 852-0511 ext. 245 for more info or Williamson@buffalocvb.org

Community Prostate Cancer Informa-tional Supper: 5-6:30 p.m. Gaylord Cary Room, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Elm & Carlton Streets; sponsored by Roswell Park & MAN UP (Minorities Allied for the Need to Understand & Prevent Prostate Cancer); free; 845-8487 or 845-4557.

CALENDAR OF EVENTSTalbert Mall, Frederick Douglass Towers Reunion Skating Party The Talbert Mall & Frederick Douglass Towers Reunion Commit-tee will host an Easter Skating Party at New Skateland, Friday, April 2 from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $5, skate rental $1, lockers .50 cents.

Urban Ballroom Steppin’ Dance Classes Urban Ballroom Stepping, Swing, Beginners Salsa (all classes $3, 633-7813); Tuesdays 6-7 p.m. Urban Line Dancing; 7-8 p.m. Ballroom Stepping; Saturdays 1-3 p.m. Ball-room Stepping, West Coast Swing, Beginners Salsa.

MARCH 24, 2010 Page 16