Town Council Leads Boulevard Cleanup - 2005

Click photo for larger view.
   The Grand Island Boulevard cleanup took place during the morning of Saturday, June 18, 2005 when the following volunteers came out at 9 a.m. to clean up Grand Island Blvd. in time for the Independence Day festivities taking place on the 4th: (front left) Mike Dudley (behind), Joe Donlon, Councilmembers Gary Roesch, Mary Cooke and Dan Robillard; (back) Jane Cooke, Chelsea Robillard, Shannon Robillard and James Cooke. Missing from the photo are Paul Leuchner and Rochelle Smith.




Alex's Lemonade Stand Raises $1175 - To Be At KidBiz - 2005
   Alex's Lemonade Stand was an overwhelming success raising $1175 with $85.00 in matching funds for a total of $1260.
   "It was a wonderfully hot day on which to drink lots of nice cold lemonade," Diana Nobumoto, a parent of the children said this week. "The girls enjoyed themselves and were overwhelmed by the response. We are going to be at Kid Biz ( weather permitting) on July 2 to hopefully boost our donation just a bit more," she said.
   The girls and their parents would like to put out a big thank you to all the people who helped make the stand such a huge success. Everyone's support was truly in the spirit of Grand Island!!




Burger King Employee Robbed At Gunpoint - 2005
   According to the Erie County Sheriff's Department an investigation is taking place regarding the armed robbery late Friday, June 17, 2005 in the Burger King Restaurant, Grand Island Boulevard. As the manager was closing around 11:05 p.m. two men in bandannas confronted her, one displaying a silver handgun. The pair forced the manager into an office where she complied with their request to hand over cash in a safe. Two other unnamed Burger King employees were forced to lay down on the floor during the robbery. The Sheriff's Department requests that anyone with information call the investigators, 662-5554.




Lt. Col. Crowe - May He Rest In Peace - June 2005

Two Grand Island Fire Company aerial ladder trucks held the American Flag over Baseline Road in front of St. Stephen's Catholic Church. Jodi Robinson Photo
   Family and friends literally packed the Kaiser Funeral Home Wednesday, June 15th with a continuous long line outside the building, and many more attended a Mass of Christian Burial celebrated today (June 16, 2005) at 10 a.m. in St. Stephen's Church. Lt. Col. Crowe was buried in St. Stephen's Cemetery. Memorials may be made to The LTC Terrence K. Crowe Memorial Scholarship Fund, N.U. Office of Advancement Services, PO Box 2008, Niagara University, NY 14109 or Canisius College, Alumni Advancement-Annual Giving, 2001 Main St., Buffalo, NY 14208.




Lt. Col. Crowe - Career History - 2005
   Click for Terry Crowe Career History. See also Lt. Col. Terrence Crowe Death Notice





Service Held In Vets Park In Memory Of Lt. Col. Crowe - 2005
 
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click photos for larger view
   Friends and family of Lt. Col. Terry Crowe, as well as representatives of the American Legion, the VFW and the DAV gathered at Vets Park Monday evening, June 13, 2005 to pay tribute to the fallen soldier, killed June 7 in Iraq. Rev. Paul Nogaro from St Stephen's Church gave the invocation. Colors were presented by the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249 Color Guard.
   VFW Commander Daniel McMahon gave the welcoming remarks and made the presentation of a plaque. The VFW Commander offered the following words:
   What began as a small living memorial to Lt Col. Terrance K. Crowe, today, has grown into a Grand Island Community living memorial grove. Immediately, upon learning of the death of Terry, a group of family friends wanted to do something special for this hero. The intention was to plant a tree in his memory. Their idea, however, spread across Grand Island as fast as anything I have seen in a very long time. Other individuals, families and community organizations wanted to do their part to provide a living memorial to honor a Son, a Father, a Brother, a Cousin, a Friend, an Educator and Military Leader, Lt. Col Terrance K. Crowe. Today, not one but 10 trees will be dedicated in Terry’s memory. Not only will this grove be remembered as a living memorial to Terry by everyone here this evening, but also by the hundreds of people who will walk through Veterans Park each and every day. To Jeremiah and Clara, I know of no better way or location, to honor your father, a hero and veteran, than here in Veterans Park with this grove of trees. These trees will serve as a life time memorial to honor your father, Lt. Col. Terrance K. Crowe."
   Trees were donated by Friends of the White Family, Huth Road School, Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post 9249, Grand Island Disabled Americans Chapter #168, Grand Island American Legion Post 1346, Grand Island Court, Grand Island Town Hall Employees, Fieldstone Neighbors and Relay for Life.
   Benediction was given by Father Paul Nogaro.




NU Scholarship To Honor Lt. Col. Crowe - 2005

   A scholarship fund has been set up by Niagara University in honor alumnus Lt. Col. Terrence K. Crowe, who lost his life in Iraq June 7, 2005. Terry, 44, who was a Grand Island resident. Click NU Scholarship for complete story.




Violent Thunder Storm Leaves Residents Without Power, Phones - 2005
   Friday, June 10, 2005 . . .A series of violent thunder storms across Western New York in the early hours of Friday morning, June 10, 2005, dropped more than three inches of rain accompanied by high winds. The storm left many Island residents without power or phone service. The Grand Island High School and Veronica E. Connor Middle School were closed due to the power outage. The elementary schools were in session Friday.
   The weather bureau reported over 25,000 lightening strikes in the WNY area.
   The power at Grand Island High School is expected to be back in service by noon on Friday, June 10, 2005. The Relay For Life scheduled for 6 p.m. this evening will take place as planned.




Residents Saddened by News Of Islander Killed In Iraq - 2005
   Wednesday, June 8, 2005 . . .Devastating news circulated throughout the Island today as residents began to hear of the death of a Grand Island, NY resident in Iraq. Lieutenant Colonel Terrence Crowe was killed on Tuesday, June 7, 2005. Click for WGRZ News Story - 6-8-05 and Buffalo News Story - 6-9-05.




Supervisor Announces Boulevard Sweep - Everyone Invited - 2005
   The annual Boulevard Sweep to clean up Grand Island Blvd. in time for the town's Independence Day parade has been announced by Supervisor Peter McMahon and will be held at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 18, 2005. Those interested in helping with the "Sweep" should meet at the Town Hall parking lot. Pizza and soft drinks will be provided for participants




Fund Raiser For Rus Thompson - 2005

   A Fund raiser for Rus Thompson - "Invitation To A Party" - will be held from 5-9 p.m. Tuesday, June 14, 2005 at the Eldredge Club, 17 Broad Street in the City of Tonawanda (across from Walgreens). A donation of $20 per person includes Hors d’oeuvres, raffles, rally and fun. An Island resident, Rus intends to run for the Erie County Legislature, 10th district, serving Grand Island, NY. Http://www.RusThompson.com




Tree Trimming Around Town, DeGlopper Park - 2005
   
Before and after pictures of Pin Oak with trimming crew.
Photos and Story by Jodi Robinson - Click photos for larger view
   Lewis Tree Service Inc. of Rochester, headed by Keith Stegner, is in town as a contractor for Niagara Mohawk and volunteered to trim the very large Pin Oak and Maple limbs from power lines along the streets of Grand Island and (shown) at Charles DeGlopper Memorial Park at the center of town. Shown above is Highway Superintendent Ray Dlugokinski and Recreation Department Director Linda Tufillaro with the crew of tree trimmers. Thanks to Lewis Tree Service.




Fire Company Responds To Memorial Day Blaze - 2005
   The Grand Island Fire Company received a call from a Schwegler Road resident at 2:31 p.m. Monday, May 30, 2005, reporting an unknown type of fire in the area of 1316 Glen Avon Road. Fire Company units on the scene extinguised the fire after it was determined that a house trailer with multiple materials was burning behind a building. Fire Company volunteers had the fire out and were back in service at 2:56 p.m.




Invitrogen Retraction - 2005
   A reported incident on Friday, May 27, 2005 of a hazardous situation at 3175 Staley Road was misinformation. The original address given to the Grand Island Fire Company, that of Invitrogen, was erroneous. Isledegrande.com regrets the error.




Alex's Lemonade Stand for Childhood Cancer - 2005
   Alex's Lemonade Stand for Childhood Cancer is a unique foundation that has evolved from a young cancer patient's front yard lemonade stand to a nationwide fundraising movement for childhood cancer. Alexandra Scott was diagnosed with neuroblastoma, a type of childhood cancer, just two days before her first birthday. In the year 2000, when Alex was just four years old, she told her parents she wanted to have a lemonade stand in her front yard. Her plan was to donate the money to "her hospital" to help find a cure.
   Alex's simple idea of a lemonade stand as a venue for raising funds for a cause - the simple concept of "fighting cancer, one cup at a time" - has allowed people who would not usually participate in fundraising, especially children, to organize and raise money for childhood cancer.
   To date, Alex's Lemonade Stand has donated over $1 million to support childhood cancer research. Alex bravely lost her battle in August 2004 at age 8, but before she passed away, she had already set a goal of $5 million in 2005, the fifth year of her stand.
   Thousands of volunteers across the United States will honor the memory of a young hero during the June 10-12, 2005 weekend, by hosting Alex's Lemonade Stands in their communities, in an effort to reach Alex's goal of $5 million for childhood cancer in 2005.
   In this area, Alex's Lemonade Stand will be hosted by a group of spirited 4th grade girls from Huth Road Elementary School who feel this is a wonderful cause. It will take place from noon to 4 p.m. on June 11, 2005 at the Grand Island Plaza in front of Maria's Hallmark, Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island. Please come out and help them realize Alex's dream. For further information contact Diana Nobumoto, 773-6259 or visit Alex's website at www.alexslemonade.com




Teacher Aide Placed On Administrative Leave - 2005
   Parents' claims that a Connor Middle School teacher's aide may have had inappropriate contact with a child at the school is being investigated by the Erie County Sheriff's Department.
   Click "News Story 5/25/05".




BBQ To Benefit Zachary R. Zarbo Memorial Scholarship Fund - 2005

   A chicken barbeque fund raiser to benefit the Zachary R. Zarbo Memorial Scholarship Fund will be held from 4-8 p.m. Friday, June 24, 2005 at the Knights of Columbus, 1841 Whitehaven Road. Advance ticket purchases of $10 each can be arranged by calling 773-9150. Tickets at the door sell for $11.
   A Grand Island High School junior, Zachary was described by the school's Principal James Dempsey as "a first-class individual who was well-liked and well-respected by students, faculty and staff." Scholarship monies provide funding of $500 for each of two scholarships to be presented annually; to a student accepted by the New York State Summer School of Choral Studies and to a student interested in drama with plans to continue studies in college. Zachary died unexpectedly at home of an undetectable heart condition in October 2004.



Local, Organic Produce for Grand Islanders - 2005
   Perhaps you saw the article in the Buffalo News about community-supported agriculture programs (CSA’s) in the local area. Or maybe you read about them in the latest Better Homes and Gardens. If you have wondered what is available to Grand Islanders in the way of locally grown organic foods, I’d like to make you aware of our Grand Island Porter Farms (GIPF) program.
   Every Saturday morning, generally from late June to late November (22 weeks at least), someone from the GI Porter Farms Group goes to the farm near Batavia and picks up the freshly bagged veggies for all GIPF members and delivers them to the back deck of a house on Whitehaven, where other members pick up their bags during the afternoon. Each bag contains a variety of what is ripe that week—so the early part of the season brings assorted lettuces, peas, and spinach and later harvests supply a variety of squash, tomatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, green beans, kale, leeks, onions, and peppers (green & hot), abundant throughout the late summer. Watermelon and cantaloupe are always popular. Each year the plantings are a little different; the Porter Farm folks ask for evaluations & preferences each year, too.
   A Share costs $270 (about $12.25/week) for 22 weeks. Half-orders are available as a full-bag every other week; two people can also split a Share. Organic meat is also available through separate Porter Farms arrangements. A newsletter with information and recipes accompanies each bag, and there are often Harvest Family Events at the farm where people of all ages can get closer to the source of food & people who grow & harvest it.
   If you would like more information, please contact June Licence (jlicence@buffalo.edu), (773-1426), or Suzanne Thomas (773-6369). Or contact Porter Farms directly: www.porterfarms.org, csa@porterfarms.org, or Porter Farms, PO Box 416, Elba, NY 14058-0416.
June Licence, Coordinator
GI Porter Farms
773-1426




Iannello Receives Independence Endorsement For County Legislator, 10th District
Legislature Candidate Receives Key Support in Race for 10th District Seat - 2005
   Michele Iannello, the endorsed Democratic Candidate for the Erie County Legislature’s 10th District, has received the endorsement of the Erie County Independence Party in her quest to succeed Chuck Swanick in the Erie County Legislature.
   Iannello, a Kenmore Village Trustee and paralegal, was backed by the Independence Party’s executive committee in a recent meeting. The endorsement is a major development in the race for the Erie County Legislature and gives Iannello strong support in the campaign.
   “I am gratified to receive the endorsement of the Erie County Independence Party and look forward to running on the Independence line this fall," she said. "My message of change, reform and independence is shared by the Independence Party and its members as we work together to bring fiscal stability and reform to Erie County government,” she said.
   “As I walk door-to-door throughout Tonawanda, Kenmore and Grand Island, I am already hearing residents who are seeking independent leadership and change in county government. I will be an independent voice in the Legislature for reform and fiscal discipline,” added Iannello.
   The 10th Legislature District includes part of the Town of Tonawanda, as well as the Village of Kenmore, City of Tonawanda, and Town of Grand Island.




District Art Show - 2005
 
Photos and Story by Jodi Robinson - Click photos for larger view
   The Grand Island School District Art Show entitled "Pop & Op Art" was presented on the evening of Monday, May 16, 2005. Sidway School students, under the direction of art teacher Theresa Barnack, presented op art cityscapes, artist Jasper Johns' style of numbers & letters, Keith Haring's style of pop art patterns. The kindergartners created "100 Soup Cans" in the style of Andy Warhol.
   Art teacher Alex Incao of Kaegebein had collages made by the third grade students of "product" boxes such as cereal boxes. Kaegebein was into hearts and flowers this year with clay hearts painted in metallic, heart tiles painted in pastels, Andy Warhol flowers and pop flowers to name a few. Huth Road students and art teacher Peter Sloan had two different versions of Andy Warhol's "100 Soup Cans along with a very large "Sponge Bob" holding a paint brush. Over 50 students from Huth Road had their individual art work shown.
    Students of Nora Klein and Andrew Dulak at Veronica Connor Middle School displayed pop prints, self portraits and different types of candy made from clay. The high school was represented by art students of Mark Tollner, Cindy Wynne, Megan Gaiek and Kristen Davide. Enormous soft sculptures of everyday products were hanging from the ceilings, Lichtenstein-style paintings and pop-style, popular artworks were also displayed.
The many people who voted on Tuesday, May 17th had the opportunity to view the show while waiting in line. It certainly was a nice way to pass the time.




Concerts Prove Island Musicians Are The Best - 2005
   The school district's annual Spring String Kaleidoscope Concert was held in the high school auditorium Monday evening, May 16, 2005. String students from Huth Road and Kaegebein Elementary under the direction of Mrs. Kelly Robertson, started off the program with a small group of violinists performing "Swallow Tail Jig," a difficult piece for elementary musicians.
   Miss Debra Remson directed the Connor Middle School String Orchestra, winner of a Gold at the recent NYSSMA Performance Evaluations. The students gave an outstanding performance of four selections ending with a purely delightful "Singing in the Rain."
   The Senior High School String Orchestra, also directed by Debra Remson gave a superb performance. Lindsay Henderson played a difficult solo with ease during "Romance In F" by Beethoven. Soloist Vida Rostami was equally as good in the last piece, "A Gaelic Overture" by David O'Fallon.
   The Connor Middle School spring concert featuring five band and orchestra groups was presented on Tuesday, May 17, 2005.
   The Veronica Connor Middle School 6th Grade Jazz Ensemble, directed by Mr. Alex Hughes, gave a great overall performance with accolades to the percussion section, strong and steady throughout. Deceiving is the size of these musicians and the talent they displayed.
   The large 6th grade band, also under the direction of Alex Hughes, played well. The band's presentation of "Asheville Overture" by A. McGinty showed good balance of the various instrumental sections.
   The very serious Connor Middle School Orchestra members gave a repeat performance of the previous evening, for an appreciative audience.
   Next on the program was Mr. Clarke Elliott's fabulous 7th/8th grade jazz ensemble, playing "Bringin' It On" and "Make Me Smile," the later receiving applause that went on forever.
   Clarke Elliott, recently presented with the "Outstanding Band Director Award" at the NYSBDA Symposium, led the combined 7/8th grade concert and Viking bands in three numbers. The musicians certainly proved why they received a Gold with Distinction at the recent NYSSMA Performance Evaluations.
   Parents of younger school district students are invited to an informational parent night for beginning instrumentalists at 7:30 p.m. Monday, May 23, 2005 in the high school, 1100 Ransom Road.

NYSSMA Performance Evaluations By Grand Island’s Music Ensembles - 2005

Click photos for larger view
(Left) Grand Island High School Wind Ensemble and Huth Road Elementary Concert Band, both under the direction of Sherm Lyke.
   Choir, band and orchestra students from grades 5-12 recently participated in Evaluation Festival Performances with the New York State School Music Association. At these festivals, adjudication teams listen to prepared selections taken from the New York State Music Association Reference Manual, which breaks performance selections into grade levels, based on level of difficulty, with grade one being the most accessible and level six including the most difficult selections published.
   Evaluations are made via a combination of tape recorded comments, written evaluation, and an oral review by one of the adjudicators at the completion of the performance, while the students remain on stage. Evaluations range from a Festival Award, to Bronze, Silver and Gold. At the very top end of the scale, adjudicators may award the Gold evaluation “with Distinction.” This is only offered to a performance that not only demonstrates an ensemble which clearly shows the outstanding training and abilities which merit a Gold award, but whose performance has put it into an elite category that would have to be considered “rare.”
   The following are the results of performances by ensembles from Grand Island:
• Huth Road Elementary School Band (Allan Ripley): Level 1 - Gold Award
• Connor Middle School 7th Grade Chorus (Annalea Masiello): Level 2 - Gold Award
• Connor Middle School Singcopations (Annalea Masiello): Level 3 - Gold Award
• Connor Middle School String Orchestra (Debra Remson): Level 3 - Gold Award
• Connor Middle School 7th/8th Grade Band (Clarke Elliott) Level 3 - Gold with Distinction
• Grand Island High School Choir (Carolyn Lokken): Level 4 - Silver Award
• Grand Island High School Concert Band (Marty Allen): Level 5 - Gold with Distinction
• Grand Island High School String Orchestra (Debra Remson): Level 6 - Silver Award
• Grand Island High School Concert Choir (Carolyn Lokken): Level 6 - Gold with Distinction
• Grand Island High School Wind Ensemble (Marty Allen): Level 6 - Gold with Distinction
   “To give you an idea of how selectively these awards are given, on the day of our Huth Road Band’s performance and our Connor Middle School String Orchestra’s performance, only one other gold award was given, and none were given with distinction,” stated Sherman E. Lyke, Jr., Music Department Program Coordinator. The Grand Island School District congratulates these dedicated students and their gifted teachers.
High School's 70-Voice Choir - 80-Voice Concert Choir
Carolyn G. Lokken, conducting
The Grand Island High School 70-voiced Choir participated at a Level 4 and received a Silver rating. They performed Inscription of Hope by Z. Randall Stroope, Beautiful Dreamer arranged by Michael Larkin and Festival Sanctus by John Leavitt. The 80 singers of Concert Choir performed at a Level 6 and received a Gold with Distinction rating. The Concert Choir performed O Magnum Mysterium by Sally Herman, I Love My Love by Gustav Holst and a Hebrew Love Song titled Kalla, Kala by Eric Whitacre.
Connor Middle School Singcopations
Annalea J. Masiello, conducting
   The Veronica E. Connor Middle School Singcopations entered NYSSMA at a level three and received a "Gold" rating. The "select chorus" is comprised of 6th, 7th and 8th graders.
   Connor Middle School's 7th grade Chorus entered at a level 2 also received a Gold Award.




Whitehaven Road Neighbors Alert Fire Co. Of Brush Fire - 2005
   The Grand Island Fire Company received multiple phone calls at 9:10 p.m. Wednesday, May 11, 2005 by neighbors reporting a possible large structure fire on Whitehaven Road. Residents in the area of 2389 Whitehaven Road could see the fire which was determined to be a 20' by 20' brush fire. Grand Island Fire Company firefighters, who brought the blaze under control, remained at the scene till nearly 11 p.m. quelling hotspots. The property is owned by Lloyd Glasgow of Bradenton, Florida.




Hortons/Wendy's Scene Of Robbery Arrests - 2005
   A daylight robbery in the early afternoon of Monday, May 9, 2005 at Rubin's Buy & Sell Shop at 1931 Main Street, Niagara Falls ended with the arrest of two men in the Tim Horton’s/Wendy's parking lot on Grand Island Blvd. Detectives from the Niagara Falls Police Department along with New York State Troopers made the arrests which followed a day of chasing down the suspects.
   According the Niagara Gazette, Falls police arrested Steven Thomas Burns and Jarvis “Goodie” Lassalle at gunpoint in the Tim Horton’s/Wendy's parking lot.
   Click "Arrest 5/9/05" for the May 10, 2005 Niagara Gazette story.
   Click "Arrest 5/9/05 Update" for the May 11, 2005 Niagara Gazette story.




Bryan Flynn - School Board Candidate - 2005

   Bryan Flynn, a resident of Grand Island for the past eight and one half years, credits his mother, a former Orchard Park School Board member, for demonstrating the importance of education to him. He is a graduate of Orchard Park High School and received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice from SUNY Plattsburgh in 1994. He also earned a teaching certificate from Daemen College in 1997 and a Masters of Sciences in Special Education from Canisius College in 1999. Bryan has been employed as a high school teacher for the past eight years, currently at John F. Kennedy High School in Cheektowaga, where he teaches Global Studies 9 and is the Varsity Girls' Soccer Coach.
   Married for seven years and formerly a resident of the Southtowns, his first reason for running for the position of School Board Trustee is that he feels that the school district can do a better job of preparing the Island's students for state exams, eventual graduation, and their lives beyond high school.
   "I want to see us spend our money more wisely, while making sure that all classes are available to all students who need them, not just the honors classes that make our school look good publicly," he said this week. "I also believe that new blood and new ideas are important for any publicly run entity. I hope to offer those new ideas, based on research and sound fiscal decision-making. I would also like to see the school leadership more attuned to the feelings of all residents and taxpayers here in our district," he said.
   The school board election and budget vote will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 17, 2005 in the high school gymnasium, 1100 Ransom Road.




Richard J. Little Jr. - School Board Candidate - 2005

   Richard J. Little Jr. is a candidate for Grand Island School District Trustee in the May 17, 2005 election. Voting will take place from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. at the high school gymnasium, 1100 Ransom Road.
   The 32-year-old Sandy Beach Road resident and his wife Sonja are parents of three young children who attend Huth Road Elementary and Sidway schools. He is currently employed by BHNT Architects as a Project Manager and has been in the architectural field since June of 1989.
   Richard earned an Associates In Applied Science, and Architectural Technology in 1995 and attended Millard Fillmore College Continuing Education (State University of N.Y. at Buffalo) from 1992-1995.
   He attended an Erie County Association of School Boards (ECASB) workshop for prospective school board members give in March of this year and has been attending school board meetings where he has asked questions and given an opinion on issues.
   Richard, who has served as a Grand Island Little League coach for T-Ball, baseball, soft ball and soccer for the past 4+ years, lists the following reasons for becoming a candidate:
• Class sizes, Grand Island is a growing community
• Testing standards and data retrieval
      To what extent do we test and gather data before it has a negative impact on education and development of our children
• Ongoing capital project and facility maintenance
• Increasing state and federal mandates
• Rising cost and the impact on the Grand Island Taxpayer



Myrna F. Blair - School Board Candidate - 2005

   Myrna F. Blair, a Grand Island School Board trustee from 1996 to 2004, will run for one of two seats on the Board.
   A 40-year resident of Grand Island and mother of three Grand Island High School graduates, she is employed as an accountant with Christine A. Learman, CPA, PC. She has also taught high school mathematics.
   Born and raised in the City of Tonawanda, Mrs. Blair is a Canisius College graduate with a Masters in Education. She also received a BS in Business Administration and Accounting from the University of Buffalo.
   Founder and president of the Grand Island Foundation, she created the organization as a way of raising money for non-mandated school activities and material needs.
   She has taken an active part in her community through membership in the leadership Council, Grand Island Connections, American Cancer Society Relay For Life, PTA and numerous school board associations, conventions and forums.
   When asked why she is interested in running for the Board of Education, Mrs. Blair replied, "The most important responsibility of being a board member is to act as the primary advocate for children and the public. I have a true love of children, take great pride in their accomplishments, and am in awe when they fulfill their potential. As a board member, I always tried to balance this love with the responsibility to the taxpayers of the community to put their resources to the optimum use."
   The budget vote and school board election will be held from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday, May 17, 2005 in the high school gym.

---

Cat Rescued From Tree After Four-Day Stay - 2005

Mark Landroche is shown rescuing the cat. Animal Control Officer Greg Butcher is shown with him.
Jodi Robinson Photo - Click photo for larger view.
   A half-grown kitten that made its way to the top of a large tree on Ward Park and refused to come down by itself for four days, was rescued Monday afternoon, May 9, 2005. Mark Landroche of Mark's Island Tree Service took on the job of climbing up the tree and capturing the cat. Responding to a concerned neighbor's request to bring down the family pet, Animal Control Officer Greg Butcher was at the scene and transported the kitten named Tiger, to a veterinarian after the rescue. Supervisor Peter McMahon donated $50 to the collection that neighbors took up to pay for the tree service.




East River Road Resident Involved In Identity Theft Scheme - State Supreme Court Case - 2005
   Eight area residents pled guilty on Thursday, May 5, 2005 to a computer-based credit card and identify theft scheme. The scheme netted them about $450,000 over a two-year period. Click Identity Theft for Buffalo News story.




School Concerts - 2005
Huth Road Elementary Spring Concert - 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 5
Kaegebein School Spring Choral Concert - 1 p.m. Wednesday, May 11
Kaegebein School Spring Choral Concert - 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 11
Connor Middle School Spring Vocal Concert - 7:30 p.m. Thursday, May 12
District String Kaleidoscope Concert - 7 p.m. Monday, May 16
Connor Middle School Spring Instrumental Concert - 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 17
High School Band Spring Concert - 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, June 1




Iannello Announces Democratic Candidacy For County Legislator, 10th District
Statement By Iannello On Announcement by Legislator Charles Swanick - 2005
   The following is a statement submitted to the press Thursday, May 5, 2005 by Democratic candidate for 10th District, Erie County Legislature Michele Iannello.
   I join the residents of the 10th District from Kenmore, Tonawanda and Grand Island in thanking Legislator Charles Swanick for his 25 years of public service to the County, and in wishing him and his family happiness and satisfaction in his future endeavors.
   Legislator Swanick’s announcement that he will not run for re-election this year opens up the campaign to fresh, new ideas.
   If the residents of our County have made one message clear during the budget process and during the past few months, it has been their desire for change, openness, and responsibility in County government. We need to restore public confidence in and fiscal stability to Erie County.
   This campaign has been and should continue to be about finding new and responsible ways to address the many concerns of residents in the 10th District and Erie County in a fiscally sound and accountable manner. New faces, new approaches and new ideas are necessary to help guide Erie County through its current budget crisis and into a stronger future for our children and families.
   Michele Iannello, a paralegal, is a Democratic Trustee in the Village of Kenmore. She is the Democratic Candidate for the Erie County Legislature’s 10th District which includes Kenmore, Tonawanda, City of Tonawanda, and Grand Island. Grand Island Supervisor Peter McMahon introduced the Erie County Legislator candidate Wednesday evening, April 27, 2005 at the town hall when she announced that she would be running as a candidate for the Legislature’s 10th Legislative District.




Small Boat Reporting Guidelines For Entering, Leaving U.S. - 2005
   The U. S. Customs and Border Protection, Buffalo Field Office offers the following Small Boat Reporting Guidelines. Boaters, family members and all guests entering the United States must report for inspection. Customs and Border Protection clearance may be obtained in one of three methods listed below:
• Report for inspection to the nearest Port of Entry (POE)
• Utilize a CBP Videophone station located at: Erie Basin Marina (Buffalo), North Tonawanda, Lewiston, Youngstown, Wilson, Point Breeze, Rochester, Sodus Point, Olcott, Oswego, Sackets Harbor, Clayton, Alexandria Bay, Morristown, Ogdensburg, and Waddington.
• Be in possession of a pre-approved Form I-68 or NEXUS member proximity card, and call 1-800-827-2851 to report your arrival
   Please have the following information available:

Name, Date of Birth & Citizenship of Master
Name of Boat and/or Boat Registration Number
U. S. Decal Number (if over 30 feet)
Name, Date of Birth & Citizenship of all Passengers
Home Port and Current Location
   For Canada Border Services Agency information, call 1-888-226-7277
   For other U. S. reporting information call 1-800-827-2851 - www.dbp.gov




Councilman Robillard's Steak Dinner Announced - 2005

   The Committee to Reelect Dan Robillard has announced the "Councilman Robillard's Steak Dinner," a fundraiser for Councilman Robillard's bid for re-election in the November 2005 election.
   The event scheduled from 3-7 p.m. Sunday, May 22, 2005 at the Charles N. DeGlopper VFW Post, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. (across from Tops), will include live music, raffles, Kidzone, and a community cookout. Cost is $20/adult for a complete steak dinner & beverages. Kids may attend free of charge and hotdogs will be available. Music will feature the "About Face" band. The event is being held rain or shine.
   Robillard, endorsed by the Grand Island Republican committee, was first elected in November 2001 to a four-year term on the town board.




South Bridge Repair Update - 2005
   The South Grand Island Bridge Repair Project has been awarded to Piasecki Steel Corporation of Castleton, N.Y. Piasecki Steel was the successful contractor on the recently completed North Grand Island Bridges Steel Repair Project.
   This project will cost approximately $9 Million, and will involve removing and replacing various steel members of both northbound and southbound South Bridges. The work has begun and is scheduled for completion in November of 2006. The majority of the work, most of which will be done below the roadway surface, will be done to the older Southbound Bridge. The contractor will work mainly Monday thru Friday from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. with occasional nighttime lane closures [10 p.m. to 6 a.m.+/-] to bring material to the site.




Mid May To Bring Thruway Toll Hike - 2005
   A Thruway toll increase will go into effect for the first time since 1988. By mid-May most commuters will see increases of around 25% however Island residents can expect to see the current toll-barrier discount staying at 9 cents.
   Click "Thruway Tolls 4/27/05" for Buffalo News story.
   Click "Thruway Tolls 4/28/05" for Buffalo News story.

---

APP Employees Clean Up During Morning Break - 2005

Jodi Robinson Photo - Click photo for larger view.
   April 19, 2005 . . .On a nice day, American Pharmaceutical Partners employees Druscilla Lis and Corinne Law can be found walking to West River and back during their morning break, picking up trash on their way. These ladies are not even from Grand Island but care enough to spend their free time picking up garbage by the roadside. They are part of a growing group called "geocachers." Geocaching is a game based on the use of either an electronic positioning device (GPS), or the use of coordinates and compass to find stashes of miscellaneous objects left by other geocachers in many outdoor locations. The geocachers actively promote the Cache In/Trash Out program – leave it better than you found it. In April of 2003, geocachers celebrated the First International Cache In Trash Out Day. This is now an annual event.
   Geocaching began in May 2000, when GPS satellite signals were opened up to the public. Geocaching gives participants opportunities to see their environment in a new way. The website www.geocaching.com shows 82 caches within a ten mile radius of Grand Island. If you would like some adventure, fresh air and a way to help the environment, check out www.geocaching.com for information.




Power Lines, Pole Down On Baseline - 2005
   The Grand Island Fire Company responded to a call at approximately 3:15 p.m. Friday, April 15, 2005 of power lines and a power pole down across the road in the vicinity of 3363 Baseline Road. Traffic will no doubt be tied up in that area for the rest of the afternoon. The Erie County Sheriff's Department requested the Grand Island Fire Company Fire Police unit to take care of traffic control.
   The Grand Island Fire Company was back in service at 3:58 p.m.




Sheriff's Dept. Makes Narcotics - 2005
   An Arizona man was arrested on narcotics charges after a traffic stop at 8:45 p.m. Thursday, April 14, 2005 on Grand Island Blvd. in the town of Grand Island. Erie County Sheriff's Deputy Warren Luick stopped a vehicle for speeding, and requested the assistance of Deputy Terrence Guenot and his K-9 partner "Rikor." The dog produced a positive hit on the vehicle, and Sean A. Dempsey, 39, was found to be in possession of a quarter of an ounce of powder Cocaine. Dempsey was charges with felony criminal possession of a controlled substance and incarcerated at the Erie County Holding Center pending arraignment.




Artists' Haven News - 2005
   Artists' Haven meets from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Wednesdays at the Nike Base Community Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road. All artists are invited and urged to join and bring their own supplies and ideas. Plenty of space is available and there is no charge. Working artists or beginners are welcome. "We share ideas and inspire each other."
   A one day workshop in" basic drawing" for beginning artists or those interested in practicing their drawing skills is being planned. To register or for more information contact: Bettye Tabron at 774-8050.




Resident Arrested For Felony Traffic Charges- 2005
   April 6, 2005 . . .Erie County Sheriff's Deputy John Davis, responding to a complaint of an erratic driver on Crescent Road, Grand Island at 7:40 p.m. April 5, 2005, stopped a vehicle for an equipment violation. After field sobriety tests were conducted, Tim R. Wigdorski, 42, of Grand Island was arrested for felony driving while intoxicated and other traffic offenses. Wigdorski refused a breath test and is incarcerated at the Erie County Holding Center pending arraignment. The driving while intoxicated charge is a felony due to Wigdorski having a prior D.W.I. conviction (1997).




Ice Cover Delayed Removal of Boom - 2005
   Lake Erie's eastern basin was still covered with 560 square miles of ice as of Tuesday, March 29, 2005 and was measured at 80 square miles Monday, April 4. The Army Corps of Engineers began its two-to-three-day removal operation of the ice boom on Tuesday, April 5, 2005. The ice pack must be 250 square miles or less for the boom removal. Earliest removal was on March 5, 1998 and latest, May 3, 1971.




Woman Repeatedly Run Over By Car - 2005
   A woman was tranported to Kenmore Mercy Hospital about 9 p.m. Wednesday, March 30, 2005 by her 26-year-old boyfriend, who ran away when questioned by hospital personnel about the woman's injuries. The victim, Susan M. Moore of Alan Court, who was conscious when brought in, explained to hospital officials that her boyfriend ran over her several times with his vehicle. Sheriff's deputies set up a manhunt on the Island on Thursday, March 31, 2005 to find Felix A. Medina, of Carolina Street, Buffalo, wanted for the alledged incident. Medina turned himself in to authorities on Thursday, March 31st. The woman was being treated for serious injuries in the Erie County Medical Center.
   Click "Medina" for Buffalo News story.





Albany Passes Final Budget
Hoyt Calls Act "One In A Row" but Good Start - March 2005
   March 31, 2005 . . .Assemblymember Sam Hoyt (D-Buffalo, Grand Island) announced the passage today of the State’s first on-time budget in more than 20 years.
   "Today we passed an on-time budget that is fiscally sound and invests in New York’s future, and we have set an important benchmark to accomplish many more significant reform initiatives as we continue this year’s legislative session," Hoyt said. "Although this budget represents significant progress, there is still much work to be done. Even though today’s budget can be said to be “one in a row” I believe that it will be the catalyst for many more reforms to come.”
   Among the highlights of the budget are a cap on Medicaid expenses and an increase in school aid. The budget provides significant relief to local taxpayers through a takeover of local Medicaid growth, and moves forward by several months the state takeover date for Family Health Plus expenses. These changes will save Erie County nearly $25 million dollars in 2006, and $57 million dollars in 2007.
   “The Medicaid cap is a great starting point for comprehensive Medicaid reform and one aspect of what must be a multi-faceted approach. It will lend much needed stability and predictability to the County budget as we go forward and I remain committed to finding viable long-term solutions to reducing Medicaid’s impact on local government and taxpayers,” Hoyt said.
   Also included in the budget are significant increases over the Governor’s budget proposal for school aid. Under the final budget, Grand Island schools would receive nearly $500,000 more than the Governor’s proposal, and Buffalo Public Schools would receive almost $21 million more.
   “While the passage of the on-time budget represents real and substantial progress, there is still much reform that needs to take place. I remain as committed as ever to continuing to push for budgetary reforms and other ways of ensuring that New York State’s government is open and responsive to the people it represents. I will continue to fight for measures to achieve cost containment for our Medicaid program in order to provide taxpayer relief while ensuring that the people who rely on its services continue to get their essential health care needs met, Hoyt concluded.”




$.5 million Above Governor’s Proposal For Grand Island Public Schools - March 2005
   March 31, 2005 . . .Assembly member Sam Hoyt (D-Buffalo, Grand Island) announced today that the state budget will contain a $.5 million increase in school aid above Governor Pataki’s initial proposal for the Grand Island public schools. The increase represents $1.5 million more than the school district received in state aid last year.
   Hoyt said, “This is great news for Grand Island’s school children. Hopefully this increase in school aid will help avert property tax increases and allow the Grand Island schools to continue reforming and enhancing its programs. This increase represents real progress towards providing our schools with the tools and the funding they need to provide our children with the best quality education possible.”
   Hoyt has led the charge both for increased funding for public schools as well as increased fiscal accountability. He has additionally introduced legislation designed to reform the state’s school aid funding formula.
   Hoyt concluded, “The Legislature worked hard to pass an on-time budget, which will enable the Grand Island school district to accurately project resources and establish corresponding budgets for the upcoming year. This prevents our educators from having to be fortune tellers and lets them focus on what’s really important: educating our children.”
   Sam Hoyt represents the 144th Assembly District.




Student Arrested In High School Parking Lot - 2005
   According to Grand Island High School Principal Dr. James Dempsey, the high school was found to be drug free after seven dogs and six police agencies conducted an investigation and drug sweep on Tuesday, March 15, 2005. The Tuesday morning incident brought about the arrest of one student after drugs were found in a student's car.




Turn Your Clocks Ahead - April 2005
   Daylight Savings Time begins Sunday morning, April 3rd 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!




Ambassador Niagara Signature Bridge Group Locates On Grand Island - 2005
   In its effort to make known a proposal of a private international bridge between Buffalo and Fort Erie, Ontario, the Ambassador Niagara Signature Bridge Group has opened an office in the Isle Chem Business Center on Long Road, Grand Island, New York. The four-member office on the Island is in partnership with American Consulting Engineers of Florida, according to a news story in the Saturday, March 26, 2005 edition of the Buffalo News. American Consulting Engineers is serving as consultant for the engineering and environmental assessment stages of the project, the News reported. Managing the Grand Island office is JoAnne Loughry Raab who is the senior urban planner for the bridge proposal.
   At the same time a bridge design contest is being planned by Peace Bridge officials who "contend the Ambassador Bridge proposal violates their rights in the Niagara River corridor," according to the News article.




Fire Company Responds To Early Morning Mattress Fire - 2005
By Teddy Linenfelser
   Grand Island Fire Company volunteer firefighters responded just before 6 a.m. Monday, March 28, 2005, to a report of a small fire on the second floor of a home in the 1700 block of West River Road. Fire Chief Greg Butcher reported the fire in a mattress at that address was out at 5:57 a.m. Fire Company personnel ventilated the house and were back in service at 6:25 a.m. Click "Fire Company Page" for the more complete Grand Island Fire Company report on this fire.




Tuesday Night Power Outage Leaves Island Homes In The Dark - 2005
By Teddy Linenfelser
   Several hundred homes in the south west areas of Grand Island lost power at 9 p.m. Tuesday evening, March 22, 2005. The power outage was caused by a transformer which was reported to the Grand Island Fire Company as burning on Staley Road near Baseline. The Fire Company had responded to an 8:40 p.m. call for EMS on Havenwood Lane, followed by the transformer fire at 9 p.m. Volunteer firefighters received a third call at 9:05 p.m. for an alarm of fire at the Wilson Farms store on Love Road where there was smoke in the building due to a burning roof unit. Approximately ten people were in the store when power was lost. Electricity was restored at approximately 10:15 p.m.




Swanick Calls For Elimination Of Toll Barriers - 2005
   Erie County Legislator Charles M. Swanick (R-Kenmore/Grand Island) has called on the New York State Legislature and the Governor to compel the New York State Thruway Authority to eliminate the tolls and the toll barriers on Interstate 90 and the Interstate 190.
   Swanick, in a bi-partisan resolution to be submitted to the Governor and the State Legislature, calls the tolls an unnecessary burden on commuters and residents like those on Grand Island who are forced to pay to get on the Island.
   “The tolls across the Thruway system were intended to be eliminated once the bonds for the construction were paid off,” Swanick said. “That happened in 1996 yet the tolls are still in place.”
   The Erie County Legislature is on the record as opposed to continued tolls at Ogden, Breckenridge, North and South Grand Island Bridges, Williamsville, Depew, Lackawanna, Blasdell, and Hamburg; as well as the imposition of additional, higher tolls on roads and highways in New York State, and in particular Western New York.
   “The continued and additional tolls on other roads or highways in Erie County will only succeed in hurting the people and businesses in this area, further hampering any future economic development,” said Swanick.
   The resolution also calls for a commuter/resident discount plan, similar to the one for Grand Island residents, for residents who use the Thruway and travel through the Black Rock, Breckenridge/Buffalo City Line, Williamsville, Depew, Lackawanna, Blasdell, and Hamburg toll barriers, in the likelihood that the Thruway Authority does not eliminate the tolls.

---

Skyhawk Navy Jet At Super Gas - 2005
  
Dan McMahon Photos - Click photos for larger view.
   The Navy jet that made its appearance at John Simon's SuperGas/Sunoco on Grand Island Boulevard last week is a A-4E Skyhawk, in service during the Viet Nam war. Islander Billy J. Gorrell drove to Florida with John Simon to transport the plane from the Naval Air Station in Key West. The final destination after stopping on the Island is the Veteran's of Foreign Wars Post 1419, 2985 Lakeview Road, Hamburg NY. The jet will be on display at the Post in the near future.

---

Staley Road House Fire - 2005
  

(picture #1) Exterior attach to the back of the structure
(picture #2) West side of structure - Firefighters are advancing hose line for interior attach
(picture #3) Front of structure
By Teddy Linenfelser
Dan McMahon Photos - Click photos for larger view.
   The Grand Island Fire Company responded to an alarm of a working structure fire at 2761 Staley Road at 11:11 a.m. Friday, March 11, 2005. The fire was reported by a passing motorist via cell phone. The two story frame structure, home of the Gregory J. Dinsmore family, was unoccupied at the time of the call. Fire Chief Greg Butcher, who took charge of the incident, requested an engine from the Sheridan Park Volunteer Fire Company which responded to the scene at 11:24 a.m. Also requested were Kenmore Fire Company's Ladder #6, on the scene at 11:46 a.m. and Tonawanda Engine #3, on the Island at 11:49 a.m.
   Firefighters were removed from the structure at 12:12 p.m. due to partial collapse. Demolition equipment was brought in just after 2 p.m. Total demolition took place about 4 p.m.
   During the Staley Road fire, a Grand Island Fire Company EMS squad and Tonawanda Engine #3 responded to two first aid calls.

---

Island Mobile License Bureau Continues To Be Open On Wednesdays - 2005
   The Erie County Department of Motor Vehicles Mobile Unit continues to be available from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Wednesdays in the town hall.




“Sex, Drugs and Rock & Roll” Workshop - March 2005
Submitted by Joanne Kud, School District Communication Consultant
   Parent Network of WNY; Erie 1 BOCES Regional SETRC; and WNY Transition Coordination Site offer a free workshop for parents titled “Sex, Drugs and Rock & Roll” from 7-9 p.m. Monday, March 14, 2005 at the Sheraton Four Points, 2040 Walden Ave. Near Galleria Mall. Call 332-4170 to register. Speaker will be Michael Nerney, a consultant in Substance Abuse Prevention and Education with more than 24 years of experience in the field. Click "Workshop" for more information.




Felix Medina Arrested Again - March 2005
   Wednesday, March 9, 2005 . . .Erie County Sheriff's Deputies Jordan Grabar and Timothy Carney observed a car with one license plate on Interstate 190, which was driven by Felix A. Medina, 26, of Carolina Street, Buffalo. A traffic stop was conducted on River Road in Tonawanda, and deputies identified two male juvenile passengers, ages 15 and 16, as protected persons, which Medina was mandated to stay away from, by an Order of Protection issued by the Town of Grand Island Court. The order was issued for a domestic related matter. Medina was arrested and was found to be in possession of 20 tables of ecstasy, and a quantity of marijuana. The juveniles were released to their guardian, and Child Protective Services was notified of the incident.
   Medina was charged with two counts of criminal contempt, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, felony criminal possession of a controlled substance with intent to sell, felony criminal possession of a controlled substance, and unlawful possession of marijuana. He is incarcerated at the Erie County Holding Center pending arraignment in Grand Island Court.
   Medina has been involved with the law on Grand Island before. Click "Medina" for other reports.




Hoyt Calls On Hevesi To Audit
Erie County Government’s Finances And Practices
Calls Audit First Step To Possible Control Board - March 2005
   March 2, 2005 . . .Assemblymember Sam Hoyt (D-Buffalo, Grand Island) released today a letter he sent to State Comptroller Alan Hevesi calling on him to undertake a comprehensive audit of Erie County Government’s finances and practices. Hoyt indicated that such an audit may be a precursor to introduction of legislation to create a control board for Erie County.
   Hoyt said, “As a result of the County’s inability to manage its own resources nearly 2,500 families are going to be devastated as a result of layoffs, and countless more will be impacted through service cuts, and departmental closings.”
   County Executive Giambra has repeatedly blamed Medicaid costs as the source of the County’s budget troubles. While the County share of Medicaid is clearly not the sole source of the County’s budget gap, Hoyt agrees that there is a serious and pressing need for Medicaid reform. Hoyt has long been an advocate of comprehensive Medicaid reform and has sponsored several bills that would introduce significant Medicaid reform including A.320 which puts an immediate cap on all new Medicaid expenses imposed on counties. A gradual state takeover of Medicaid expenses is another approach that must be given thorough and immediate evaluation and Hoyt is currently evaluating one such proposal.
   The audit of the City’s finances conducted by Hevesi’s office was the first step toward the legislation that created the Buffalo Fiscal Stability Authority. In addition to providing a comprehensive overview of the structural and other contributing factors to the City’s budget crisis, it provided a blueprint for resolving the City’s problems.
   Hoyt continued, “Whether or not a control board is implemented for Erie County, a comprehensive audit will provide all of us with an independent look at the County’s finances and practices, and possible strategies for avoiding a repeat crisis situation next year. The residents of Erie County deserve no less.”




Island Resident Arrested By Deputy Sheriff - Feb. 2005
   The Erie County Sheriff's office reported the arrest of a Grand Island man for felony traffic charges after a routine traffic stop on Grand Island. Deputy John Davis stopped a vehicle operated by Michael J. Ralston, 42, of Town Hall terrace, for an equipment violation. Ralston failed field sobriety tests, and was arrested for felony aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, driving while intoxicated, and other traffic offenses. He refused to submit to a breath test and is incarcerated at the Erie County Holding Center. The aggravated unlicensed operation charge is a felony due to Ralston's license being revoked three times for prior alcohol related driving incidents.




Former Resident Fatally Shot In Fort Wayne, Indiana.- Feb. 2005
   Michelle L. Nesbitt, 27, formerly of Grand Island and Niagara Falls died on Thursday, February 17, 2005 after being shot in the head during a triple shooting at a Fort Wayne, Indiana apartment building. According to a news report, the shooting took place just after 6 a.m. during an argument in an acquaintance’s apartment. Ms. Nesbitt, who died at the scene, was born in Ohio, moved to Niagara Falls during her youth, then moved to Grand Island, attending Grand Island High School. She later received a GED. She moved to Fort Wayne about seven months ago and was working as a crew member at a McDonald’s there at the time of her death. Memorial services will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 26, 2005 in Trinity United Methodist Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island.




Isle Teen Accused Of Involvement In January 2004 Shooting Of Eric H. Lloyd - Feb. 2005
   Peter Longo Jr., 19 of Ward Park Road, Grand Island pleaded not guilty Wednesday, February 23, 2005 in Niagara County court to various charges in the death of Island resident Eric H. Lloyd who was shot in Niagara Falls on January 27, 2004. Click "Longo Charged" for this story.
   The following related stories were posted in 2004:
Falls Shooting Leaves Isle Teen In Critical Condition - Jan. 2004
Buffalo Man Charged In Shooting Of Isle Teen - Feb. 2004
Eric Lloyd Succumbs To Gun Shot Wounds - Mar. 2004
Man Charged In Lloyd Shooting Gives Not Guilty Plea - Apr. 2004
Man Charged With Eric Lloyd's Murder Challenges Grand Jury On Proof Issue - June 2004




Grand Island Youth Lacrosse League Information - 2005
   The Grand Island Youth Lacrosse League for grades 3 through 8 will begin on May 15, 2005. Flyers with registration forms were distributed to the students at Kaegebein and Huth Road schools on Friday, February 18. Copies for Connor Middle School students are available at the school. For more information or for a registration form, please contact Grand Island Community Education, 773-8864.




Kaegebein, Huth, Middle and High School Band Concert - 2005
   A band concert in the high school auditorium will feature the bands of Kaegebein and Huth elementary schools and the Connor Middle School sixth grade band and Grand Island High School wind ensemble at 7 p.m. on Thursday evening, February 17, 2005.




Cannata Lacks State Certification To Serve As Principal
Is Suspended Without Pay - 2005
   Grand Island School District Attorney Tracie L. Lopardi, Esq. (Hodgson Russ LLP), who has been investigating information that could properly impact Sidway School Principal Frank Cannata's employment status, issued a statement through the school district, that she learned that Mr. Cannata does not possess New York State certification to serve in the position of school principal. Pursuant to New York State Education Law, his suspension has been changed to a suspension without pay.
   For Buffalo News certification story, click "Certification 2/16/05" and "Certification 2/18/05". For a related News story, click "Town Justices Recuse".
   For previous stories on the initial arrest, click the following: Town News 2005




Blood Drive February 22 - 2005
   An American Red Cross Blood Drive will be held from 1-7 p.m. Tuesday, February 22, 2005 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1841 Whitehaven Road. To donate, you must be in good health, at least 17 years of age and weigh 110 pounds or more. Positive ID Required. For an appointment, call the Red Cross at 1-888-317-8365 (toll free).




Hoyt Grant Funds Vet's Park Improvements - 2005
   Town Supervisor Peter A. McMahon and New York State Assemblyman Sam Hoyt announced that Assembly Member Sam Hoyt (D-144th District) has been successful in his efforts to obtained a $50,000 New York State Grant for additional capital improvements in Veterans Park on Grand Island. Mr. Hoyt has been working on this Grant since late last fall.
   This grant will be used to construct lavatory facilities, which will serve the northern and western sections of the Park. These areas now contain soccer and softball fields. The existing lavatories are located at the south end of the Park near the Library.
   Assembly member Hoyt was instrumental in another Capital Grant which was used to cover a portion of the costs for improvements in 2004, and included about ninety parking spaces, construction of two new softball fields and increasing the amount of parkland which is maintained by about ten acres.
   The 2005 Capital Improvement Grant allows Grand Island to continue the Town’s history of improvements in Veterans Park.




Buffalo Man Arrested In Chimney Of Island Home - 2005
   Erie County Sheriff's Deputies arrested a Buffalo man at 4 a.m. February 8, 2005 after he was found hiding inside the chimney at this girlfriend's home.
   Earlier in the evening, Deputies Jordan Grabar and Daniel Walczak had arrested Felix A. Medina, 26, of Carolina Street after he threatened his girlfriend in the presence of her child while in the Grand Island home. Medina was charged with harassment and endangering the welfare of a child, and was held at the Erie County Holding Center. Bail was set at $500.
   Several hours later, after Medina had posted bail, his girlfriend had heard his voice in the home and reported the incident to the sheriff's station on Grand Island. The deputies responded to the home and located Medina inside the chimney. He had entered the chimney from the fireplace and had climbed completely inside to avoid apprehension. Deputies also determined that Medina had made threats to two children at the home on this occasion.
   Medina was charged with criminal trespass, resisting arrest, two counts of endangering the welfare of a child, and is incarcerated without bail at the Erie County Holding Center. Child Protective services were notified of both incidents.
   Medina was also arrested on Grand Island on August 9, 2003. Click for Medina Story 2003





News Reports Cannata's Previous Arrests
St. Stephen's Pastor Makes Statement - 2005
   According to the Monday, Feb. 7, 2005 edition of the Buffalo News, the arrest of Charlotte Sidway School Principal Frank J. Cannata on charges of drug conspiracy on December 15, 2004 is not his first brush with the law. According to the News, court records show that he was arrested three other times since 1999.
   Following his arrest, he was placed on temporary leave from the position of music director at St. Stephen's Church. Mr. Cannata was reinstated and allowed to return the weekend of January 23rd. After recently consulting with Bishop Edward Kimiec, Rev. Paul Nogaro, pastor of St. Stephen's Church, made the decision for Mr. Cannata to remain on temporary leave. Rev. Nogaro read a statement of information from Bishop Edward Kimiec at all Sunday, February 6 masses. Click "Rev. Paul Nogaro" for statement.
   Click for "2/7/05 News Story".
   A follow-up story appeared in the Tuesday, February 8th edition of the Buffalo News regarding petitions for and against the reinstatement of Mr. Cannata as elementary school principal in the future, and quotes parents who spoke at the Monday, February 7, 2005 school board meeting. Click for 2/8/05 "News Story".
   Click for Publisher's Response.




Thompson Considers Run For
County Legislator Or Town Board - 2005
   Grand Island resident Rus Thompson is giving serious thought to running for public office in November.
   A new political group, Primary Challenge, has been formed with its goal being “to help people get on the ballot,” and Thompson was among its organizers. Fed up with party politics, Leonard A. Roberto of Batavia started the group and serves as its head. A meeting of the new organization held Thursday, February 3, 2005 drew 40 politically minded WNY residents including Thompson. According to the February 5, 2005 edition of the Buffalo News, Thompson said he is considering a run against County Legislator Charles M. Swanick, R-Kenmore, or for Grand Island Town Board. With reference to Primary Challenge’s intent on unseating incumbents in the next election, the News quoted Thompson as follows: “We should target every legislator who voted for the sales tax increase. We're taxed to the hilt already."
   The next meeting of Primary Challenge is scheduled for 7 p.m. February 5, 2005 in Veterans Park Baptist Church, 96 Meridian, Depew. For more information, click http://rusthompson.com/PrimaryChallenge.html




Sheriff's Deputy Makes
Narcotics Arrest On Beaver Island Pkwy. - Feb. 3, 2005
   John R. West, 24, of Erie St., Lockport was arrested for felony narcotic charges after a traffic stop on the South State Parkway, Grand Island. Sheriff's Deputy Warren Hawthorn stopped the vehicle at 2:09 a.m. Thursday, February 3, 2005 for traffic infractions. A subsequent investigation led to the arrest of West, a passenger, when over one ounce of cocaine was found in a take-out order of mashed potatoes.
   West, charged with Criminal Possession of a controlled substance in the third degree, a B Felony, is being held in the Erie County Holding Center pending arraignment in the Town of Grand Island Court.
   Gregory B. Greer, 27, of St. John Parkway, Niagara Falls, the driver of the vehicle, was also arrested on an outstanding warrant out of Niagara Falls for Unlawful Imprisonment in the first degree, Assault in the third degree and Menacing in the second degree. He was turned over to Niagara Falls police.




Groundhog Sees His Shadow - 2005

Click photo for larger view.
   According to the February 2, 2005 edition of the "Buffalo News," Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow yesterday (Feb. 2, 2005) on Gobbler's Knob in Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania.
   The more local groundhog, Dunkirk Dave, who has been forecasting winter weather for at least 40 years, also saw his shadow. Dunkirk Dave's handler, Bob Will, reports that Dave's predictions are right 90% of the time.
   An internet source offered the following information on Groundhog Day:
   On 2 February every year, the top-hatted elder statesmen of the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club head to Gobbler's Knob to watch Punxsutawney Phil, a local woodchuck, emerge from his burrow to predict the weather. According to the old tradition, if the groundhog sees his own shadow then there will be six more weeks of winter. If the sky is cloudy and the day is shadowless, on the other hand, then spring is on the way.
   For history on the "holiday", click "Groundhog Day."

---

Have You Seen A Bigger Snowman On The Island This Year? - 2005

Jodi Robinson Photo - Click photo for larger view.
   Feb. 1, 2005 . . .This huge snowman is sitting in the front lawn of the Gaiser home on Colonial Drive. Be sure to let us know here at Isledegrande.com if you have one that's even bigger than this. Click "Snowman" for a very tall "man" that was built on Love Road nearly a month ago.




GED Offered at Community Education - 2005
   February 1, 2005. . .Did you know that most jobs require a high school diploma? This is a basic condition of employment.
   The 10-week GED (High School Equivalency) course, offered as part of the Grand Island Community Education Winter Program, is open to any person 17 or older who has been out of school for at least a year and has not graduated.
   Class begins January 31 and will continue for 10 weeks. Classes are being held Monday and Wednesday from 6-9 p.m. in the Grand Island High School library. Teachers are Elinor Wiant and Nancy Hayes. It is never too late to sign up. Contact Jenepher Banker, Director of Community Education at 773-8864 days.




Island Police Arrest Interstate 190 Driver - Jan. 2005
   A Buffalo man was arrested on multiple charges after a pursuit by police officers which began at approximately 12:55 a.m. Sunday, January 30, 2005 on the New York State Thruway on Grand Island. The chase ended after the vehicle crashed into a snow bank at Calumet Street and Aaron Griffin Blvd. in the City of Niagara Falls.
   Grand Island Police Officer Christopher M. Soluri and Erie County Sheriff's Deputy Daniel E. Walczak attempted to stop a car driven by Antonio M. Carr, 28, of Hastings Street for speeding northbound on Interstate 190. The pursuit reached speeds of 75 miles per hour and continued through the Town of Niagara in Niagara County.
   Carr, who refused to exit the vehicle, was eventually taken into custody by Deputy Walczak and Officer Soluri. Carr was arrested on a Violation of Parole warrant, and was also charged with resisting arrest, reckless driving, driving with a suspended license, and numerous other traffic offenses. Carr also faces multiple traffic offenses in the Town of Niagara and the City of Niagara Falls.
   The City of Niagara Falls, Town of Niagara, New York State and parks Police assisted, along with the Niagara County Sheriff's Office.
   Carr, who was arraigned by Grand Island Justice Randall White with bail was set at $10,000, was remanded to the Erie County Holding Center.




Attention Island Residents Of The RHS Class of '60
   A 45th reunion of the Riverside High School Class of 1960 is being planned for September 23-24, 2005. Members of the class should be receiving all of the information via U.S. mail and are asked to contact Barbara Mitchell, 112 Mt. Vernon Rd., Amherst, NY 14226 or to barbmitchell@juno.com or to bbmitch@adelphia.net if you do not receive the reunion mailing. Reservations for the event are due by February 28, 2005. Any information on fellow classmates or changes in your information would be greatly appreciated.
   At least 40 Grand Island high school students were members of the Class of 1960 and transported by school bus to Riverside High School. Members of the Grand Island High School Class of 1966 were the first to graduate from GIHS.



Lost Dog Returned!
   Lola, the little papillon, lost on Thursday, January 27, 2005 was returned to her happy owner, Michelle on Saturday. (See photo below)




Lost Dog

   Her name is Lola. She is a small papillon (6 1/2 lbs.), white with tan spots. Lola was last seen on Thursday, January 27, 2005 on Baseline Road near East River, by the Water Treatment Center. Please call Michele @ 773-1778 or 603-8787, reward offered.




Fuccillo Makes HUGE Deal With Relay For Life - 2005
 
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click photos for larger view.
   Fuccillo Chevrolet gave the Western New York Relay For Life Team a jump start on Thursday, January 20, 2005 by donating a beautiful, purple (the Relay color), Roadster SSR worth over $45,000. Participants from nine local relay teams gathered at the Fuccillo dealership that day to film a television commercial with Billy Fuccillo and his side-kick, Tom Parks. Many students from Grand Island High School who will participate in the June 10th, 2005, Relay For Life are in the commercial and pictured above. For information regarding purchasing tickets for the car raffle, call 1-800-ACS-2345. The Relay For Life Kick-Off meeting is scheduled for 7 p.m., Tuesday, February 8, 2005 at the Grand Island High School Cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road.




American Pharmaceutical Partners News - 2005
   American Pharmaceutical Partners, 3159 Staley Road, will receive 2,000 kilowatts of low-cost Niagara hydropower, according to the January 26, 2004 edition of the Buffalo News. "New York Power Authority on Tuesday earmarked 2,200 kilowatts of low-cost Niagara hydropower for two employers in Western New York, to support the creation of an expected 60 jobs," the News said. American Pharmaceutical Partners is undertaking a $34 million expansion of its operations on Grand Island, according to the News. The company, maker of injectable pharmaceuticals, is expanding biologic processing operations and syringe-filling capabilities, with an expected 50 new jobs, the News reported. For previous APP article, click APP News 2004

---

Island Resident, 20, Killed In Weather Related Traffic Accident - 2005
   John Stark, 20, of Grand Island was killed when the car he was riding in was involved in a head-on accident Monday, January 17, 2005 on Route 219 in the Town of Ashford. According to the WIVB.com news source, two cars collided head-on, after one car spun out of control on the icy pavement. Stark was pronounced dead at the scene and the driver is now in critical condition at ECMC. The driver of the other vehicle was transported to a hospital with non life-threatening injuries.

---

Island Relay For Life Kick-off Meeting - 2005
   Grand Island's Relay For Life Kick-Off Meeting is scheduled for 6:45 p.m. Tuesday, February 8, 2005 in the Grand Island High School Cafeteria, 1100 Ransom Road. Captains' registration packets will be handed out at the Kick Off meeting. Committee members are asked to meet at 5:30 p.m. for set-up.
   Last year's American Cancer Society Grand Island Relay raised over $47,000 for research and services. Students and residents are urged to "gather a team together and come see what the Relay is all about." A flashback of last year's Relay of Life event will be shown as a way of putting everyone in the spirit that prevailed in 2004. Teams will gather at the Grand Island High School track on Friday, June 10th through June 11th when this thoroughly enjoyable event takes place to benefit the American Cancer Society.
   For further information, call 689-6982, ext. 116.
   The following is a calendar of meeting dates for Relay For Life 2005, including team captains and committees:
• February 8 - 6:45 p.m. - Grand Island High School cafeteria - Relay For Life KICK-OFF - Kickoff the 2005 event! everyone invited - team captains to receive registration materials - (Committee will meet at 5:30 p.m.)
• March 15 - 7 p.m. - Grand Island High School cafeteria - Team Captain Meeting I - First TC Meeting - Special: half price team registration for all team captains who turn in forms this evening! (Committee will meet at 6 p.m.)
• April 19 - 7 p.m. - Grand Island High School cafeteria - Team Captain Meeting II - Event information: survivorship, fundraising, logistics, entertainment (Committee will meet at 6 p.m.)
• May 24 - 7 p.m. - Grand Island High School cafeteria - Team Captain Meeting III - Last TC meeting: T-Shirt distribution and bank night (Committee will meet at 6 p.m.)
• June 10-11 - 6 p.m. - Grand Island High School Track - Relay For Life - Let the party begin.

---

Thursday, January 19, 2005 - A Mere 8 Inches - 2005
 
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click photos for larger view.
   Jan. 19, 2005 . . .Wednesday, January 19, 2005 brought eight inches of snow to Grand Island - a far different scene than last Thursday when temperatures reached 65 degrees. The forecast calls for very cold temperatures throughout the week. Photo on the left was taken in the parking lot behind deSignet Jewelry Shoppe and the Isledegrande.com office. The photo on the right is taken out in front of the building, looking across Whitehaven Road.

---

Conservation Tree & Shrub Seedlings Available - 2005
   Erie County Legislator Charles M. Swanick (R-Tonawanda/Grand Island) has announced that orders are being accepted for the Erie County Soil & Water Conservation District's annual Conservation Tree and Shrub Seedling Program sale. Orders are due March 25, 2005 and pickup will be Saturday, April 23, 2005 at the Erie County Fairgrounds in Hamburg.
   The 2005 selection has 33 varieties of trees and shrubs chosen for conservation uses and practices. The one- to three-year-old bare-root seedlings range from 6 to 24 inches tall and are available in lots of 10 to 500. Seedling combination packs and wildflower seed mixes designed to attract wildlife are also available through the Program. This year the District is also offering an expanded selection of four-year-old evergreen transplants which are more mature trees with thicker stems, more branching and more developed roots.
   Order forms may be picked up at the Legislative District Office at 3200 Elmwood Avenue, Kenmore on Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. or at 1858 Whitehaven Road on Monday, Wednesday or Friday from 12:30-4:30 p.m. Order forms may also be printed from the Erie County Soil and Water Conservation District website at www.ecswcd.org/

---

Thursday, January 13, 2005 - Sunny And Warm - 2005
 
Jodi Robinson Photos - Click photos for larger view.
   Jan. 13, 2005 . . .A jogger on the Beaver Island Parkway bike path is heading towards Beaver Island Park today (Thursday, January 13, 2005) when temperatures reached 65 degrees under sunny skies all day. (left) Walkers in Beaver Island Park are seen heading west along the Niagara River towards the Clubhouse today. At this writing, the wind is picking up and tonight's temperature is expected to go down to 30 degrees with snow in the forecast.

---

36-Mile Niagara River Greenway Proposed - 2005
   According to the Buffalo News a Niagara River greenway with ecological parks, nature trails, and marine-based businesses could be a reality. Planners met in the Holiday Inn Grand Island on Sunday, January 9, 2005. Click Niagara River Greenway for story.

---

DWI Accident Results In Assault, Leaving The Scene Charges - 2005
   Jennifer D. Barton, 30, of Carl Road was arrested Wednesday, January 5, 2005 after being involved in a two-car accident on Baseline Road near Alvin.
   Barton was driving south on Baseline when her vehicle rear-ended another vehicle driven by a 24-year-old U. S. Customs officer. The Erie County Sheriff's Office reported that after she drove away, Deputies discovered that one of her license plates was left at the scene.
   Deputy Daniel Walczak apprehended Barton, who was then identified by the other driver, and charged her with driving while intoxicated, following too closely, and leaving the scene of a personal injury automobile accident. At the Sheriff's Grand Island station, Barton refused a breath test, slipped out of one of her handcuffs and attempted to fight as she kicked Deputy John Davis, who was not injured.
   The U. S. Customs officer was treated at the scene for a neck injury by Grand Island Fire Company paramedics and transported to a hospital.

---

Canadian Student Pleads Guilty To Alien Smuggling - 2005
   A Canadian resident pled guilty on Tuesday, January 4, 2005 to running a rubber raft across the Niagara River to the Island in June 2004, in an effort to transport a group of illegal aliens to the United States. Click for Complete Story. Click for June 2004 Story.

---

DWI Arrest Follows Whitehaven Crash - 2005
   Gary A. Karaskiewicz, 30, of Akron, N.Y. drove his vehicle into a light pole on Whitehaven Road when he failed to negotiate a curve for a ramp near the Interstate 190 overpass and knocked over the light pole. The incident occurred at 11:40 p.m. Friday, December 31, 2004. The Erie County Sheriff's Office reported that he was arrested by Deputies Jordan Grabar and John Davis who responded to the scene and determined that Karaskiewicz was under the influence of two controlled substances. After they arrested him, he was taken to Erie County Medical Center for minor injuries.
   Karaskiewicz submitted to a blood test and a urine test, and then attempted to slip out of the handcuffs. Charged with two counts of driving while his ability was impaired by the use of drugs, possession of a controlled substance, attempted escape, resisting arrest, and numerous other traffic charges, he was incarcerated at the Erie County Holding Center pending arraignment.

2004 News
2003 News
2002 News
2001 News

---

Other Grand Island Pages to Visit:
Churches | Email Directory | Government | Groups
GIHS Grad List | Guestbook | Please sign in! | Local Artists | Photo Album | Town History | Useful Links
| Website Design | Wildlife | Isledegrande's Home Page | GIECOM.NET'S Home Page  
Please Email News Releases to Teddy Linenfelser, Thank You.

This website is sponsored by

GIECOM.NET 1869 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, New York, 14072-1803 USA
Copyright © 1995-2005 All rights reserved.