Golden Age Center Webpage

3278 Whitehaven Road
773-9683

Golden Age Center News Website 2005

Town of Grand Island Website
To E-mail the Golden Age Center

OFFICERS 2004

President Maisie Dommell, Vice President Gloria Diringer, Treasurer Freda Harper,
Secretary Nonnie Carroll, and Sgt-at-Arms Robert Smith

Calendar of Events





Golden Age Center Mitten Program - 2005


Lil Carpenter                  Mitten Project volunteers
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click group photo for larger view

   The 2004 Mitten Program participants were recognized on Wednesday, January 12, 2005 at the Golden Age Center. 613 items were donated to the Mitten Program and 261 items were donated to the Preemie Program at Woman's and Children's Hospital. St. Luke's Mission Charter School, the Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island and the Salvation Army received the mittens. Lil Carpenter was given special recognition as she made 221 items for the Mitten Program and 195 items for the Preemie Program.




Golden Agers Win In Old Membership Card Contest - 2005


Jodi Robinson Photo

   Members of the Golden Age Center of Grand Island were asked to bring in their oldest membership cards on Monday, January 10, 2005. The earliest year possible was 1959-60, as the Golden Age Club was formed on the Island in 1959. Lillian Carpenter had the oldest legible card dated 1972. Joan Raab had an illegible card that appeared very old and also a card dated 1976. The ladies were awarded free tickets to an upcoming Sunday Brunch.




Flu Shots Given At Golden Age Center - 2004


Dan McMahon Photo

   The Visiting Nurses Association in conjunction with the Golden Age Center provided flu shots on Friday, December 3, 2004 to persons over 65 or those with high health risks. The Association administered about 550 shots to those people prescheduled. Pictured are Grand Islanders Nancy Morth (left) from the Visiting Nurses Association and Eileen Minton.




Golden Age Club's Annual Holiday Bazaar Set For Nov. 7 - 2004

   The Grand Island Golden Age Club's annual holiday bazaar takes place from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, November 7, 2004 at the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road.
   The Club is promoting the "Best home baked goods in town" along with hand crafted items, Country Store and Mini Famers Market. The Bazaar opens at 11 a.m. and will close at 3:30 p.m. On the lunch menu is Roast beef on bun, homemade chicken noodle soup, hot dogs with or without Texas sauce, coffee, tea and canned pop. For more information, call the center, 773-9682.






GI Golden Age Club Receives Check From Senator Byron Brown - 2004

Shown from left are Senator Brown, Rotary Project Coordinator Ted Bates and Golden Age Club member Hank Carroll.

   Byron W. Brown, NYS Senator 60th District, presented a check on August 20, 2004 to the Grand Island Golden Age Center in the amount of $2,500 to help finance a new covered entrance to the building. The Grand Island Rotary Club is spearheading this project and according to Rotary Coordinator Ted Bates, the Town Engineering Department is preparing the bids and as soon as they are let, the construction will begin. Senator Brown stated he is happy the state can assist in this worthwhile project. The enclosure will provide a safe entrance to the center during inclement weather.






Hoyt Assists GI Golden Agers - 2004

   State Assemblyman Sam Hoyt (Grand Island) visited the Grand Island Golden Age Center to present a check for $2000 to assist in the enclosure of the front entry way to the facility on Whitehaven Road. The project, spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Grand Island, will feature a totally enclosed entry 12' x 23' with heat, lights and benches and will provide the seniors a comfortable area for entry.
   Hoyt commented, "It is always a personal pleasure for me when I am able to assist in this type of project for our senior citizens. When we can add to the Grand Island senior's comfort and safety, it is a win/win situation for everyone. My total commitment to the project is $4,000, and the next check is being signed in Albany as we speak. I congratulate and thank the Grand Island Rotary Club for initiating the necessary action to facilitate the building of this addition. It speaks well for our Grand Island community and its citizens."
   The Rotary Club of Grand Island, as lead agency, will be advertising for bids in the very near future. Major contributors to the project are the Rotary Club, Assemblyman Hoyt and State Senator Byron Brown. The project is expected to be completed in August.






Speaker To Address Medicare Prescription Cards At Golden Age Center - 2004
   Grand Island Golden Age Club guest speaker Ann Kennedy will give an informative talk on the new Medicare prescription cards being offered by the various drug companies. She is scheduled to speak at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 14, 2004 at the Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road, and will distribute pertinent information on the subject.






Island Senior Citizens Plan Chicago Trip - 2004
   Members of the Town of Grand Island Golden Age Club are planning a train trip to Chicago September 12-17, 2004. Upon the senior citizens' arrival, a chartered coach will transport the group to tour the area. Accommodations for three nights, three breakfasts and three dinners are included in the price of $430. Senior citizens interested in taking the trip are asked to call the Grand Island Golden Age Center, 773-9682 as soon as possible.




High Blood Pressure Risk-Reduction Program Tomorrow - June 25, 2004

   A high blood pressure risk-reduction program is being held from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, June 25, 2004 at the Grand Island Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. There is no charge for the program being offered by the Erie County Health Department.




Senior Assistance Program Scheduled For June 25 - 2004

   Erie County Legislator Charles M. Swanick, in conjunction with Erie County Senior Services, has scheduled a Senior Citizen Information Outreach (Alpha Program) formerly known as the Mobile Assistance Program (M.A.P.) for senior citizens from noon to 2 p.m. on Friday, June 25 at the Grand Island Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road.
   Seniors 65 and older will be able to obtain the free Complimentary Card and those between 62 – 64 may obtain the 62+ card at the site. The Complimentary Card is a picture ID that gives seniors half fare on Metro buses as well as a senior rate at a county golf course during the week. Proof of age is required to receive the cards.
   The site offers information and referral on various issues including health insurance, senior housing, and Erie County senior programs such as home energy assistance. Screening for vision, cholesterol, blood pressure and bone density may also be offered.
   For more information, call Legislator Swanick’s office at 877-3986.




Gram's Garage Sale 2004

The Golden Age Club's annual Gram's Garage Sale will be held from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., Saturday, May 22, 2004 at the Nike Base Community Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. Baked goods, grilled hot dogs and, or course, garage sale items will be sold, rain or shine.





Golden Age Center Needs Meals On Wheels Volunteers - Apr. 2004

   The Golden Age Center is in need of drivers for its Meals on Wheels Program. If interested, call either Barb Gannon or Betty Clayton at 773-9683 for more information.




Polish Heritage Dancers Delight Golden Age Club Members - 2004


Barbi Lare Photo

   Members of the Grand Island Golden Age Club thoroughly enjoyed their Sunday, March 28, 2004 Polish Fest Dinner. The Club was a blaze of color with the Polish Heritage Dancers of West Seneca dancing their hearts out and showing the audience the traditional Polish dances. Ranging in age from 4-13, the dancers' skill truly reflected a maturity beyond those years. The group has been working together for seven years and draws from all over the Western New York area.




Dr. Ramming Explains New Budget To Senior Citizens - 2004


Shown left are Carmela Palumbo (97 years young), Dr. Thomas Ramming and Mary M. Smith.

Jodi Hayes Robinson Photo

   Grand Island Schools Superintendent Dr. Thomas Ramming and school board members Lee Cohen and Frank DelSignore joined the senior citizens for lunch on Wednesday, March 10, 2004 in the Grand Island Golden Age Center. Following lunch, Dr. Ramming gave a power point presentation outlining the proposed 2004-2005 school budget.
   Golden Age Club members learned that Grand Island students are academically in the "middle" of the area school districts and at the low end as far as dollars spent per individual. The goals of the school district are to improve math and English-language arts (reading/writing) assessments and to improve technology for staff, students and the community. At this time, the information systems are outdated and in need of upgrading. Following his presentation, Dr. Ramming fielded questions from the audience.




State Senator Brown Presents Check To Golden Age Center - 2004


(Left) Golden Age President Maisie Dommell, Golden Age Director Barbara Gannon, Rotary Member Ted Bates, Senator Brown, Supervisor Peter McMahon, Rotary President Randy Osvath, and Golden Age Club Representative Hank Carroll
         Mike Mehltretter Photo - Click the photo for a larger view
   State Senator Bryon Brown (center) made a visit to the Grand Island Golden Age Center Friday, February 6, 2004 when he presented a check for $2,000 to be followed by another for $3000. The Grand Island Rotary Club will then match this with a check for $5000. State Assemblyman Sam Hoyt is also expected to come through with funds, which together will finance a new, covered entrance way at the Golden Age Center. The new entrance way will be easier for senior citizens to enter and exit the Golden Age building.





Golden Agers Hear From Grand Island Citizen Corps Council - Jan. 2004

    Grand Island Citizen Corps Council Chairman Frank Brusino spoke to the members of the Grand Island Golden Age Center concerning the preparedness in the time of emergency. The Grand Island Citizen Corps Council is a part the Homeland Security Program. Assisted by Hank Carroll of the Citizen Corps, Brusino not only described the necessary safety precautions, but also brought along the kit he has prepared for himself. He recommended that everyone prepare such a kit and suggested it should contain such things as medications used, second set of clothing, flash light and tools, bedding and any other things that one would need, should they be out of their house for any length of time. His kit is always ready and he recommended that others should do the same.
   For more information click
GI Citizen Corps Council.




2004 Golden Age Club Officers Announced


Shown left are installing officer Supervisor Peter McMahon, Sec. Nonnie Carroll, VP Gloria Diringer, Treas. Freda Harper, President Maisie Dommell and Sgt-at-Arms Bob Smith.

Barbi Lare Photo

   The following members will be heading the Golden Age Club in 2004:
• President Maisie Dommell
• Vice President Gloria Diringer
• Treasurer Freda Harper
• Secretary Nonnie Carroll
• Sgt-at-Arms Robert Smith




Golden Age Club Hears Buffalo School Children Sings Their Thanks - 2003

   
Generous Golden Agers                                                                                     Charter School of Applied Technologies of Buffalo
Jodi Hayes Robinson Photo
   The Golden Age Center was treated to a choral presentation from the 150 thankful students of the Charter School of Applied Technologies of Buffalo on Wednesday, December 17, 2003. The Golden Age Center donated hand-made mittens, hats and scarves to the school for their "Mitten Tree." These items are then passed on to children in need. The students were from grades kindergarten, first and second, and each group sang two songs, one an old standby and the other about Ramadan, Chanukah and a Spanish song. The children received a juice box and cookies as they were leaving for the bus ride home.
   The following individuals were given a certificate of appreciation beforehand for either making the items or donating money for yarn. They are: Dorothy Lew, Lea Gollwitzer, Lorraine Wilcox, Anne Tubin, Lil Carpenter, Millie Goldbach, Betty Marinell, Marion Assenza, Sally Riggs, Rose Kij, Walter Orten, Jean Olmstead and Ruth Blickley (deceased).






Golden Age Club Decorates For Holidays - 2003

Golden Age Center Decorating Elves      -      Mitten Tree contributors 2003
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click photos for a larger view.

Golden Age Center volunteers gathered Monday, December 1, 2003 to take down the fall decorations and put up the Christmas decor. Trees were being trimmed in the dining room and foyer. This year's Mitten Tree was full, with many more pairs of mittens, hats and scarves in boxes waiting to be delivered to the less fortunate. In the past, the items have gone to the Salvation Army, Neighbor Foundation, St. Lukes Center and to the Indian Reservation. Participating knitters include Jean Olmstead, Rose Kij, Lorraine Wilcox, Leah Gollwitzer, Ann Tubin, Lil Carpenter, Ruth Blickley, Ruth Shaw, Millie Goldbach, Betty Marinell and Sally Riggs. Can you identify the Golden Age Club decorators? Ed Kij and Hank Carrol are on the left in front. Nonnie Carroll is on the left in back and Rose Kij is on the right.




Health Insurance Seminar At Golden Age Club - 2003

The Grand Island Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road will be the site of a free health insurance seminar for senior citizens being held at 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, December 2, 2003. A representative of the Erie County Senior Services Department will offer insurance options to fill in the Medicare gap and long-term care costs and payments. Call County Legislator Charles M. Swanick at 877-3986 for more information.




Golden Age Club Announces Annual Holiday Bazaar 2003

The Golden Age Club's annual holiday bazaar is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, November 2, 2003 at the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. Luncheon will be served from 11:30 a.m. A Bake Sale, "Country Store Boutique," mini farmers' market and multi raffles will be featured along with all of the Golden Age members' craft tables. For more information, call the center, 773-9682.




Golden Age Center Offers Quebec City & Charlevoix Trip - 2003

   The Golden Age Center has arranged a trip to Quebec City & Charlevoix October 25-30, 2003 at $620.00. For further details, call the Golden Age Center office, 773-9682.




Golden Age Center Trips Fall 2003

   The Golden Age Center is offering the following day trips for members 50 years of age and over.
  • September 29 - Amish Wedding Feast to Astabula, Ohio including numerous stops and a traditional Amish wedding feast - cost $61
  • October 14 - Fall Foliage trip to Alleghany State Park with guided tour followed by lunch at the Red Garter Restaurant - cost $34.
  • November 9 - Shea's Buffalo for 2 p.m. performance of "The Sound Of Music" - cost $55 includes show and transportation
  • Monday, November 17 - A Dickens Christmas Cabaret Show - cost $62 - choice of menu - leaves at 9 a.m., returns 8 p.m.
       For further details, call the Golden Age Center office, 773-9682.






    Golden Age Club Past Presidents Luncheon - 2003

    Past presidents (left) Dorothy Lew, Nonnie Carroll, Joan Raab, Wanda
    Nixson, Milly Burgett and John Roberts (far right) with his wife, Milly.
    Barbi Lare Photo

    The Grand Island Golden Age Club honors its past presidents each year with a festive luncheon at the Golden Age Center. This year's event took place on Wednesday, July 9, 2003.






    Golden Agers Celebrate July Birthdays


    Jodi Robinson photo
    July 2, 2003 . . .Eight Golden Age Club members who are celebrating birthdays this month were recognized during the Wednesday, July 2, 2003 luncheon at the Golden Age Center. Golden Age Club President Henry Carroll (2nd from left) is holding a basket of treats for the celebrants. They are from left unidentified, Mr. Carroll, unidentified, Barbi Lare, Jean Anstett, unidentified, unidentified, Bob Eldridge, and Honor McCrone. Please email to me at
    teddy@giecom.net with the missing names!!




    Golden Age Center Has It All - 2003

       The Golden Age Center located in the Nike Base Park, 3278 Whitehaven Road, has been giving senior citizens of Grand Island a new lease on life for years.
       Attention Senior citizens: "Are you tired of just sitting at home? Are you bored with watching TV for hours? Join us at the Golden Age Center where your fellow seniors are gathering by the hundreds to enjoy lunch and activities," said Golden Age Club President Henry Carroll.
       Speaking of the activity calendar at the Golden Age Center - "You name it and we have it - and they are free," Mr. Carroll said this week. Aerobics, exercise groups, Tai Chi, crafts, ceramics, cards games such as bridge, euchre, pinochle, bingo, pool, book discussions, line dancing, tap dancing, computer club, choral group, picnics, weekly walk about town, golf, tennis, and day trips to malls and casinos are a few of the offerings for Island residents over 50. A Travel Club for Day Trips and longer gives you a great choice of places to visit, both near and far.
       Hot lunches are served every day Monday through Friday. Cost is $1.75 ($2.25 birthday and general meeting days).
       Parties include monthly birthday parties, Sunday brunches and evening dinner dances on special occasions.
       The Golden Age Center is a department of the Town of Grand Island and provides transportation for mall and shopping trips, doctor appointments and pharmacies, or to the Center for lunch (call ahead). For further information, call the Center at 773-9682.
       "Join us now for the best time of your senior life. . . most activites are free!!"






    Gram's Garage Sale 2003 Presented by Golden Agers

    Golden Age Club members in charge of the huge array of baked goods are shown manning their table. Can you help us identify them? Rose Kij is second from left and Nonnie Carroll is on the right.
    Barbi Lare Photo

    Golden Age Club members staged their annual Gram's Garage Sale on Saturday, May 17, 2003 at the Nike Base. Senior citizens of all ages were busy selling items, and cooking hot dogs for shoppers. The tables were loaded with treasurers and there was a clown performing for the youngsters, young and old.



    Middle School Jazz Ensemble Visits Seniors
     
       Jodi Hayes Dodd photos - Click the photos for a larger view

       Clark Elliott, director of the Connor Middle School Jazz Ensemble and 42 seventh and eighth grade students liven up lunch time at the Golden Age Center today (May 1, 2003). Dr. Thomas Ramming, Superintendent of GI Schools, had visited the seniors in the past and said he would be back. This time he brought Middle School Principal Bruce Benson and the Jazz Ensemble. The concert featured Latin and country western music along with other selections. Over 50 seniors enjoyed the pre-lunch concert.




    Gram's Garage Sale 2003

    The Golden Age Club's annual Gram's Garage Sale will be held from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., Saturday, May 17, 2002 at the Nike Base Community Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. Baked goods, refreshments and, or course, garage sale items will be sold, rain or shine. For information call 773-7682.



    Polish Day Festivities At Golden Age Club

    Edward and Irene Piszczek - click the photo for a larger view

       Grand Island Golden Age Club Director Barbara Gannon opened the Polish Day festivities during the Golden Age Club's monthly birthday lunch on March 9, 2003. Among the entertainment was a polka line dance by the Club's line dancers and Barbara and Richard Brzyski's version of the Polka.
       Several people were dressed in authentic Polish costumes and everyone enjoyed a delicious Polish style lunch.
       Edward and Irene Piszczek provided films and music as well as an extensive exhibit of dishes, crystal, dolls, wooden carved wall plates, leather goods, post cards and books.



    GIECOM.net Computer Class Focuses On Scanning Photos
     
       Jodi Hayes Dodd photo - Click the photos for a larger view

       This week's computer class, courtesy of Giecom.net, focused on the scanner plug-in, its set-up and how to scan a picture. Giecom.net instructor Mike Mehltretter showed the class some of the options available once a picture is scanned, such as rotating, cropping, cutting and pasting. Some topics brought up for discussion included, software needed for faxing through your computer, attaching pictures to emails, draft mode and different types of plug-ins, programs or equipment. Next week "the scanner" is making a return visit to continue with text documents and what can be done with them. "We also will be discussing the internet and you may sign up for a free email address at the Golden Age Center," Mehltretter reported. "Come join us Tuesdays at 11 a.m. at the Center"



    GIECOM.net Offers Computer Class, Senior Citizen E-mail

       Jodi Hayes Dodd photo - Click the photo for a larger view

       Grand Island Golden Age Club members brought their internet/computer questions and enthusiasm to the first computer class sponsored by GIECOM.net and held Tuesday, February 18, 2003 in the Golden Age Center on Whitehaven Road. GIECOM.net Computer Technician Mike Mehltretter had answers for all of those questions in a wide range of subjects including 'read receipt,' scanners, games, the future of computers, cookies, cd's and dvd's.
       Through the courtesy of GIECOM.net, the Grand Island Golden Age Center will be put "online," making it possible for all Club members to email friends and relatives and surf the net.
       Senior citizens, those 50 and over, are invited to attend the weekly classes held at 11 a.m. each Tuesday. It is not necessary to be in class every week, and there is no charge. GIECOM.net, sponsor of the Grand Island e-News at Isledegrande.com, welcomes the opportunity to serve the senior citizens of Grand Island.
       For more information, email Mike Mehltretter at mikem@giecom.net or Jodi Hayes Dodd at jodi@giecom.net.




    GIECOM.net Offers On-Line Class To Senior Citizens - February 2003

       An additional computer class has been scheduled for 11 a.m. Tuesday, February 11, 2003 at the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road, to show senior citizens the ins and outs of internet access and email. GIECOM.net, sponsor of Isledegrande.com's Grand Island e-News, will have representatives available to instruct and answer questions about on-line services.




    Island Senior Citizens Sign Up For Medicare Program - January 2003

       The State Office for the Aging and the Erie County Department of Social Services are sponsoring a sign-up for Grand Island senior citizens for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary Program from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. January 14, 2003 through January 16th in the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. The program helps qualified seniors pay for all or part of their Medicare premium. To sign up, an appointment must be scheduled by calling Barbara Gannon at 773-9683. Only those with appointments will be able to speak with a representative at the Golden Age Center. Eligibility requirements for the program changed last May. Applicants no longer have to reveal their assets and resources, since those no longer affect whether they qualify.






    Golden Agers Celebrate The New Year


    Barbi Lare photo
    January 5, 2003 . . .A fancy noon meal, music, dancing and friendship were all combined to complete a fine time at the Golden Age Center on Sunday, January 5 2003 when club members welcomed the new year, 2003. Shown left are Club President Hank Carroll and his wife, Nonnie. Let us know via
    E-Mail who the two ladies are in the photo. The event was well attended and all had a good time.






    Golden Age Club Officers Installed For 2003


    Barbi Lare photo
    Members of the Grand Island Golden Age Club elected new officers on Thursday, December 19, 2002 at their Christmas party. Shown left are Supervisor Peter McMahon, who handled the installation and Senior Center Director Barbara Gannon with Club Treasurer Freda Harper, Secretary Gloria Diringer, Vice President Maisie Dommell, Sqt.-at-Arms Robert Smith and President Hank Carroll.





    Hand Knitted Mittens, Hats To Be Donated By Golden Agers


    Knitters shown are (back left) Rose Kij and Marie O'Hara; (front left) Ann Tubin, Bertha Matteson, Lil Carpenter, Millie Goldbach and Sally Riggs.
    Barbi Lare Photo
    Grand Island Golden Age Club members, for many years, have created hundreds of hand-made, colorful, knitted hats and mittens throughout the year to donate to those in need. This year was no different as you can see by this Christmas tree where the members' handiwork is displayed and will be given to the less fortunate in time for the 2002 holidays.



    Golden Age Craft Show Offered Wide Variety


       Fred Claus photos
    Click the photo for a larger view.

    Golden Age Club members presented their annual holiday bazaar on Sunday, October 27, 2002 at the Golden Age Center. An outstanding variety of crafts filled the many tables and pleased the shoppers that stopped to browse and buy. Shown from left are Golden Age Club Board members Dorothy Lew, Nonnie Carroll, Gloria Diringer and Leah Gollwitzer. The event featured a 'Country Store Boutique,' Bake Sale and





    Golden Age Club
    Announces Annual Holiday Bazaar 2002

    The Golden Age Club's annual holiday bazaar is scheduled from noon to 4 p.m. Sunday, October 27, 2002 at the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. Golden Agers will feature their famous Bake Sale, luncheon and "Country Store Boutique." For more information, call the center, 773-9682.







    Jr. Golfers Receive Certificates - July 2002


    Golden Age Club teacher Norm Matteson, Brennan Carrey, Sam Clarke, Travis Zukic, Aaron D'Angelo, Michael Dollard, Matthew Ward, Shawn D'Angelo, and Golden Club Teacher Hank Carroll.
       Barbi Lare photos
    Click the photo for a larger view.

    The junior golf program sponsored by the Town of Grand Island and under the direction of Golden Age Club members Hank Carroll and Norm Matteson, concluded this week with certificates for the young people involved. This was the 5th year the clinic was offered by the Golden Agers.







    Barbara Brzyski Honored for 24 Years Service To Golden Age Center

      
    Barbara and Supervisor Peter McMahon are shown left and Barbara and her husband Richard are on the right.
    Barbi Lare photos
       It was publicized as a dinner dance, but the real reason for the evening's activities revolved around honoring Barbara Brzyski for her 24 years of service at the Center. Starting out in the office for 6 years, Barbara eventually became head cook and continued in that capacity for 18 years. Thanks to Barbara, the meals have been excellent, and the members will miss her smiling face behind the counter.
       Town and County representatives presented Barbara with proclamations and Supervisor Peter McMahon also named a Grand Island Day for Barbara. With a bottle of champagne gracing their table, and zillions of good wishes and gifts for her, the first dance of the evening was especially for Barbara and her husband Dick.




    Gram's Garage Sale 2002 at Senior Center

    The Golden Age Club's annual Gram's Garage Sale will be held from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., Saturday, May 4, 2002 at the Nike Base, 3278 Whitehaven Road. Baked goods, hot dogs, pop. Rain or shine. Kathryn Sheehan's newly published Island History will be available.




    Golden Age Center Receives Large TV

    Barbi Lare photo
    A large screen television has been installed at the Grand Island Golden Age Center, thanks to town and county funds. Shown at the recent unveiling at the center are (left) Center Director Barbara Gannon, Town Supervisor Peter McMahon, Erie County Legislator Chuck Swanick and Golden Age Club President Henry Carroll.




    Golden Age Club Installs

    Barbi Lare photo
    The Grand Island Golden Age Club elected new officers to carry them through the coming year 2002. Shown are (left) Installing Officer Supervisor Peter A. McMahon, Sgt-at-Arms Bob Eldredge, Treasurer Rose Kij, Vice President Ellen McDougal and President Henry Carroll.




    Golden Age Trips 2002

    Members of the Grand Island Golden Age Travel Club have added two trips to their scheduled. A Las Vegas vacation is set for the second week in April 2002 and their destination for the second week in September 2002 is Nova Scotia. All Island senior citizens (50 and over) who are interested, are asked to call the Golden Age Center, 773-9683, to sign up and receive more information. Barb Gannon is Golden Age Center Director.




    Golden Agers Busy All Year


    Golden Agers who gave of their time and talent are Wanda Nixson in front, Sally Riggs, Lillian Carpenter, Ann Tyrrell, Bertha Mattison, Frances Gruner and Rose Kij, who served as chairman of the activity.
    Barbi Lare photo
       Members of the Golden Age Club are not idle these days,or for the past several months. Many of them have been knitting, crocheting and making clothes for dolls, so that they could give it all to needy individuals and groups including the Salvation Army, the News Neediest, Haven House, Friends of the Night People, St. Augustine Center, City Mission, St. Lukes Mission and our own Grand Island Neighbors Foundation.
       The 550 pairs of mittens, 120 hats, 90 scarves and 30 dolls all dressed for the occasion were made by 18 members. Nine others donated funds and materials.




    Golden Age Bazaar Billed A Success


    Barbi Lare photos
    The Golden Age Club's annual holiday bazaar on Sunday was a grand success for those with tables and also for the members of the community who supported it. Shown from left are Bake Sale Chairman Rose Kij, Golden Age Club President and Bazaar Chairman Dorothy Lew and Nonnie Carroll.




    Golden Age Club Annual
    Holiday Bazaar Is Sunday

    The Golden Age Club's annual holiday bazaar is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, November 4, 2001 at the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. "Best baked goods in town" all baked by the Club members plus tables of hand crafted items, and a Children's Store will be available. New crafters are welcome. Call the center, 773-9682 to reserve a table.




    Octoberfest at Golden Age Center - 2001

    Barbi Lare photos
    An Octoberfest at the Golden Age Center on Friday, October 12, 2001 brought out the best in the many senior citizens who took part in the festivities. The Auslanders were on hand to provide lively music for singing and dancing. Some dressed the part and others wore the appropriate head gear to prove they had a little German in them. Elizabeth Prast (top) called the tables (in German) to begin the serving. In spite of the language barrier, no one went hungry.




    Golden Age Club To Plant Daffodil Bulbs - 2001

    A Grand Island Golden Age Club project to plant daffodil bulbs at the approaches to the north and south Grand Island bridges and along Grand Island Boulevard, in conjunction with the town's Sesquicentennial next year, gets underway on Saturday morning, October 13, 2001. Those willing to help with the planting are asked to call Peggy McNulty, 774-8916 for more information.

    Golden Age Choral Performs At Expo 2001
    Members of the Golden Age Club's Choral Group, under the direction of Carol Laskey, sang Saturday, May 19, during the Chamber of Commerce Expo 2001. Organist for the group is Lucy Helbig and pianist is Wanda Nixson. Practices are held on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. at the Golden Age Center. Shown front left are: Yvonne Martin, Kay Lexsel and Rose Sutherland; (back) unidentified, Florence Duignan, Stella Hess, Ned Lee, Mae Adams, Paul Adams, (Hank Carroll is hidden behind the music stand), Ann Tubin and also hidden is Wanda Nixson.
    Fred Claus photo


    Dorothy Rowswell Retires - 2001  
    Shown left are Dorothy Rowswell and her husband, Al; and in the right photo - Dorothy and new Center Director Barbara Gannon.
    Barbi Lare photos

       Dorothy Rowswell, Director of the Golden Age Center, has retired after many years of working for the Town of Grand Island. Her immediate plans include travel with her husband, Al.
       The majority of members of the Golden Age Center turned out Sunday to honor Dorothy with fun and refreshments. Town officials presented proclamations, and County representatives were on hand with a memento and proclamation. Gifts also came from the senior citizens' Choral Group, the staff at the Center and other groups and individuals.
       Friends and relatives all gathered at the Center for the festivities, some coming from the Southern tier area and from Canada. Dorothy has made many, many friends through her service to the public over the years. She will be missed at the daily events at the Center, but she promised to come back often (when she is in town.)

    Retiring Golden Age Center Director Dorothy Rowswell Recognized - 2001


    An open house to honor and recognize Dorothy Rowswell for her years of service to the senior citizens of Grand Island will take place from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, April 1, at the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. The longtime director of the Town of Grand Island's senior center is retiring.

    Golden Agers' Mitten Tree Project - 2001


    Members of the Grand Island Golden Age Club, including (left) Sally Riggs, Rose Kij and Lil Carpenter have been working for several months creating knitted goods for their Mitten Tree. Over 700 scarves, hats and pairs of mittens are in the display at the Center, and will be distributed to eight different charity organizations. The annual Mitten Tree, chaired this year by Liz AuClaire, is an ongoing and longstanding project of the Golden Age Club. (Barbi Lare photo)

    Golden Agers host arts & crafts vendors - 2000

    The Golden Age Center at the Nike Base on Whitehaven Rd. was a beehive of activity on Sunday when vendors, both members and non members, showed and sold their wares including wood items, knitted and crocheted items, plants, quilts, jewelry and hand painted porcelain. There also was a separate room for the children to secretly shop for their family. (Barbi Lare photo)

    If you are a member of this organization, we need your help. GIECOM.Net has partnered with the Connections program to help Grand Island as a community "Get it Together." Please visit our website G-I-Together.ORG and fill out our SURVEY. Every group on Grand Island will have its own FREE web page showing: meeting times and location, contact persons, your Mission Statement and a listing of events. We will also be linking your news events that appear in the local media and on IsledeGrande.Com, Grand Island's E-News Source, to your page, maintaining an archived journal of pictures and news. This is the perfect opportunity for your group to connect with potential new members and the community.



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