Grand Island Record's "Between the Bridges" by Teddy Linenfelser

"Between the Bridges"
by Teddy Linenfelser

Photo courtesy of Diane "Bykowicz" Hassan Class of '70

Articles courtesy of the Grand Island Record

1999 Columns by Date:

December 30,1999

Our very best wishes to Dr. Alfred Lenzner and his wife, Lura of West Oakfield Road, who celebrated their 56th wedding anniversary on Christmas day. Dr. Lenzner retired from his practice just last August.

Former resident Edward L. Kennedy, 75, died in San Diego on December 20th. Isle resident Robert E. “Bobby” Bennett Jr. and former Warner Drive resident Norman Barth died on Christmas Day. Robert S. Adamczyk, 50, died December 26th after a brief illness. Our sympathy to their families.

Happy birthday to Christopher Podlucky (9 today), Elsie Fleischmann, Karen Loder, Shirley Kaiser, Kathy Lazenby, Jim O’Connor and Nick Pelosi (all celebrating on New Year’s Eve), Jeffrey Nordvik (13 tomorrow), Steven Lew (16 on Saturday), Maria Bobak (11 on Saturday), Dominique Angelina Capizzi (two on Saturday), Jennie McCoy (7 on Saturday), twins Scott and Matthew Wallace (their 18th on Sunday), Danny Victor (13 on Sunday), Jacob Burford (4 on Monday), Hanna Panzica (her second birthday Tuesday), Ellen Martin and Lynn Vaine (Tuesday), Hazel Rowe, Kathy Boettcher Stisser and her twin sister Peggy Fuller (Wednesday) and Jonathan Figler (11 on Wednesday).

Looking back 50 years - Scarlet Tina and in my case, Scarlet Fever hit the Island with a vengeance in December 1949. I missed a lot of my second grade holiday activities and our family, except for my dad, was quarantined~~~~Seven-year-old Sharon Bauer of East Park Road, entertained at a tea party on the afternoon of Thursday, December 29, 1949 and attended by the following little ladies and their dolls: Janie Costin (Rocks), Donna Yakam (Krehl), Donna Horner (Anderson), Susan Nailor (Bauer), Carolyn Bucknam (McFarland), Carol Chateauneuf (Stevens), Kathy Cotter (Little), Peggy Cotter (Will) and me, Teddy Klingel (Linenfelser).

This must be the season for reminiscing as we did a lot of it over the past weekend. The payoff was the McNulty girls - Peggy and Shirley - calling my husband who has a keen memory for old theme songs. Their request? Would he please sing the “Leave for work a little early” jingle that Clint Buehlman sang and played on the piano over WBEN radio years ago, as a reminder to early morning drivers when the weather was bad.~~~~And speaking of reminiscing, the Grand Island web site, Isledegrande.com is still going strong and seems to be the place for old friends to reunite. What fun it has been hearing from my Sidway School classmates, long lost in some cases, and even more fun to see their pictures over the Internet. Those who have graduated from Grand Island High will find even more familiar names.

A speedy recovery to Don Kew of Bedell Road who is home from the hospital and recuperating.~~~~Dear friend and favorite piano player Don Burns has been in Niagara Falls Memorial Hospital after suffering a broken arm. So sorry, Don!~~~~We ask that if you know him, add John Bartholomew to your prayer list.

I was shocked to hear of a frightening robbery that took place in an elderly friend’s home in my old neighborhood here on the Island last week. We have published some reports of a large number of local break-ins as they have become available to us here at the Grand Island Record. But it would serve the community very well if the Sheriff’s Department would provide us with the complete report of their local calls so neighbors could be informed of what has happened in their neighborhood.

Happy New Year to everyone as we enter 2000.

December 23,1999

Island native Jimmy Arias has been named WNY’s top male tennis player of the half-century.~~~~Congratulations to Denny Ahern of Long Road who was recently elected to a second term as grand commander of Cordova Caravan 26, International Order of Alhambra.

Married Saturday and making their home on the Island are Jeffrey Orlowski and his bride, the former Lynn Marie Holler. Welcome to the Orlowskis.~~~~Best wishes to Bud and Judy Link, who celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in style Saturday night in Cathy and Jim’s Restaurant. The Link’s were married on December 22, 1959.~~~~A very happy wedding anniversary to Ray and Anne Ehlert married 57 years today, to Barb and Sherman Lyke (22 years today), Jane and Jay Boyle (14 years Monday) and Jennifer and Greg Dinsmore (their 10th on Monday).

So sorry to report that Pat O’Reilly passed away on December 18th. Our sincere sympathy to Jackie and the rest of the family. Memorials may be made to Hospice Buffalo or the American Cancer Society.~~~~Former resident John W. Shea died on Dec. 2, 1999.

We hear Betty Lantz was completely surprised when her parents, Dave and Arliss Lantz, made the trip to the Island to help celebrate her “big” birthday last week.~~~~Those who we know are celebrating birthdays on Christmas Eve and Christmas day for the last time in this century are Mary Marlin, Melissa Marlin (7 on Christmas Eve), Carolyn Gaudy (18 on Christmas Eve), Robert Augugliaro (4 on Christmas Eve), Paul Harper Sr., and Joyce Mongan and on Christmas Day - Marissa Catanzaro (3 years old), Chris Eberhard, Sean McMahon, Grant Hennigar, Ann Dlugokinski, Patty Ray, Ken Tollner, Bud Yensan, Chris Franklin Rosser and Bob Hoag. Happy birthday, everyone.~~~~And birthday greetings also to Nancy Samrany, Millie Vanthoff and Andrea Moreau (today), to Bradley Stone (2 on Sunday), Margie Walker (Monday), Abigail Dallessandro (3 on Monday), Chelsea Schmidt (2 on Tuesday), Rob Meyer (21 on Tuesday), Val Swain, Maggie Gushue and Art Ellsworth (Tuesday), Danny Dinsmore (11 on Wednesday), Yvonne Martin, Jim Sharpe and John Trianda (Wednesday) and Megan Ayers (Sweet 16 on Wednesday).

Looking back 50 years - Chuck and Dottie Carter were married on December 26, 1949 and purchased the Beningo’s house on Love Rd. in Grandyle Village.~~~~Brownies of Troop 221 who put on a play, “A Gift For Loke” were Libby Smith (Borgese), Margie McMahon (Prange), Annette Boehm (Fuhr), Judy Daggett and Barbara Glor (Martin). Brownies Susan Turnbull and Janet Lee Sunderland (Bangs) added to the entertainment by demonstrating their tap dancing skills.

Looking back 30 years - It was announced that the Nike Base began closing down operations. Preparation was under way to transfer civil defense supplies stored at the Grand Island Nike-Hercules missile installation on Whitehaven Road to the town water plant.

Though it has been nearly three weeks, Shirley Luther hasn’t heard a word about her shoes mistakenly taken while she was touring one of the holiday houses December 6th.

A great project with educational benefits is being undertaken by a small group of Isle residents who are asking for the loan of Grand Island High School reunion booklets. Contact Sally Goris at 773-1449 or myself at 773-2436 if you can help out.

Charlotte Mrkall has had her share of health problems recently. Why not drop her a line or send a card and let her and Norm and their family know you are thinking of them.~~~~A speedy recovery to Helene Kerr. Get-well cards may be sent to her home. Also get well wishes go out to Town Attorney Will Wiles who just got out of the hospital.~~~~Happy holidays to all our readers!

December 16,1999

Happy birthday to Pat Gill whose graduation picture is shown above. She will hit the big 5-0 on Monday in California.~~~~Happy birthday to Betty Lantz (today), Kara Black (13 today), Joey Guenther (6 today), Jim Pioli (16 today), Rob Soluri (21 tomorrow), Heather Goris, Arvilla Kendzierski and Art DiMartile (tomorrow), Katie Kendall (17 tomorrow), Lisa Black, Sonia Steckelberg and Walter Lare (Sunday), Ann Kruse and Greg Schnitzer (Tuesday), Jonathan Cook (16 on Wednesday) and Arliss Lantz (Wednesday).~~~A belated happy birthday to David Henderson (December 9) and best wishes to Vern Ford who celebrated his 51st birthday yesterday, December 15th. The grandchildren of George Shaw (Jennifer, Evan and Ben) wish him many happy returns of the day Sunday, December 19.

A speedy and complete recovery to Nonnie Carroll who may be home from the hospital by the time you read this.

Looking back 50 years - A group of East Park Road neighbors formed the East Park Garden Club in late 1949.~~~~The Fire Company's Ladies Auxiliary elected officers, voted to buy a siren for the new fire truck and agreed to pack boxes for Isle shut-ins. Thirty-nine members then proceeded to Del & Herb's for a Christmas party after their December meeting.~~~~WHLD began broadcasting from new studios built on Staley Road.

Looking back 40 years - The Road Rebels, a group of Isle teens with an interest in auto mechanics staged a record hop at the American Legion Hall on Ferry and Orchard roads Friday, December 18, 1959. Live music was provided by. Gary Miller and his Hi-5. Officers of the Rebels were President. Jerry Thirion, Treasurer Scott Wiesenburg, Secretary Ron McNamee and Sgt. at Arms Russell Hill.

Looking back 20 years - Among pre-schoolers attending the Gingerbread House and interviewed for a December 1979 issue of the local weekly paper was Nicole Dee, 5, who said, "I want a Baby This and That that colors, and a Mickey Mouse Turn-over Choo-Choo. I don't fight with my brother. He's 15 and fixes my breakfast."~~~~Chuck Swanick, our newly elected County Legislator, was gearing up for his new job.~~~~Judy Schorb of West Oakfield Road was the winner of a microwave oven when Ted Bates was president of the Grand Island Plaza Businessmen's Association who held the drawing December 21, 1979.

We are sorry to report the deaths on December 10th of Tom O'Hara of Wallace Drive and Isle resident Stella Dankowski

Island Cub Scouts of Pack 254 Greg Stephan, Shawn Speidel, Ryan Wolfslayer, A.J. Guenther and our grandson John Bidell may be seen on television (Channel 29) Monday morning sometime between 7 and 9 a.m. The Cubs and their leaders, Melissa Wolfslayer and Julie Dee, visited the station earlier this month and will be on a featured spot in between cartoons.

Islander Norm Stessing of the Power Authority was seen during the Niagara Falls feature on the History Channel last week.

Holiday cards would surely be appreciated by longtime, former Islander Abe Milner. His address is 146 Battleship Road, Room 116, Camden, SC 29020.

December 9,1999

Emma Lee Schultz was one happy baby as she celebrated her first birthday this past Sunday at a dinner party at Town Hall Terrace. She is the daughter of Lynda Lee and Paul F. Schultz of Fix Road and first granddaughter of Shirley Schultz. The Schultz family of Grand Island with six children and eight grandsons, was very happy to welcome this special little girl into their family.

Our sympathy to the families of the following Islanders who passed away recently. Memorials for Lilly Anderson who died on November 23rd may be made to St. Martin-In-The-Fields Church.~~~~Former Grandyle Village resident Kathryn “Kay” Grycel died on November 24th in Santa Maria, California.~~~~Louis Varga died November 29th. Memorials for Mr. Varga may be made to Nature Conservancy, 4245 North Fairfax Drive, Suite 100, Arlington, VA 22203 or Roswell Park Cancer Institute or Hospice Buffalo.~~~~Margaret “Kerr” Suffoletta died December 2nd. Memorials for Margie may be made to Hospice Buffalo or the Grand Island Fire Company.~~~~Former resident and longtime Beaver Island State Park superintendent Ed Zuchowski died on December 3rd in Burlington, NC. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated this morning (Thurs., Dec. 9th) at 9:30 AM at St. Stephen's Church. Memorials may be made to the American Heart Association, 25 Hazelwood Dr., West Amherst, NY 14228.~~~~Josephine Mastrangelo of Carter Drive died on December 3rd.

Jim Dunlop was named the Buffalo News runner of the year, an honor he also earned in 1993 and 1996. Congratulations, Jim.

Happy birthday to Sydney Khreis (her first birthday today), to Amanda Heftka (7 today), Marianne Tranter, Jennifer Weis Loder and Agnes Morgan (tomorrow), Cornell University student Emily Dinsmore (her 18th birthday tomorrow), Nan Haller (reading the Record in Florida and celebrating Saturday), Linda Wright, Duffy Macguire and Record editor Joelle Logue (Saturday), Vickie Kowzan (9 on Saturday), Maurice Walsh (special greetings Sunday), Helen Staley and Dave Hammond (Sunday), Kori Loder (8 years old on Monday), Beth Glessner (18 on Monday), Emory Webb (Monday), Annette Kelley and Reginia Guenther (Tuesday), Katie Rustowicz (7 on Tuesday), Katie Nordvik (her 9th on Tuesday), Matthew Foote (6 on Wednesday) and Beth Boron (Wednesday).

Looking back 70 years - The Town of Grand Island paid $400 for snow fence, $256.41 for fence posts and $20 to George H. Alt for trucking the snow fence in December 1929 as the town geared up for winter weather.

Looking back 50 years - Mrs. Adamine Kennelly’s 5th grade class at Sidway School put on the play, Proud Princess with Jimmy Tranter as King; Phyllis Miller (Violanti), queen; Sally Swalm (Hansen), Proud Princess and Lyle Dinsmore, The Herald.~~~~Entertainment at the parish children’s party held in St. Stephen’s Church hall December 10, 1949 included Mrs. Steck’s dancing class, Dan Linenfelser’s magic show and, of course, Santa Claus with a strong resemblance to Franklin Klocke.

Looking back 40 years - Lil Robinson was the winner of a watch during the grand opening of Rolland Miller’s Rolland’s Jewelers in the Grand Island Plaza in 1959.~~~~Duffy’s Rod & Gun Club on Ransom Road was destroyed by fire Tuesday December 1, 1959. The early morning “worker” had Isle volunteer firemen at the scene four hours before bringing the blaze under control.~~~~Marion Klingel’s Around the Town Hall began appearing in the local weekly paper.

Former residents Jeff and Sue “Kohlhagen” Long’s daughter, Shannon, was married on November 27th in Mt. Morris and we hear it was a wonderful time for family and friends including MaryLou Kohlhagen and David and Carol “Kohlhagen” Hamlin. Belated good wishes to the Hamlin’s who celebrated their 28th wedding anniversary on November 26th.

River Lea in Beaver Island State Park will be open to the public Sunday from 1-4 p.m. The Historical Society will provide refreshments and harp music as well as information on the house and history of Grand Island. This will be the community’s last chance in 1999 to tour the 150-year-old farm house which is completely decorated for the holiday season.~~~~The annual Sounds of Christmas concert at Trinity UM Church takes place Sunday at 7:30 p.m. A freewill offering will benefit the Neighbors Foundation and the Central City Cafe. Everyone is invited.~~~~And for the kids, don’t forget, Santa Claus comes to town Saturday at the Town Hall.

December 2,1999

Eighty grader Danielle Podlucky, 13, who led the high school’s varsity girls cross country team this year, ended her running season on a high note. She placed 56th out of 157 girls in the State Cross Country Championships on November 13th and came in 10th the following Sunday in the Checker Athletic Club’s All WNY Invitational, giving her a spot on the All WNY 2nd team. On Thanksgiving day Danielle ran and won first place in the 5-mile Turkey Trot in the 13 and under division.~~~~Senior Alex Winstel, running with the best in the state, came in 24th in the State Cross Country Championships.

Margaret “Kerr” Suffoletta lost her battle with cancer today (Thursday, December 2nd). We are so deeply sorry for Margie’s family.~~~~Our sincere sympathy to the families of Lilly Anderson who died November 23rd, Marie Nardini and Kathleen T. Blake, who both died on November 28th. Memorials for Mrs. Nardini may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association of WNY and those for Ms. Blake may be made c/o Betsy Runick, Whitehaven Community Residence, 1451 Whitehaven Road.~~~~Our sympathy to Nancy Samrany and her family on the death of her brother, Joseph A. Scheelar who passed away November 24th.

Walter Lare is out of the hospital and involved in rehabilitation at the Riverwood Health Care Center on Grand Island Blvd. I’m sure he’d like to hear from friends.~~~~A speedy recovery to Lil Robinson who has had complications since her August surgery. We hear she is beginning to feel better.

Happy birthday to Pat Hyman (his big 5-0 on Tuesday, the 30th), Pat McNulty, Marcy Malecki, Joan Bodkin and Cheryl O’Gorman (all celebrating today), Debra Donovan (tomorrow), Alan Endres (7 tomorrow), Regina Gicewicz and Claire Card (Saturday), Carolyn Kreutz (Sunday), Mitch Stessing, Ruth Stahl, Mike Cole and Gloria Watkins (Monday), Lefty Kendzierski (83 on Monday), Margaret Anderson (Sweet 16 on Monday), Jean Davern (Tuesday) and Dave Ehde, Mary Panepinto and Polly Smith (Wednesday).

Looking back 50 years - It was 50 years ago this month that the song, “Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer” was introduced to the nation, played on most radio stations. The still popular song was at the top of the charts for a total of 12 weeks.

Looking back 30 years - Supervisor Ray Griffin made his theatrical debut with the Island Theater Group’s “A Thousand Clowns.” Ray portrayed Murray Burns, a free spirited television scriptwriter and Arlene Billstone took the opposite lead as Sandra Markowitz, a neophyte social worker.~~~~”A Day In The Life,” created by senior Glenn Lange was produced by the high school Spotlighters..~~~~The 1,200 foot addition to the rear of Kelly’s Country Store was nearing completion just in time for the holidays.~~~~The Niagara River thundered over Niagara Falls for the first time in six months. A 72-ton crane gnawed away at the earth and rock cofferdam that, since June 12, 1969, had diverted nearly 100,000 cubic foot of water per second from the American Falls to the nearby Canadian Horseshoe Falls.

A happy anniversary goes out to Bill and Marie Moreland who will be married 56 years on Monday.

Gleaned from Michael Levy’s feature story in Sunday’s News is the fact that President Grover Cleveland, whom we know did quite a lot of hunting and fishing off our own Island, also spent time on Bird Island doing the same.

Don’t forget the Holiday House Tour and Craft Show sponsored by the Historic Trinity committee and taking place Saturday. Five festive homes will be open from noon to 4 p.m. by ticket only $12 at the door) and the Craft Show in the chapel of Historic Trinity will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.~~~~”Las Vegas Night” at the K of C Hall starts at 8 p.m. Saturday night and benefits the Neighbors Foundation.

November 25,1999

Rick and Jerry Kustich who grew up on Grand Island, have just published a book titled “Fly Fishing for Great Lakes Steelhead” which should be available at area book stores real soon. The brothers will be at Oak Orchard Fly Shop from 1-4 p.m. Saturday for a book signing. Check out their Web Page.

Congratulations to Ellie Wiant who won the door prize, a beautiful, hand-woven Longaberger* “Tea Basket,” at the Very Merry Longaberger Open House,” which was hosted by local sales consultant, Terri Pitts.

Former resident Clyde Guenther, 69, died unexpectedly November 17th and Shirley Mogavero died on November 19th. Our sympathy to their families.

Best wishes to Dawn Marie Gworek who became the bride of Michael Becker on Saturday. The Beckers are traveling to Jamaica.

Congratulations to Mark Anderson, 14, on his excellent art work hanging with the other above average student works in the meeting room of our Grand Island Memorial Library. Mark is the son of Rich and Bridget Anderson.

Looking back 50 years - At midnight Sunday, November 27, 1949 Mayor Dowd of Buffalo dialed the new BRidge exchange to speak to Supervisor Dan McNamee marking the official opening of our new telephone system.

Looking back 30 years - Mira Tetkowski (Berkley), a senior at Grand Island High, won the Jaycee’s Grand Island Junior Miss Contest. Mira went on to the state competition where she won the personality award by a vote of other contestants from throughout the state.~~~~Richard O. Robinson, one of very few attorneys to take the office on Grand Island, was elected Peace Justice in November 1969.~~~~The town budget including the highway superintendent’s salary of $9,800, was passed in November ‘69 with no questions asked.~~~~Wayne Benton scored 17 of the 23-0 victory points over Cleveland Hill, all touchdowns for the 14-0 shutout over East Aurora and had three touchdowns and two extra point kicks when the Vikings beat Williamsville South in 1969.

Happy birthday to Ryan McDonough (16 and ready for the road today), Lois Morgan (today), Donna Rodriguez and Joe Samrany (tomorrow), Sharleen Pembleton (13 tomorrow), Jerome Viola (18 on Saturday), Joan Droit (Saturday), Don Loder, Gladys Benzing and Joan McCraith (Sunday), Alma McTigue (best wishes on Sunday), Josal Diebold (13 on Sunday), Marcia Pfohl, JoAnn Vanderheite and Jack Fries (Monday), Eric Harnden (7 on Tuesday), Kathryn Sheehan (Tuesday) and Christopher Carter (10 years old on Tuesday).~~~~Dick Clark of American Bandstand fame turns 70 on Wednesday.

A very happy anniversary to Jerry and Joelle Logue celebrating their 35th tomorrow, to Christina and Vincent Ramsperger marking their 6th tomorrow, to Robert and Aerika (Johnson) Backlund on their third anniversary on Monday and especially to Marilyn and Tom Johnson whose 25th wedding anniversary is on Tuesday, the 30th.

Today is Thanksgiving 1999. Let’s count our blessings.

November 18,1999

Diane “Bykowicz” Hassan took the photograph that now accompanies the Between the Bridges as it appears on Isledegrande.com. For those able to access the internet, it is a nice addition, especially for former Islanders looking at it from across the nation. “Thanks, Diane.”

Holiday luncheon reservations at River Lea are available on Wednesday, December 8th and Saturday, December 11th. River Lea, the 150 year old farm house in Beaver Island Park, headquarters for the Island Historical Society, will be completely decorated for the holidays and the luncheon at $12 is an excellent way to get into the spirit of the season. Call me, 773-2436, for reservations.

Sandy Lare of Portland, Maine was home this past week and her sister Becky Jordison came in Monday and is staying with their mother Barbi Lare. Walter is now out of ICU and recuperating in Kenmore Mercy Hospital.

Glen and Wilma Greenwood have just returned from an enjoyable a two-week visit with daughter Linda Cantwell and her family in Everett, Washington.

William ‘Scotty’ Mohan, known to many Island residents, died on November 7th.~~~~Former resident Colette Marie Metzen, 69, died on November 9th in Strong Memorial Hospital, Rochester. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society. ~~~~Patricia Pater died on November 12th. Memorials may be made to Roswell Park Cancer Institute.

Honeymooning in Hawaii are the former Beth Kaefer and her husband, Michael C. Czerwonka, married on Saturday, November 13th~~~Alan Prusak and Stacey Ann Beltram were married Saturday and are traveling to Aruba.~~~~A very happy anniversary to Bob and Pat Haag celebrating their 30th on Tuesday and also to Mark and Diane Hassan (23 years Saturday), to Cathy and Noel Wilhelm (29 years on Sunday) and Tom and Sandy Edwards (their 20th on Wednesday). A belated happy first anniversary to Bruce and Katerina Kaiser who celebrated Monday.

Congratulations to Town Assistant Engineer Lynn Dingey who gave birth to a son November 14. Nicholas weighed in at 7 lbs., 12 ozs. and measured 20 inches long. Happy birthday to Joey Shanor (10 today), Eileen Minton (today), Victoria McCraith (12 on Saturday), Tom Boehm (Saturday), Rebecca Rae (Sweet 16 on Saturday), Benjamin Kose (8 years old on Sunday), Ben Franklin and Heather Wilhelm (Sunday), Chris Gress (Monday), Ashley Hollinger (Sweet 16 on Monday), Timothy McMahon (his 20th on Tuesday), Alexander Tollner (4 on Wednesday) and Kathy Fik (Wednesday).~~~~A special milestone birthday salute to Bill Click who turns the big 5-0 on Monday.~~~~A belated happy birthday to Carol “Bykowicz” Raewho celebrated yesterday.

Looking back 50 years - A legal notice of November 21, 1949 referred to an existing manhole at the intersection of Rattle Snake and Red Jacket Roads. Do any of our readers remember Rattle Snake Road?? ~~~~It was at midnight on Saturday, November 19, 1949 that the Island’s dial conversion of metropolitan toll-free telephone service was set in motion. The November issue of the Island Dispatch in 1949 related a very interesting story on how dozens of men simultaneously pulled out “heat coils” all over the area to make the change over from crank phones to the new dial system.~~~~The Grand Island Volunteer Fire Company purchased new fire truck.~~~~Kathie Gettings (Biondo), an ardent fan of Howdy Doody, got together with her friend and neighbor Dawn Merrill (Hillock) many afternoons to watch the show in front of the Merrill television set.~~~~The Sidway School PTA, under the chairmanship of Mary Fontana held a book fair in St. Stephen’s hall in November 1949.

Looking back 40 years - Island residents welcomed the opening of the Neisners store in the Grand Island Blvd. plaza on November 19, 1959.

Looking back 25 years - Tops Market opened at it present site on November 19, 1974.

GIFTS (Grand Island Families Town Schools) is sponsoring an old-fashioned Family Fun Night this Saturday to kick off National Family Week. The event takes place from 7-9:30 p.m. at the Nike Base.~~~~The Historical Society will open River Lea in Beaver Island Park from 2-4 p.m. on Sunday. The public is invited to walk through the 1849 farm house where Society members will be on hand to answer questions. A highlight of the afternoon will be a proclamation by Legislator Chuck Swanick in celebration of the 150th anniversary of River Lea. Other weekend events on the Island are listed on the front page of today’s Grand Island Record.

November 11,1999

Longtime Island residents Donald and Dayton Fancher were 4th graders in Miss Catherine DiVizio’s room at Sidway School when these photos were taken for the 1951 Sidway Log yearbook. Many happy returns of the day as they celebrate their 60th birthdays on Wednesday, the 17th.~~~~Happy birthday to Bonnie “Corbett” Coulter, celebrating a milestone on Monday.~~~~Happy birthday to Janet Cavanaugh (yesterday), Eric Pietron (17 today), Ivey Spier (6 today),.Dolores Williams and Imogene Zavodny (today), Bryan Fred (30 tomorrow), Andy Tranter (25 tomorrow), Brian Kopf (his 16th on Tuesday) and Ruth Yensan and Judy Penque (Wednesday).

Mike Podlucky, Class of ‘66, was in town last week to attend Grand Island High School Coach Gene Masters’ induction in the Buffalo Sports Hall of Fame and to visit his family. He, his wife and two daughters now live in Salt Lake City, Utah.~~~~Congratulations to Danielle Podlucky, a member of the Varsity Cross Country Team who qualified to run in the state championship race this weekend. Danielle, an 8th grader at Connor Middle School, is the daughter of John and Joanne Podlucky of Marlin Court.

We were very sorry to hear that Walter Lare suffered a stroke Saturday. He is in ICU at Kenmore Mercy Hospital and we wish him a full recovery. Our concern goes out to Barbi and her family. Betty Swann is home from the hospital and Jerri Schopp is getting out and about, slowly but surely following her recent back surgery.

Looking back 50 years - Daniel J. McNamee was re-elected supervisor.~~~~Jim Fleming, Dick Hogue, Mike Costin and Terry Turnbull were among Scouts who took an overnight “hike” on Navy Island.~~~~The town board voted to purchase 50 ebony, steel, folding chairs for the town hall from Daniel Linenfelser of Wayside Furniture who informed the board members of a price of $3.50 each.

Looking back 40 years - The Island’s total collection for UNICEF in 1959 was $500 according to chairman Lee Tetkowski.

Looking back 10 years - The inland harbor for the multi-million dollar River Oaks Marina next to the Holiday Inn was filled with water from the mighty Niagara 10 years ago today.~~~~Conservation officer Jim Rogers estimated the Island’s coyote population to be between 30 and 50 ten years ago when Matt Fitzgerald trapped a 47 pound coyote west of the Thruway.~~~~Senior Cliff Scott led the Varsity Vikings to a win over the Iroquois Chiefs at Rich Stadium November 18, 1989 with a score of 41-3 making the Vikings B-1 champs. Among key players of the game which was played in sub-zero temperatures were Chris Roggow, Jason Weis, Chris Oursler and Brian Sykes. Seth Buzby was perfect on four extra point attempts and kicked the ball well into the fierce Rich Stadium wind.

Best wishes to Elisabeth Sugar and Daniel Renczkowski, married September 25th, and to Joel Jastrzab and Carrie Ann Mechlinski, married November 6th.~~~~Congratulations to Larry Adams and Lisa Marie Cammarano who were married Saturday at Kloc’s with a reception following. The happy couple will make their home on Grand Island.

Catherine Baeuerlein died on November 7th and P. Allen Smudski passed away on November 9th. Memorials for Mrs. Baeuerlein may be made to Buffalo Hospice.

Polly and Doug Smith of Hennepin Road spent October driving the length of Route 62 from Niagara Falls to El Paso, Texas, visiting at least two former Islanders along the way. Joella Jessup, now living in Canton, Ohio, took time out from tending grandchildren to give them a tour of the nearby Amish country. The Smiths then lunched with Marjorie Murdock, who would love to hear from old friends. Her address is Room 113, Harrodsburg Health Care Center, 853 Lexington Road, Harrodsburg, KY 40330.

Take time to observe Veterans Day and help out the Veterans Park Memorial Wall Committee by purchasing a calendar designed by Islander Andy Rupp which promotes the Grand Island memorial and other veterans’ memorials across the country. $5 of the $10 calendar cost will go toward the building of the local monument.

November 4,1999

The election is over and the Island has spoken. I assume most residents found the scarceness of political signs refreshing.

Jay and Martha Martin of Kirkwood Drive are grandparents “again.” Kirstin Cierra Martin was born October 22nd to Craig and Karin Learman Martin, both members of the Grand Island High School Class of ‘87 and now living in Red Bluff, California. The new baby was welcomed home by her big sister, Breanne, 4.

Saturday, December 4th is the date for Historic Trinity’s sixth Holiday House Tour. Details may be found elsewhere in today’s Grand Island Record.

Esther M. MacKenzie died on October 20th. Memorials may be made to Bible Presbyterian Church.~~~~Former resident Adolpha “Del” (Starzynski) Hanslick died October 24 in Port Charlotte, Florida after a long illness. Expressions of sympathy may be made to Hospice Buffalo.~~~~Dorothy Jean Hunter died suddenly on October 25th.~~~~Lee Merletti passed away on October 28. Memorials for Mr. Merletti may be made to The American Diabetes Association or the American Cancer Society.

Happy anniversary to George and Hazel Rowe married 27 years today, to Cathy and Noel Wilhelm celebrating their 29th on November 8th and to George and Marianne Christensen on their 47th anniversary on Monday. Kim and Bob Willer celebrated their first anniversary on September 27th. Best wishes to the Willers.

Friends of former resident Ann Senn will surely want to send her a card for her 95th birthday Monday. Ann’s address is North Gate Manor, Room 32A, 7264 Nash Road, North Tonawanda, NY 14120.

Happy birthday to Richard Anderson celebrating “the big one” today, to Jacob Schmidt (10 years old today), Richard Williams and Kenneth Wasson (tomorrow), Casey Carminati (9 tomorrow), Ryan Proctor (6 on Saturday), Emilie Kahn (10 on Saturday), Robin Csendom, Lucille Jones and Peter Burrows (Saturday), Joshua Less (3 on Saturday), Jim Wagner Sr. and Lisa Kessler (special greetings on Sunday), Scott Hammond (the big 3-0 on Monday), Andrew Kuszczak (Tuesday), Floyd Doring and Mildred Dingey (Wednesday) and Lee Becker (9 years old on Wednesday).~~~~A belated happy birthday to Terry Turner Carney who celebrated her 50th on October 27th.

Cards of cheer are in order for Bernice Dinsmore and for former resident Fay Wood of Lady Lake, Florida. Please pray for Margie (Kerr) Suffoletta and for her family.

Looking back 50 years - Winners of the Grandyle Village Treasure Hunt for the teenagers were Dick Schwagler and Skip Noth in first place, Joanne Rank (Urtel) and Bev Fleming (Barril) in 2nd place, and Bob Riggs and Mike Costin in 3rd.~~~~Isle residents looking forward to the new telephone system were invited to demonstrations on How to Use Dial Telephones, which were being held at Tuckers Grocery Store, Evan’s Delicatessen in Sandy Beach and at 69 East Park Drive during November 1949.

Looking back 40 years - Kathy Boettcher (Stisser), Peggy Boettcher (Fuller), Norm Facklam, David Ames, Barbara Beck (Muratore), Ann Wallace (Arlessi) and Don Loder were among young people from Trinity Church who attended the annual Christian youth convention in Beaver Falls.~~~~The following incumbent Republicans were all re-elected in 1959. Supervisor George J. Burgstahler, Justice of Peace F. Donald Hawley, Councilman Robert E. Study, Town Clerk Elsie Stamler, Tax Collector Robert Kaiser, Assessors Edward M. Ball, Richard Couch and George L. Thorne.~~~~Ten-year-old Fred Bidell, in his headless horseman costume, was named the scariest at the Jaycees Halloween party held at the Grand Island Gables.

Looking back 30 years - The Grand Island Playhouse, in existence since 1948, burned to the ground on October 30, 1969. The Playhouse barn stood on the southeast corner of Baseline and Bedell roads.

We’ve been told that the Children’s Store being featured Sunday at the Golden Age Center’s Holiday Bazaar from noon to 4 p.m. will be bigger and better than ever. Alice Watkins is in charge and children may shop by themselves as there will be plenty of Golden Age supervision in the store where everything is priced under a dollar.

October 28th,1999

Everyone reading this in today’s Record and on tomorrow’s Isledegrande.com on the Internet will be happy to hear that Nancy “Braddell” Gorrell and Dick DiTullio are celebrating milestone birthdays this week. Nancy, born on Halloween, was a fourth grader when she posed for this cute picture in 1948 and Dick, who celebrates his 50th on the 30th, was one cool dude at age 14.~~~~A very active Ralph Amann is celebrating his 90th birthday today and we wish him many happy returns of the day.~~~~Friends of Mary Frey ask that we wish her a great big happy 40th birthday. Happy birthday to Mary whose big day is Tuesday, November 2nd.~~~~Happy birthday to Matthew Linenfelser and Ray Gress Jr. (today), Ashley Remmes (her 13th today), Joanne Gesl and John Trianda (tomorrow), Ken Hoover (tomorrow), Dave Wilkinson, Julie Dee and Allen Glessner (Saturday), Penny Panepinto, Tim O’Connor and Ken Brasier III (Sunday), Ray Gajewski (the big 6-0 on Sunday), baby Sarah Grace Kustich (her first birthday Monday), Jay Moran and Steven Moudy (Monday), Michael Dlugokinski (11 on Monday), Mandy Liesenfeld (4 on Monday), Esther Whitford (Tuesday), Doug DeGlopper (a big one Wednesday) and Mary Carminati (Wednesday).

Wedding bells! Kristen Franklin, daughter of Bernie and Ben Franklin of Carter Drive, became the bride of Bob Rosser in Tempe, Arizona on Saturday, October 16th.~~~~Beth Ann Fruehstorfer and Jason Walbert were married Saturday in New Castle, Pennsylvania.~~~~Jeffery Alan DeRose and his bride, the former Jennifer Mary Englert exchange wedding vows Saturday in St. Louis Catholic Church.~~~~Jeffrey Loder and his bride, the former Jennifer Weis were married in St. Stephen’s Church Saturday followed by a reception (hey, what a party!) at the Adams Mark Hotel in Buffalo.

Looking back 50 years - Grandyle Village youngsters, headed up by young Lance Kohn, were out after school gathering wood for their huge bon fire held annually by the Village Properties Owners on Halloween night.~~~~1949 was the year that Georgie DeGlopper came to his second grade class at Sidway School on Halloween appropriately dressed as a hay stack complete with mice. George continues to farm his property just as several generations of the DeGlopper family have done in the past.~~~~Penny Ball of Love Road named her new goldfish Hallow and Wean in October of ‘49.

Looking back 40 years - Ferry Road neighbors held their annual Halloween Supper hosted by Mrs. Bruce (Jean) Cudmore and held at Mildred and Paul Brobeil’s home.

Looking back 30 years - The Grand Island Playhouse, in existence since 1948, burned to the ground on October 30, 1969. The Playhouse barn stood on the southeast corner of Baseline and Bedell roads.

Best wishes to Joan and Skip Fred on their 10th wedding anniversary today.

Cards and notes of cheer may be sent to Marilyn (Sterner) Welsh who we’re sure would appreciate hearing from old friends on the Island. Her address is RR#4 Mill Street, Brantford, Ontario N3T5L7.

Tuesday is Election Day and polls around the Island will be open from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.~~~~Motorists should take extra care Sunday evening to watch for trick or treaters as it will be dark early because of the change back to Eastern Standard Time.

October 21st,1999

Longtime Ferry Village resident Maryan Traun will be 90 on Sunday and we wish her a wonderful birthday and many bright and sunny days ahead just as she has brightened so many of our days in the past.~~~~A belated happy birthday to Matt Lewis who hit the big 4-0 on the 19th.~~~~A very happy birthday to my mother-in-law Betty Linenfelser and to my sweet daughter-in-law Laury Linenfelser both celebrating birthdays today and to Brianna Lee Hadden (3 tomorrow), Rom Figler (tomorrow), Jaime Heftka (her 18th tomorrow), Anthony Daubney (9 tomorrow), Kevin Koch and Mary Catherine (Panepinto) Bartolomeo (Saturday), Diane Pelosi and Jim Pax (Sunday), Michael Weaver (20 on Sunday), Agnes Becker and Ed Foglia (Monday), John Bidell Jr. (the big 1-0 on Monday), Bernie Bailey and Norma Weast (Tuesday), and Jill Endres (12 on Wednesday).

Get well wishes to Betty Swann of Second Avenue and a speedy recovery to Margaret Barrett of Fix Road who broke her arm recently.~~~~Saturday’s chowder sale, though very successful, got off to a bad start when firefighter Rob Meyer injured his ankle while dismounting a fire truck and was taken to the hospital by ambulance.

Best wishes to Tim Burley and MaryAnn Koller who were married in St. Stephen’s Church on Friday, October 8th.~~~~Jennifer Debra Bifaro and Brett Nicholas Barton were married Saturday, October 16th. Mary Grace Quinn became the bride of James A. Battaglia in St. Stephen's Church Saturday, October 16th. Both couples will live here on the Island.

We are so sorry to report the death of Norma Rall yesterday (October 20th). Our sincere sympathy to her family. Memorials may be made to the Grand Island Fire Company or Buffalo Hospice.~~~~Former Island resident Victor M. Schueckler Sr. died on October 13th.

I truly enjoyed sharing the 1954 feature article on Isle boat racer Al Endres with Grand Island Record readers last week. Twenty-nine-year-old Al won one of several International Regattas off the Buffalo Launch Club in 1953 and then nine days later, after winning again in Maryland, collapsed and died. Those of you who have an interest in boat racing history in our area may or may not have already discovered such websites on the Internet as The hydroplane and Race Museum at http://www.thunderboats.org/index.htm; UHRA Thunder Letter at www.uhra.com/tl/tl97/Issue_241.html orHydroplane History at http://www.lesliefield.com/index.html. The official website of the American Power Boat Association, www.apba-boatracing.com contains a lot of reading and includes numerous well known boats such as Miss Supertest, Miss Thriftway, Slo-Mo-Shun, Miss Bardahl, Wha Hoppen, Miss Richochet, My Sweetie, Skip-a-Long, Such Crust and so many more.

Looking back 40 years - The Bernie Brice family, including five little Brice children, moved to the Island.~~~~The winners in Henry C. Alt’s Grandyle Mart Fishing Contest were David Haller, junior winner in the Black Bass competition; Tom Carter, junior winner for Muskellunge; and John Allen and William Whitford, junior and senior winners in the Sheephead category.

Happy 49th anniversary to Earl and Rita DeGlopper today. The DeGloppers just returned from Las Vegas where they were shaken from their beds on the 11th floor of their hotel during the earth quake last week. Outside of that they had a great time.~~~~Congratulations to high school sweethearts Harvey R. Enser Sr. and Mary Bottlinger who married on October 24, 1936. The Fix Road residents are happily married 63 years and spend their winters in Zephyhills, Florida.~~~~ Happy anniversary also to Paul and Mary Catherine (Panepinto) Bartolomeo who will celebrate their 2nd anniversary this Sunday, to Richard and Susan Daubney marking 13 years Monday and to Paul and Cathy Kaegebein on their 2nd anniversary Monday.

Delores Cane was the very lucky winner of the $181,334 Take Five Jackpot in the drawing that took place September 10th. Delores bought her ticket at Tops Market right here on Grand Island Blvd. “Hey, you never know!”~~~~The community is invited to our library on Bedell Road on Saturday when a 10th anniversary celebration will take place from 2-4:30 p.m.

October 14th,1999

It is with deep sadness that I mention the death of Paul E. McCarthy Sr. who passed away on October 9th and Record Editor Joelle Logue’s mother Arlene Bronstein, who died October 11th. Memorials may be made to the American Cancer Society.

Bob and Ilene Dee and Tom and Patty Rall are celebrating 10th anniversaries today and wished many more happy ones. A very happy 40th anniversary to Jackie and Don Kew who were married October 17, 1959.

Karen Figler celebrates a big birthday on Sunday, the 17th. Happy birthday, Karen.~~~~Happy birthday to Kyle Oursler (10 today), to Stephanie Voyzey (3-years-old today), Jordan Funk and Mike Aloian (their 16th birthdays today), Johnny Turner (5 today), Shirley Luther (tomorrow), Jim Criddle (his 25th tomorrow), Kalli Pedlow (7 tomorrow), Wendy Planavsky (Saturday), Buck Wenner (the big 3-0 on Saturday), Marissa Booker (8 on Sunday), Sue Bauer and Carol Pownall (Sunday), Adam Heftka (4 on Monday), Don Finn in Spencer, NY and Dick Planavsky (Monday), Alexandra Mason (8 on Monday), Heidi Sue Mumm, Judy Thaler and Bill Winterfield (Tuesday), Michael Matthew Madigan (3 on Wednesday) and Clifton Hawkins and Joe Macaluso (Wednesday).

So sorry to hear that Dick McNamee is still in a lot of pain with a broken shoulder. Heal quickly, Dick.~~~~A belated happy birthday to Dick’s daughter, Mary who celebrated her 50th birthday on September 28th.

Tricia Vacanti and Christopher John Belter were married Saturday, October 2nd in St. Andrew Catholic Church, Corey N. Clark and his bride, the former Donna J. Gold were also married October 2nd in the Transit Valley Country Club and Jeff Senn and Tracy Hammond’s wedding took place in St. Timothy Lutheran Church on Saturday, October 9th. Much happiness to all of the newlyweds.

Looking back 40 years - Grand Island was not only the first Erie County town to put into effect uniform numbering of properties but actually is the originator of the plan later sanctioned by the county planning board.

Looking back 30 years - Teddy’s Islettes baton twirlers performed at half time during the Grand Island Jr. Football games.

Two former Stony Point Road neighbors died on October 4th. Memorials for Ernest Zavodny may be made to the Grand Island Golden Age Center-Senior Citizen Transportation and those for Mabel M. Warcheck who died in Bradenton, Florida may be made to Bradenton Hospice House.

Would you like to show a foreign student life on Grand Island? Host families are being sought for the September 2000 school year. Call Kathie at 775-0178 for more information.

Winter’s coming - we just don’t know when! For information on the Grand Island Snowmobile Club’s Youth Safety Course which gets underway next week, contact club members Dennis McGinn, 773-3505 or Slick Marston, 773-9258. It’s the law that all young snowmobilers between the ages of 10 and 18 must have the Youth Safety Certificate.

The annual chowder and bake sale at the fire hall will be hosted by members of the Fire Company’s Ladies Auxiliary Saturday with chowder available around 11:30 a.m.~~~~The Grand Island Record is the major sponsor of the Chamber of Commerce Business Expo 99 headlining from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday at the Bible Presbyterian Family Life Center on Love Road. There is no admission charge and we hope to see you there.~~~~Historical Society chairman Carolyn Doebert reports that some holiday luncheon reservations remain open for Tuesday, December 7th (fashion show), Wednesday, December 8th (Snowbabies, Past & Present) and Saturday, December 11th (fashion show). Call me at 773-2436 if you would like to attend.~~~~River Lea in Beaver Island State Park will be open to the public on Sunday from 2-4 p.m. when docents from the Historical Society will be present throughout River Lea to answer questions.

Vikings Football Coach Gene Masters probably missed his first game in 40 years as the team shut out Sweet Home 26-0 Saturday. Gene has been hospitalized for what we hope is of short duration.

October 7th,1999

Welcome to Madison Grace Martin, born September 26th to Karen and Kent Martin of Northampton, PA. Martha and Jay Martin of Grand Island are Madison’s proud grandparents. Equally proud father, Kent is a graduate of Grand Island High School Class of 1987.~~~~Congratulations to Kelly and Fred Claus on the birth of their baby girl, Mikayla Ann Claus, born on September 9th weighing 6 pounds, 8 1/2 ounces.

Bucky and Jennifer Wenner will be married five years tomorrow, October 8th. Mary and Jim Stewart will celebrate their 35th anniversary on the 10th. Danna and Mark Podgorny’s third anniversary is on the 12th. Best wishes to everyone.

A very happy 60th birthday to Tom Johnson of Kirkwood Drive celebrating the big one on Saturday and belated greeting to Howie Benns who hit the big 4-0 on Monday, the 4th.~~~~Happy birthday also to everyone celebrating this week, especially Kelly Carminati and Mary Jo Linenfelser (today), Katie Remus (Sweet 16 tomorrow), A. J. Guenther (9 on Saturday), Marion Assenza (Saturday), Roger Thaler and Lillian Mesmer (Sunday), Stephanie Hopkins (11 on Monday), Ben McDowell (a teenager on Tuesday), Richard Sander (the big 3-0 on Tuesday), Beth Dommer (Tuesday), Mike Berlinger (his 30th on Wednesday), Christopher Conway (3 on Wednesday), Bea Bruno (17 on Wednesday) and Tom Trader (Wednesday).

Looking back 50 years - Harry Simpson who took a short hiatus at the new Grandyle Marina Boat Club, was back at the BLC as steward again.~~~~The Summers family moved into their new home on East Park right next to the path between Love Road and East Park that eventually became LaSalle Ave.~~~~Sidway’s PTA was meeting in St. Stephen’s hall in the basement of the church due to the building program going on at the school.

Looking back 40 years - Sue and Ray Whitbeck and Randy moved to Greenway Rd.~~~~The Kaegebein School PTA meeting featured Elizabeth Glor (Allen), a senior at Tonawanda High School who showed slides taken during her 9-week stay in Switzerland with the American Field Service program.

Looking back 30 years - Fred Bidell and David Scheuing, members of Boy Scout Troop 510, received Eagle Scout awards at Trinity UM Church October 9, 1969 from Ernie Warlick, vice president of the Greater Niagara Frontier Council Inc. and an Eagle Scout himself. Scout Master was Marty Livingston and Post Advisor was Jim Secord.~~~~Army Spec. 4 Joseph E. Muench, 23, who had been reported missing in action was confirmed killed in action in Vietnam.~~~~Ceremonies were held October 12, 1969 when 22 boys became charter members of the Island’s DeMolay.

Our condolences to the families of Glen E. Doherty who died on September 28th, Victoria Peters who passed away September 30th, former resident Dennis W. Lucas Jr. who died on October 2nd and Ernie Zavodny who died this past week. Memorials for Mr. Doherty may be made to the Bible Presbyterian Church Building Fund, those for Mrs. Peters may be made to St. Stephen's Church Building Fund and for Mr. Lucas, the National Neorofibromatosis Foundation, 95 Pine St., NY, NY 10005.

Though the races aren’t over yet, the Buffalo News has already proclaimed Jim Dunlop this year’s Runner of the Year. This will be Jim’s third win.~~~~J. J. Tutwiler led the Varsity Vikings to a 42-0 win over Lewiston Porter last Saturday. Terry Benton, following in his father, Wayne Benton’s footsteps, had nine tackles for the Vikings’ defense. Wayne, a member of the Class of ‘70, had a total of 58 points during the 1969 football season.

David Hatch, a resident of Grand Island in the late 50s and early 60s, was seen on the History Channel Sunday evening, September 26th commentating on the cracking of the Japanese codes during WWII.

The Buffalo Launch Club Mates are sponsoring their annual fashion show, Autumn Evening of Fashion tonight (Oct. 7). Check with Gale Sander, 773-3929 for ticket information.~~~~The Island’s Historical Society meeting, also tonight at 7:30 p.m., is open to the public in River Lea in Beaver Island Park. And a fire prevention open house is being held from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday at Fire Headquarters next to the town hall.

September 30th,1999

Celebrating the 50th anniversary of his 10th birthday is Shorty “Older Than Dirt” Vanthoff. Shown here at age 10, Shorty’s wished the very happiest big 6-0 on Saturday.~~~~Moving on to double digits this week are Alicia Marie Fisher on Saturday, Paul Nixon on Monday, Mallory Zilliox on Tuesday, and Matthew Pietrzak on Wednesday. Happy 10th birthdays, kids.~~~~Happy birthday also to Aaron Beauregard (16 today), Mary Minton, Lee Cohen, David Breier, Carol Dunworth, Edna Wolanske and Ken Carter (all celebrating today), Jackie Kowzan (17 today), Mary Beth Lange (special greetings tomorrow), Bernie Franklin (tomorrow), Betty Jane Gardner Penque (Saturday), Lorraine Criddle (Sunday), Jennifer Wenner (Monday), Lauren Kalisz (11 on Monday) and Jane Consier (Wednesday).~~~~Kimberly McLeod celebrated her 10th birthday recently. Our apologies for the mistake in last week’s Between the Bridges column.

Watch for Anne Barker next summer when she begins a racing career as a 4th generation of the Endres family and 3rd generation of the Barkers. Anne, who was out on the river testing her racing hydroplane last Saturday, expects to do the same this weekend.

Congratulations Jim Robinson Jr. who bowled his first 300 game in a 741 series with A-Best Roofing at Island Lanes over the weekend and to Ken Carter who bowled his first 300 game in a 739 series Monday with the A-Best Roofing League on the B.A.’s II Team.~~~~For those with an interest in running, the Nickel City Duathlon will take place Sunday beginning at 10 a.m. in Beaver Island Park. For more information, call 689-2493.

Island native Clinton Webb, 63, passed away September 14th at his home in Brandon, Florida. David Alt died on September 15th in his home in Mesa, Arizona. Edward “Pete” Hardison Sr. died on September 23rd and Roger Hamman passed away on September 26th. Our sympathy to their families.

A very happy anniversary to Victor and Joan Piasecki celebrating their 10th anniversary today, to Ben and Bernie Franklin on their 35th on Sunday and to Granson and Suzanne Geis, married 41 years on Monday. Best wishes to Pat and Cheryl Hyman and to my husband, Jim as we all celebrate our 31st anniversaries on October 5th. Loads of good wishes go out to Dave and Adele Cole who will be married 20 years on October 6th.

Looking back 50 years - Grand Island Co-operative Nursery School was operating in the “old” fire hall under the chairmanship of Mrs. Fred Strauss.~~~~A dance Friday, September 30, 1949 in St. Stephen’s Barn for the benefit of the Sandy Beach Community Center netted $190 and featured Dick Buzby and the Grand Island Orchestra. The Island’s weekly newspaper announced that a downpayment check would be presented to Charles Kaegebein for the purchase of 12 1/2 acres of land in Sandy Beach for the future community house, playground and park.

Looking back 30 years - Jack West of WADV radio was playing sing along and western music at Figurehead Super Club on East River at Broadway.~~~~Arnold E. Stamler was decorated with the Bronze Star Medal at McClellan Air Force Base, California.~~~~Dune buggies were on the rise 30 years ago when Bob Weaver and Jay Kormash built a green beauty, Randy Raab and Chris Ryan had a chartreuse buggy on the road and Dan Rees built a royal blue one.~~~~Rob Roy MacLeod updated his Cinderella Island and added a centerfold of photos/illustrations of some of the estates and private clubs when the book was re-issued by the Chamber of Commerce in the fall of 1969.~~~~Jim Chambers was the key runner when the Grand Island Cross Country Team won its 24th and 25th meet in a row.

Looking back 10 years - It is a pleasure to mention the fact that John Wiertel became the new principal of the William M. Kaegebein School in the fall of 1989.

We are happy to announce the arrival of Madison LaVerne Mongold born September 10th to Jeff and Kelly Sandford Mongold. The baby girl, named for her great grandfather, the late LaVerne “Bunny” Luther, weighed in a 7 lbs., 9 ozs. and is the granddaughter of Nancy Sandford and great granddaughter of Shirley Luther.~~~~Tom and Jill (Pauley) Proctor and son Ryan, 5 1/2, have a new baby in the house. She is Lindsay Ann who was born July 12th weighing 7 lbs., 9 ozs..~~~~Mark and Kelly (Sanger) Palamuso became the parents of twins on August 4th. Trevor James weighed in at 6 lbs., 12 ozs. and Katelyn Marie at 5 lbs., 13 ozs. The twins have a two-year-old brother, Justin.

A speedy recovery to John Beishline who has had major surgery in Kenmore Mercy Hospital. Cards may be addressed to 2115D, KMH, 2950 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore 14217.

With mosquitoes so prominently in the news, Islander John Dolinic of Grand Island Blvd., called to say he remembers reading that one way to get rid of mosquito breeding grounds is to spray the area with garlic oil.

What a wonderful turnout for Bob Cleveland and his family at the fundraiser held last Friday night and hosted by fellow Grand Island volunteer firemen. The community certainly came forward to help the Cleveland family and had some fun doing it. Chuck Berlinger, Reed Wright and Maura and Kevin Rustowicz were among those putting the event together.

Quality Quest’s Candidates Night is tonight at 7 p.m. in the newly expanded St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church on Baseline Road.

September 23rd,1999

A good crowd of friends turned out at Charlotte Roesch’s Bedell House Park to surprise Don Burns on his 60th birthday Sunday. Don is shown left with Jim Tranter (center) and Del Haller who were in town from Florida and attended the party. The photos are circa 1949 and the faces haven’t changed - much!~~~~Co-worker Sue (Arcouet) Hillock is wished a very happy birthday on her milestone date tomorrow.~~~~Happy birthday also to Debbie Anderson (yesterday), Kenny Martina (7 today), David Joseph Rodriguez (2 years old tomorrow), Rick Pelham (Saturday), Kristen Burns (her 13th birthday Sunday), Lil Robinson’s twins Jackie Steckleberg and Lori Boulden (Sunday), Sara Dzielski (6 on Sunday), Sandy Dee, Dave Grant and Corky Carter (Monday), Greg Butcher (the big 3-0 on Monday), Anthony Ramirez (his 10th on Tuesday), Bridget (McMahon) Anderson and Mary Minton (Tuesday), Adam Kaiser (his 16th birthday Tuesday), Cappy Cooke (7 on Tuesday), Scott David Steimle Jr. (his first birthday on Wednesday) and Jimmy Wright (a teenager on Wednesday).

Looking back 50 years - Boat Races off the Bedell House in September 1949 were held to benefit Al Bingham who was seriously injured in the recent international regatta held at the Buffalo Launch Club.~~~~Margaret and Henry Ehde II of Bedell Road celebrated their silver wedding anniversary Saturday, September 24, 1949 with a dinner party in the fire hall for 65 guests. Taking part in a mock wedding were friends of the Ehdes - Joe Shugrue as the bride, his wife Pearl as the minister, Mae Fleming as the groom and Marion Klingel as the little flower girl.

Looking back 20 years - Karen Ludwig (Figler) was gearing up for the very first aerobics class on Grand Island 20 years ago. Choreographing a dance exercise program to music, she taught her first classes through the town recreation program and eventually went on her own with “Karen’s Aerobics,” which, by the way, is still going strong.

A belated happy 10th birthday to Christine Wright who celebrated on the 13th and to Kimberly Mcleod, now living with her family in Lexington, Kentucky. Kimberly’s birthday was on the 20th.~~~~Happy birthday to Dave Clayton and Ed Hayes (last Saturday) and Vinnie Wilson (last Sunday).

Best wishes to Lt. Michael Anstett and his bride, the former Kristen Messbauer who were married September 4th in Rochester, NY.~~~~Anniversaries of note are those of Bob and Kim Jansen Willer celebrating their first on Monday and Keith and Wende Wood marking their 15th on Wednesday.

Our sympathy to the family of former resident Pat Linde who died on September 17th. Memorials may be made to Buffalo Hospice.

Joe Brennan had his first 300 game in a 734 series at Island Lanes where he bowls with A-Best Roofing.~~~~Brian Russo also had his first perfect game in a 763 series at Manor Lanes, bowling in the Budweiser Classic.

A portable CD player has been found in the woods behind the Grand Island High School on Ransom Road. If it is yours, call 774-8312 to identify it.

Please pray for Margie Suffoletta and Max Hopper who are both very sick. We were also informed that Kenvin Moreau, who has had recent quadruple bypass surgery, suffered a stroke over the weekend and is in Buffalo General Hospital.

Frank Pinzel has just returned from Germany where he attended a family reunion in the little town of Pinzberg near Nurnberg.~~~~And speaking of reunions, it sounds like the Gardner clan may be having one of their own. Betty Jane Gardner Penque of West Palm Beach, Florida and Pat Gardner Hardman of Dayton, Ohio and their husbands are in town this week to visit with sisters Alice Smith, Nancy Landroche and Terry Sledziewski and brother Cal Gardner and their families.

Folks at the town hall are looking for a good, used refrigerator to replace the one that just quit. If you have one to offer, call Supervisor Pete McMahon’s office.~~~~Help support our local Rotary Club this weekend. Rotary members will be selling hot dogs and beverages at Tops Market from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday.

September 16th,1999