Get outdoors and join in beautifying Grand Island this spring. Several clean-ups are planned, and trees will be planted as part of the ReTree WNY effort. All are welcome to help. Dress for the weather. Events will be held rain or shine.
Buckhorn State Park Clean Up - Saturday, April 18.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. in parking lot opposite kayak launch.
Plant Trees Grand Island Plaza - Saturday, May 9.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. Trees will be planted along the right of way of Grand Island Blvd.
West River Clean Up - Saturday, May 9.
Meet at 10:00 a.m. at Whitehaven Road overlook.
Town Center Clean Up - Saturday, June 20.
Meet at 9:00 a.m. at Town Hall.
“Strides for Stewart” 5K Announced - April 2009
A benefit 5K Race for Amy Stewart “Strides for Stewart” will be conducted at 6 p.m.
Saturday, August 8. The race will be assembled and started out of Veterans Park, travel along the linear bike path and finish back in Veterans Park. Anyone interested in volunteering for this event is welcome to attend the next race meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 28 in the community center at the Nike Base, 3278 Whitehaven Road.
Volunteers are needed for the following: publicity, water stations (2), registration
and day of race general assistance. Those with an interested in volunteering are urged
to attend the meeting scheduled for April 28 or contact
773-9680 or
recreation@grand-island.ny.us or contact any committee member:
Betty Lantz, Art & Luann Pelletier or Deb and Cortney Bota.
Gasoline Spill At NOCO - April 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a report of a fuel spill at 1898 Whitehaven Road, NOCO Express Shop, at 4:30 p.m. Friday, April 10, 2009. The caller stated that a pump was spewing a large amount of gas that could not be contained.
The GIFC blamed the mishap on a defective gas pump, assisted with the clean up, and returned in service at 4:46 p.m.
Autism Family Support - April 2009
An Autism Family Support group meets from 6:30 p.m to 8 p.m. the first Tuesday of every month in the basement of RealtyUSA, 2139 Grand Island Blvd. This is a peer run program focusing on issues affecting families who have a family member with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. For more information contact
denisehj@hotmail.com
Safe Boating Course - April 2009
The Niagara Power Squadron Public Safe Boating Course will be held at Anchor Marine, 1501 Ferry Road, Grand Island in four, two-hour classes at 7 p.m., April 14, April 16, April 21, and April 23. For more information, call 773-2140 or 434-2236 evenings.
Ice Boom May Be Removed Monday - April 2009
The ice boom may be removed Monday, April 6. See
4/3/09 Niagara Gazette story.
Fisherman Falls Into Big Six Creek - April 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a report of a fisherman falling into the water at Big Six Mile Creek Marina off Whitehaven Road at 4:40 p.m.
Sunday, April 5. The victim, who was helped out of the water at 4:47 p.m., was assessed by the GIFC, and transported by Twin City Ambulance to Buffalo General Hospital. A second patient was evaluated and transported by private vehicle to a local hospital. See "4/6//09 Buffalo News Story".
Baseline MVA Sends Three To Hospital - March 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a report of a two-car motor vehicle accident with multi injuries in front of the Post Office on Baseline Road at 10:57 a.m. Tuesday, March 31, 2009. The GIFC assessed three patients and immediately shut down Baseline Road. It was reported that one vehicle struck a pole. Grand Island residents Marcia Fritschi and Jason Fritschi were transported by ambulance to Kenmore Mercy Hospital and Ronald Rundberg of Buffalo was transported to the Erie County Medical Center. The GIFC returned in service at 11:33 a.m. See Two-Car MVA Story by Ray Pauley, Fire Company Information Officer.
An “Hour for Amy” 5K Race - March 2009
A benefit 5K running race for Amy Stewart is in the planning stages.
We would like your help. Any one interested in helping organize this race is asked to call
Linda Tufillaro at the Recreation Office, 773-9680. There is a planning meeting scheduled for Tuesday, April 7 at 7:00 PM, at the Nike Base Park, 3278 Whitehaven Road.
Driver Ejected In One-Car Roll-over Dies From Injuries - March 2009
Dan McMahon photo - click for larger view
The driver of a one-car roll-over accident at the traffic circle at the entrance of Beaver Island State Park was transported to the Erie County Medical Center by Mercy Flight. The accident occurred at 1:20 a.m. Saturday morning, March 28th when according to reports the SUV became air borne several times, and traveled across the circle shearing off a tree. The vehicle appeared to be going south bound in the north bound lane
and failed to make the turn at the circle. The driver, Patrick Paladino, 29 of Buffalo, was ejected from the vehicle. According to Fire Chief Greg Butcher, Paladino received ALS treatment from GIFC paramedics but had sustained severe traumatic injuries and was unconscious and unresponsive. It was estimated that he was thrown approximately 100 feet. ECMC doctors listed his condition as critical.
The Grand Island Fire Company was on the scene almost immediate, requesting Mercy Flight, assessing the victim and setting up a landing zone for the helicopter which was on the ground at 1:47 a.m. and was airborne at 2:11 a.m.
Firefighters and Police personnel searched the area for a possible second victim but determined there was none. Fire Company volunteers using GIFC apparatus assisted a police investigation by providing light in the area. Fire Chief Butcher was in charge of the accident scene.
See "3/30/09 Buffalo News Story" by Sharon Linstedt
Former Resident, Police Officer, Ryan Warme, Further Charged - March 2009
See "3/30/09 Buffalo News Story" for updated story on Ryan Warme.
See also "12/31/08 Buffalo News Story" for December 2008 story on Ryan Warme, by Aaron Besecker.
Ice Boom Removal Delayed - March 2009
The ice boom is scheduled to be removed sometime after April 1st. The delay is caused by the amount of ice in the eastern basin of Lake Erie. The International Joint Commission's Niagara Board of Control announced Wednesday, March 25 that the boom would stay in place, south of the Peace Bridge, due to that portion of the lake (nearly 870 sq. miles) 44% ice covered.
The ice boom, first installed in 1964, is designed to prevent a glut of ice from entering the upper Niagara River and clogging power company intakes or damaging shoreline properties.
No Jail Time For Former Resident Involved In Child Porn Charge - 2009
Carl K. Courter, formerly of Elsie Lane, Grand Island, NY, was arrested on child pornography charges in August 2008 while working at a McDonald's Playland in Grand Island. Now a resident of Amherst, he will not go to jail.
See "3/24/08 Buffalo News Story".
See alo "8/12/08 Buffalo News Story".
I-190 Lane Restrictions - March 2009
March 22, 2009 . . . I-190 - I-190/Niagara Thruway (Town of Tonawanda, Grand Island): Northbound Niagara Thruway from River Road in the Town of Tonawanda to Grand Island Boulevard in Grand Island will have lane restrictions from 9 p. m. to 6 a. m. all week.
Fall From Tree Proves Fatal - Feb. 2009
GIFCO and Twin City personnel stabilizing patient for transport to KMH
Dan McMahon Photo - click for larger view
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a report of a worker falling approximately 40' from a tree at 122 Amberwood Lane Friday morning, March 20. He apparently clung to the tree which broke at the base resulting in the tree falling over. First EMS responders on the scene reported a trauma code and requested the status of Mercy Flight and hot response from all. After evaluation, Mercy Flight was cancelled and the patient was transported to Kenmore Mercy Hospital for evaluation and emergency treatment. The victim, 28-year-old John West of Lockport, NY, was pronounced dead at about 11 a.m. from trauma wounds suffered in the fall .
UPDATE - See "3/21/09 Buffalo News Story"
Burglary Ring Nets Arrest Of Five Local Residents - March 2009
(left) Peter McMahon, Sheriff Timothy B. Howard and Under Sheriff Captain Ronald Kenyon
Click for larger view
March 18, 2009 . . .
A press conference was held at the Erie County Sheriff's Grand Island Sub-station on Wednesday, March 18th to announce the arrest of five local residents in connection with two separate burglary rings. Two dozen burglaries took place on Grand Island between February 27 and March 16. Property taken from the 10 houses entered included jewelry, cash, prescription medications and electronic items. Also stolen from one of the residences was a viola, valued at approximately $5000.
Detective Dennis Fitzgibbon coordinated the investigations and determined early on that there were two groups. Samer Abdellatif, 21, and Erik Robinson, 23, a part of the younger group consisting of Island residents, have each been charged with one count of Burglary in the Second Degree, a Class C Felony, and one count of Petit Larceny, a Class A Misdemeanor. Additional charges and arrests are expected.
The older group arrested consisted of Eric Waid, 32; Daniel D. Kane, 25; and David Warmus, 21; all of Buffalo. They have been charged with one count of Burglary in the Second Degree, a Class C Felony; and one charge of Grand Larceny in the third degree, a Class D Felony. Along with Grand Island burglaries, this group is believed to be responsible for several burglaries in Niagara County.
Drugs, both heroin and crack cocaine, have been identified as the impetus behind these daytime burglaries. Sheriff Howard credits a very observant thirteen year-old Grand Island resident and citizens in the Riverside Park area of Buffalo with being instrumental in solving these cases. The youth observed unusual activity and called 911 with a good description of a distinctive vehicle. Sheriff Howard spoke of citizens reaching out to their local police by calling in anything unusual. The area of burglaries was concentrated in the lower south-east quadrant of Grand Island, east of Baseline and south of Staley/Love Rd. Most were forced entries in the side or back doors of the homes.
Supervisor Peter A. McMahon complimenting the investigation, called it "outstanding police work, extraordinary effort."
Crime Prevention In Your Neighborhood - March 2009
After the recent arrests of five individuals from two different burglary rings on Grand Island,
Erie County Sheriff's Detective Dennis Fitzgibbon wants to remind residents that you can help prevent crime in your neighborhoods. In one of the recent arrests, a young boy noticed unusual activity in his neighborhood and contacted 911. If you see unusual vehicles, unknown persons knocking on doors or any activities that you question, do not hesitate to call 911. This approach is known as Community Policing, the understanding that action must be taken by the police and the community, working together before crimes are committed. Another tool available in our town is the Grand Island Confidential Tip Line, 774-TOWN(8696). This number is not to be used to report crimes in progress or emergencies. Call to report information on any illegal alcohol/narcotics activity, including underage drinking and sales to minors. All calls will remain strictly confidential. To protect your privacy, all calls are directed to voicemail and reviewed by selected Grand Island Police officers. If you desire a follow-up call, leave your contact information. Privacy will be maintained at all times.
Senator Antoine M. Thompson to Host Community Leaders & Stakeholders Breakfast - March 2009
Antoine M. Thompson, NYS Senator, 60th District will host his quarterly community leader’s breakfast on Grand Island.
The breakfast, to be held from 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. Saturday, March 21, 2009 at the Knights of Columbus, 1841 Whitehaven Road, will be prepared by volunteers from the community. And the invited guest speakers are Dave Lanfear, a green builder of Bale on Bale Construction and Gretchen Leffler from the American Cancer Society. The event is open to the public.
Woman Released On Bond In Hit-Run Accident - March 2009
See "3/17/09 Buffalo News Story" by Matt Gryta.
See also "3/18/09 Buffalo News Story", "Alleged Driver Free On Bail" by Matt Gryta.
Girls' Gathering For Scrapbooking - March 2009
See "Live, Laugh Love Ministries event", Tuesday, March 24 from 2-4 p.m. at 285 North Lane.
Update
WOMAN CHARGED
ARREST MADE IN HIT-RUN ACCIDENT
Update On Hit-Run Accident - March 2009
Amy Stewart of Grand Island remains in a coma at ECMC. See "3/13/09 Buffalo News Story" by Maki Becker for update.
For ARREST STORY, see "3/13/09 Buffalo News Story" by Gene Warner and Maki Becker.
For updated story (WOMAN CHARGED), see "3/14/09 Buffalo News Story" by Gene Warner and Harold McNeil.
One Island, One Team, One Dream, To Be Drug Free Meeting - April 2009
One Island, One Team, One Dream, To Be Drug Free will meet Tuesday, April 7 at 4 p.m. in the Grand Island High School small cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road.
Daytime Burglaries On Island - March 2009
See "3/12/09 Buffalo News Story."
See also "wivb.com."
UPDATE
Special Prayer Services For Amy Stewart - Thursday/Saturday - March 2009
A special prayer service is being held for Amy Stewart at 6 p.m. Thursday, March 12 at the Chapel at ECMC. A prayer service will also be held at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, March 14 at St. Stephen Church, Baseline Road. Amy was critical injured in a hit-run accident on March 7th.
I-190 Lane Restrictions - March 2009
I-190 (Niagara Section/Grand Island): Lane restrictions from 9 a. m. to 2 p. m. Monday through Friday between Exit 18 (Grand Island Boulevard) and Exit 20 (Long Road).
GI Blvd./Baseline MVA - March 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a motor vehicle accident at Grand Island Blvd. and Baseline Road at 8:38 p.m. Saturday, March 7, 2008. The GIFC requested two ambulances to the scene and extricated two children from one vehicle. The GIFC assessed a total of five patients with one sign off and four patients transported to local hospitals by ambulance.
At the same time, the GIFC also received and addressed reports of a lightening strike at 3912 East River Road and a fire alarm activation at Bush and Beaver Island Parkway (WBEN).
Island Resident Seriously Injured In Hit-Run Accident - March 2009
According to a Buffalo News story by Maki Becker in Saturday's edition of the on-line news, an Island resident was struck by a hit-run driver near Daemen College, Amherst on Saturday morning, March 7, 2009. See "3/7/09 Buffalo News Story."
Water Break On Bedell Causes Electrical Hazard - March 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a water main break, causing an electrical hazard with flooding into the basement at 2625 Bedell Road at 6:55 a.m. Saturday, March 7, 2009. The Grand Island Water Department responded and shut off the water and the GIFC returned in service at 7:25 a.m.
One Injured In MVA At Entrance To South Bridge - March 2009
A two-car motor vehicle accident at the south entrance to the South Grand Island Bridge just after 5 p.m. caused injury to one adult who was transported to Kenmore Mercy Hospital by ambulance. Two adults and two children were evaluated by the Grand Island Fire Company on Friday, March 6, 2009. The Thruway Authority and Erie Co. Sheriff's Dept. responded to the scene. The GIFC returned in service at approximately 5:55 p.m.
Response To Love Those Bridge Tolls - 2009
By Teddy Linenfelser
March 5, 2009 . . .Responses to my editorial, Love Those Bridge Tolls was received favorable in all but two responses.
Speaking in favor of leaving the tolls on the bridges, one resident suggested a referendum be included on the November ballot to see exactly how the residents of the Island feel about the tolls issue.
Another Isledegrande.com reader said, that I "hit the nail right on the head" and that he had traveled all over the world paying tolls.
"Tolls are not a barrier to business," another writer said. He also said that "in 2008, the largest real estate transaction of the year in the eight counties of Western New York took place on Grand Island with the acquisition of the pharmaceutical complex on Staley Road by Astellas - $12 million."
I was also referred to in an email as "voice of reason!" This is only a part of some of those who wrote, and I thank all who responded.
A letter to the editor in favor of toll removal appears in today's Isledegrande.com.
Turn Your Clocks Ahead - March 2009
Daylight Savings Time begins Sunday morning, March 8th at 2 a.m. Be sure to turn your clocks ahead on Saturday evening and don't forget to replace the batteries in your smoke detectors!
40 Days of Love - 2009
Live Laugh Love Ministries is conducting a new video series, 40 Days of Love, at Grand Island High School. Groups will meet in the high school, room 108 from 7-8:30 p.m. There is a nominal cost of $10 for the study guide. See "40 Days of Love" for more information or call Dan Stinson at 716-983-6521.
Staley Rd. Chimney Fire Causes No Damage - 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to 2176 Staley Road for a chimney fire at 9:11 p.m. Monday, March 2, 2009. Fire Company personnel did a complete inspection, reported no damage to the two-story, wood frame home, and returned in service at 9:31 p.m.
Water Causes Electrical Hazard On Bedell Road - March 2009
Grand Island firefighters responded to an electrical hazard at 2625 Bedell Road at 3:41 p.m. Sunday, March 1, 2009. The caller reported some type of water main break and that residences in the immediate area were filling with water and threatening the utilities. The electricity and gas to the home was shut off. Firefighters on the scene reported water coming through the bricks in the basement. According to Grand Island Fire Chief Greg Butcher, the water had reached a two-foot level and the call was being turned over the Grand Island Water Department. The Fire Company returned in service at 4:13 p.m.
Turnout For Bone Marrow Testing Fantastic - Feb. 2009
Roswell Park Cancer Institute sponsored a bone marrow drive on Thursday, February 26th. Dan McBride, who in need of a bone marrow transplant, said that Roswell personel expected about 70 people, and that 197 were tested for the list. The response was overwhelming. The drive was highly promoted by Grand Island's Relay For Life organization.
See "WIBV Story."
See also "Relay For Life Page."
EDITORIAL
Love Those Bridge Tolls - Feb. 2009
By Teddy Linenfelser
Efforts to have bridge tolls removed were put into action right after the Grand Island bridges opened in 1935 and have continued ever since. The removal of the 25 cent toll in the 1930s and 1940s was worth fighting for. Today's E-ZPass rate of nine cents for residents seems insignificant, and the number of residents opposed to these campaigns is probably larger than anyone might think. Could we be the silent majority?
Grand Island is a community of middle class citizens who pay a very miniscule amount with E-ZPass to return to their Island. Those working to have tolls removed altogether believe bridge congestion will disappear without the collection of the $1.00 and those using the convenient E-ZPass lanes. Congestion can't possibly disappear when five lanes of traffic travel through the toll booths and immediately merge into two lanes of cars, trucks, motor homes and tractor trailers.
Is it cash or congestion the campaigners find fault with?
Not only would removing the tolls not fix congestion on the bridges, it might be cause for more accidents due to the fact that no one has to stop or at least slow down to five miles per hour going through the booths. Removal of the tolls would bring more traffic to the two-lane bridges. More traffic means more congestion than we have right now. We have lived here for many years. My family moved here 67 years ago. With each decade, there were a greater number of commuters crossing our bridges, all stopping to pay the toll. Did our population remain the same due to people not wanting to move here because of the original twenty-five cents? The answer is no. In fact the census figures show the population of Grand Island rose by 2000 between 1940 and 1950 and another 6500 from 1950 to 1960. The population continued to grow by leaps and bounds from 1960 to 1980. We are still growing, certainly not at the predicted rate and in the past 27 years growth has slowed considerably.
Crime here has never reached the level of similar communities. Why? Because lowlife thieves would have to steal the $1.00 bridge toll to get here. If the removal of the bridge tolls ever occurs, developers will be quick to build subdivisions of low-income housing, with the resulting problems this would bring. Is this why we moved here? Some will say we need low-income housing for our grown children just starting out. But the truth is most of those young people who want to stay on Grand Island, have found a suitable and affordable place to live in the lower income developments we already have at both ends of the Island.
Are these folks who are fighting to have the tolls removed, hoping to put the saved 9 cents in their pocket on a daily basis, or do they see it as a benefit to have five lanes of traffic merge at the entrance to the south bridge without having to slow down for the toll booths? Well, this increased traffic will certainly have to slow down, as it will be nearly impossible at any hour of the day to cruise through at a reasonable speed.
For the past several years, the Grand Island Fire Company has responded to multiple car crashes on the bridges, with several motor vehicle accidents occurring at the same time. The situation would only become worse due to more traffic from those who took alternate routes to avoid the tolls. Let's keep the tolls in place at least until the day an alternative to the two-lane bridges is found.
Isn't it time the silent majority speaks out?
NYS Parks Announces Boat Slip Lottery - Feb. 2009
Beaver Island State Park and Big Six Mile Creek Marina slips available
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced that applications for the lottery to establish a waiting list for 2009 seasonal slips at Big Six Mile Creek Marina and Beaver Island Marina are now available.
Applications are available at the Beaver Island State Park Office, 2136 West Oakfield Road, Grand Island, NY 14072, Monday through Friday, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4:15 p.m. or by calling (716) 773-3271.
Completed applications, a copy of the current boat registration and a $5.00 non-refundable fee are required to be eligible for the lottery drawing. Applications will be accepted by mail or in person at the Beaver Island State Park Office until Monday, March 2, 2009. Applications delivered or postmarked after March 2nd will not be accepted.
The public is invited to attend the lottery drawing which will be held at the Beaver Island State Park Office on Thursday, March 5th at 10 a.m.
For more information, contact the park office at (716) 773-3271.
Spring Disc Golf Sale In Beaver Island Park - Feb. 2009
A “Spring Disc Golf Sale” is taking place Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Beaver Island State Park office until further notice. Discounted will be discs and tee-shirts. Payment may be made by cash or check. Park officials have also announced that there is a paper retriever in the park to recycle paper and that the boat slip lottery for both marinas in the park is in progress. Applications are available at the office or by calling 773-3271.
I-190 Lane Restrictions - Feb. 2009
Feb. 22, 2009 . . . I-190 (Niagara Section/Grand Island): Lane restrictions from 9 a. m. to 2 p. m. Monday through Friday between Exit 18 (Grand Island Boulevard) and Exit 20 (Long Road).
Legislator Iannello Asks Removal of Bridge Tolls Due To Serious Health Risk - Feb. 2009
Erie County Legislator Michele M. Iannello will call for the immediate removal of the Grand Island Bridge tolls because of the health risk caused by benzene, a Class-A Carcinogen, being released by cars idling at the tolls at the South Grand Island Bridge. Due to the results of the Air Monitoring Project recently released by the DEC, Iannello’s cause for the removal of the tolls has become critical in nature. Iannello will also encourage the Governor to use funds from the President’s stimulus package to cover cost of removal. Legislator Iannello will announce her request in the Town of Tonawanda Muincipal Building, Council Chambers, 2919 Delaware Avenue, Kenmore at 4:45 p.m. Thursday, February 19.
One Island, One Team, One Dream, To Be Drug Free Meeting - March 2009
One Island, One Team, One Dream, To Be Drug Free will meet Tuesday, March 10 at 4 p.m. in the Grand Island High School small cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road. See 3/10/09 Meeting for complete information.
Thruway MVA - Feb. 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded at 7:06 a.m. Friday, February 13, 2009 to a report of a car off the road and the female driver not alert on the 190 south bound, north of the Thruway overpass.
The GIFC evaluated the patient who was removed from the vehicle without extrication. The patient signed off and was
release at the scene, however, the GIFC was called again later in the morning when the victim became unconscious. She was then transported to St. Mary's in Niagara Falls.
Extended Canadian Goose Season For NYS Parks - Feb. 2009
Beaver Island State Park, West River Parkway, Motor and Strawberry Islands:
The blind assignment for the Extended Canada Goose Season (3/1-3/10/09) will be done by call-in ONLY. Calls will be taken at 773-2010 between the hours of 9:00am-12:00pm on the following dates: Thursday 2/26/09 for Sunday-Tuesday, 3/1 & 3/3; Tuesday 3/3/09 for Wednesday-Friday 3/4–3/6 and Thursday 3/5/09 for Saturday-Tuesday 3/7-3/10. All call-in permits must be picked up at the Park Office by 4pm prior to the day of the hunt.
A boat is required to be on site, “at the ready”, for use in retrieving or rescue, as necessary.
To participate in the lottery drawings or call-ins, hunters must present a valid NYS Small Game Hunting license with a signed duck stamp, proof of registration in the Harvest Information Program (HIP), and proof of completion of a Waterfowl ID course. You may contact the Beaver Island State Park Office at (716)773-3271 on weekdays between 8:00am and 4:15pm for more information.
Joseph Davis, Fort Niagara, Wilson-Tuscarora and Golden Hill State Parks:
Blind assignments for the Extended Canada Goose Season (3/1-3/10/09) will also be done by call-in only. Calls will be taken at 745-7273 from 8:00 to 11:00am and 1:00 to 4:00pm Thursday and Friday February 26-27 for the first five days of the season (3/1-3/5) and on Wednesday and Thursday (3/4-3/5) for the last five days of the season (3/6-3/10). Permits must be picked up at the Fort Niagara Park Office by 4:00pm prior to the hunt.
A boat is required to be on site, “at the ready” for use in retrieving or rescue, as necessary.
To participate in the lottery drawings or call-ins, hunters must present a valid NYS Small Game Hunting license with a signed duck stamp, proof of registration in the Harvest Information Program (HIP), and proof of completion of a Waterfowl ID course. Call 745-7273 for more information.
St. Stephen Fish Fry - Feb. 2009
The St. Stephen Lenten fish fry begins February 27th and will run each Friday through April 3rd. Dinners are served from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. with early bird admission for seniors beginning at 4:30 p.m. Dinners include fried or broiled haddock, shrimp, scallops, french fries, and homemade potato salad and desserts. Discount dinners for seniors. Take out menu available from 4:30pm to 7:00pm by calling 773-4347.
Due to the participation of so many dedicated and enthusiastic workers (consisting mainly of the school's parents, but this also includes the current 8th grade class, relatives, parishioners, and past students), the St. Stephen's fish fry is a greatly anticipated community event as well as a way to raise money for the school. Anyone who may need hours for a service project or just iinterested in helping out, please call Rosanne Panzica at 773-2578.
Winter 2009 Provides Fun Times - Winter 2009
Lisa Fletcher photos -
Click photos for larger view
The left photo is of John Fletcher, 6, and Sara Fletcher, 3 who helped build the snowman on Love Road Saturday, February 7. Sadly, the snowman has lost a lot of weight since then, plus his nose, buttons, etc.!! The Fletcher children also had a good time on the Beaver Island sledding Hill. Be sure to click the photos for a good view.
Auto Fix Taken Down - Winter 2009
Jodi Robinson photo -
Click for larger view
Terry Mesmer's Auto Fix at 2320 Grand Island Blvd. was demolished Monday, February 9th. He will be moving his auto repair shop to 2038 Grand Island Blvd.
Choking Incident Leads To Jail Time - Feb. 2009
See 2/10/09 Buffalo News for story.
One Island, One Team, One Dream, To Be Drug Free Meeting - February 2009
One Island, One Team, One Dream, To Be Drug Free will meet Tuesday, February 10 at 4 p.m. in the Grand Island High School small cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road.
Resident Charged With Burglary - Feb. 2009
See 2/4/09 Buffalo News for story.
Safe Boating Course - Feb. 2009
Flotilla 3-5 - US Coast Guard Auxiliary announces a safe boating course on February 22 from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Gander Mountain, Coltin and Young Streets.
Six More Weeks Of Winter Weather Predicted On Ground Hog Day - Feb. 2009
Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow on Monday, February 2, 2009. The groundhog and thousands of Groundhog Day celebrators were out Monday morning in freezing temperatures at Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney which is about 65 miles northeast of Pittsburgh, PA.
Rosie Book Drive Overwhelming Success - Winter 2009
Community members responded to book drive. Shown right are Barbara Benz (kneeling) and Dan Stinson and Rosanna Russell.
Click photos for larger view
Live Laugh Love Ministries would like to first say “Thank You” to the residents of Grand Island for their overwhelmingly great response to the ‘Everything’s Comin’ up Rosie’ book drive in December 2008. The book drive, through the inspiration of Rosanna Russell, brought in over six hundred books for the Roswell Park Cancer Institute’s pediatric wing, demonstrating what an awesome community we live in.
In addition to the generosity of those who donated books, we had about ten adults and twenty five young people come out on December 20th for the book sorting, stickering and packing event.
On Monday, January 26th, Rosanna and Pastor Dan Stinson delivered the first load of books to Roswell and set up a book “corner” area where kids will be brought regularly to pick out books for themselves to read and take home when discharged. Books will be replenished as needed with the incredible overstock we raised. We would also like to thank Barbara Benz at Roswell for helping to make this event a great success. We look forward to organizing similar events like this that give back to the community.
Patient Extricated From Baseline MVA - Feb. 2009
Grand Island Fire Company personnel under the direction of Fire Chief Greg Butcher extricated the driver of a one-car accident on Baseline at Bedell roads at shortly before 10 p.m. Monday, February 2, 2009. The Erie County Sheriff's Department was also on location. The victim was treated and transported to the Erie County Medical Center. The GIFC was back in service at 10:21 p.m. Additional information may be added as it becomes available.
Thruway MVA Sends Three to Hospital - Feb. 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a report of a roll-over, motor vehicle accident on the north bound lane of the New York State Thruway (190) at 10 a.m. Sunday, February 1, 2009. Three patients including an eight-year-old child were assessed and treated with one being extricated. All were transported to local hospitals by ambulance. The accident near Staley Road involved two vehicles. Additional information will be added as it becomes available.
Winterfest Sunday, February 8, 2009
A Winterfest of major proportions is taking place at Chestnut Ridge Park from 1-4 p.m. Sunday, February 8, 2009. See Winterfest for complete information.
Safe Boating Course - Jan. 2009
Niagara Sail and Power Squadron Public Safety Boating Course, Grand Island High School Community Education Program, an eight-hour New York State Certified course taught 7-9
p. m., beginning Monday, January 26th. Call 733-2140 or 434-2235.
Resident Faces Charges - Jan. 2009
See 1/23/09 Buffalo News for story.
Niagara River Greenway Commission News - Winter 2009
The Niagara River Greenway Commission is pleased to announce the vote on project consistency as determined by the Commission for the seventh round of projects submitted to the Greenway Commission.
Projects were submitted on November 18, 2008 and the votes were taken today during the regular scheduled meeting of the Commission. The subjective evaluation of projects was based on the principals, goals and criteria that define the Niagara River Greenway Plan. The following project sponsors and respective projects were determined consistent:
• NFTA - Outer Harbor Bell Slip Stabilization Project
• Tuscarora Nation - Ecological Enhancement, Wetland Restoration
• Niagara 10-Boundary Waters Treaty Centennial Celebration
• SUNY Research Foundation - Information for Successful Management
• City of Niagara Falls - Gill Creek Park Lighting
These determinations will now be sent to the appropriate standing committees where funding will be allocated.
The eighth round of project determinations will be made on March 17, 2009. Those projects will be on the website Tuesday, January 27, 2009. Public comment on those projects will be accepted until February 28, 2009 and may be submitted at the website, www.niagaragreenway.org or by mail to Niagara River Greenway, 2136 West Oakfield Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. All projects and submission dates for future determinations are also available on the website.
To review the approved Niagara Greenway Plan and GEIS or to learn more information about the Commission log on to www.niagaragreenway.org . The Niagara River Greenway Commission is a public benefit corporation established by Chapter 460 of the laws of 2004, and charged with the planning and development of a greenway of interconnected parks, river access points and waterfront trails along the Niagara River from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario at the site of the historic Fort Niagara.
State Parks Lifeguard Tests - Winter 2009
The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced that the 2009 lifeguard exams for the Niagara Region of state parks have been scheduled.
Testing, which is required for anyone wishing to work as a lifeguard at any New York State Park, will take place at Niagara University, Lewiston, NY 14109 on the following days:
• Saturday, March 14, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.
• Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.
• Saturday, May 30, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.
• Saturday, June 13, 2009 at 9:00 a.m.
Candidates may register for testing by calling the Niagara Region Administrative Headquarters at (716) 531-0497. For specific information regarding the test, please visit www.nysparks.com and once in the site, click on the “Inside Our Agency” button.
Prior to employment, successful candidates must be at least 16 years of age and must furnish proof of completion of CPR for the Professional and completion of the American Red Cross 1994 Revised Lifeguard Training, which includes First-Aid, with a certificate for the Waterfront Module or equivalent courses. Successful candidates will also need a physician's certification of adequate physical fitness including a minimum of 20/40 uncorrected vision after receiving a conditional job offer.
Lifeguard positions in the Niagara Region will be available at Beaver Island, Evangola, Fort Niagara, Wilson-Tuscarora and Woodlawn Beach State Parks.
For further information and to register for the test, call (716) 531-0497 weekdays between 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m..
Wine Tasting Party To Benefit Dollars For Scholars - Feb. 2009
“Grand Island Dollars for Scholars” will host a Wine Tasting Party as a fundraiser for the organization from 7-10 p.m. Saturday, February 7th in the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1841 Whitehaven Road. All proceeds will go directly to Grand Island students in the form of "Dollars for Scholars” scholarships.
A donation (tax-deductible) of $25 per person and $40 per couple will include wine/champagne/food and music and the evening will feature over 25 wines and champagnes from around the world. Tickets may be purchased at
Aceti's Wine & Spirits or at the Chamber of Commerce office. Tickets may also be reserved by calling the Chamber office, 773-3671 with your credit card. There will be limited tickets available at the door and those attending this event must be at least 21 years old.
Island Mail Delivery Adjustments - Jan. 2009
See 1/14/09 Niagara Gazette to read about mail delivery route adjustments on Grand Island and elsewhere.
Re-Decking Island Bridge Is Meeting Topic - Jan. 2009
Brian Rusk, assistant Public Information Officer, Buffalo Division, NYS Thruway Authority, will hold a public meeting to discuss the re-decking project of the Northbound South Grand Island Bridge. The meeting will be held in the Grand Island Town Hall Court Room at 3 p.m. on Monday, February 2.
NYS Parks Winter Events - Jan. 2009
The following New York State Parks events are scheduled on Grand Island.
February 28, Saturday
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Birding on the River
Beaver Island and Buckhorn Island State Parks
Join us as we search for migratory waterfowl and other wintering birds found along the shores of the Niagara River. We will visit a few of the many viewing areas you will find in our state parks on Grand Island. For information and registration call (716) 282-5154.
March 21, Saturday
10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Empty Nesters
Buckhorn Island State Park
Can we guess who left this empty nest and was it a success? Ask the flock. Did they consult with Dr. Spock or use an internal clock to give their young an edge so the chicks could fledge? Join us for a bird nest discovery walk. For information and registration call (716) 826-8895.
See Complete List of Parks Events.
Niagara River Greenway Commission Executive Meeting - Jan. 2009
The Niagara River Greenway Commission will hold an Executive Committee meeting 2 p.m. Tuesday, January 20 at the Park Office and a general meeting 3 p.m. Tuesday, January 20 at the Clubhoue at Beaver Island State Park. See Meeting Information.
Eight-Week CERT Training Course - 2009
A CERT (Community Emergency Response Team) 8-week training course, a free community preparedness course will begin on Monday, January 19, 2009. The class will meet at the Town of Tonawanda Fire Training Facility, 70 Fire Tower Drive. Participants should plan to attend all sessions. There is no charge for this training.
CERT Training prepares you to help yourself, your family, and your neighbors in the event of a catastrophic disaster. Emergency personnel may not be able to help everyone immediately and you can make a difference by using CERT Training to save lives and protect property.
For more information or to enroll contact:
Heather Johnson, Town of Tonawanda CERT, 716-879-6606 or hjohnson@tonawanda,ny.us
or
Nancy Brennan Blundell, Executive Director, Border Community SERVICE of Niagara University at 716-286-8304 or e-mail nbb@niagara.edu
or
go to www.niagara.edu/bordercommunityservice for online registration and/or to view a CERT briefing.
Resident Arrested Following New Year's Eve Party - Jan. 2009
A Hennepin Road resident has been arrested after a parent of a minor who attended a New Year's Eve party at the Hennepin Road residence contacted the Erie County Sheriff's Department on January 1, 2009. see
"Arrest 1/1/09" for Buffalo News story.
State DOT Holds Meeting For Reconstruction at GI Blvd/Staley Road - Jan. 2009
The New York State Dept. of Transportation will hold a public information meeting for the proposed intersection reconstruction project on NY Route 324 (Grand Island Blvd.) at Staley Road. For more information on this open forum format meeting in Grand Island Town Hall on Tuesday, January 27 from 4-8 p.m., see
"NYSDOT Meeting 1/27/09."
Three Separate Accidents On South Bridge - New Year's Day 2009
The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a report of a four-car motor vehicle accident at the top of the south bridge, south bound, at 8:19 a.m. Thursday, January 1, 2009. Assistant Fire Chief Kevin Koch, on location, reported three separate accidents with one at the base of the bridge, a four-car accident half way up the bridge, and the third, a six-car accident at the top of the bridge. GIFC volunteers extricated one patient involved in the four-car accident who was transported by ambulance to the Erie County Medical Center. There were 11 vehicles involved in the three accidents and a total of 15 sign-offs. The GIFC returned in service at 9:34 a.m. Details may be added to this article as they become available.
Previous to the bridge accidents, the Grand Island Fire Company responded to a request for mutual aid for a fire in the City of Tonawanda at 7:05 a.m. Thursday, January 1, 2009. The house fire, located on Stark Avenue, took the life of a female in her 20's.
Island firefighters stood by in the City of Tonawanda Fire Headquarters, responding to an EMS call on Main Street for a patient having difficulty breathing. The Grand Island Fire Company returned in service from the City of Tonawanda at 10:13 a.m.
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