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"Between the Bridges" |
 Photo courtesy of Rich Call Class of '85 |
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Good morning Jane Edwards in Omaha, NE, and good morning Jane Smigiera in Cheektowaga, NY.
This came in this week from an avid reader: "It must be time for a second donation to Isledegrande....I say if we realize we pay $1.00 a week for a Sunday paper, surely our online newspaper is worth that too. (The checks in the mail).....no really...." Thank you, avid reader!
Sean Hook will play the part of Daddy Warbucks in the St. Stephen's Parish Players youth performance of "Annie" next month, and has decided to have his head shaved. He is a sophomore at Buffalo State majoring in music, and a GIHS graduated, Class of 2008. And through the suggestion of Maggie Rustowitz, he is going "Bald for Bucks" on Monday, April 12th, a great thing for the play and for our community. By doing this, Sean will be raising money to donate to Roswell Park for cancer research. Those who would like to donate are asked to write checks made out to Roswell Park. MaryElisabeth Rustowicz, playing "Annie" in the play, will also be cutting ten inches of her hair for "Locks for Love."
Good news! Puppet DiTullio's health is improving. He is in Room 3107, Kenmore Mercy Hospital, 2950 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217. Keep the prayers coming.••••Cards of cheer are in order for Shorty Vanthoff, John Wohlfeil and Debbie McTigue.
A belated happy birthday to Joanne Del Zoppo, born on St. Patrick's Day and to Donna Robinson who celebrated on Tuesday.•••• Happy birthday to Brittany Robinson (21 today), Audrey Mason (3 today), Eddie Krecisz and Sarah Brady (today), Ruth Landel (best wishes tomorrow), Dee DiTullio and Sarah Smith (tomorrow), Geraldine Serba (Saturday), Meredith Hale Ruland (13 on Sunday), Charlotte Mrkall and Sandra Heberlein (Monday), Ryan Kernin (double digits – 10 years old on Tuesday), and twins, Sarah Gascon and Mackenzie Gascon (5 on Wednesday).
Judy and David Henderson just celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on March 12. Happy days to the Hendersons.
Island Rumor! Rumors are flying about a taco place, supposedly addressed at Monday's town board meeting. "Absolutely no mention of a Taco Bell or anything even remotely close," is a board member's response to the question. The fact that Blockbuster Video in the Grand Island Plaza is leaving the Island is not a rumor, much to the disappointment of many Isle residents.
Looking back 60 years - It was good news for Islanders back in 1950 when Kay's Drug Store in Kenmore announced their daily deliver of prescriptions to Larson's Delicatessen across the road from St. Stephen's Church. ••••Residents were able to put telephone calls through to other local residents by dialing only the last four digits on their new dial phones in March 1950.
Looking back 50 years - The town board approved construction of a lateral water line on Legion Drive. The line was to extend from Fix Road to West River Parkway service road. ••••Rev. John M. Larsen was appointed minister of Trinity Church.••••The Town Board appointed Katherine Sheehan Town Historian upon the resignation of Rob Roy MacLeod.••••Nora Butcher earned a three-year, Cub Scout den mother service star.••••Highland Boot Shop opened between the NuWay supermarket and Neisner's in the Grand Island Blvd. Plaza.
Looking back 40 years - Spec. 5 John Gast Jr. , stationed in Germany, was chosen pathfinder soldier-of-the-month for February 1970
Looking back 30 years - The weekend of March 22-23, 1980 saw the Mo-Skeeters sting Charlie's Place, 333-320 to remain in first place in the Grand Island Rod and Gun Club's Winter Trap and Skeet League competition. The Mo-Skeeters' attack was led by perfect 25 scores by Paul Bauer, Joe Muranyi and Vince Muranyi and the victory left them with a 10 wins and 1 loss record. Among the other teams winning or losing were the Grand Guys, DeGlopper Trucking Team, Sheppards Guns, Sky Busters, Merganzers and Riverbottom Inn.
Our sympathy to the families of Barbara J. Raham, Juanita A. Pellegrino and former resident Norine E. (Webb) Giardina who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
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Marston Power Equipment - New Portable Generators and much more - Grand Island Blvd.
Robert M. Ratajczak, Jr., Attorney - Striving to make legal services simpler and cost effective
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Realty USA/Liz Wilbert - Local, experienced realtor
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Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
Assemblyman Hoyt will host a town hall meeting today. •••• Boy Scout Troop 630 will host its annual Spaghetti Dinner from Noon till 6 p.m. on Sunday. ••••The Rotary Club’s Undie Sunday will be held at Tops on Sunday. •••• The Grand Island Lions Club will hold its 41st Annual Spaghetti Dinner on Monday. ••••A Relay For Life Team Captain Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday. •••• See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Good morning Mary Ellen in Flagler Beach, FL, and good morning Colleen in Bug Hill, NC.
Click photo for larger view
Happy first birthday baby Chloe Anne Timmerman, celebrating on Tuesday, the 16th. She is the daughter of Anne and Staff Sergeant Ryan Timmerman and is shown in front of the "Rewinder," the family's race boat, while visiting the recent boat show. Chloe, whose dad is serving with the U.S. Army in Iraq, is the granddaughter of Greg and Liz Barker of Grand Island and Rick and Pat Timmerman of Colo, Iowa.
Happy birthday to Emily Bolles (18 today), Barbara Anderson (celebrating today with her girls), Anne Stuardi (today), Roman Cacciatore (11 today), Jessica Pauley (20 tomorrow), Madison MacNeil (8 tomorrow), Pete Xanthos, Adam Kratz and Patti Kratz (Saturday), Sam Aswad (85 on Saturday), Jon Grenda (his 16th birthday on Sunday), Richard Harnden (a milestone on Monday), John Sarokan and Rod Raham (Monday), Doris Kaiser (cheers on Monday), Paul Bidell and Karen Webb (Tuesday), Cameron Willer (2 on Tuesday), and Nonnie Carroll, Bob Tranter and Maureen Kraus (Wednesday).
Christopher Swagler is "Going Bald For Bucks" to benefit Roswell Park Cancer Institute. Can you help him out? See Christopher Goes "Bald for Bucks" for complete information.
Very best wishes to Vicki and Ian Harnden who will celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, March 16th.
Donna and Kent Webb, and daughter, Sarah, have moved to Highland Falls, NY where Kent is employed as an Industrial Hygienist at West Point Military Academy. Son, Mark, will remain in the area finishing college. Good luck, to the Webbs.
"Puppet" DiTullio is in Kenmore Mercy Hospital, Room 3409, bed 9 at this writing. Not sure of visitors but cards and prayers would be most appreciated. •••• A cheery hello to Mary McMahon.
Congratulations to Pvt. Anthony J. (AJ) Guenther who graduated from U.S. Marines boot camp, Parris Island, South Carolina, on February 26th. AJ is a graduate of Grand Island High School, Class of 2009, and son of Regina and the late Tony Guenther. See "In The Service" for the full story and photo.
The Erie Community College men's hockey team won the Region III Championship, earning the No. 2 seed in the four-team National Junior College Athletic Association Tournament. Freshman Ryan Vertino with 22 goals and 22 assists, made second team.
Looking back 60 years - The “Sitting Hens,” a group of Grandyle Village mothers who formed a cooperative baby-sitting arrangement, gave a surprise shower for Ann Boehm. The other members of the club were Helen Sunderland, Betty Wheeler, Gert Cotter, Velma Harding and Mary Ellen Hau.•••• New cars were a big deal during the winter of 1950. The George Cullen and Henry Schlueter families were driving new cars and Ray and Ida Stanley had a new Ford. •••• The following appeared in the “With Dottie on the Party Line” column in the Island Dispatch in March 1950: “Television being a complete mystery to us (we still don’t understand radio) makes us admire Jake Ekiss’ talent for repairing television sets. A ten-minute going over by Jake and “presto” the complicated thing works again.”
Looking back 50 years - Reese’s new Bells-IGA supermarket opened in the same building as the old one in March 1960 on Grand Island Blvd. near Staley Road. ••••Water lines in new district 9 were ready for use and homeowners began tapping into mains. District 9 included Love Road from Baseline to West River Road, and parts of Baseline, Bush, Fix and West River roads. ••••"Dampness in the town hall basement may yet have its merits," the local weekly paper reported. "There are mushrooms growing on the floor in the assessor’s office. A maintenance worker discovered the toadstool variety while cleaning the place."
Looking back 40 years - Grand Island kids participating in the 42nd annual Buffalo Turners Circus at Turners Hall in Buffalo March 12-14, 1970 included Kim Custodi, Kathleen Siobhan Wright, Patty Wright, Jeff Certo, Bob Beauregard, Daneen Certo and Tammy Custody.•••• Airman First Class David C. Tyler of West River Road was on duty at Cam Ranh Bay Air Base, Vietnam. ••••Grand Island Viking Pete Fadum led the GIHS basketball team in scoring for the 1969-70 season with 227 points, hitting 91 out of 223 field goal attempts for 41 per cent and 45 out of 68 foul shot attempts for 66 %. Other high scorers were Wayne Benton and Greg Costanzo. Wayne was top rebounder with a total of 111 rebounds.
Looking back 30 years - Members and leaders of Boy Scout Troop 510 left Trinity Church for their winter trip to Camp Stonehaven's Klondike Weekend where they unloaded their gear from Frank Schuler’s truck and dogsledded it to their campsite. Twelve troops participating in the events. Awards were presented by Dick Fancher, camp director and assistant to Tom Zarbo, institutional representative for the Greater Niagara Frontier Council. Tonawandas District first place went to Troop 510 with 196 out of a possible perfect 200 points.
Our sympathy to the families of Harold A. Smith, Thomas G. Arrigo, David Ehde and former residents William W. "Bill" Dyet who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
Congratulations to our local Zonta Club members. Kathy Smith, the Area 3 Director, presented Andrea Moreau, Sybil Kennedy and Shirley Martin with Certificates for 30 years of dedication to Zonta during the Tuesday, March 9th meeting. Also honored was Sue Fleming-Brusino for 20 years of dedication.
Congratulations to all of the members of Boy Scout Troop #510 for their achievements over the past year. The boys, their leaders and families will get together for their annual Court of Honor Dinner on Sunday, March 14th.
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John's Pizza & Subs - delicious pizza, full menu on the Boulevard.
Grand Island Chiropractic - Why leave the Island for the help you need?
Rose Liquor - Full line of wines and liquors - great discounts
Miss Cathy's Dance Academy - Talented Faculty - All Ages - Dance brings out the best in everyone
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Members of the Grand Island High School Class of 1975 have been signing on our guestbook and promoting Isledegrande.com through their website, Facebook.com/GIHS Class of 1975. We appreciate this so much.
The reunion committee of the Tonawanda High School Class of 1960 is trying to locate all its classmates for their 50th reunion July 16th at the Buffalo Launch Club. See Tonawanda High Class of 1960 for more information. For those who don't know, a huge percentage of our high school students attended Tonawanda High from the earliest years right through the 1950s and early 1960s.
Daylight Savings begins Sunday morning. See Turn Your Clocks Ahead, and remember to change the batteries in your smoke detectors.
Great bowling over at Island Lanes this week. Chris Bahleda had a fine 299-769 and Ed O'Keefe bowled at 299-740 with A-Best Roofing and Joe Vilaro rolled a 298-659 with the Labatts Men League. Congratulations, bowlers.
Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
Corn Beef and Cabbage will be served at the VFW post on Saturday.••••A fundraiser for Island resident Frank Eldridge is being held at Mallwitz's Island Lanes on Sunday. ••••A Cell Tower Information Meeting is being held on Tuesday.••••The Republican Committee will host a St. Patrick's Day Celebration on Wednesday. ••••See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Good morning Marty in North Tonawanda, NY, and good morning Robert in Pensacola, FL.
Happy birthday to David Saunders, Peter Fahrer, Teresa Fahrer, Kevin Dilliot and Sally Hoffman (all celebrating today), Vincent Kerns, Sam Hunt, Rene Wulf, Chris Learman and Pattie Merritt (all celebrating tomorrow), Carrie Sturtz (cheers on Saturday), Hayden Backlund (9 on Saturday), Karen Wright (Saturday), Catherine Prell (Sunday), Grace Wenner (7 on Tuesday), and Diane Nesbitt and Stacy VeRost (Wednesday).
Two-year-old PJ Marston knows how to have a good time on a Saturday night. He took a snowmobile ride to the Village Inn with his mommy and daddy, Sue and Pete, ate his dinner and was more than excited to get back on the machine for the ride home.
Looking back 110 years - A petition was sent to the Board of Education on March 4, 1900 requesting a special meeting of Island voters to decide if a Union Free School District should be established on Grand Island.
Looking back 60 years - Radio station WHLD's "Carnival of Stars" program visited Sidway School and the Friday broadcast featured tap dancers Gloria Anderson (Pagels), Roberta Miller (Violanti) and Vera Jo Mote (Mann), students at Sidway at the time. Isle resident Martha Clark devoted her "Carnival of Stars" program to Grand Island listeners.
Looking back 50 years - A "gossip" column in the local weekly paper back in 1960 mentioned the fact that, "pretty Marjorie Murdock brings both charm and talent to her role as Madame Pompom in Victor Herbert's The Fortune Teller presented by the Adult Education Chorus on the Kaegebein School stage. Tenor Jim Farrell, with a remarkable sense of showmanship, will play the part of Count Perezowski. Jess Tromanhauser took the part of Ladislaus, a romantic captain of the Royal Hussars and Carol Cromwell was the ballet dancer."
Looking back 40 years - First place winners of the Middle School science fair included Chris Russell, Beth Walker, Lynn Kaiser and Irwin A. Zeplowitz.•••• Grand Island High produced "Bye Bye Birdie" in March 1970 with John Study in the lead as celebrity agent Albert Peterson opposite his secretary-fiancee, Rosie, played by Dela Stachelczyk (Stacey). Randy White took the part of Conrad Birdie. Roberta Gasbarre was student choreographer and the cast also included Belinda Board (Gould) and Tom Colley. ••••Judges for the Grand Island High School Science Fair in March 1970 included Everell Jewett, James Mazza, Hubert Sharpe, David Sherrif and Liz Wakefield. Jim Patmos was general chairman and blue ribbon winners included Harold Roberts, Chris Koch, James Hoffer, Mark Stessing and Kathy Meosky.••••Parents of Mrs. Wilbur Kennedy’s third year primary students at Sidway School had a chance on March 3, 1970 to watch their children on television – “pretend television, that is.” Pictured in the local weekly paper were James Klock, Kyle Wolinski and David Doebert showing off the mural they created.
Looking back 30 years - Though this never materialized, Free Winds Marine, Inc. submitted a plan to the town board for the Edgewater property, owned at the time by the Motor Boat Club of Buffalo. Free Winds proposed constructing a marina and marine sales business on the land, limited to the sale of new and used sailboats and marine supplies and the winter storage of boats. The operation required a B-2 zoning while part of the property would remain Residential A and a private residence would eventually be built there.••••Father and son, Gene and Gary Roesch served as judges for Cub Pack 425's Pinewood Derby. Ron Viavada was chairman and winners included Ron Viavada, Jon Weis, Peter Haines, Jeff Haines, Jan Baker and Jeff Leach.
Click photos for larger view
Thanks to Jennifer Peresie for sending these snow photos. Jennifer writes, "I took a few photos last weekend while we were enjoying the beautiful weather outside our home on West River." Pictured left is Jennifer's nephew, Rick Peresie. Her son, Zack Peresie is in the igloo.
Our sympathy to the families of Harry S. "Bud" Mullany II, George A. Stoffan, Fay M. Sexton Avarello, Richard J. Hoy Jr., Hazel W. Moss, Sarah L. Pacioni, Lorraine Mueller and former resident Richard J. Bedell who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
Congratulations to University at Buffalo Police Officer Sean Ford, GIHS Class of 2001, who has recently received a hero award. See Islanders In the News for the story.
Please Support Our Loyal Advertisers.
Elderwood At Riverwood - convenient healthcare center on Grand Island Blvd.
Blue Water Marina - storage, docking, and boating and fishing supplies - East River Road in historic Ferry Village
Sherry McDonald/RealtyUSA - A local real estate agent who knows the Island
Aceti's Wine & Spirits - large variety and great prices - located in the Grand Island Plaza.
For information on advertising at Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
The Grand Island Historical Society will present "Traditional and Historical Songs of New York State" this evening at no charge.••••The World Day of Prayer service begins at 10 a.m. tomorrow. ••••A chowder sale is being held Saturday at the VFW. ••••The Grand Island Co-Op Nursery School presents a basket raffle on Saturday.••••A concert is scheduled for Saturday at Trinity UM Church.••••The Knights of Columbus will hold an all-you-can-eat pancake event on Sunday.••••The High School Corporate Bowl begins Tuesday evening at 6 p.m.•••• See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Good morning Kelly in Las Vegas, NV, and good morning Laurie Jo in Greenville, SC.
A very special happy birthday to the following Islanders celebrating milestones this week: Bob Gesl (today), Lynn Dingey (tomorrow), Deb Hutzler (Saturday), Don Loder (Sunday), Leap Year baby Donna Linenfelser (February 29th), Gail Click (Monday), Donna Webb (Tuesday), Billy Costello (Wednesday), and Roy Gerard (his 90th on Wednesday). ••••Happy birthday also to Sueanne Miller (tomorrow), Kevin Koch Jr. (8 on Saturday), Kevin Sander (10 on Sunday), Jason Weis (February 29th!), Karie Stedman (8 on Monday), Ashley Gorman (Sweet 16 on Monday), Matthew McNaughton (a teenager on Tuesday), Travis Rockwood (21 on Tuesday), Todd Roesch (Wednesday), and Jessica Lew and Brian Dolan (both celebrating 21st birthdays on Wednesday).
A few readers have contacted us about a problem with our front page. See Viewing Problems for information.
Historical Society meetings resume next Thursday, March 4th in Historic Trinity Church when a musical program with historical ties to our area will be presented. For information, see Music & History.
Looking Back 50 years - From a February 1960 issue of the Island Dispatch: “In Nick and Helen Mager’s Restaurant, Ferry Road, Ferry Village, you will find an exquisite scene painted by local artist Mrs. Gladys Martin, past president of the Buffalo Society of Artists. You’ve got to see it to appreciate its beauty. It was voted the most popular picture when exhibited at a WNY art show.” Could this have been Mrs. Martin's colorful tavern/bar scene? Magers is now the Village Inn.••••"Motor Isle Sale Fourth Since 1895" was the headline in a February 1960 edition of the Island Dispatch. The story follows: “Historic Motor Island this summer will again revert to a picnic spot for family groups and club and plant outings. The 8-acre isle off the southern tip of Grand Island has been purchased by a newly formed corporation, Motor Island, Inc., which plans to construct some additional dock space but otherwise to use existing buildings this year without any notable changes.” ••••Fifty years ago tonight, the Riverside High School Hi-Y show took place. Island teens taking part in the variety show were Richard and James Sawdey, Teddy Klingel (Linenfelser), Sherri Walsh, Barbara Beck (Muratore), Barbara Fox (Smith), Roy Campbell and Dennis Guilfoil.
Looking Back 40 years - Grand Island High School students Kevin Donlon and Mike Lovetro won their respective weight division crowns in the Section VI Class A wrestling sectionals at Cheektowaga High School in February 1970. Kevin, seeded second in the 130-pound division, proved his undefeated season record of 11-0 was well earned by defeating his three opponents and extending his record to 14-0. In his final match, Kevin gained his victory by reversing his opponent with only 11 seconds remaining. Mike Lovetro fought his way to gain the upset of the tournament and capture the 185-pound division crown. Mike defeated his first opponent, who was the third seeded in his final match, and had an early lead with a takedown, bringing the fans to their feet by pinning his opponent from Cheektowaga for the title.
Looking Back 30 years - Among winners at the Town sponsored Winter Weekend held over the February 15-17, 1980 weekend were Gale Sander (Podsiadlo), Teresa Sander (Hooper) and Eileen Sander (Klein) (ice skating); Tim Klein, Josh Perkins, Bill Blain, and Stacy Lenhard (hockey shoot-off); Ron Fehr, Jennifer Weis and Steve Riggs (toboggan competition); and the Sanders family (snow sculpture contest).
Our sympathy to the families of Robert F. Irvin, Dorothy Elizabeth Tubbs and Michaeline (Webber) Reining who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
Just a reminder! Island organizations, please take note. Here is the link to our new Organization Publicity Policy at Isledegrande.com.
Help is needed! The Golden Age Center is in desperate need of volunteers to deliver "Meals On Wheels" to homebound elderly. Those interested are asked to call the Center at 773-9682.
GIHS Class of 1970 Reunion committee members have mailed out the invitations to their 40th reunion. If any 1970 graduates have not received the invitation, they are asked to notify Diane Hassan at DMHassan@aol.com.
Please Support Our Loyal Advertisers.
Keller Insurance Group - Keller Cares - a full service insurance agency
GI-Connections (Computer Services) - "Have computer issues? We can help!"
Inside & Out Home Imp. - Locally owned and operated - FREE estimates
Realty USA - Joan Dlugokinski - local, experienced Island Real Estate agent
For information on advertising at Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
The Knights of Columbus will host a Spaghetti Dinner on Tuesday.••••The Grand Island High School Class of 2013 will host a fundraiser at Tully's restaurant, also on Tuesday. •••• •••• See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Good morning Thomas in Virginia Beach, VA, and good morning Mark in North Myrtle Beach, SC.
A big happy birthday to Mark Anderson (the big 5-0 today), to Dan Webb (a milestone on Saturday), and to Jack Boehm (cake and candles on Wednesday). Also celebrating this week are Christopher Heftka (25 today), Michelle Gast, Anita DeGlopper and Bob Dworak (today), Dorothy Rowswell and Phyllis Wesolek (tomorrow), Madeline Porter (Sweet 16 on Saturday), Hailey Lorence (7 on Sunday), Sophia Black (6 on Tuesday), Marion Passarelli (Tuesday), and Lauren Braun (her 20th birthday on Wednesday).
What wonderful news I received this week. Zdenka Gast is home and completely cancer free. Praise the Lord.••••Our dear little grandson, Evan Linenfelser, came through his minor surgery (adenoids) on Tuesday with flying colors. He will be taking it easy for the better part of a week and then making up for lost time, I'm sure!••••Good news from Jack Mikulski's family. "The Mikulski Gang would like to thank everyone for all their kind words and especially prayers as they helped to bring Jack, our dad, home for therapy and recovery today!"
Island organizations, please take note. Here is the link to our new Organization Publicity Policy at Isledegrande.com.
Looking Back 60 years - The following was included in the “Across the Mahogany with Willie” column in the Island Dispatch: “Now that Ed Tucker has a television set, he can watch “Lights Out” without a lot of interference. ••••The Chamber of Commerce mailed its first Grand Island directory to box holders on the Island. This was not a telephone listings, but a directory of Island businesses.
Looking Back 50 years - Members of Grand Island’s Adult Education Chorus, including Eve Strong, Margaret Hedrick and Elaine Carlson, presented “The Fortune Teller” in the Kaegebein School auditorium in February 1960. Jane Clark served as stage manager. ••••A third generation Islander, John E. Hillock, 14, of Cox Road, was awarded a four-year scholarship to a Catholic high school of his choice by the Knights of Columbus.
Looking Back 40 years - Some of the winners of the first high school Winter Carnival staged in February 1970 were Lee Brion (big winner), Jeff Gardner, Bob Funk, Bob Bedell, Gail Hollinger (Conshafter) and Val Buckley (Swain). The event was sponsored by the freshman class. ••••Children who collected for the Blind Seal fund while Christmas Caroling were Edward Bookhagen, Marci Bidell (Lange), Vicki Bidell (Wilkinson), Marty Bidell, Renee Penta (Kippley), Brian Cahill, Sally Cahill, Sue Radder, Sally Wald (Hayes), Becky Wald, Steven Wald, David Regan, Doug DeLong, David Gentz and John Gentz.
Looking Back 30 years - The Grand Island Neighbors Foundation, through the generosity of the community, made Christmas 1979 a little happier for 20 Island families .
Looking 20 years - The River Lea Quilters Guild was formed 20 years ago with 20 members. The originators of what is now one of the largest organizations on the Island, were Carolyn Doebert, Betty Clement, Lydia Moorse, Ruth Stahl and the late Betty Barrett and Doris Rees.
Our sympathy to the families of Agnes E. English, Scott A. Smith, Maud Good, Donald R. Deitzman and former residents Audrey Pollock and Thorice A. Berger Welch who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
Please Support Our Loyal Advertisers.
Allstate Mastantuono Agency - Not sure if you have the insurance coverage you need? Contact the Mastantuono Agency.
Island Ship Center Inc. - Convenient FedEx agency on Whitehaven Road
Tops Markets - Be glad they are here for us on Grand Island Blvd.
Anello Wine Place - conveniently located on Pine Ave., N.F. - Bottle Your Own Wine
For information on advertising at Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
Mark Abate of Sound Choice Audio and Performance is featured in a Buffalo Auto Show article in the Buffalo News by Samantha Maziarz Christmann. See Auto Show.
Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
Members of the Grand Island Rotary Club will host a "Night of Wine and Tango" tomorrow evening. ••••An event to benefit the Leon D. Carr Memorial Fund will be held tomorrow evening.••••An "All You Can Eat" spaghetti dinner takes place at the VFW Post on Saturday. ••••A special school budget forum is scheduled for Tuesday.•••• See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Good morning Maria in Dodge City, KS, and good morning Joan in Jacksonville, FL.
Zdenka Gast, along with her family, has been dealing with the recent diagnosis of cancer. We are all so thankful to hear that her surgery this week was so successful. She’s in excellent hands and through the power of prayer, she’ll lick this disease with all her might. Cards may be sent to her home.
Bev Mikulski would like all of Jack's friends to know that he has had a laryngectomy last Tuesday and will be spending a little more time in Sisters Hospital before being moved for recuperation. Get well, Jack. May it be a speedy and complete recovery.
The 1909 photo display of the parks, clubs, hotels etc. that were located on the shores of Grand Island, is still at the Grand Island Memorial Library for those who haven’t seen it yet. It was put together by the combined efforts of the Town Historic Preservation Board and the Grand Island Historical Society. It’s worth a special trip, or if you are in the Library, walk into the community room. You’ll be glad you did.
Thoroughly Modern Millie, this year's high school musical, was a fabulous show. Jim and I "thoroughly" enjoyed every song and dance number. Next up at the high school will be Connor Middle School's musical, Once On This Island Jr., on Tuesday evening, March 30th.
A very happy anniversary to Sharon and Skipper Ullrich, celebrating their 15th wedding anniversary on Sunday.
It is a pleasure to wish Joseph J. Stefaniak a happy 90th birthday. Born on February 15, he will be honored at a party at the VFW on Sunday, February 14th. See VFW News Page for a little more information on his career of serving our country.
Happy Birthday to Jim Hassan, Dom Affuso and Bill Schutz Jr. (all celebrating milestones today), Jagger Click (10 years old today), Lisa Truitt (Sweet 16 tomorrow), Kim Kalman (tomorrow), Jayce Claus (9 tomorrow), Cody Clarke (25 on Saturday), Emily Cole (Sweet 16 on Sunday), Kassie Bennett (15 on Sunday), Marianne Ward (special greetings on Tuesday), and Kathy Farmer and Tom Giambra (Wednesday).
When I posted Isabella Fagiani's name in the story on "Ice Castles" starring Taylor Firth, last week, I had no idea that Isabella had strong ties to Grand Island. She is the daughter of Beth Andrew Fagiani and niece of Susan Andrew Dickey who both grew up on Grand Island and graduated from GIHS in the 70s. A tip of the hat to Jan Tyson for this information.
As recently mentioned here in my Looking Back 50 years, the purchase of land on Ransom Road for the new high school was approved by the voters. The land, part of the Fred Grehlinger estate, was the site of the former Army Anti-aircraft Base.
Looking Back 50 years - Riverhaven Lodge, formerly Mesmer’s Supper Club, on East River Road was being completely redecorated and modernized with the addition of three large fireplaces. The Riverhaven Corporation, owner of GI’s largest single parcel of land, was in the process of doing extensive remodeling to their property for the past two months. The restaurant was being managed by John Dietrich.•••• Plans and sketches of Fantasyland and the proposed $2,000,000 resort hotel were presented by officials of the development corporation to the town planning board on Monday, Feb. 7, 1960. Application for rezoning about 45 ½ acres off Whitehaven Road for hotel construction was filed in the town clerk’s office the same week by Lester Gross.
Looking Back 40 years - Martin Prast was critically injured in Vietnam. His parents, John and Elizabeth Prast, received communication Sunday morning, February 1, 1970 that their son was injured in a booby trap in the area of his base camp at Quang Tra.
Looking 30 years - The Board of Education approved a proposal to offer LaCrosse as a boys’ varsity sport, but not until it discussed the possibility of junior varsity sports for girls, according to Bill Rohring’s column, “To the Point.”
Looking 25 years - Jamie Bessel, senior co-captain of the GIHS wrestling team, won the 132-pound class wrestling title of the Niagara Frontier League Individual Meet held in February 1985.•••• Members of the local Knights of Columbus discontinued their popular bingo games, a fixture on the Island for the past 25 years.
Our sympathy to the family of Audrey Pollock who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
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Dr. Thomas C. Lepenven, DMD - Island Dental PC - 2095 Baseline Road
Justin Tyme Cafe On The River - Best beef on weck in the Falls - Buffalo Avenue
Budwey's Supermarket - brand names at low prices - and three locations
Riviera Theater - Theater and atmosphere - Historic Riviera just across the river
For information on advertising at Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
Congratulations to Ross Aydelotte who rolled a 300 (701) with the Monday A-Best Roofing League at Island Lanes.
A note of thanks to Bonnie Taylor Ford and to Dave Saunders for their submissions to my "Old Photo Album." Watch that column for some old pictures that should bring back interesting memories for some of you.
Cinderella Isle Garden Club’s Plant Sale will be held tomorrow and Saturday at the Grand Island Memorial Library ••••Trinity’s movie ministry will be sponsoring a Valentine's Babysitting Service on Saturday.••••The Community Chorus will begin Spring rehearsals on Sunday evening. ••••The Women of the Moose will hold a Yahtzee Tournament at the Lodge Family Center Monday night.•••• See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Good morning Parul in Pickering, Ontario, and good morning Robert in Charleston, SC. Hello also to SSgt Andrew Golembiewski, a member of the United States Air Force, who has been stationed overseas in England for the past three years.
Grand Island's ice skating champ, Taylor Firth, has finished her "first movie," Ice Castles, to be released on DVD Tuesday, February 9th. See "Taylor Firth of Ice Castles" posted at http://blog.beliefnet.com. See also "Buffalo News story" by Niagara Falls High School student, Isabella Fagiani.
Happy birthday to Mike Sandford (today), to Bill Bagdy (celebrating a milestone today), Erin Russo and Dolly D'Orazio (tomorrow), Mike Podlucky (a teenager on Saturday), Olivia Wenner (3 on Saturday), Cody Okelberry (5 on Saturday), Noelle Linenfelser (6 on Saturday), Susan Turnbull (cheers on Sunday), Glenn Skelly (16 on Sunday), Grace Giambra (a teenager on Monday), Jadon Garman (8 on Monday), Sheila Strott and Carleigh Rodriguez (both turning 6 on Monday), Don Hughes and Heather Wright (Wednesday) and Kaylee Montana (5 on Wednesday).
According to Will Elliott, Buffalo News reporter, if you're looking to do some ice fishing, the bays and slips around Grand Island have solid cover and the Beaver Island State Park slips offer the easiest access for ice outings.
Looking Back 50 years - Developers of a new super motel, estimated to cost $2,000,000, announced that this would be built on property facing the NYS Thruway between Whitehaven and Bedell roads.•••• Eugene H. Bucher was elected the Grand Island Golden Age Club’s first president at a meeting in the fire hall on Thursday, January 27, 1960. The Club, sponsored by the Town Recreation Commission, was seeking a permanent meeting place. ••••President Bill Dunshie announced that the Coachmen Auto Club of Grand Island would hold a dance from 8 p.m. to midnight February 6, 1960 at the American Legion Hall on Ferry Road in Ferry Village. The “Electras” provided the “spark” of dance music for the first affair of the Coachmen Club. Other club officers were Vice President Bob Bauer, Treasurer Joe Cushner, and Secretary John Meyers. •••• Voters on Tuesday, February 8, 1960 approved the $40,000 purchase of the 100-acre Ransom Road site for the new school to be built and ready to open September 1, 1963. The junior-senior high school was to be designed for 1400 pupils.
Looking Back 40 years - The price of elementary school lunches went up from 25 cents to 35 cents on February 9, 1970 and the secondary school lunches went from 35 cents to 40 cents. It's interesting to note that the price of a lunch when the new cafeteria opened at Sidway School in 1950 was 25 cents.••••The large Wall Street investment firm, Loeb Rhoades and Company, announced plans to create a $160 to $200 million combined resort, research center, convention center, 500-room hotel, shopping mall, a marina, a golf course and a public golf clubhouse, and a high-rise housing development in the area of Whitehaven and East River roads and to be known as Riverhaven.
Looking Back 30 years - A fire at the Knights of Columbus Hall on Whitehaven Road Tuesday, afternoon February 5, 1980 caused an estimated $60,000 damage.
Reserve Airman Peter M. Sommer, son of Paul and Adele Sommer, recently completed basic training at Lackland Air Force Base, San Antonio. Peter is a graduate of Grand Island High School.
Our sympathy to the families of Vincent H. Watson, Joan Bodkin, and former residents Richard J. Lazarz Sr., Harold A. Smith and Corwin Macklin Bell, who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
Congratulations to Buffalo State College swimmer, Kyle Sauer, who won the 1650 free in 17:45.07 to help the Buff State team beat Brockport 122-118.
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Magic Towel Holder - Craftsman Don "Bones" Fancher - clever gift creations
Mediation Center - Timothy Mordaunt - natural optimist, an experienced attorney and a professional mediator
Grand Island Teachers Association - Thank you for your support!
Wegman's - a supermarket experience
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A covering of fresh snow yesterday morning may have caused several early morning auto accidents. A two-car crash on the Thruway at Whitehaven Road sent one driver to the hospital and tied up north bound traffic for a short time. A minor two-car accident Monday morning south bound on the south bridge created a bottleneck in the area of the South State Parkway overpass, and at the corner of Staley Road and Grand Island Blvd.
Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
The High School production, "Thoroughly Modern Millie," opens tonight at 7:30 p.m. and runs through Saturday evening. ••••The Fire Company volunteers are offering a Chili Sale on Saturday.••••Boy Scout Sunday will be celebrated at St. Stephen's Church on Sunday.••••St. Timothy's annual salad bar potluck luncheon and pound auction begins at noon on Saturday.••••Relay for Life team "Racing Toward a Cure" - 3rd annual Pancake Breakfast Sunday.•••• A One Island, One Team meeting is set for Tuesday afternoon.••••See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Good morning Ryan Timmerman in Iraq, and good morning Peter in Jackson, TN.
For a most interesting story on Islander Dale E. Jaenecke, who spent a week in Haiti during and after the earthquake, see Buffalo News writer, Dan Herbeck's story.
Class of 1990, where are you? According to the counter on the Grand Island High School Class of 1990 page, classmates are checking the page daily, most likely looking for information about a 20-year reunion. Are there plans in the works? Let me know as I would be happy to get the word out.
Barbara Aquilino Wienke is wished a speedy and complete recovery. Her surgery is behind her, however recuperation may take awhile. Keep Barb in your prayers.
A belated happy anniversary to Nicole and Gregg Roesch, married two years this past Tuesday and enjoying life in Florida with their two children, Luci, 1 and new baby, Jack.
A reader has lost her dog. See Isledegrande.com Classifieds for details - and if the ad has been deleted, you can assume that "Ladybug" has been found.
Drum roll! Dave Lantz is turning the big 8-0 on Saturday. May it be one of your very best, Dave!•••• A very happy birthday to Karen Johnson as she celebrates her 60th birthday today.••••Happy birthday also to Sue Radder (Sunday), Hailee Clayton (a teenager on Sunday), Conner Bolles (16 on Sunday), Sydney Mazur (9 on Monday), Barb Eastman (cheers on Monday), Ryan Pecoraro (8 on Monday), Richie Vanthoff (his 20th on Monday), Dave Hennigar and Mike Ahr (celebrating milestones on Tuesday), Maria Ramsperger (12 on Tuesday), Dominic Pullano (four years old on Tuesday), Natalie Kopf (3 on Tuesday), Barbara Backlund (Tuesday), Tom Zarbo, Rita DeGlopper and Ilene Dee (all on Wednesday), and Peter Kuehne Jr. (25 on Wednesday).
Looking Back 60 year - Henry Ehde Sr., born in a log cabin located on East River north of Kirkwood Drive, near the Morgan farm in 1861, was surprised on Sunday afternoon, January 22, 1950 when 36 of his relatives helped celebrate his 89th birthday.
Looking Back 50 year - The Peter Hayes family moved into their new home at 2249 Stony Point Road with their children, Peter, 3 and Jodi, 1.••••Ilona and Ed Lang and their three little daughters, Ilona, Terry and Cathy, hosted a housewarming after their recent move into their new home on West River Road.•••• The town board “again” authorized the hiring of counsel to investigate the legality of bridge tolls. A resolution approved 3 to 2 Monday evening, February 1, 1960 authorized spending up to $500 to have attorney William H. Clency probe "RFC" records in Albany and Washington in an effort to uncover evidence which would assist in a court fight to have tolls removed.
Looking Back 40 year - U. S. Air Force Airman First Class Mark M. Stewart of Revere Road was on duty at Tan Son Nhut Air Base, Vietnam. ••••GIHS seniors Pete Fadum and Doug Krueger led the Vikings to its first Division III Basketball win as they downed Cleveland Hill 53-52 in a home game January 20, 1970. Among other outstanding Varsity Vikings were Les Broadhurst and Wayne Benton.
Looking Back 30 year - According to the Island Dispatch in February 1980, “The Governor’s proposed budget for 1980-81 school aid leaves much to be desired. Based on preliminary estimates, Grand Island would receive an increase of $145,582 over last year but mainly in the area of aid for the handicapped.”
Reservation for the Historical Society’s Vintage Bridal Fashion Show & Luncheon are due by February 6th. The event will take place Saturday, February 13th at Historic Trinity and Carol Moore, 773-3817, is handling reservation ($20).
Congratulations to Evan Carey, a high school senior who broke two school swim records last week.
Mallwitz's Island Lanes had some fantastic scores last week. Tom Digati rolled a 295-689 with the Friday Night Businessmen's league. Mike Mallwitz had a 290-771, bowling on the Heatwave H&C league, and Bill Kemp rolled a 296-729 on the Labatts Men's league. Now for this week's best bowler report! Mike Mallwitz had three great games (257-279-268) for a phenomenal 804 series. Brian Sander rolled a perfect 300 (706). Both men were bowling with the Heatwave H&C league. Congratulations, everyone!
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Giecom.net - Web Hosting, Web Site Design, Custom Graphics - right here on the Island
Park Place Subdivision - Most picturesque executive residential building lots In WNY!
Island Prescription Center - $10 off any new or transferred prescription - 1728 Grand Island Blvd.
McMahon's Family Restaurant - Serving breakfast and lunch at its central location, 1849 Grand Island Blvd.
For information on advertising at Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
Mel Passarelli of Burlington, MA is on the Island visiting family and friends and thoroughly enjoying the snow, just as he did when he was a kid growing up here.
Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
An Incoming 9th Grade Parent Night will be held tonight at Grand Island High School.••••The Grand Island Alumni Association's 3rd Annual Comedy Night will be held Saturday at the Holiday Inn.••••A Flu (H1N1) Clinic is being held in the high school on Saturday.••••See our Calendar of Events for complete details on these and other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, January 21, 2010
Good morning Chris Ford in Baghdad, and good morning Rob Meyer, in Iraq.
East River Road residents Dan and Renee Gietz arrived in Haiti on Monday, January 11th, just one day before the massive earthquake. Members of a missionary group from First Trinity Lutheran Church, Tonawanda, they were on their annual visit to help out at the Children of Israel orphanage, adopted by the Town of Tonawanda church six years ago. See "Island Missionaries Video."
See also "Buffalo News 1/15/10 for story by Dan Herbeck.
That's Margie Rall Hunter (a few years back!) and she's celebrating another birthday tomorrow. Happy birthday Margie. Hope it's one of your very best.••••A belated happy 27th birthday to Mackenzie Hassan who celebrated on Tuesday.••••Happy birthday to Mary Cooke and John Gast (today), to Jamie Dalbo (tomorrow), Marion Bradley (her big day is tomorrow), Vinny Pascucci (two years old tomorrow), Jonathan Minton (6 on Saturday), Sarah Ramsperger (Sweet 16 on Sunday), Benjamin DeFranks (8 on Sunday), Hunter Schmidt (3 on Sunday), Chris "Johnson" Gallagher (Monday), Jason MacClelland (8 on Monday), Paul Long (a big happy birthday on Tuesday), Mary Stewart (Wednesday), Elizabeth Gardell (Sweet 16 on Wednesday), and Sabrina Butcher (four years old on Wednesday).
According to Tonawanda News writer, Joe Olenick, "In just their second year of competing, the Grand Island School District has reached the top of the Tech Wars mountain." Congratulations GIHS Tech Team. See Tonawanda News/Tech Wars Champs.
Best wishes to Pete Cherenzia, the "Tin Man," who is recovering from yesterday's heart surgery, and doing very well! Pete, a former Island resident, is currently living in Destin, FL.
Received an update on Merritt Kinsey and family. The Kinsey family lived on East River Road in the 1940s and 1950s and on Stony Point Road in the 1960s. See "update" for Merritt's email.
Looking Back 60 years - The town board in January 1950 moved that the deputy town clerk, Laura E. Winters, be compensated at $5 per day not to exceed $150 for the year. •••• Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Director Rob Roy MacLeod announced that his book, "Cinderella Island," had been printed. An updated edition is still available at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd.•••• Johnny Lyden won a new Chevrolet convertible in a benefit drawing, John Wheeler bought a new Dodge and Marty Schwagler was driving a new Plymouth station wagon in January 1950.
Looking Back 50 years - The Grand Island Presbyterian congregation was formally organized as a church to be known as Island United Presbyterian Church at a special service held in the Ashley Chapel, Whitehaven Road, in January 1960. Among elders elected were William J. Bagdy, Allan Wholahan, Lloyd G. Sidwell, Harper D. Roth, Robert P. Morris and Richard Crago. The congregation’s plan was to build a church on a 12-acre site on Huth Road.
Looking Back 40 years - The Fire Company was advised to provide for an expected population of 45,000 by 1990, many of whom would reside in new high-rise apartment buildings. This was conveyed to the volunteer firemen by Planning Board Chairman Earl W. Harrison when he spoke at the Company's installation of officers in the Buffalo Launch Club January 3, 1970. 45,000? Today's population is under 20,000.
Looking Back 30 years - A drug program was presented at a general meeting of the Sidway School PTA in January 1980. Panel members were Dr. Robert Miller M.D., general practitioner, GI school physician and G.I. Narcotics Council chairman; St. Timothy Church Pastor and GI school board president, The Rev. John Scarfia; and Ms. Deborah Bourne, a crime prevention specialist in the Erie County Sheriff’s Department’s “Project Awareness.”
Our sympathy to the families of former residents James A. Sugar Sr. and James Lester Laughlin, who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
Sue Braun was recently recognized for her blood donations. On December 29th, she gave blood for the 128th time and reached 16 gallons. Sue became a donor at age 16 when she participated in a blood drive at Grand Island High School.
Received a note from former residents, Nancy, David and Kara Duysters, now in Naples, Fl. Nancy writes that their holiday cruise this year was the Mexican Riviera. Click for "photo." The Duysters wish everyone a "happy, healthy New Year!"
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Sandi's Family Restaurant - reasonable prices, good food - Your Hosts......Dan and Sandi Clark
Chateau Motor Lodge - Out-of-town company? "We Offer Cheap Deals Daily"
Kelly's Country Store - Step back in time and shop for every gift occasion - 3121 Grand Island Blvd.
Riverview Chiropractic - Dr. Alaina Rowswell-Kulikowksi - Just for kids
Be sure to check out the above business websites of our Isledegrande.com advertisers, and for information on advertising at Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
The Grand Island Alumni Association hosts its 3rd Annual Comedy Night on Saturday, January 30 at the Holiday Inn Grand Island. See Comedy Night for ticket information.
Here's What's Happening this week in Our Town!
The VFW Ladies Auxiliary hosts a soup night on Saturday. See our Calendar of Events for more upcoming Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
-
Thursday, January 14, 2009
Good morning Dori in Tampa, FL, and good morning Paul in Bethesda, MD. And a special good morning to Chris Ford, in Bagdad with the United States Air Force.
Isledegrande.com has a brand new look for the new year. Credit goes to our co-worker, Travis Rockwood, GIHS Class of 2007. In his third year at Niagara University, Travis is majoring in Computer Information with a minor in Computer Crime, and works part time for Giecom.net.
The latest on Pup DiTullio is that he will be released from his rehab “and be able to limp around in his apartment real soon.” ••••Pup's brother, Dick DiTullio writes, "I remember some guy attending every performance of The Phantom of the Opera. Well, I'm that guy with Avatar! My new address is Imax Theaters, 6707 Transit Road, Williamsville. You can visit me between showings. If you need to call, have them page me." I like this!
Happy birthday to Cari Luciani and Mike “Rusty” Rustowicz (19 today), Kristin Berver and Marlene McCarthy (tomorrow), Jennifer Farrell (her 23rd birthday tomorrow), Jim Tranter and Joan Buchanan (milestones on Saturday), Jason Sexton and Adam Peters (Saturday), Jennifer Ciechoski (her 20th on Sunday), Jenna Saltzman (Sweet 16 on Sunday), Bill Stewart (Monday), Mark Anderson (“You’re how old on Monday?”), Julie Meyer and Phyllis Lange (Tuesday), Kristyn Brown (9 on Tuesday), Abe Morgan (21 on Wednesday), Don Kutzbach and Tammy Louderback (Wednesday), and Kaylee Ann Connell (5 on Wednesday).
Some of us love this winter weather! Evan and Emma Smith, the children of Marijane and Tim Smith, enjoyed some winter driveway hockey time out side there home on Tracey Lane. Click for "photo" to see the kids.
A picture is worth a thousand words! Check out Gary Dahlstrom peeking out from behind a monster icicle at the Martin House on East River Road on January 10th. Click "photo".
Looking Back 60 years - A step forward in the development of Grandyle Village was made on Friday, January 20, 1950 when ground was broken for the eighty-six duplex homes to be built by the Grandyle Construction Corp. at Love Road and Beaver Island Parkway.••••A note in the Grandyle Village column in the Island Dispatch follows: "We would like to award Flora Benns a Salvation Army bonnet for her good neighbor policy on Saturday, January 14th – the day of the Big Wind! With the aid of an oil stove, Flora brewed gallons of coffee and distributed it, piping hot, to her less fortunate neighbors who had nothing more than cigarette lighters for fuel and light."
Looking Back 50 year - A Record Hop in the Kaegebein gym on Saturday evening, Jan. 15, 1960 featured Tom Shannon of WKBW, the Rebels and other “starts.” Free Kingston Trio records were given away, and Tom’s new instrumental version of his theme song was to be played for the first time.••••A group of six doctors planned to have a hospital constructed on a 38-acre track of land purchased from Elmer Kaiser. The hospital was to be built on Baseline Road between Bedell and Huth roads. •••• The Town Board reappointed the firm of Pritchard, Kinney and Coleman as legal advisors for the town for the year 1960.••••The 1959 Jaycee Christmas lighting contest winner of a $25 savings bond was Francis C. Dunn of 1488 Red Jacket. Other winners were William F. Mertine of Jenell Dr. and Arthur M. Webb of Love Road.
Looking Back 40 years - A fund set up to provide special after-hours ferry service to Island residents was given to the Grand Island Historical Society in January 1970 to finance research. The fund, established in 1926, was sometimes used to pay for bringing a doctor to the Island when a serious illness struck. On other occasions it was used to transport Masons attending evening lodge meetings on the mainland. George H. Alt Jr., 83, treasurer of the fund, closed out the bank account and turned the remaining $103.20 over to the Historical Society. According to old bankbooks, the highest balance ever attained in the fund was $1,704 on April 5, 1926. Mr. Alt was one of the users who set up the fund.
Looking Back 10 years - When firefighter Gary Roesch invited newly elected Town Justice Sybil Kennedy to play a couple games of shuffle board after she installed officers for the Fire Company in January 2000, he had no idea she would beat the - socks - off him!
Our sympathy to the family of Norbert J. Mankiewicz and former resident Norman J. Dusenbury and XXXXX, who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.
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Kaiser Funeral Home - Professional and Caring - 1950 Whitehaven Road
Town Cafe -
Best pizza in town - Full menu - on the Boulevard
Mark J. Frentzel
- Attorney At Law
- Experience in all courts and all areas of law - 1763 Baseline Road
Bob Piatek State Farm Insurance - 1837 Whitehaven Road
- There when you need him
Evan Carey a senior at the high school broke the Grand Island High School Pool Record in the 100 Freestyle leading off the 4 x 100 Freestyle Relay with a time of 48.64. The previous Grand Island record was set by Doug Ford in 1982 with a time of 48.80.
A speedy recovery to George Rowe who is in the Vet's Hospital, but doing much better.
Be sure to check out the above business websites of our Isledegrande.com advertisers, and for information on advertising at Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
For What's Happening in Our Town see our Calendar of Events.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
Thursday, January 7, 2009
Good morning Carrie in San Diego, CA, and good morning David in Asheville, NC.
Who is our newest Islander? We're looking for the first Island baby of 2010. Send us your newest native (photo/information) for this
column to teddy@giecom.net
Wendy Card who grew up on the Island and is a member of the Grand Island High School Class of 1985, has retired from the Navy after a
21+ career. Living in New Bern, NC, Wendy wrote this week to thank us for "keeping up with your wonderful website" and credited us for
inspiring her to create a free website for her community at www.newbernnow.com. Nice site Wendy, and thanks so much for writing.
Happy birthday to Brian Rosman (today), to Jack Gorman (his 80th today), Kyle Podgorny and Sarah Burns (both
turning 10 tomorrow), Maggie Rustowicz (a teenager tomorrow), Bernie Pagliaro (this pretty girl marks a major milestone
tomorrow), Bonnie Ford and Adria Ryan (Saturday), Emilie Kovacs (Sweet 16 on Saturday), Marge Stratton
(Sunday), Zachary McMoil (20 on Monday), and Amber Meyer (her 20th on Wednesday).••••A belated
happy birthday to Vince Ramsperger who celebrated on New Year's Day.
Happy anniversary to Ken and Debbie Rogoza, celebrating their 20th on Wednesday, January 13th.
Don't wait until the last minute to have a lovely piece of jewelry made for your Sweetheart at DeSignet
International
Come on in and have a custom made ring, pin, necklace, bracelet - the choice is endless. DeSignet International is located right
here on Whitehaven Road.
Best wishes to Kathy Pollard and Bill DeGlopper who were married on November 27, 2009. Bill writes, "Shortly thereafter, we
awoke to find this image on the apron of our Oak Harbor driveway.
The interlocking heart image is strikingly similar to the art work that appeared on our wedding program cover. Neat, eh?" Yes it is,
Bill. Click for "photo."
Good news! Though he is not yet receiving visitors, Rick Pellam is home from the hospital and slowly recuperating.
We had a lot of snow fall Saturday evening and all day Sunday. Diane Hassan submitted this photo that shows the snow at 18 1/2
inches deep in her Wallace Drive yard. Click for "photo."
Looking Back 60 years - From the column "Across the Mahogany With Willie" in the local weekly paper came the report that
"Warren Kaiser, Buster Ekiss and Bill Dekdebrun did a bang-up job on that radio quiz show contest. They sounded like a
group of seasoned radio actors."
Looking Back 50 years - The Grandyle Mart, a sporting goods/hobby shop in the Grandyle Plaza on Love Road, advertised a
complete selection of new skates from $7.95 up as well as used ice skates starting at $1.50.
Looking Back 40 years - Eddie Burrows, 3, son of Fran and Don Burrows was Erie County's March of Dimes
Poster Boy, and pictured in the local paper with Governor Nelson Rockefeller.
Lots of families took advantage of the sledding hill in Beaver Island State Park last Wednesday and most days since. It was pretty cold
sledding over the weekend with temperatures in the single digits.
We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of Stephanie Ali and her infant daughter, Grace Emma Ingalsbe
who lost their lives in the tragic accident Tuesday evening.•••• Our sympathy to the families of Laura Ann
Metzgar, James A. Kish, Cynthia Olson, Anita Anderson, Ray Mesmer, Anna M. Krauser
who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.••••
Thomas J. Griffin, former teacher at Charlotte Sidway School in the 1950s, passed away on December 11, 2009, in Ft. Lauderdale, FL
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Flower A Day Florist - Say it with flowers -
Sue Berger - 2119 Grand Island Blvd.
Wavelengths
- Stay In Style - 2289 Grand Island Blvd.
Michael Anthony Rossi - Rossi Law Firm - Committed to providing competent and
cost effective legal services
Century 21/Gerrie Andolina - Grand Island's #1 real estate agent
Be sure to check out the above business websites of our Isledegrande.com advertisers, and for information on advertising at
Isledegrande.com, email Jodi Robinson at jodi@giecom.net.
Avatar? A 3-D movie! Yes, with those colored glasses we wore in the early 50s. Jodi Robinson reports this movie to be
fantastic. The film is about three hours in length however Jodi said she could have watched it all day! One review stated that the film
is likely to become the second highest-grossing movie in history behind Titanic.
Here's What's Happening in Our Town!
Grand Island Alumni Hockey will host its second annual alumni game and Chinese auction fundraiser on
Saturday.••••See our Calendar of Events
for other Island happenings.
"Say a prayer for our guys over there." Please pray for our country. God bless America.
