Thursday, November 17, 2005
  
Neil                                 Laurie                             Rob
Neil Tetkowski, Laurie Ehlert Wagner and Rob Schooping are all wished the very best on their birthdays this week. Neil's is on Saturday, Laurie celebrates on Monday and Rob has his big day on Wednesday. The photos? An old Grand Island High School yearbook, of course!

 
Mike                                         Tom
A very happy birthday to Mike Gast and Tom Boehm, who grew up in Grandyle Village, and are celebrating milestones tomorrow and Sunday. The pictures were taken from the 1953 Sidway School yearbook when Mike and Tom were in Mrs. Regina Majdanski's first grade class at Kaegebein School. The yearbook included students' photos from both schools.

A huge happy birthday to Mike Kelly of Kelly's Country Store fame - turning the big 6-0 this week.••••Happy birthday also to Vala O'Boyle, Bobbie McNulty, Jesse Serio and Donnette Rayhill (today), Ashly Cinelli (21 today), Merritt Kinsey and Kathy Podgorny (tomorrow), Joseph Shanor (16 tomorrow), Shani "Smyth" Hunt (mini milestone on Saturday), Ron McNamee (Sunday), Patrick Sexton (15 on Sunday), Florence Duignan (her 89th birthday on Tuesday), Nathan Jayme (his 20th on Tuesday) and Laura Imperi (cheers on Wednesday). ••••David, Thomas, and Christina would like to wish their grandma, Joan Butcher, a happy birthday on November 21st.


Mr. and Mrs. Krist Haag in a photo taken earlier this year
Former Ferry Road resident Krist Haag was married to Evelyn Gallego on Saturday, November 5th in St. Jude's Roman Catholic Parish, followed by a reception in the Arcadian Court in Toronto. Longtime friend Jim Linenfelser served as the groom’s best man. A member of the GIHS Class of 1988, Krist is the son of Pat and Bob Haag of Grand Island. Evelyn is the daughter of Marina and Ruben Gallego of Toronto. The newlyweds are living in Washington, DC.


Connor Middle School 8th grader Alyssa Accardo will be appearing in Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City as part of Camp Broadway's "We Give Thanks Today" program. The parade will be televised next Thursday. For the story on Alyssa, click Islanders In The News.

Sunday is a very special day for Don and Fran Burrows. It is their 40th wedding anniversary. Happy days, folks.••••Best wishes to Chris and Ray Gress on their 30th anniversary Tuesday.••••And last but not least, Vala and Spencer O'Boyle will celebrate their 25th anniversary on Tuesday. The good news for the O'Boyles is that Spencer returned home last Saturday after serving his country in Iraq for the past year.

Miss Debra Remson was recently welcomed back to school by her middle and high school orchestra students. By the way, members of the GIHS orchestra, including our granddaughter, Amy Bidell, are selling Florida Indian River Groves navel oranges and grapefruit to help finance their music trip to Chicago.

Looking Back 60 years - Mabel French suggested at a Grand Island Library Association meeting in November 1945 that the library be dedicated as a War Memorial – a living memorial to those Grand Island young people who have rendered such a highly important service to their community and the country in World War II. The committee decided on the name, Grand Island Memorial Library.••••Horseshoe matches were being held at the Bedell House and at Mesmer’s Grill in November 1945. Teams were Mesmer’s Minute-Men and Bedell House Flippers (or Cy Gay’s boys).••••New Cubs joining Pack No. 75 in November 1945 were Jack Smeller, James Fuller, Jim Roberts, Robert Robinson, Richard Noth, Paul Stack, Charles Heimbach and Donald Bartlett.

Looking Back 50 years - Daniel J. McNamee was named chairman of the Grand Island Democratic Party at a November 1955 meeting of the Democratic Committee at the home of the retiring chairman, Phillip Roe of Staley Road.••••The PTA Recreation Committee sponsored a Jr./Sr. high school party night in the Kaegebein School gym on Saturday, November 19, 1955.••••Grandyle Pharmacy on Love Road was advertising Hallmark Christmas cards at 10 for 29 cents.••••Erie County Extension Service’s first lesson on yeast breads was held Tuesday morning, November 22, 1955 at the Trinity Fellowship Hall and instructed by Isle residents Ellen Turnbull and Annita Kaegebein.••••A Grand Island Cooperative Nursery School card party and fashion show in November 1955 at the Buffalo Launch Club was chaired by Mrs. Raymond Moran and assisted by Mrs. Donald Miller and Betty Clement. Commentator Margaret Goodsole introduced the models including Ruth Holden and Mrs. Harry (Elsie) Stamler.

Looking Back 30 years - Mikes Antenna Service Slow Pitch Softball team won the division and playoff titles in 1975 with attractive trophies presented to Mike Gast, John Gast Sr. and John Gast Jr.

Looking Back 20 years - GIHS Spotlighters annual fall play, “Done To Death” was presented in November 1985 under the direction by Mrs. Magdalene Miller Kennedy. The cast included Steve Stancil, Traci Shubert, Marijane Kennedy, Chris Watz, Chris Currie and Michael Broeker. The price of a ticket was $3 in 1985, just as it is tonight, tomorrow night and Saturday for the Spotlighter's Comedy, “Get Smart.”••••GIHS Cross Country teammates including seniors Todd Moses, John Furgele, Pat Birt, Brian Campbell and Brent “Farmerman” Fred, won their second sectional title with a score of 47-46 over Lockport. Jim “Chip” Dunlop led the way for GI, placing third. GI finished fifth at the State meet at SUNY Binghamton.••••Rusty Boyko led the 1985 Varsity Viking Soccer Team to the Niagara Frontier League championship for the second year in a row. Goalie John Brighton allowed only 11 goals on the Vikings and had ten shutout games.••••Grand Island volunteer firemen, working in shifts, manned main headquarters on Baseline Road day and night for 55 hours when all emergency telephones here became inoperable at 10 a.m. Monday, November 12, 1985 after a cable was severed by contractors working at Sheridan Drive and Delaware Avenue in the Town of Tonawanda.

Looking Back 5 years - A snow storm on Monday, November 20, 2000 had many of us more than a little concerned about our loved ones who were stranded on the thruway for seven or more hours. Remember?

Yesterday's early morning temperature of 68 degrees was unusual to say the least, especially in reference to writing this week's Looking Back 5 years! Grand Island lucked out so far today with no precipitation and lots of sunshine as of 10 a.m., however, it is cold and windy here. Schools were closed south of us due to snow and there's more to come. For a brief mention of Grand Island weather, click Buffalo News story!

Jalapeno Loco, an authentic Mexican cuisine restaurant on Grand Island Blvd., is our newest Isledegrande.com advertiser, and receiving rave reviews. Check out their web site and be sure to stop by soon!•••• Also spotlighted this week are three shining stars on our list of advertisers: Budwey's Supermarket, McMahon's Family Restaurant, and Re/Max-Kathy Aronica.
It pays to advertise at Isledegrande.com - the voice of Grand Island and the Island's #1 news source, updated daily.

Our sympathy to the families of George A. Overs and former residents Gregory Thomas Hajski and Charles R. (Bob) Rexford who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.

Good luck to our Lady Vikings Soccer team who travel to Binghamton today for the state finals.

This is the weekend of the high school Spotlighters' production of Get Smart, as mentioned above. Among the comedy's cast members are Forrest Smith, Caitlin Hall, Vincent Covatto, Pat Sexton, Carissa Bailey and Kyle Patterson. There will be three performances in the high school auditorium at 7:30 p.m. tonight, tomorrow and Saturday. Tickets are only $3.

Click Calendar of Events for Island happenings this week. Auditions for the Parish Players youth performance of "Cinderella" are being held tonight at St. Stephen School, the Friends of the Library used book sale takes place tomorrow and Saturday, and a Turkey Sandwich Day sponsored by the Ladies of the VFW is set for Saturday.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there."

Thursday, November 10, 2005
 
Bob                                         Steve
Happy birthday to Bob Padlog and Steve Parisi shown above as they looked as students at GIHS. Bob and Steve celebrate milestone birthdays tomorrow.

It is with pleasure that I wish Frank and Jean Guagliano a very happy 40th wedding anniversary. The Guaglianos were married on November 13, 1965.

The kids in the Grand Island Gallopers 4-H Horse Club have decided to collect gift items to be donated to the Neighbors Foundation's Christmas collection. Their plan is to supply the Foundation with things that would appeal to preteen and teenage boys and girls such as hats, scarves, gloves, slippers, sweatshirts, portable radios with headphones, bath items and shampoos for baskets etc. Click the Gallopers 4-H Horse Club News Page for information on how you can help the Club.

A belated happy birthday to Dan Kingston who celebrated a milestone yesterday. Happy birthday to Pat Spadaro (best wishes today), Floyd Doring and Ingrid Kinney (today), to Christopher Sean Swagler (double digits - 10 today), Sherry Watkins (cheers tomorrow), Helen McMahon (4 tomorrow), Carolyn Gentz (tomorrow), Mildred Goldbach (her 85th on Sunday), Pam Whitney (Sunday), Brooke Samantha VeRost (4 on Sunday), Mark Brown (turning 40 on Monday), Aimee Anderson (20 on Monday), Samantha Kuszczak (12 on Monday), Mary Burngasser (Monday), Nicholas Dingey (6 on Monday), baby Sarah Ann Brand (first birthday on Monday), Cyndi Booker (Tuesday), John Gaydica and Kevin Erker (Wednesday), and Sierra Marie Maras (5 on Wednesday).••••David, Thomas, and Christina would like to wish their grandpa, David R. Butcher, a very happy 65th birthday on Monday, November 14th!

Good news! Shelley (Arcouet) Smith and her husband, Bob, are parents of a third son. Click "Baby Jacob Paul" for his picture on our Islanders In The News page.

Looking Back 60 years - Sandy Beach school kids, Ronny Livingston, Jerry and Lee Thomas, Benny Clark and Donna Hawley (Rodriguez), met up with what they thought was a cute little black and white kitten while waiting for the school bus. Discovering the hard way that their new-found friend was a skunk, they were nearly voted off the bus. After they arrived at school, one of the teachers appeared at the office with her coat over her arm and stated that it was either she or the children. The result of an unpopularity poll was that the five kids hit the jackpot and won the privilege of a taxi cab ride to their homes.

Looking Back 50 years - Recent appropriation of funds to build a water main from the end of the water line at Baseline and Love roads to the Army AAA gun sites and Nike establishments on Grand Island brought the Island one step closer to the day when all roads would be served by public water facilities.••••Wallace Simms, Master of the Island's Lodge # 1138 F. & A.M., conferred the first section of the Third Degree on Frederick W. Bauer, Martin Luther Livingston, George Francis Sanders, Frederick W. Bidell and Ralph W. Feindt in Trinity Fellowship Hall in November 1955.•••• The newly formed Sidway Prop Spinners, a model airplane club, held its first contest November 10, 1955. The club was under the leadership of Mr. Henry Fessard and cadet teacher William Ryan. First place went to Donald Bruce, and 2nd and 3rd to Gary Corbett and Stanley Pasek.

Looking Back 40 years - The Fire Company's Ladies Auxiliary held the first chowder sale at the fire hall since the last field days held in August '61. Due to the complete success of the sale, the Ladies were thinking of having another sale, possibly several during the year.•••• “Arsenic and Old Lace,” the first presentation of the Spotlighters' second season was held on a Saturday evening in November 1965. Cast members included Casey Colley (Ebert), Frances Chambers, Robert Hilferding, Charles Satterlee, Tom Walsh, Sylvia McCullough (Dixon), James Carter, Jeff Carr, Pat Leach, Jim Rosensteele, George Sanders, Allan Lee and Randy Chambers.

Looking Back 30 years - The GIHS Spotlighters fall play, Woody Allen’s “Don’t Drink the Water,” was produced by the students under the direction of Miss Magdalene Miller in November 1975. Heading the cast were Louie Vacanti, Jim Whiting, Nettie Hansen and Lyn Aswad. Credit for set design and construction was given to Mr. Peter F. Sloan assisted by student chairman Tom Gormady.••••A letter opposing the erection of a 7-11 store at Ransom and Stony Point was read at a November 1975 town board meeting.••••The Island's Business & Professional Women's Club (BPW) was formed at a meeting in the home of Helen Staley on November 10, 1975.••••The Golden Age Center opened in Nike Base Park and a dedication was held November 15, 1975 under the direction of the late Gladys Smith.

Looking Back 20 years - The Island's Teachers Conference Day in November 1985 included workshops on “Word Processing” and “What’s New in Software,” by Huth Road teacher Jackie Kazmierczak, and “Launch” (Gifted and Talented Program) presented by Launch teacher Anita Romagnoli (DeGlopper). •••• Grand Island Republicans whooped it up at Holiday Inn while Democrats cheered at the Bedell House election night November 6, 1985. Both parties celebrated election victories as the final votes were counted. High vote-getters were Councilman James H. Pax and Daniel A. Linenfelser Jr. who was also elected town councilman. LaVerne Luther beat out Marty Prast for supervisor that year. ••••Playing his final game as a Grand Island Viking, senior quarterback Dean Santorio threw for touchdowns and led the Vikings to a 21-0 victory over Niagara Wheatfield in a Division III game at Harvey Field in Sanborn Saturday, November 2, 1985. Dean passed for 103 yards putting him over the 1000-yard mark for the season. Among other standouts in the game were Chris Wilkinson, Rodney Haynes, Greg Hunt, Cal Jenkins, Marc Castellani and Noel Blair.

Looking Back 10 years - Andrea Moreau seemed to have won the councilman election by nine votes in November 1995 when votes were tallied in town hall. However, the Board of Elections later released figures giving incumbent Gail J. Lazenby two votes more than Moreau. It was confirmed on Wednesday after Election Day that Andrea did, in fact, beat Gail by eight votes.

We welcome Isledegrande.com's newest advertiser, Pinto Disposal Service. Please check out this website and consider doing business with Pinto Disposal Service. Also spotlighted this week are the following advertisers we do so appreciate: Joan Dlugokinski Century 21, "Technology Camp Of America", and Solid Gold Entertainment . It pays to advertise at Isledegrande.com - the voice of Grand Island and the Island's #1 news source, now updated daily.

Our sympathy to the families of Barbara L. Kay, Mildred F. Burgett, Elizabeth M. Squire and former resident Thomas Roberts who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.••••A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated in St. Stephen's Church at 10 a.m. tomorrow (November 11) for Dorothy Boyko, mother of Isle resident Michael Boyko. Mrs. Boyko died Tuesday.

A GIHS Class of 1986 reunion planning meeting will be held at 7 p.m. tomorrow, Nov. 11th, at the Village Inn.••••Veterans Day services are being held 11 a.m. tomorrow in Veterans Park followed by an open house at the VFW Post #9249. Click Veterans Day for complete information.••••River Lea in Beaver Island State Park, the Historical Society's headquarters, will be open to the public Sunday from 2-4 p.m. No charge and refreshments will be served.

      
Last week's response for Halloween photos was especially good and this week, I received several more as shown above. This week's additions include photos of Jeff and Gabriel Wansart, Morgan Santorio, Aidan and Madison MacNeil, Robert Arch and Megan Dzielski. Photos posted last week included Benny and Ava DeFranks, Kevin and Andrew Sander, Joey Martin, Andrew Thompson, Anna Thompson, Evan Banko, Jameson and Jaidan Hiam, Michael Christensen and Evan Linenfelser. There were two groups of girls submitted without names. Check out "Halloween" for larger photos of all the tricks-or-treaters!

Reg Schopp stopped by our editorial office this week with his bag of groceries just purchased at Frank Budwey's Budwey's Supermarket and boasted of the $40 worth of eats costing him only $30! Frank, a former resident and Isledegrande.com advertiser, has two locations, one at 535 Division Street in North Tonawanda and another at 416 Kenmore Avenue. Worth a trip!

The Riverside Athletic Club Connolly Cup Committee's honor roll for Week 10 includes Varsity Vikings Ryan Breier and Ryan Harvey.••••The Trench Trophy honors, as reported in the "Buffalo News," were awarded to linemen of the week for week ten and include Varsity Viking Justin King.

Good luck to the owners of the new Jalapeno Loco! The authentic Mexican cuisine restaurant opened Tuesday at 2800 Grand Island Blvd. just north of Bedell Road. According to my co-worker Dan McMahon who dined there last night with his wife, Sue, and inlaws, Rich and Joanne Lozo, everyone's food was delicious and even though the place only advertised here at Isledegrande.com, Jalapeno Loco was jam-packed with other happy diners!

And in case you heard a rumor that a voting machine in District 11, located in the Grand Island Memorial Library, jammed on Election Day, it wasn't a rumor. However, the problem was resolved before the final figures were posted.

Go Vikings! Members of the Girls Soccer Team and the Varsity Football team are competing in Far West Regional games this weekend. Good luck to all.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there."

Thursday, November 3, 2005
 
Alice                               Gary
Happy birthday to former resident Gary Long who will celebrate his 60th birthday next Wednesday, November 9th. These school photos of Gary and classmate Alice Gardner were taken from the 1953 Charlotte Sidway Yearbook, when they were in in Mrs. Lillian Shear's 1st grade. Gary now lives in Valley Center, Kansas. Alice, a longtime Island resident, celebrated her birthday on October 24th.

Bill Dunshie, Sidway School Class of 1958, wrote to ask "when" there will be another Sidway reunion. Sidway students of 8th or 9th grade graduating classes 1937 through 1963 who are interested in another reunion are urged to email me at teddy@giecom.net. I do know there is great enthusiasm from a group of Class of '55 gals! For those who do not know the history of the reunions, the first was held in 1990 and attended by 750+. Two more were held in 1996 and 2002 and attended by former students of the Island's only school, opened in 1937, replacing the one- and two-roomers.

Several weeks back, I posted a couple Sandy Beach Park Club parade pictures, submitted by Sandy Beach native Debbie Robinson. I recently had a great conversation with former Greenway Road resident, Sam Aswad, 80, who identified several people in one of the photos. Names added to the caption of that picture are Patricia Aswad, Noreen Aswad, Jean Nyland, Jane Nyland, Randy White and Joyce Hoefner. Thank you, Sam! Click Old Photo Album, then click the photo on the right.

The Grand Island High School Class of 1966 is looking for pictures of the 10th reunion held at the Three Coins in 1976. Email Terry Swain at "tigerterry1@yahoo.com" if you have any to loan the class.

A very happy birthday to Scott Wiesenberg, Doug DeGlopper, Don Livingston, Cheryl Bailey and Mary Carminati (all celebrating today), to baby Anthony Stephen Weis (his first birthday today), Jacob John Schmidt (16 tomorrow), Anthony Scott (30 tomorrow), Casey Carminati (her 15th on Saturday), Jennifer Lenhard (Saturday), Emily Kahn (Sweet 16 on Sunday), Robert David Arch (3 on Sunday), Ian Estenoz (8 on Sunday), Cathie Shaw (the big 4-0 on Sunday), Mary McMahon (Monday), Lois Affuso (Tuesday), Carl Lamancuso (cheers on Wednesday), Becky Mason (special greetings Wednesday), and Lucille Jones (this week).

Cathy and Noel Wilhelm will celebrate their 35th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, November 8th. Best wishes to the Wilhelms. Happy anniversary to Peggy and Bob Hooper, celebrating their second anniversary today.

Former Isle residents Dan and Janie (Martin) Hiam, Class of 1996, and their children, Jaidan and Jameson have relocated to Georgia and we wish them the best.

Kari Lynn Harding and Daniel Klos were married Saturday after which a reception was held in the Beaver Island Clubhouse. The bride is the daughter of Doug and Pat Harding of East River Road and the groom is the son of Brian and Barbara Klos of Webster.••••Matthew D. Remmes, son of Isle residents David and Aileen Remmes, was married Saturday to the former Katie Ann Root. The bride's parents are Linda and David Sweeney of Lewiston and Donald and Diana Root of Town of Tonawanda. ••••Married Saturday and living on the Island are Elizabeth J. Bulera and Ronald J. Anton. Parents of the bride are Jacqueline and John Mousaw of Hamburg and David and Julie Bulera of Grand Island and parents of the groom are Island residents Ronald and Sue Anton.

Looking Back 60 years - The Sidway School first grade class was divided into two parts, with sessions in the morning and afternoon. Mrs. Ruth Irving taught group one and Mrs. Martha Lee, group two. A mid-day snack of milk and cookies was enjoyed by both groups.••••The Town Board approved the Grand Island Volunteer Fire Company's contract be renewed for $600 per year.••••Fire Company members voted Wednesday, November 7, 1945 to purchase much needed fire fighting equipment including fire hose and additional lengths of suction hose to reach considerable distances. ••••Ernie Godfrey’s Grand Island Market was advertising Kellogg’s Variety Pack at 21 cents for 10 packages of cereal.••••Winners of the Sidway School Halloween costume contest in 1945 were Joan Livingston (Fred), Tim Sheehan, Calvin Alt, Ronny Livingston, Carol Schwagler (Brown) and Judy Nailor (Meer). Salads, cake, sandwiches, ice cream and soft drinks were served.••••Credit for the well-attended Grandyle Village Halloween party and parade went to Dick Hogue (chief fire marker), Ted Klingel, John Shimmel, Don Horner and others. The younger set enjoyed cocoa and cookies around the huge bon fire. Martha Tardif and Dorothy Noth were in charge of refreshments.

Looking Back 50 years - The PTA Council of the Tonawandas and Grand Island presented a variety show on Friday, November 8, 1955 at Tonawanda High School. Among the 19 acts were Islanders Daralene Meyers (Jones) and Diane Meyers (Krause) (pantomime act), Connie Godfrey, (dance), and Wilbert Janke and son, Robert Janke (father and son act).

Looking Back 40 years - Cub Pack 425 met in Huth Road School Monday evening, November 8, 1965 for a Space Derby, a contest in which balsa “rockets” were powered by rubber band propellers, and sped along 100 feet of nylon fish line. Arranging the race were fathers, Lyman Baker, John Thompson, John Scott, Peter Hayes, James Ray and John Spivey. Among first and second place winners were Ricky Lundstrom, Joe Trautman, Randy Thompson, Ray Pauley and Tim Spivey.••••DeGlopper Garrison Army and Navy Union held its first installation of officers at the Fire Hall on Saturday, November 6, 1965. Awards were presented to Commander Wilfred G. Rohring and to Pfc. Wayne L. Kinney, an Island Marine who had recently received the Purple Heart for action in Santo Domingo. The new garrison was named in honor of Congressional Medal of Honor winner Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper, who died in action overseas during World War II.

Looking Back 30 years - Holiday Inn innkeeper Edward Schwannecke announced the River Oaks golf course and clubhouse would continue to be operated by Holiday Inn. He also announced that the clubhouse had air conditioning repaired, new carpeting installed and a liquor license granted. The lounge and restaurant were to open in the spring.••••Rita DeGlopper was elected town clerk for the first time on November 4, 1975 and received the highest overall number of votes.••••Marjorie Bessel, a 6th grader, won national honors in the Road Runners Club of America National Age Group Cross Country Championships at Van Cortlandt Park in NYC. She also won the AAU Cross Country Title at Syracuse for girls in the 10-11 year age group.

Looking Back 20 years - Aries Triangle #131 elected Debra Couch as Beloved Queen and Mrs. Irene Ehde as Jr. Deputy at its fall election dinner in 1985 in the Masonic Temple, Ferry Road.••••Ken Pelletier bowled the high single 279 and Jim Reese bowled the high triple, 751, on October 24, 1985 in the Thursday Major bowling league at Island Lanes.••••Sandy Buell bowled both high single, 267 and high triple, 566 for the Sharpshooters at Island Lanes 20 years ago.

Looking Back 1 year - It was just one year ago today that Meaghan Ann Drexelius Grotz successfully came through her double lung transplant surgery at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.

Thank you advertisers. Today's spotlight is on First Niagara Bank , Dr. Huggs Car Wash & Detail Shop, and Priority Computer Services. It pays to advertise at Isledegrande.com - the voice of Grand Island and the Island's #1 news source, now updated daily.

Our sympathy to the families of Opal R. Guenot, Howard W. Juhre, and former resident John J. Stolfo Jr., who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.

Congratulations Coach Dean Santorio and the Varsity Vikings. The Grand Island High School Varsity Vikings beat Hamburg last Saturday and are headed to Ralph Wilson Stadium for the championship game against Sweet Home. The "big one" will be played at 3 p.m. Saturday, November 5th. Go Vikings!

Jim and I attended the wedding of Kari Lynn Harding and Dan Klos last Saturday in the new Beaver Island Clubhouse. We all agreed the new clubhouse is absolutely beautiful and tastefully done. The excellent dinner was prepared by in-house caterer Scipione Catering Inc.


Our grandson, Evan Linenfelser, turning 3 a month from today, was mighty proud of his Spiderman costume and had a great time tricks-or-treating and attending Aunt Vicki Wilkinson's annual Halloween party Monday night. Be sure to see the children's Halloween photos submitted this week and consider sending in your own (children's pictures only!).

Check our Calendar of Events for Island happenings this week, including the Historical Society meeting tonight (Ship Wrecks), a Las Vegas Night at the Knights of Columbus hall, the Rotary Club's Undie Sunday, and the Golden Age Club's Holiday Happenings & Open House. Have a great weekend.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there."

Thursday, October 27, 2005

Dave Conboy with senior US commander LTG Petraeus (Click for larger view)
Welcome home, Dave! Lieutenant Colonel David Conboy, Army Reserves, 98th Division, is back home on the Island with his wife, Karen, and son, David, after spending a year in Iraq. Dave, who was awarded the bronze star, worked for Iraqi General Abadi, and for the Multi National Security Transition Command in the Iraqi Ministry of Defense.

2LT Sarah McMahon is serving in Iraq at Camp Victory with the US Army and will be there until October 2006. She graduated in 2004 from the University of Notre Dame in South Bend, Ind., where she attended on a four-year Army Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) scholarship. Email may be sent to Sarah at sarah.e.mcmahon@us.army.mil She is the daughter of Karen and David Conboy of Grand Island and Tom and Nadine McMahon of Springfield, Virginia.

Emily Zimdahl, a junior at Niagara University and member of Niagara's swim team, won the one- and three-meter diving events when Niagara lost this week to the University of Vermont, 156-76. Emily, who had scores of 193.42 and 221.47, was the only first place finisher for her team. A GIHS graduate, Class of 2002, she swam on the varsity swimming and diving team, was a commended scholar athlete as a member of the swim team, a varsity cheerleader and was named a Universal Cheerleader Association All Star in the summer of 2001.

Merritt Kinsey, GIHS Class of '67, who was featured in our "Islanders In the News" page a few weeks ago, has written to say he's heard from several Islanders and Ex-Islanders due to the article. Merritt also writes that his musical group, The King'n'Trio, has been nominated for a Grammy this year! Good luck, Merritt!

A belated happy birthday to former resident Chris Schueckler who celebrated a big one on October 14th.••••Happy birthday to Paul Soto (today), Eric Raepple and Linda Greenwood Cantwell (a huge happy birthday tomorrow), Matt Linenfelser (tomorrow), Jim Sargent (a milestone birthday on Saturday), Allen Glessner, Dave Wilkinson and our dear daughter, Julie Dee (Sunday), Amanda Ayers (her 20th on Sunday), Penny Panepinto (Monday), Robert Buzby (cheers on Monday), Emily Mary Fred (5 on Tuesday), Sarah Grace Kustich (7 on Tuesday), Carissa Bailey and Laura McDonnell (Tuesday), Carol Nordvik (best wishes on Tuesday), Mandy Liesenfeld (her 10th on Tuesday), Sue McMahon and JoAnn Lozo (the Trautman twins celebrating Wednesday), and Robert Irvine (Wednesday).

A very happy birthday to Christopher Miller who will celebrate his 18th birthday on Saturday. He and his fellow Vikings football players will be playing Hamburg in the first playoff game which they plan to win to advance to Ralph Wilson Stadium the following Saturday. Good luck, Vikings.

Best wishes to Stacey Roeder, daughter of Paul and Cheryl Roeder of East River Road, who was married to David J. Dawson on Saturday in St. Joseph Catholic Church, Niagara Falls.

Do you have discarded eye glasses or hearing aids at your house? Check out the Lions Club News Page for information on a collection of these items taking place on Halloween. The Lions Club is also holding a "children's party" at Tops from 6-9 p.m. on Halloween night.

"Kids Voting" will take place at all of the Island's polling places. Lee Tetkowski is asking for anyone who would like to volunteer to call her at 773-3266 for a shift where you may be needed. For more information, click "Kids Voting"

Looking Back 60 years - An Italian cookery demonstration in Charlotte Sidway School on Wednesday afternoon, October 24, 1945 was given by Mrs. Rocco Rindone. A shuttle bus picked up the ladies in Ferry Village and Grandyle for this Home Bureau event.••••Dick Hogue Sr. and George White were co-chairmen of a Halloween dance given by the Grand Island Fire Company on Saturday night, October 27, 1945. Proceeds were to be used for the building fund for a new fire hall, finally realized in 1953.••••Bea and Vern Mooney were back in circulation in October 1945, having curtailed their California trip because of the gasoline "strike."••••Ernie Godfrey’s Grand Island Market ad in the local paper 60 years ago read: "Top quality meats are scarce. In line with our policy of keeping our patrons informed, there is very little top quality meat on the market at the present time. We will try to provide our patrons with the best beef that is available."••••An editorial in the local paper stated that lack of an adequate water supply was again the deciding factor which prevented firemen from saving the home of Supervisor Reg Long on West River at Staley Road. The house burned to the ground along with the old store where the fire had its origin.••••Representatives from all 11 Island organizations met in Sidway School in October 1945 and formed the Grand Island Library Association. First officers included President Wilma Prentice, Vice President Don Horner, Secretary Alice Soch and Treasurer Mabel Leibinger.••••Members of the Grandyle Village Property Owners Association had a huge bon fire at the north west corner of Love and Stony Point on Halloween night as they did for many years.

Looking Back 50 years - There were 3,102 registered voters on Grand Island in the fall of 1955.••••Grand Island taxpayers, on Saturday, October 29, 1955, rejected by a vote of 256-82, a proposal to purchase 34 acres of land for future town buildings, park and a recreation center. The proposition to purchase site for the land with frontage on Baseline Road and adjacent to Sidway School, was for $25,000.••••The Grand Island Fire Company purchased a new, 180-horsepower, 500 gallon pumper. A three-hour test of the $16,000 truck at the Bedell House was directed by Bert Grothe, representing the NYS Fire Rating Organization, Chief Theodore Klingel and Assistant Chief Arthur Mitchell.

Looking Back 40 years - A Chowder sale at fire hall and run by the Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary in October 1965, was the first of its time since the last firemen's field day held in August 1961.

Looking Back 30 years - The School Board on Monday, October 27, 1975, announced the appointment of Suzanne Stevenson as Department Head of the Business Dept. and Richard Bessel as Math Department Head.••••Work was underway on construction of shoreline protection along East River Road between Broadway and the South Grand Island Bridge. The state improvements were being made at a cost of $1,019,205.••••M&T Bank employees dressed up for Halloween. They included Olive Hawkes, Pat Wydra, Jill Roberts, Betty Gross, Helen Ciechoski, Meg Pelinko, Felicia DeMartin, Ellie Sherman, Marge Watkins, Phyllis Gligora and Edna Sarokon.••••The Thursday Morning Early Birds reported that Mary Kay Patmos took high game and high triple with 215 and 566 respectively.

Looking Back 10 years - Bonnie Remus and Ravi Chawda were named homecoming queen and king respectively at a spirit assembly on October 13, 1995 at the Grand Island High School.

Reg Schopp, our publisher and owner of deSignet International, visited Budwey's Supermarket in North Tonawanda this week and was very impressed. Reg found things on the shelves of this grocery store that he said he would never have found here on the Island. "Worth the trip," Reg says. "Remember how nice it was to have two groceries. . .maybe we could finesse Frank into opening up here on the island," he said. Reg and the Youth Board wish to express their appreciation to Budwey's Supermarket owner, Frank Budwey, GIHS Class of '67, for his donation to tonight's College Fair at the high school.

A new, local business, G.L.P. Free Manufacturing, is our newest advertiser. The local girls, Susan M. Daubney and Joan M. Pedlow, RN, RD, are advertising delicious products that are "OK" and are Gluten/Wheat Free, Lactose/Milk Free, Peanut/Tree Nut Free, Trans Fat Free, Preservative Free, and Casein Free. Check out their website.••••Thank you advertisers. This week's highlighted businesses are Kaiser Funeral Home, Town Cafe, and Aronica and Company, Inc. It pays to advertise at Isledegrande.com - the voice of Grand Island and the Island's #1 news source, now updated daily.

A Memorial Service for Elizabeth Beach will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday, October 29th at St. Stephen's RC Church.

Congratulations, Ryan Harvey! The Riverside Athletic Club Connolly Cup Committee's football honor roll for week eight includes Varsity Viking linebacker Ryan Harvey, so named for the sixth week also.••••The Trench Trophy honors, as reported in the "Buffalo News," were awarded to linemen of the week for week eight and included Varsity Viking Brandon Antonelli.••••Don't miss the article on "former Lady Vikings" Cortney Bota, Lauren Nedwick, Amy Stewart and Kim Walker, now playing on the Daemen Women's Soccer Team.

The GIHS Spotlighters are selling candy bars and hosting a costume dance tomorrow night at the school to raise funds for the Zachary Zarbo Memorial Scholarship Fund. Our granddaughter, Amy Bidell, a member of Spotlighters, has plenty of candy available as do the others in the choral group.

A major College Fair is being held tonight at the high school. Sponsored by the Grand Island Youth Board, the Fair is featuring 18+ colleges, military recruiters, financial information/HSBC Bank as well as prizes (complete computer system), and refreshments. Click "College Fair" for more information.

The Huth Road Playground Committee's Fall Festival, a night of fun for everyone, takes place tomorrow from 5-8 p.m. in the Huth Road School. Click Harvest Festival At Huth for details.

Halloween hours on Monday, October 31st are from 5-8 p.m. Remember to Email me photos of your costumed kids if you would like to share them with our readers.

Remember to turn your clocks back Saturday night!

"Say a prayer for our guys over there."

Thursday, October 20, 2005

Captain Christopher Reynolds, U.S. Marine Corps, is back home after serving as his company's commanding officer in Iraq for the past eight months. Captain Reynolds, and his wife, Joey, are parents of a son, Max and are shown at a recent welcome home party.


Also back on the Island after serving in Iraq with the Army is Major Mike Slowinski who visited his daughter, Rebecca's classroom at Huth Road School this week.

Best wishes to Alice Gardner who celebrates a big one on October 24th.•••• Happy birthday to Ryan Derek Pinzel (two years old today), Michael Madigan (9 today), Joe Macaluso (cheers today!), Marge Costello (tomorrow's the big day), Danielle Soluri, Ben Franklin, and our daughter-in-law Laury Linenfelser (tomorrow), Debbie Huff Curry (Saturday), Patrick Gallagher (a teenager on Sunday), Kevin Koch (Sunday), Don McLeod (Drum Roll! It's Monday!), our grandson John Charles Bidell Jr. (16 on Tuesday), Mallory DelSignore (6 on Tuesday) and Rich Lozo (35 on Wednesday).


This is new mother, Laci, a pug who just gave birth to eight pups yesterday. Her owners, Scott or Dorothy Bennett, said the pups will be available by Christmas. Click "Classifieds" for a picture of her puppies.

Best wishes to Martha Muller on her retirement after working as a lunch lady at Huth Road Elementary School for the past 34 years. During a surprise party for Martha in the gym of the school, Principal Mary Haggarty announced that Martha had served over 1.2 million lunches over the years. Now that's quite a record!

Good news! Brent and Michelle Fred and their three children, Brent, Andrew and Emily, have moved back to Grand Island and are living on Flanigan Lane.

Happy anniversary to Earl and Rita DeGlopper who will celebrate their 55th anniversary tomorrow, to John and Karen Wenner whose first anniversary is on Saturday, to Sylvia and David Long who will be married 40 years on Sunday, and to Michael and Carolyn Schopp on their first anniversary Sunday.

Looking Back 60 years - The Grand Island Post Office in October 1945 was moved for the second time in six months, from Joe Donovan's home on Love Road at LaSalle Avenue to Ed Sheehan's rambling old home on the north side of Love Road west of Baseline.••••A meeting of the Grand Island American Legion Post held October 24, 1945 in the town hall was organized by Andy Kirkwood. Among charter members attending were Abe Milner, Clem Martene, Harold Long Jr., Ted Salt, Ray Mesmer and LaVerne Kaiser.

Looking Back 50 years - Michael Sceusa played a piano solo during Mr. Tom Madigan’s 6th grade program Thursday, October 13, 1955 in the Sidway gym. Other 6th graders participating were Donna Titterington Leary and Kathy Kinsey (Wilcox) (violin duet), James Conrad (piano solo), David Pinkow, Don Fontana and Don Saunders (horn trio), David Pinkow (French horn solo), Susan Neimeier (Adams) and John Paasch (story).••••It was in October 1955, that Donald Burns Sr. and Robert Woods, of Oakfield Road and Chester Hardt of Williamsville purchased at auction 729 acres of land on the east side of Grand Island (now Holiday Inn) for $305,000. The property on the East River at Whitehaven Road, includes 7500 feet of river frontage and is about a mile deep.

Looking Back 40 years - Gerald and Nell Weingartner of Harvey Road were chairmen of the committee planning the BLC Past Commodores party October 23, 1965. Co-chairs were Mary and Marion Narad.••••Plain & Fancy was the Island Theater Group's October production. Appearing in the lead roles were Jess Tromanhauser and Carol Hastrick. The cast also included Gerrie McKeen, Vince Stouter, Heber Ashley, Sylvia McCullough and Paul Jordan. Also Helen Yensan, Joseph DiCesare, Robert Gasbarre and Mark Stephenson. Among the children in the cast were Vicki Carr, Sylvia Padlog, Diane Schnitzer, Vicki Meredith, Heidi Schnitzer and Holly Stephenson. Alice Doerr and her staff were credited with an outstanding job cutting, stitching and even dyeing costumes to make them as authentic as possible for the Amish musical.•••• Congressman Henry P. Smith III in October 1965 indicated he would study nine-year efforts of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce to have bridge tolls reduced or eliminated. ••••Valerie Buckley (Swain), 10, took first place in a double baton competition Saturday, October 23, 1965 in Rochester.••••New den mother for Den 3, Pack 423 was Mary Carminati. Cubs learned how to tie different kinds of knots during their first meeting in October 1975. Allen Pearson, Danny Young and James Tomkins were elected Denners, Assistant Denner and Troop Scribe respectively.••••The High School Vikings blanked out Eden on the home field Saturday, October 23, 1965 with a 30-0 score. Viking Scott Herlan scored three touchdowns.

Looking Back 30 years - G-Mart in the Grand Island Blvd. Plaza advertised beef rib roast, 5th to 7th rib, at $1.39 per pound and boneless Delmonico steaks (rib eye) at $1.99.••••“The Sports Scene” by Jeff Stone covered all of the Grand Island High School sports results in the fall of 1975.••••Top Grand Island girls tennis team members in the fall of 1975 were Carol Rees, Linda Ryan, Linda Allen, Judy Posener, Mary Beth Englert, Debbie Geiger, Deb Stone (Hutzler), Barb Wakeley, Kathy Rayhill, Diane Whiting, Karen Ludwig (Figler), Linda Allen, Nancy Pultz, Wendy Deiner and Robin Keller. (Send me the girls' married names and I will post them here.)••••Among the first place winners of the Grand Island Piranas Swim Club that beat the Leibinger Swim Club in the 8 and under division were Anthony Arias (3), Jimmy Thompson (2), David LeChak (3), Missy Worthing, Jimmy Hess and Ann Walker. Piranas members in all other age divisions also took many first place wins.••••The Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island Inc. held its second annual Charity Ball in the Buffalo Launch Club Saturday, October 25, 1975. Grand Island High School students raised $533.43 during the school’s annual Homecoming Weekend in 1975 and donated the money to the Neighbors Foundation.••••Robert W. Bennett was installed Isle Chapter Order of DeMolay Master Councilor at the installation of officers October 19, 1975 in the Grand Island Fire Hall. Miss Deborah Stone (Hutzler) was installed as the new Aries Triangle Chapter Sweetheart by Past Sweetheart Miss Darlene Hanley.

Looking Back 10 years - The chairmen of the Democratic, Republican and Conservative parties pulled their candidates out of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce sponsored Candidates Night due to the absence of a (neutral) moderator from the League of Women Voters. The forum took place Saturday, October 21, 1995 in the town hall with two candidates taking part - Councilman James R. Sharpe who opposed Supervisor James H. Pax, and Sandra K. Styka who would run against Town Justice Francis B. Pritchard.

Thank you, Advertisers! Thanks to all of our advertisers, including West Herr,   Wavelengths,   The Village Inn,   and Sheldon Studio. It pays to advertise at Isledegrande.com - the voice of Grand Island and the Island's #1 news source, now updated daily.

Fire Company's Ladies Auxiliary members will hold their annual fall chowder sale at main headquarters on Baseline Road Saturday. Chowder will be sold by the bowl or in bulk beginning around 11 a.m. or when the chowder is done. Bring your own containers or the girls will provide them. Christine Koch, with assistance from her husband, GIFC Deputy Chief Kevin Koch, is chairman of the event.

Check out our Calendar of Events for details on the following events: Wayne Weis (Class of 1978) fundraiser, Fire Company Ladies Chowder and Bake Sale, Trinity's Tax & Financial Planning Seminar, Intergenerational Community Sing, Hour of Power at St. Stephen's, Youth Advisory Board's College Fair, and a Fall Festival at Huth Road School.

Don't miss our up-coming feature, the 1905 diary of Island resident Martha Kaiser, a one-room school teacher here. The first of three parts will be posted next Thursday, October 27th.

Just a reminder! Halloween hours on October 31st are from 5-8 p.m. Also mentioned here last week - Email me photos of your costumed children if you would like to share them with our readers.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there."

Thursday, October 13, 2005

Birthday girl Paula Tickner (left front) and her sister, Floydette Gannon, with her brother and sister, Skip Uonites and Dolly Dilliot, in the back. Click photos for a larger view
Paula Jean Tickner was the guest of honor at a surprise retirement/60th birthday party on Sunday October 9th. In attendance were her sister, Floydette Gannon, from Florida and brother, Skip, from South Carolina who braved the cooler weather to surprise Paula. Among the 60 friends, relatives and co-workers were her daughter, Bonnie, who returned home from India a week earlier than Paula had expected. Her daughter, Tonya, who orchestrated the surprise party, presented her with a much needed box of tissues!

Life-long Islanders Bob and Lois Kaiser, now residing in New Port Richey, Florida, are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary today. Happy days to the Kaisers.••••Happy anniversary to Jason and Maureen Weis in Florida, who are married four years today.••••Former resident Betsy (Kinsey) Sims and her husband, Bob, of Trumansburg, NY just celebrated their 40th anniversary. Best wishes to Betsy and Bob.

Merritt Kinsey, who lives with his wife, the former Lois Wheeler, GIHS Class of '67, in Grand Junction, Colorado, wrote this week after discovering Isledegrande.com by doing a Google search. Merritt is hoping to reconnect with childhood friends from Grand Island. To read a little bit about Merritt and Lois, click "The Kinseys".


A big happy birthday to lifelong Islander Jim Kaiser who really did turn 60 this week. Sorry, Jim! Last year's greeting was just a drill!!••••Kathy Hyland turned the big 4-0 yesterday! Happy 40th, Kathy!•••• Happy birthday to Janet Sunderland Bangs (today), Kyle Oursler (16 tomorrow), Ashley Joelle Battaglia (her first birthday tomorrow), Shirley Luther (Saturday), Vickie Wright (cheers on Saturday), Kalli Pedlow (a teenager on Saturday), Margie Cinelli (Sunday), Sue Bauer (Monday), Adam Heftka (10 on Tuesday), Craig Hettinger and Paul Linenfelser Jr. (milestones on Wednesday), Walter Hillock (16 on Wednesday), Lucas Michael Hooper (2 on Wednesday), and June Licence (Wednesday).

Congratulations, Ryan Harvey! The Riverside Athletic Club Connolly Cup Committee's football honor roll for week six includes Varsity Viking linebacker Ryan Harvey.•••• Kim Walker, who plays on the Daemen Women's Soccer Team, scored twice for Daemen for the 6-0 win over Point Park last Friday.••••The University of Toledo Rockets team beat out Eastern Michigan Saturday, thanks to Brett Kern who punted twice for a 43.5 yard average. Brett, a sophomore at Toledo, is a GIHS graduate, Class of 2004 on a full athletic scholarship. He earned 1st Team All State and 1st Team All Western New York honors in his senior year at Grand Island High.••••Lady Vikings Jessica Remmes and Allie Weiser are record holders so far this season in the Niagara Frontier Girls Soccer League. Jessica is the leading scorer with 19 and Allie is first in goalie shutouts with six wins.

Check our calendar of events for details on the following. The Fire Prevention Program at Fire Headquarters, a Cooperative Nursery School open house to recognize Bonnie Janowsky, and a fundraiser for Adam Rivers' college trip to Africa, all take place tomorrow evening. The Historical Society at River Lea is holding Open House from 2-4 p.m. Sunday. Other upcoming events include a Blood Drive, Career and Professional Development Seminar, a Wine Dinner, a fundraiser for the family of Wayne Weis, kidney Donor, the Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary's annual chowder sale and a College Fair.

Looking Back 60 years - The Town Board approved the Grand Island Volunteer Firemen Company’s contract renewal for $600 per year. ••••Hazel Link headed a committee of 40 volunteer workers armed with cards, feathers, stickers and a story of dire need over the entire face of the earth for the annual appeal on behalf of the United War and Community Fund Campaign. The Island goal was $900 and $989.87 was collected by County Day, October 19, 1945.••••Mrs. Grace McMains of Bedell Road entertained the “Thimble Club” attended by Rose Peters, Isabelle Roberts, Alice Fuller, Ida Beam, Ruth Kindred and Margaret Smeller of Grand Island.••••A kerosene stove set fire to a house owned by Supervisor Reg Long on West River at Staley Road on Sunday afternoon, October 14, 1945. A boarder, George Hilliker, about 60, died in the fire. Not only did this house burn, but also the combined store/residence occupied by the supervisor and his wife.••••Lois Irene Killian and Robert K. Kaiser were married in the bride's home in a ceremony October 13, 1945 performed by the Rev. Marvin E. Richert. Dinner was served at the Mary Burns Tea Room off the Island.

Looking Back 50 years - Cast members in the Trinity Church choir's production of “Ma Simpkins of Simpkinsville,” a comedy presented October 13-15, 1955, included Mary Gross, Merton McElroy, Marion Pinkow, Kay Slacer, Jackie Slacer, Carl Kaegebein, Earl McCullough, Carol Kaegebein, Libby Smith, Sally Swalm, Heber Ashley, Margie House and Eric Chedester. The play was directed by Ruth Muck, assisted by Shirley Beck.••••Supervisor candidate Daniel J. McNamee stated that, "I still place WATER (or rather the lack of it) at the top of the list." ••••The majority of Islanders voted in favor of a $1,250,000 school bond issue for a new elementary school at Warner Drive and Huth Road by better than 2 to 1 Tuesday night, October 18, 1955. Votes were 419 yes – 177 against.••••The U.S. Army announced that the guided missile base on Grand Island was manned and ready to fire. Approximately 85 men moved onto the base Friday, October 14, 1955 and it was expected that within a few months there would be over 200 men on the new permanent site. The Ransom Road AAA base was transferred to the National Guard on the same day in 1955.••••Assisting Trinity Church Pastor Rev. J. Franklin Beck, during the Men’s Day 8:30 a.m. worship services Sunday, October 16, 1955 were Albert Ihle, Eldon M. Glor and George K. Albing.

Looking Back 40 years - The English Leathers, an Island band made up of young musicians John Linenfelser, Jerry Cahill, Louie Qualianna and Cliff Greathouse, had been making quite a hit on the mainland when they made their Island debut at a Road Knights record hop at Sidway School in October 1965.••••The Knights of Columbus restored a little chapel on the second floor of their headquarters on East River Road in Ferry Village. A simple altar held a statue of the Blessed Virgin, a vigil light, a few flowers and small white plaques on which were noted the names of deceased members – James P. Dysinger, William Gabarro, Theodore Dunbar and also President John F. Kennedy. A highlight of the décor were two stained glass windows, one of which was inscribed, “In Memory of Our Dear Daddy.” These were originally installed by the Offermann family when they owned and occupied the house. The window was placed in the family prayer room in memory of the late Frank Offermann. The K of C clubhouse was acquired by the State when the land was purchased to extend the golf course in Beaver Island State Park.

Looking Back 10 years - Jason Louth had the fantastic, game-saving play in the GIHS Varsity Vikings Homecoming Game with four seconds remaining. Jason intercepted a Ken-East pass saving the win for Grand Island. Does anyone remember the final score?

Looking Back 1 year - Erie County Executive Joel Giambra's announcement a year ago this week, of the possibility of charging towns extra for the protection of the Erie County Sheriff's Department, was meeting with disapproval from County Legislature Republicans as well as town officials. Click "October 14, 2004" for the complete story.

The next meeting of the GIHS Class of 1976 reunion planners (all are welcome) will be held at the Buffalo Launch Club at 7 p.m. Tuesday, October 18th.

The Grand Island High School's first concert of the year is scheduled for 8 p.m. Wednesday, October 19th in the high school auditorium. Featured will be the Choir, Concert Choir, The Dominant Force, Madrigal Singers, Vocal Jazz and String Orchestra. Please note the time change (8 p.m.)

Wedding Bells! Married Friday, October 7th and living on the Island are Brian Burgin and his bride, the former Lori Nestler. The couple was married by Rev. Abram Dueck in Whitehaven Road Baptist Church.••••Jill M. Rohan and John F. Hasiak were married by Rev. Paul M. Nogaro in St. Stephen Catholic Church on Saturday, October 8th. The bride is the daughter of former Island residents Dr. Dennis and Susan Rohan.

Spotlighted advertisers this week are Gerrie Andolina - Century 21 , Bob Piatek State Farm Insurance, Inside & Out Home Improvements, and Flower A Day Florist. It pays to advertise at Isledegrande.com - the voice of Grand Island and the Island's #1 news source, now updated daily.

Our sympathy to the families of Louise C. Boyle and former residents Mary Alice Comer and Robert G. Bennett who recently passed away. Jane Moore Tolsma, a home economics teacher at Charlotte Sidway School in the mid 1950s, passed away on Sept. 14, 2005. A memorial Service for Frank Slish will be held 10 a.m. Saturday, October 15th in St. Stephen's Church. Click Deaths for complete information.

Halloween will be celebrated on Monday, October 31st, as announced by the Town Board. Hours will be from 5-8 p.m. Email me photos of your little, costumed ghosts and goblins if you would like to share them with our readers.

I've heard some great things about the GIHS Junior Varsity Girls Soccer team. Seems seven 7th and 8th grade girls, formerly with the Grand Island Soccer Club's U-12 girls team of '05 are on this JV team. The JV Girls Soccer Team, coached by Christopher Pepper, is undefeated so far.

The Varsity Vikings beat out Williamsville East at last week's homecoming game with a score of 28-27. The Vikings play Kenmore East at Ken-East at 2 p.m. Saturday. Go Vikings!

"Say a prayer for our guys over there."

Thursday, October 6, 2005
Welcome home, Mike! Lance Corporal Mike Mehltretter returns home today from Iraq where he has served for the past seven months with the United States Marine Corps.

Fay Wood spent a few days in the hospital and is now at home resting comfortably. She thanks everyone for their well wishes and prayers.••••Great news! Don Burns is back home and most likely played piano at the Market House Saturday night! Don suffered a broken leg in mid August and has been recuperating ever since.


If you see Bev Mikulski tomorrow, wish her a happy birthday.••••A big happy 40th birthday to Sandi Cunningham who will be celebrating the occasion on Sunday with her husband, Mike, with ice cream drinks on the lovely island of Jamaica.••••Also celebrating this week are Matthew Pietrzak (16 today), Flo Gannon and Genevieve Weber (today), Lorraine Willcox, Carol Ann Weingartner, Mary Jo Soto, Linda “Beach” Richardson and Bob Merritt (all celebrating tomorrow), Eric Craddock (double digits - 10 years old tomorrow), Ryan Ayers (his 16th birthday tomorrow), Jacqueline Kenney and Jerry Page (Saturday), Paula "Uonites" Tickner (the big 6-0 Sunday), Barb Jarzab (Sunday), Carl Lamancuso (cheers on Sunday), Anthony John Guenther Jr. (15 on Sunday), Gary Bartlett and Linda "Duignan" Schneckenburger (Monday), Jacob Mongold (9 on Tuesday), and Dan Mohring and Richard Sander (Wednesday).


Happy birthday, Michael! Baby Mi