Thursday, November 2, 2006

Susanne and Joanne
Joe and Marie Trautman were receiving congratulations on not one, but two baby girls born November 2, 1946. Happy 60th birthday to Sue Trautman McMahon and to Joanne Trautman Lozo, life long residents of Grand Island.

Congratulations to Kelly and Fred Claus on the birth of Cheyenne Autumn Claus yesterday morning, November 1st. Cheyenne is featured on our Islanders In The News page.

Barry Conway, now famous for his Bear-Man Specialty Sauces and Seasonings, is exhibiting at the Metropolitan Cooking & Entertaining Show at the Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. For more information on the show, running from November 3rd through November 5th, click www.metrocooking.com. For those who don't know, Barry brought Grand Island into the limelight when he was one of four winners of Emeril Lagasse’s “Pie Contest” featured on a Prime Time episode of “Emeril Live” in September 2003.

Happy birthday to Anthony Stephen Weis (turning two tomorrow), Jared Billica (his 16th birthday on Saturday), Mary West (cheers on Saturday), Casey Carminati (Sweet Sixteen on Sunday), Shirley McNulty (Sunday), Ashley Braddell and Ryan Proctor (teenagers on Sunday), Robin Csendom (very best wishes on Sunday), Joshua Less (10 on Sunday), Robert David Arch (four years old on Sunday), Helen Radder (Sunday), Michael Schopp and Mary McMahon (Monday) and Pat Smith (cheers on Wednesday).

Best wishes to Peggy and Bob Hooper on their third anniversary tomorrow, to Krist and Evelyn Haag celebrating their first anniversary on Sunday, to Sally and Dave Goris marking their 30th wedding anniversary on Sunday and to Shaun and Tabatha Senger who will be married 10 years on Tuesday.

Like to sing??? The Grand Island Community Chorus is recruiting anyone who likes to sing and can meet on Sunday evenings at 7 p.m. at Trinity UM Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, for brief rehearsals. There are no auditions.

Looking Back 70 years - The Christian Endeavor Society, a Trinity Church youth group, held a Harvest Social at Town Hall in October 1936. The admission of 20 cents included pie and coffee and ice cream. Sixty young people enjoyed many interesting games and contests. The Hall was appropriately decorated with cornstalks and pumpkins.••••Theresa Trautman emerged victorious in the corn husking contest at the Husking Bee held at Philip and Helen Killian’s on the Transit Road. The Island folks carried off the honors with Louise Killian taking first prize in cards. A number of Islanders were present including Howard and Myrtle Killian, George and Delia Webb, George and Catherine Dinsmore and Louise and Horatio Killian.••••According to the Grand Island News of 1936, "The great rank and file of the American people marched to the polls on Tuesday, November 3, 1936, and overwhelmingly declared their confidence in President Franklin D. Roosevelt, thus culminating one of the most bitterly fought political battles in our history."••••The annual Halloween activities of the youngsters in Ferry Village were even better in 1936 due to an invitation from Mrs. F. J. Offermann in behalf of her children to come in and have cider and doughnuts. The group included June, Buddy, Norma and Jack Senn, Doris, Shirley and Edward Tucker, Emery Ashley, Alex and Irene Santo, Robert and Rita Glavy and Harold Bortz

Looking Back 50 years - Robert E. Study, a Republican appointed to the town board to fill out the unexpired term of Matthew A. Hall, won the seat in the November election. Opposing him was local Democrat Daniel J. McNamee.••••Though published as opening on October 15, 1956, the Island's section of the Thruway officially opened Thursday, Nov. 8, 1956 at 11 a.m. The scheduled opening was delayed due to the necessity of replacing defective concrete slabs by the contractor in certain parts of the road.••••Island voters gave President Dwight Eisenhower 2414 votes and Adlai Stevenson 604 votes in November 1956.••••Approved locally was the Highway Superintendent’s term from two to four years by a 19-vote majority.••••The local paper reported that the new Sheridan Drive-In Theater by the South Bridge had very effective heaters easily installed in automobiles.

Looking Back 40 years - Les Chambers and John Jasper won trophies and Grand Island finished second in a field of 15 teams in the Section Six championships of the NYS Public High School Athletic Association held November 5, 1966. The team wound up a successful season with a 34-6-1 record.••••Barbara "Barbi" Lare, classified "A," was ranked 11th nationally in fencing. Click "Barbi Lare - 1966" for the story.

Looking Back 30 years - Stephen Posluszny and Mark Zarbo of Boy Scout Troop 510 were presented the Eagle Scout award on October 21, 1976 in Trinity UM Church.

Looking Back 20 years - The GIHS Vikings made it into the 8th annual Section VI Football Federation playoffs at Rich Stadium on Saturday, November 8, 1986. Marc Castellani scored from 34 yards out and tight end Greg Nowakowski threw the key block to spring Castellani. Unfortunately, Brett Buzby's extra point attempt hit the left upright. The final score was 27-6 in favor of the Lackawanna Steelers.

Looking Back 10 years - Kids Vote, a program to make young people aware of the importance of using one's right to vote, was new on Grand Island and across the nation. Kids Vote, still going strong, was expected to bring out many parents who may not otherwise make the effort to vote.


This is our grandson, Evan Linenfelser, on Halloween night dressed in his Army fatigues. The complete outfit was sent to him by his aunt, 2LT Erin Fred, while she was serving in Korea. If you look closely, you can even see his official name tag on his shirt. Erin has returned to the states much to the relief of her family.

We welcome newest Isledegrande.com advertiser Grand Island Chiropractic. Click their website and call on them when the need arises. Also spotlighted this week are Miss Cathy's Dance Academy,   McHomes.com/Hunt ERA,    and   AJ Beyer Mechanical.    For our complete list of advertisers and links to their sites, click "Isledegrande.com Advertisers."

Our sympathy to the families of Richard P. McBride, Geraldine Koppmann and Hazel Nailor who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.

The Historical Society meets tonight at River Lea, in Beaver Island State Park. The program is titled "Cinema Under the Stars," a history of the drive-in movies.••••A Fall Festival will take place on Saturday at Trinity UM Church.••••The Historic Trinity Committee will present a Craft Show on Saturday.••••Members of the Golden Age Club will host their annual Holiday Happenings and Open House on Sunday.••••The Moose Lodge #180 will hold a Gun Raffle on Sunday.••••Don't forget to vote on Tuesday, Election Day.••••See our Calendar of Events for details.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there." God bless America.

Thursday, October 26, 2006

Walter and Elsie Killian are celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary today and I wish them many more good years together. In confirming the date with Phil Killian, I got a great story from him, as usual. Phil writes, "I remember being at their wedding and reception in 1946. He and Elsie were planning to drive to Rochester after the reception and staying there overnight before proceeding on their Honeymoon. We found out where Walter was hiding his car in someone else's garage and packed limburger cheese on the manifold. When they were driving to Rochester and the manifold heated up, it gave off a terrible odor, They had to drive with their heads out the window much of the time to avoid the smell. Needless to say they weren't too happy with the whole thing." Phil sent the above photo taken several weeks ago at the Grand Island Golden Age Center when most everyone was without power. From left to right are Harvey and Catherine( Killian) Long, Phil's wife Jean Killian, Kenneth Killian, Elsie and Walter Killian, Phil, Donald Loder, and Phil's sister-in-law Dorothy Killian (wife of his late brother Robert). Be sure to click the photo for a larger view.

The Jr. Viking Football cheerleading teams competed on Sunday, October 22nd at the Medaille Cheerleading Competition and came home as first place winners. The three cheerleading groups are coached by Traci Goc, Michelle Green, Angela Polley, Amanda Busch and Meghan Busch. Congratulations girls and coaches.

Former resident Nancy Duysters of Naples, Florida has written about seeing Island storm photos on CNN and Dorothy Rowswell recently wrote about nearly losing out on a trip to Peru, Chile, and Argentina. Sherrie Bierbrauer read about the storm while vacationing in Budapest where she and husband, Dan, were visiting their daughter and family. Click "Storm - Chapter II" for their stories.

Wedding Bells! Married Saturday and making their home on Grand Island are Kelly Lynn Caito and Erik Marcello Fromme.••••Also married Saturday and living on the Island are Megan J. James and Joshua A. MacConkey.••••Stephen J. Lestingi and his bride, the former Erin Danielle Hoepflinger, were married Saturday.

Best wishes to Dan and Kari Lynn Klos, celebrating their first wedding anniversary on Sunday.

A very happy 30th birthday to Paul Soto, celebrating tomorrow, and to Nikki Zimmerman (a teenager on Saturday), to Ashley Remmes (her 20th on Saturday), our daughter Julie Dee (Monday), Morgan Proctor (3 on Tuesday), Emily Fred (6 on Wednesday), Sarah Kustich (8 on Wednesday), and Carissa Bailey (her 18th birthday on Wednesday).••••Happy 91st birthday to Norma Weast celebrating today. For those who would like to send a card, Norma's address is Bassett Manor, Room 70, 245 Bassett Rd., Williamsville, NY 14221.

And last but not least, happy 19th birthday to Christopher Miller celebrating this Sunday. A 2006 graduate of Grand Island High School Christopher is attending SUNY Brockport as a meteorology major and is on the Brockport football team.

Students attending Sidway, Kaegebein and Huth Road elementary schools have a day off tomorrow due to teacher conferences.

Looking Back 70 years - The Grand Island Distributing Company on East River Road at Edgewater Drive, operated by Phillip Fahrer, advertised Phoenix Beers and Moffats Ale in 1936.

Looking Back 60 years - Winners of the Grandyle Village Halloween treasure hunt were the teams of Bob Dworak, Dick Beningo, Bob Phillips and Fred Bidell in first place, and Carol Keppler, Winnee Jones, “Rick” Rank and Don McVittee in second place.••••Winners of the Sidway School Halloween costume contest were Donna Staley Mesmer (prettiest), Richard Smith (funniest), and Ernest Marin (most original).

Looking Back 50 years - In charge of arrangements for the Halloween party held in the Isle Teen Town youth center in 1956 were Janet Mistretta (Goodsell), Marilyn Radder (Sprague), Barbara Sharpe (Clark), Marianne Shear (Tranter), Gail Kirby, Judy Schueckler (Hagan), John Meyers, Cliff Busch, Mike Williams, Vic Schueckler and Bill Payne. A new addition to Isle Teen Town was a bowling game donated by Dan Linenfelser of Wayside Furniture Company.•••• Serving as community chairman and co-chairman from Grand Island for the Agricultural Department of the Erie County Extension Service membership drive for 1957 were George Alt and John DeGlopper respectively and community committeemen included Zalmon Peck, Raymond Schutt and Ira Varney.••••Ramblin’ Lou Schriver published his first list in a series of the popular music and records of the day. Fighting for #1 were Elvis Presley’s “Love Me Tender” and Jim Lowe’s “Green Door.” The list was provided by sales in his "Ramblin’ Lou Record Ranch" at 7618 Buffalo Avenue in LaSalle.

Looking Back 40 years - The New York State Thruway Authority crammed an unpopular Grand Island bridge toll plan down commuters’ throats 40 years ago and immediately brought down the rage of town officials and the majority of commuters alike. The Thruway adopted Plan A of a three-plan questionnaire distributed to 26,000 Grand Island bridge commuters in September '66 and preferred by the majority of the 3,912 questionnaires returned to them. Plan A extended, effective midnight October 27, 1966, the 30-trip, 30-day commutation book to 90 days. In addition, the plan raised bridge tolls on motorcycles, car or truck with trailer, tractor-trailers with three axles and those with four or more axles. It also discontinued 25-trip calendar year books for automobiles and 25-trip discount books for trucks.••••A large and interested audience attended the “Grand Island Youth Speaks Out” meeting on Thursday evening, October 27, 1966 at Grand Island Jr./Sr. High School. The youths particularly emphasized the lack of adequate recreation facilities for them here.

Looking Back 20 years - The town board in October 1986 agreed to place a moratorium on excavating soil and removing it from the Island until the local law covering digging could be revised to prevent such procedure.••••Town officials on Monday, October 20, 1986 voted to deny a request for rezoning the Edgewater waterfront, thereby disallowing construction of a 112-boat marina and four acres inland along Gun Creek from R-1A to B-2 for a parking lot.

We have been informed that life-time Island resident Bruce Whitford, GIHS Class of 1975, has been reported missing. Will keep you posted. See "Missing" for a little more information. Please keep this family in your prayers.

Your website could be spotlighted here. Rates are more than reasonable so check with Dan McMahon, who is in charge of marketing and advertising, for complete information. Keep these businesses in mind when you need their services: John's Pizza & Subs,    GLP Free Manufacturing Corp.,    Rose Liquor Store,   and M.O.G. (Medically Oriented Gym). For our complete list of advertisers and links to their sites, click "Isledegrande.com Advertisers."

The McMahon family was surprised by a visit from their sister, Margie Prange, who recently flew in from Florida with her granddaughter, Tory. The big family was expecting a visit from Tory but when Margie followed her into McMahon's Family Restaurant, it turned into a very happy family occasion. Most of the local siblings got together there for dinner that same night.

Our sympathy to the families of Arnie Dilliot, Robert A. Meyer and former resident Douglas C. Northrup who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.

Just a reminder that Tuesday, October 31st from 5-8 p.m. has been designated by the Town of Grand Island for Tricks-Or-Treating. Also keep in mind that if you e-mail pictures of your children or grandchildren in costume, I will most likely post them next week. For a peak at last year's adorable Halloween pictures, click "Halloween 2005".

A cheery hello and good wishes to Dorothy Ahern who has had some serious health setbacks lately. "We're all rooting for you, Dorothy."••••Glad to report that Rita Hagerman is home after a short stay in the hospital.

Our neighbor, 87-year-old Bob Clement, unable to sit still during the aftermath of the storm, began clearing up his yard, dragging the limbs to the road when he fell and suffered a broken shoulder. Can't keep a good man down, right Bob?

Artie and Mary Mallwitz and Aimee Anderson are hosting a fundraiser for Jason Vandusen this Sunday beginning at 1 p.m. at the Island Lanes. Jason was severely injured in an automobile accident August 12th and is without health insurance. Click "Benefit For Jason" for more information.

A benefit for Sheri Robinson-Cooney, devoted mother of four and unable to work due to breast cancer surgeries and chemotherapy, will be held from 1-4 p.m. this Sunday at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Road. This is a family event and includes a basket raffle. Click "Benefit For Sheri" for more information.

The Grand Island Youth Board's College Fair & Career Night takes place tonight in the Grand Island High School's large cafeteria. The Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary's Chowder & Baked Goods sale includes a Basket Raffle on Saturday. A children's Harvest Party takes place at Whitehaven Baptist Church on Saturday. And remember to turn your clocks back Saturday night. For complete details, see our Calendar of Events.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there." God bless America.

Thursday, October 19, 2006
According to National Grid's report on the early morning news, Grand Island still has 540 homes without power. This is disappointing because we were under the impression that all power had been restored.••••Due to the fact that many of us did not have power to keep us informed of news of the Island's storm, I would like to pass along that the Town of Grand Island issued a "State of Emergency" on Friday, October 13th that continued through 8 a.m. Saturday. The Town's press release also stated that many town roads had been closed due to downed trees and powers lines.

So very sorry to report that Arnie Dilliot is critically ill. Let's keep Dolly and Arnie and their family in our thoughts and prayers.••••A speedy recovery to Bob Beach who is home recuperating from a recent heart attack. Take it easy, Bob.••••Good news! Jason Vandusen is expected to come home next Friday to continue his recuperation. For the time being, we can continue to check the "www.caringbridge.org/visit/jasonvandusen" site where Jason's mom, Sandy, continues to keep us all updated on Jason's progress. Please keep him in your prayers.

Congratulations to Lisa and Skip Mrkall on the birth of their second baby. Marissa Ann Mrkall, who weighed in at seven pounds, one ounce on Wednesday, October 11th, was welcomed home by her sister, Maisie, 3.

A very happy wedding anniversary to Fred and Janet Mumm celebrating 40 years on Sunday, to John and Karen Wenner on their 2nd anniversary on Sunday, and to Michael and Carolyn Schopp marking their second anniversary on Monday.

The picture of the 1977 National Honor Society that ran on the Thursday, October 5th front page, drew a lot of help in naming those GIHS students in the photo. Thanks, everyone. Click Old Photo Album for the picture.

Hats off to Joe and Fran McMahon! On most Mondays McMahon's Family Restaurant is closed and no one is around for even a glass of water. The storm devastation left many Island residents still without power and no way to cook. Joe and Fran decided to open their doors, on their one day off, and offer free pancakes and coffee to one and all. There isn't a count of the number of pancakes served, but those who stopped in said they couldn't believe their eyes at the size of the huge pancakes. Even WGRZ-TV Ch 2 heard about the free offer and sent a film crew to the restaurant to confirm the report with a segment about the restaurant airing during the evening news. Joe and Fran just wanted to help everyone who has been stressed during the recent storm and loss of power. When asked why, their response was "We just wanted to help out in someway."

Happy birthday to Matthew Heyden and Stephen Bradley (today), Lucas Hooper (3 today), Ryan Pinzel (3 tomorrow), Michael Madigan (double digits - 10 years old tomorrow), Rom Figler (cheers on Sunday), Anthony Daubney (16 on Sunday), Mary (James) Post (Wednesday), our grandson, John Bidell (17 on Wednesday), and Karen Clark (best wishes on Wednesday).

Looking Back 50 years - The first accident on the Grand Island portion of the newly opened New York State Thruway happened Sunday morning, October 21, 1956. State troopers reported that a car failed to make the sharp curve in the Beaver Island Parkway clover leaf near the south Grand Island Bridge, steered off the road and turned over several times.

Looking Back 40 years - The latest census in October 1966 showed Grand Island with a 17.6 percent increase in population since 1960, up to 11,294 from 9,607.••••Grand Island Postmaster Heber Ashley announced 40 years ago that arrangements had been made with the post office building owned by Ernest Godfrey for continued rental of the "present" facility, but on a month to month basis. A new post office building was to be constructed on Whitehaven Road east of Grand Island Blvd.

Looking Back 30 years - Models for the Jack & Jill Cooperative Preschool's fashion show on October 21, 1976 in the Buffalo Launch Club were Anne Bobo, Joy Mesmer, Maureen Glor, Lela Mancuso, Jean Derrick, Jeanine Mazur, Linda Ramchand and the school’s teacher, Gail Newbury.

Looking Back 20 years - Rusty Boyko was making news with the GIHS Soccer Team in October 1986. He scored 30 goals in 12 games.••••Brett Buzby scored three touchdowns leading the Varsity Vikings Football Team to a 22-0 shutout over Tonawanda.

Please support our advertisers who make it possible to bring the news and information to you, our readers. This week's spotlighted businesses are Liz Wilbert - Century 21,   Elderwood At Riverwood   and Inside and Out Snowplowing. For our complete list of advertisers and links to their sites, click "Isledegrande.com Advertisers."

Our sympathy to the families of Jack Brown and former residents Fenton G. Strickland and Leroy "Ike" Trautman who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.

Islander Brian Geldin, who is a New York film publicist, has created a blog for filmmakers. If this is of interest to you, take a look at www.thefilmpanelnotetaker.com

Karen Sorbello submitted photos of our storm to CNN and they may still be available on the website http://www.cnn.com/2006/WEATHER/10/13/ny.snow.ap/index.html. Look down the left hand side, bottom of the page under Gallery: ireporters dig out. Click that and another window will pop up and you'll see some photos along the bottom of the window. Count seven from the left. "Those are mine," Karen says.

A Charlotte Sidway School Reunion planning meeting (graduates of classes of 1937-1963) is being held at 7 p.m. Monday, in the Community Room at the Grand Island Memorial Library. For further information, email "jasch427@aol.com".••••The Grand Island Youth Board's College Fair & Career Night takes place a week from tonight in the Grand Island High School's large cafeteria.

Longtime bowler Dave Arch just got a brand new bowling ball and proclaimed to team mates Monday night at Island Lanes that he was going to roll a 300 game. And that's just what he did - in a very nice 792 series. Congratulations to Dave who was bowling with the Monday Night A-Best Roofing League.

If you would like to add your interesting, funny or traumatic storm stories to our Columbus Day
Storm Stories, send them to me at teddy@giecom.net. Be sure to include your name, street address and photos to be considered for the story.

Halloween is just around the corner so I'd like to remind you that I will be posting photos of children and grandchildren in their costumes the Thursday after the "big night." They may be emailed to me at teddy@giecom.net. By the way, Tuesday, October 31st from 5-8 p.m. has been designated by the Town of Grand Island for Tricks-Or-Treating.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there." God bless America.

Thursday, October 12, 2006
Today I would like to thank my most wonderful doctor, Dr. David Johnson, for his care and concern while I was hospitalized for five days. Illness certainly makes us so much more appreciative of the little things in life we take for granted. Also thanks to my husband, Jim, and children Jim Jr. and Julie Dee and friends who have taken the time to call, email, or have sent cards.


Kathryn Claire Schiavone
Kathryn Claire Schiavone, the daughter of Salvatore and Patricia Schiavone, was married to Christopher J. Steckelberg by the Rev. Paul M. Nogaro on Saturday, October 7th in St. Stephen's Church. The groom is the son of Jack and Jacqueline Steckelberg. The newlyweds are graduates of Grand Island High School and living on the Island.•••• Bethany Erin Cap, daughter of Michael and Bobbie Cap of Grand Island, was married to Paul Donovan Hannan Saturday in Trinity United Methodist Church.

Congratulations to Scott and Kimberly Duscher on the birth of their baby girl, Taylor Felicia, on October 9th.

Tim Blevins, a mechanic and member of the Grand Island School Related Professionals (SRP) Association, was featured on the cover of the October 5th issue of New York Teacher Magazine.

Thirty-three-year-old Staff Sgt. Maurice Shivers of Grand Island has recently returned to the Island after serving our country in the Middle East with the U.S. Air Force. The Staff Sergeant was welcomed home by his wife, Christina, and their children, Alexia, 7, Alicia, 2, and Alex, 1, and his parents, Maurice Sr. and Georgia. The Airman serves as a loadmaster with the 914th. In case you didn't see the article in the Buffalo News, click Welcome home, Staff Sgt. Shivers.

Go Vikings! Our Varsity Football Team defeated Lew-Port on Friday night, September 29th by a score of 14-9. The defense was led by Senior Captain James Rayhill who recorded 12 tackles and 3 sacks. Starting quarterback Matt Klock unfortunately broke his leg on the third play of the game which gave Joe Oliverio control of the offense for the rest of the night. Unfortunately, the Vikes lost to Sweet Home by a score of 42-14 on Saturday, October 7th. Next up is the Homecoming game against Lockport on Masters Field at 2 p.m. this Saturday.

Ninety-six golfers participated in the recent St. Stephen's Golf Challenge. The day's top foursome, shooting a 64 in a Best Ball Scramble, was the team of Sean McDonnell, Jim McDonnell, Bill Taglis and Charlie McDonough.

Happy birthday to Benjamin McDowell (20 today), Christopher Conway (10 tomorrow), Stephanie Voyzey (her 10th on Saturday), Ashley Joelle Battaglia (two on Saturday), Erik Robinson (21 on Saturday), Shirley Luther and Mike Yensan (Sunday), Margie Cinelli (Monday), Carol Pownall (Tuesday), Stephanie Kowalak (10 on Tuesday), and Jenna Giambra (4 years old on Tuesday).

Best wishes to Joanne and Bob Urtel, married 50 years tomorrow; to Jason and Maureen Weis, married five years tomorrow; and to Dolly and Arnie Dilliot celebrating their 48th wedding anniversary on Wednesday.

Looking Back 70 years - President Roosevelt Stops Here Enroute to Buffalo was the headline on the front page of the Grand Island News: The story follows: "Despite gray skies and a dreary looking day, excitement reigned at the "lower end" of the Island as the time approached for the President’s arrival here. Approximately thirty cars of admirers and supporters of Roosevelt had come to Buckhorn from Buffalo and vicinity. . . Islanders in the main watched the procession from other parts of the Island but some of them were on the spot including our Supervisor John Mesmer, Tom Fleming, Mrs. Henry Hardy, Mabel French and family, Joe Stack and Mary Stack. The lineup of C.C.C. men completed the picture and lent an impressive air to the scene."••••A Grand Opening in October 1936 was held by Mary Cumming in her new Watt-Knott Shoppe on Express Highway in the Service Center Building, where Contract Interiors is now located. The little store carried such things as notions, drugs, sundries, and infants’ and children’s wear. ••••A Harvest Dance at Charlie Davern's Tavern in October of 1936 featured a floor show of hometown talent including acrobatic dancing by Pete Neilan, and a buck and win dance by Andrew Bishop. Davern's was right on the river at the ferry landing in Ferry Village, and is now the home of the Niagara River Station Fishing Club.

Looking Back 50 years - It was on October 15, 1956 that the New York State Thruway opened across Island for the first time.••••The first Jr. High Roller Skating party of the year was held on Thursday, October 11, 1956 at the Rainbow Rink in North Tonawanda. Four buses transported 173 students, three teachers and nine chaperones to the rink, including adult supervisors Ben and Ceil Titterington.

Looking Back 40 years - Among those taking the leads in the Island Theatre Group’s musical comedy hit, “Li’l Abner” opening October 14, 1966 were Jackie Pauley, Richard McDole, Gloria Tartock, Doug Hawkes, Roberta Gasbarre, Linda Homes, Roy Hawkes, and Linda Brion.

Looking Back 30 years - Elected homecoming king and queen in October 1976 were John McDonough and Karen Ludwig. Leading the Vikings when GI beat Niagara Wheatfield 6-3 were Don Lee, Bob Costanzo and John Black. Homecoming float winners were the Freshman class float, “Three Little Pigs” in first place. The senior class “Wizard of Oz” float took 2nd, and “Cinderella,” the sophomore class float was 3rd.

Looking Back 25 years - Dedication of Portraits of Island Supervisors took place Sunday afternoon, October 18, 1981 in the Town Hall. An Invocation was given by Rev. John Weatherwax of Trinity UM Church, the welcome was given by Supervisor Laverne C. Luther, Councilman George Sullivan served as MC, and Father Peter Judge of St. Stephen’s Church gave the Benediction. Credit for the huge project goes to Shirley Luther.

It's a pleasure to spotlight these Island advertisers this week: Island Pediatrics,    Fuccillo Auto Group,   Grand Island Home Construction,   and    Sherry McDonald / RealtyUSA. Please support these Isledegrande businesses, and consider advertising with us - the Island's #1 news source, updated daily, and the very best advertising deal in town.

Our sympathy to the families of Emma M. Call, Gary L. Wolinski and Patricia Roberts who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.

Please check the Calendar of Events for details on the Fire Company's exciting open house tomorrow, a benefit for the family of the late George Backlund on Sunday, and Island Crop Walk on Sunday.



"Say a prayer for our guys over there." God bless America.

Thursday, October 5, 2006

Olive and Charlie Robinson were proud parents of their first born, a son named Robert James Robinson on October 8, 1936. The photo is Bob's 9th grade Sidway School yearbook picture, circa 1951 when he was already an export sailor on the Niagara River. Happy 70th birthday, Bobby, and here's to many more.

Jason Vandusen is still improving, in small ways like trying to speak, working hard in therapy, and loving visits from his friends. His mom, Sandy, writes about Jason's progress each day. Click "www.caringbridge.org/visit/jasonvandusen.".

Jeanne Marie Ensminger seemed pleasantly surprised upon walking up to the Rod & Gun Club pavilion Friday night. It was her 64th birthday and the surprise party was given by a few family members including her brother, Jim Dinsmore. Happy birthday, Jeanne.


Erin Fred
2LT Erin Fred, GIHS Class of 2000, has been awarded the prestigious Army Commendation Medal. Click "2LT Erin Fred" for the story.

Married Friday, September 29th and living on the Island are Alice E. Cunningham and Steven M. Milleville.••••Jill O. Ochtyun, daughter of Island residents John and Vicki Ochtyun, was married to Harold B. Wolf on Saturday.

Happy birthday to Betty Magnuson (today), to Dylan Russo (his 5th birthday today), to Rebekah Mae Thompson (2 today), Margaret Webb and Flo Gannon (tomorrow), Robert Merritt and Mary Jo Soto (Saturday), Michael James Christensen (2 on Saturday), Linda “Beach” Richardson (cheers on Saturday), Rosemary Ryan, John Linenfelser and Gale Podsiadlo (Sunday), Mark Webb (his 18th on Sunday), Marion Assenza, Barb Jarzab, Paula Tickner, Sandi Cunningham and Diane Hassan (all on Monday), A. J. Guenther (16 on Monday), Tom Lajos and Dick McCowan (born the same day and year and celebrating on Tuesday), and Jacob Mongold (10 on Wednesday).

Looking Back 70 years - Twenty men from the Buffalo District enrolled in the Island's C.C.C. camp and on Wednesday, October 7, 1936 all officers of this district met at the Grand Island camp. Plans for the day included a tour of inspection, a meeting, and dinner. New furniture was installed in the Recreation Hall to add to the comfort of the camp’s guests and men stationed there.••••The Home Bureau Library was moved from Ehde’s Store to the home of Margaret DeGlopper, corner of Base Line and Fix roads. A sign was soon to be in place and several new books had been added to the large collection.••••The young people of Trinity Church reorganized their Christian Endeavor society and elected to office President Dorothy Killian, Vice President Mildred Webb, Secretary Walter Killian, and Treasurer Harold Long.••••David A. Yensan was advertising Milk, cream and stillicious chocolate in the Grand Island News in October 1936. David offered daily deliver on the Island.

Looking Back 60 years - A surprise birthday party was held Thursday, October 10, 1946 in honor of Garry Paul Bartlett, who was turning 6 years old. Among his guests were Nancy Benton, Paul Geschwender, Russell Anderson, Shirley Webb, Donald Bartlett and Sally Ann Fleischmann (Dinino).•••• The Emmanuel Chapel on Ferry Road and East River opened for service on Sunday October 13, 1946. No services had been held there for several years due to disturbing times accompanying the war. The minister, the Rev. J. Franklin Beck, announced 9 a.m. worship service would be held each Sunday morning .

Looking Back 50 years - Supervisor George J. Burgstahler broke ground for the Island’s first super-plaza at Express Highway and Base Line Road Sunday, October 7, 1956. Nu-Way Inc. and Lane Drug Co. will be among the stores located in the plaza.•••• New voices were being sought in October 1956 by the Grand Island Community Chorus for its concert season, according to Mildred Ortolano, a group spokesman. Community Chorus director Clara Mueller Pankow announced an ambitious program including the major features, “Down in the Valley” by Kurt Weil and “Trial By Jury” by Gilbert and Sullivan. The chorus, sponsored by the Adult Education Department, was meeting each Thursday night at Kaegebein School.

Looking Back 40 years - A ground breaking ceremony took place Sunday, October 2, 1966 for the new Niagara Sailing Club quarters on East River Road. •••• Colin Smith scored three touchdowns when GI beat Springville 24-0 on Saturday, October 8, 1966. Credit was also given to Rod Passerelli who blocked a Springville punt and recovered it inside the loser’s 10-yard line to set up the game’s first score.

Looking Back 30 years - Maisie Dommell, social chairman for the Historical Society’s 10th annual Silver Tea on Sunday, October 10, was assisted by Marion Steffen, Sylvia Shaffer and Maryann Traun. Society President Bruce Nichols announced at that time that the “Burnt Ship Creek Memorial Marker,” dedicated Sept. 12, 1976, would be moved to the site of the North Bridge as soon as the weather permitted. •••• Middle School students elected the following student council officers Friday, October 1, 1976: President Peggy Crowe, Vice President Dawn Carlisi, Treasurer Lori Tolbert, Corresponding Secretary Lynn Tolbert and Recording Secretary Tim Bessel.

Looking Back 20 years - Kevin M. Koch, a member of Boy Scout Troop 575 was advanced to Eagle Scout, the highest level of achievement in the scouting program.••••Jean Willer performed a front handspring onto the vaulting horse with a ½ turn into a back flip off the horse onto a 4” landing pad, a vault no other GI gymnast had ever done before. Her Viking Gymnastic Team defeated Lancaster and Sweet Home. Jean scored an all time high of 8.85, the highest score a GI gymnast had ever scored in this event. •••• Senior quarterback Paul Houston ran for two touchdowns and passed for another while senior running back James Scott did the same in leading the Grand Island Vikings to a 30-0 victory over the LaSalle Explorers in a section VI Division III football game at Grand Island Saturday, October 4, 1976. Leading the interceptions were Kent Martin, Mike Braddell and Henry Grunzweig.

Kershner Studios is our newest advertiser. This is a most interesting website where where you can purchase a lot or a little. Check it out. Also spotlighted this week are Care-A-Lot Childcare Centre,  Keller Insurance Group   and Inside & Out Home Improvements. Please support these Isledegrande businesses, and consider advertising with us - the Island's #1 news source, updated daily, and the very best advertising deal in town.

Our sympathy to the families of JoAnne Petrilla and Robert C. Desimone who recently passed away. Click Deaths for complete information.

Former Grand Islanders, Joanne and Rich Hartman, recently hosted a family and friends reunion at their daughter, Mary Beth's photo studio, Channel One Media in Clarence, N.Y. Among the guests were Islanders Susan Andrews, Joan Compo, Bev and Jack Mikulski and Jeannette and Jim Ray. The Hartmans retired to Haines City, Florida five years ago after residing on Grand Island for 35 years.

The Historical Society's "Trash to Treasure Sale" at Historic Trinity begins at 9 a.m. Saturday. Among other things, Hazel Rowe will be selling her prized collection of Raggedy Ann and Andy dolls and accessories. For table space, call 773-2421.••••An auction is being held at the Knights Hall on Whitehaven Road tomorrow night, and a Blood Drive is being held Tuesday in the Knights Hall. Check the Calendar of Events for details.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there."

Thursday, September 28, 2006

Jeff and his bride, the former Susan Joy Kohlhagen - (right) Sue and Jeff's family
Very best wishes to Sue and Jeff Long who will be married 40 years on October 1st. Longtime Island residents before moving to Nunda, N.Y., Sue and Jeff renewed their vows and celebrated their 60th birthdays at a family reunion on September 3rd. Among those attending with children and grandchildren from the Kohlhagen and Long families were George and Kathie Gillespie, Chris and Jim Sugar, Bud and Lucille Long and Carol and Dave Hamlin. Also in attendance were Bob and Sherry Wendling who were in the wedding 40 years ago. ••••Karen and Barry Smith, returning today from a glorious week-long vacation with Karen's family, are marking their 25th wedding anniversary on Tuesday.

Congratulations to Tom Turner on his second 300 (686) game rolled Friday night with the Businessmen's League.

This sounds interesting and the date is coming up fast! Grand Island Historical Society members are offering a "Trash to Treasure Sale" at Historic Trinity on Whitehaven Road. The event begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, October 7th. For those interested in table space for selling trash or treasures, call 773-2421.

Had a nice visit with Ron McNamee who stopped here in the Isledegrande.com office last week. Ron and Pat, who are now residing in Apache Junction, Arizona, are spending time on the Island visiting friends and relatives.

Congratulations to the parents, grandparents including Judy Dinsmore, great grandparents and the great great grandmother of DeVonte' Mali'q Johnson, born September 18th. Click Baby DeVonte' for story and photos.

Happy birthday to Jim Dinsmore and Danny Mancuso (today), Jean Marie Ensminger (tomorrow), Cori Sexton (her 21st birthday tomorrow), David Breier (cheers on Saturday), Faith Jacqueline Caldwell (two on Saturday), Jaidan Kheara Hiam (6 on Monday), Shorty Vanthoff (Monday), Mark Eberhard (Tuesday), and Lynn Polizzi (cake and candles on Wednesday).••••A belated happy birthday to SPC Ryan Woodring, home on leave from Afghanistan. Ryan turned 21 on Sunday.

Looking Back 100 years - Boat races were held on September 15, 1906 by the members of the Buffalo Launch Club. The first event was for cabin boats, sixteen miles up the river to the mouth of the Niagara, around the dummy light and return. The Gweogar, owned by Ellsworth Frick of Buffalo, won first place and Laura, owned by L. Lindenschmidt, of Buffalo, took second. Time, 2:27:12. For more on this event, click http://www.lesliefield.com/races/1906_buffalo_launch_club_septemb.htm

Looking Back 70 years - The 1936 Grand Island News headline stated: "Work Progressing on School Grounds." According to the story, "Things are humming on the school grounds these days. The tennis courts are completed. A unit of three ovens, protected from the weather, is all ready for use. The artificial lake boasts about one and a half foot of water and high grade shady lawn grass has been sown in the grove and a road is being started to give access to the tennis courts, the grove and the parking space, which it is estimated will be able to accommodate from fifty to one hundred cars."

Looking Back 60 years - The Edgewater Park Hotel was advertising its grand opening set for Saturday and Sunday, Sept 28-29, 1946 and featuring continuous music by The Red River Ramblers.•••• Classes in week-day religious education resumed at Sidway School on October 3, 1946 under the supervision of Father Edward Schwegler and Rev. Franklin Beck.••••From the pages of the 1946 Island Dispatch: While driving around Grand Island on a fall day in 1946, a gentleman who preferred to remain anonymous, was forced to stop when his 1938 Dodge automobile developed mechanical difficulties. He was unable to repair the trouble and pushed his car into the barn of a nearby farmer. He took the bus to Buffalo and when he returned to the Island, he forgot where he left the car. To this day the car is still missing because the driver is unable to remember where he left it. I haven't read so far that the car was found but have to assume that it was. •••• From the local paper's column, Across the Mahogany with “Willie”: Now that beer has returned . . . where in hell are the customers that swarmed around in search of it last summer? That, friends, is the $64 question.

Looking Back 40 years - New and successful attempts by local parishes to better understand each other’s faiths and practices included the Tuesday night sample services which were followed by a discussion period at a different church each week. The first program took place at Island United Presbyterian Church on Huth Road. The only parish unable to participate is Bible Presbyterian, Love and East Park. "A salute of John W. Prast of Stony Point Rd. who has worked long and hard for this."••••Further pollution of air on Grand Island by Fly ash will be controlled after the town board took preliminary steps to do so at the Board meeting Monday night, October 3, 1966. The board ordered all dumping of fly ash on the Island temporarily stopped and will require all ash already dumped here to be immediately covered by at least two feet of dirt.

Looking Back 30 years - As part of the Island's celebration of the country's bicentennial, a Farmers Market was held in Long's Barn on Bedell Road at Baseline on October 2, 1976. Lucille Long thanked the Boy Scouts of St. Stephen’s, especially Gregory and David Dietrich for their many hours of hard work getting the barn ready for the exhibitors – all from Grand Island.••••The enrollment in Grand Island schools in 1976 was down by 151 pupils from 1975. A school district Advisory Committee projected the decline to continue to 1980 when growth of student enrollment would begin to rise.

Looking Back 20 years - Roxanne’s Restaurant on Grand Island Blvd. north of Bedell Road was advertising a Sunday special - a prime rib dinner for two at $12.95.••••Viking gymnasts defeated Ken-West due to outstanding performances by Renee Taefi, Jean Willer (Pecoraro) and Dawn Nowak.

Please pray for former resident Doug Northrup who is suffering from lung cancer.••••A speedy recovery to Harry Jerge who was recently injured in a fall.••••Dorothy Ahern is wished a complete recovery from her recent surgery.

Attention high school sophomores, juniors and seniors! The Chamber of Commerce is accepting applications for its Youth Ambassador program with two students to be selected. Deadline is Friday, October 6th so check out the Chamber News Page for complete information.

Wedding Bells! Jennifer Gagliano, daughter of Bennett and Jane Gagliano of Grand Island, was married to Jeremiah Davie on Saturday.

The historic Riviera Theater is our newest advertiser. Check out the Riviera website where tickets may be purchased on line. Also spotlighted this week are Bones Woodworking - Magic Towel Holder   Justin Tyme Cafe On The River,  and Carl Amato Collision. Please support these Isledegrande businesses, and consider advertising with us - the Island's #1 news source, updated daily, and the very best advertising deal in town.

Our wonderful Grand Island Community Chorus is resuming rehearsals at Historic Trinity at 7 p.m. this Sunday. New singers are more than welcome to join this fun group.

As mentioned here last week, a meeting is taking place Monday at 7 p.m. "sharp" in the Grand Island Memorial Library community room for those interested in hearing about a Sidway School reunion for the classes of 1937-1963. Click "Reunion Planning Meeting" for details. Don't be shy - join us, please!

Parishioners of St. Stephen's Church will present a Fall Festival from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. this Saturday. Click Fall Festival for the long list of all-day events.••••For information on St. Stephen's Golf Challenge set for this Monday, click "Golf Challenge."

"Email me" your news, your cares, concerns, successes, and your birthdays and milestone anniversaries.

"Say a prayer for our guys over there." God bless America.

Thursday, September 21, 2006

Mike                                    Mike                                    Walter
Mike Rayhill, Mike Rodriguez and Walter Hughes were sophomores when these photos appeared in the Grand Island High School yearbook in 1972. The "boys" are all wished a very happy birthday. Mike Rayhill celebrated last Friday and Mike Rodriguez and Walter were born on the 21st and 23rd of September respectively.

A speedy recovery to Carol "Turner" Faulkner who is home and recovering from surgery.••••Glad to report that Jason Vandusen, so seriously injured on August 12, is improving little by little and smiling and understanding what is going on around him. He is now in a rehab area of ECMC and will be working from three to four hours each day to help himself get better. Nancy Anderson is selling Entertainment Books 2007 as a fundraiser for Jason and his family. Click "Entertainment Books for more information.

Happy birthday to Madison Nowak (5 today), Nicole Walker (her 21st tomorrow), Annemarie Bykowicz (20 tomorrow), Jessica Osvath (a teenager tomorrow), Jim Gorton and his sister, Becky (Saturday), Eric Stefik, Ann Manuse and Susan Hillock (Sunday), David Rodriguez (9 on Sunday), Rick Pelham (cheers on Monday), Forrest Carr (5 on Monday), Sammy Carpenter (3 on Monday), Kristen Marie Burns (20 on Tuesday), Sean Christian Rustowicz (5 on Tuesday), Nick Csendom (16 on Tuesday), Sara Dzielski (entering her teens on Tuesday), Cameron Kolat (4 on Tuesday), Margaret Merrill (Tuesday), Sandy Dee and Gail "Edwards" Herskovits (best wishes on Wednesday) and Jacob Cali (2 on Wednesday).

A belated happy anniversary to Michael and Eileen Torrence, married 20 years on September 13th.

Joel Guagliano, Class of '84, and his wife, Sofia, are the parents of a baby boy. See our front page for a picture of new baby, Lukas, and his year-old brother, Martin.

Looking Back 70 years - A Harvest Card Party in the big barn at St. Stephen's Church grounds took place on Saturday, September 26, 1936 to benefit St. Stephen's and Mary Star of the Sea churches.

Looking Back 60 years - A device known as the automatic exploder was demonstrated to a group of Grand Island farmers on Sunday, September 22, 1946 by the Erie Co. Farm Bureau. This device was regarded as a experimental measure to control Starlings that had been destroying as high as 50 percent of the Erie County corn crops. The "exploder" operated automatically by igniting carbide gas from a small cylinder, emitting an explosion approximately every three minutes for a period of 12 hours. Firing just above the corn, the blast chased the birds away.

Looking Back 50 years - Franklin L. Klocke, Island Civil Defense Director, issued an invitation to those interested in protecting life and property in time of enemy attack.