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This Week |
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Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Bill Williams sent in the following: Happy Birthday to Donna Turner (Turners Port-O-Call) Williams on Jan. 1st, (64 years old). Have a great day Donna!
Happy birthday to Melissa Marlin today, December 24th. Happy birthday to Bud Yensan, Chris Eberhard and Grant Hennigar on Christmas day. Happy 11th birthday to Allison Hill on Thursday, December 26th. Happy birthday on December 28th to Maggie Gushue and James Soto. Happy birthday on Sunday, December 29th to Judy Tafelski. Happy birthday to Kathy Lazenby on Tuesday, December 31st.
The Inaugural Ceremony for newly elected Grand Island officials will take place at Ellden's Grill at River Oaks Golf Club, 201 Whitehaven Road at 12 o’clock noon on Wednesday, January 1st. The public is welcome to attend and are invited to stay after the ceremony for light refreshments.
This year, the Grand Island School District annual “Kaleidoscope String” concert will be a memorial concert in honor of Debra Remson who passed away in early November. Ms. Remson was the string teacher in Grand Island for many years and touched the lives of many students. The concert is on Thursday, February 13th at 7:00 at the Grand Island Senior High school. String alumni are invited to perform the last piece of the concert. See details.
Merry Christmas and happy new year everyone!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, December 19, 2013
Happy birthday to Dan McBride, Sue Braun, Stan Hill & Louie D’Orazio today, December 19th. Happy birthday to Gloria Brown on Friday, December 20th and Jacob Dollendorf turning 15 on Saturday, December 21st. Happy birthday to Karen Lloyd on Monday, December 23rd.
UB senior Alex Neutz is playing in the "Famous Idaho Potato Bowl" at 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, December 21st, against San Diego State. The game can be seen on ESPN.
Island native Shane Bennett was named top player/First Star in Canadian Junior-A hockey for the month of November. Shane plays for the Milton Icehawks of the Ontario Junior Hockey League and was also named as the South-West Conference Player of the Month of November by the OJHL.
The Grand Island Snowmobile Club voted at their Christmas party on December 15th to give a nice donation to the Neighbors Foundation. Snowmobile Club representative Carol Marston presented a check to a very happy Hank Kammerer who noted that donations are a bit off this year and the check will certainly help. This seems to be the year to have a snowmobile!
If you plan on riding your sled through Beaver Island this season you will need a sticker from the NYS Parks Department. They are available at the office for free, you just need to have your registration and proof of insurance. According to Pete Marston, the best place to park your trailer if need be is at the Bush Road parking area, just east of the Parkway.
Hank Kammerer wrote: "we can assure the Island we are properly taking care of 68 families, and that we have received a wonderful outpouring of help toward this distribution, but could still use additional funds donated to the Neighbors Foundation to help with this major undertaking." If you can help, send donations to P.O. Box 155, Grand Island or through the website www.gineighbors.org.
On Saturday, December 14th over 100 children and parents enjoyed making Graham Cracker Houses with Explore and More, A Children's Museum at the Grand Island Memorial Library. This event has been held annually at the Library beginning in December 2004.
As this is a quiet time of year for events, I will be taking a vacation between Christmas and the New Year. The last edition in December will be posted on December 24th and the first edition of January on the 2nd. If you have something you would like posted, please have to me by Monday, December 23rd.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, December 12, 2013
Happy birthday to Reba Conway, Ron Livingston & Dave Hammond today, December 12th. Happy birthday to Emma Santorio turning eight on Friday, December 13th. Happy 21st birthday to Katie Rustowicz on Saturday, December 14th and also to Claire "Bear" O'Connor turning 15. Happy 79th birthday to my mama Nancy Hayes on Monday, December 16th and to Betty Lantz at Town Hall.
Last week it was the Niagara Gazette that featured GI Vikings football players on their elite team. This week it is the "WNY All Star Team" and the "Buffalo News Team". Check out the story to see all the Vikings chosen.
There are several Town of GI Advisory Board openings, Human Rights Commission, Planning Board, Cable & Communications and Conservation Commission. The deadline for letters of interest is December 24th. See story for details.
In the spirit of Christmas an anonymous gentleman not only held the door at the Village Inn for all the Tuesday Trinity Ladies lunch bunch on December 3rd, he also paid for their lunch! He disappeared before the ladies got a chance to thank him. They were delighted with the nice gestures.
Stop in to see Suzie Berger at Flower A Day Florist. The shop looks beautiful all decked out for the holidays and there are a wonderful assortment of small gifts and stunning arrangements for the holiday season.
The reindeer are joining Santa this weekend at Kelly's Country Store! They are scheduled for Saturday and Sunday, December 14th & 15th. Kelly's holiday hours are 10am - 9pm and Christmas trees are available with proceeds to benefit the GI Lions Club and GI Fire Company. There is a huge selection of gifts and treats for your shopping list.
Satomi and Joshua Smith of Serene Gardens are opening "Sato" at 739 Elmwood Avenue in Buffalo in January. The menu will offer Japanese curry, sushi, ramen and upscale casual fare. Best of luck.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Happy birthday to Darcey Golde, Carolyn Kreutz & Luke Gworek today, December 5th. Happy birthday on Saturday, December 7th to Maxine Eldridge. Happy birthday to Robin Shipman & Bobbi Cap on Sunday, December 8th and happy 21st birthday to Amanda Heftka on Monday, December 9th and to Grace Stewart. Happy birthday to Sarah Kaifas also on Monday. Happy birthday on Wednesday, December 11th to Paul Linenfelser Sr, Duffy Macguire & Joelle Logue.
Grand Island High School athletes excel! Ryan Ross was named to the All WNY Boys Soccer team for Fall 2013. The Niagara Gazette football team included island players Jared Brandon, Joe Gioeli, Nick Paolini, Tommy Doctor, Paul Sukmanowski, Jack Gorman, Kurtis Johnson and honorable mention to Chris Aronica, Joe Chiaravalle, Mike Kleinschmidt & TJ Morgan. Nice job guys!
Congratulations to Amy Stewart now Mrs. Justin Terpening. Amy was married on November 9th to Justin at St. Stephen's Church and will reside in Syracuse.
Photo of opening ceremony on West Oakfield - Click for larger view
Rich Sander sent in this note..."I would like to Congratulate Islander Emily Englert for being the Chairperson for the Thanksgiving Turkey Olympics. The Turkey Olympics brings family and friends together in the spirit of competition. We participate in outdoor events (Kan Jam and Football accuracy), as well as some indoor events (Boaters and Ping Pong). Teams came in from as far as Baltimore, Maryland for the event. The best finish for an all Islander team was third place consisting of: Mike Englert, Rich Sander and Ruby & Richard Benz. Emily congratulations on chairing a great event."It was a nice time at the Historical Society Holiday Luncheon on Tuesday, December 3rd. River Lea is decorated to the nines, had a gift shop and a delicious luncheon was served. The highlight was the presentation by Maggie Gushue of “Children’s Fashions of the Past.” Maggie is charming and funny and does a wonderful program, interesting, with many examples of clothing from the early 1900's.
Say Cheese Pizza has a full slate of entertainment for the month of December including karaoke and live music. Check out their entertainment list at www.saycheesepizza.com.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
Happy Thanksgiving & birthday to PJ Marston (6) and Ame'lia Isabelle Haag (4) on November 28th. Happy birthday on Friday, November 29th to JoAnn Vanderheite. Happy 21st birthday to Eric Harnden on Saturday, November 30th and happy birthday to John Podlucky also on Saturday. December 2nd is the birthday of two lovely ladies, Pat McNulty is turning 90 and Marcy Malecki can't be a day over 39! Enjoy your day ladies. Happy birthday Auntie Lo Kaiser on Tuesday, December 3rd and also Alan Endres turning 21. Happy 11th birthday to Evan Linenfelser on Wednesday, December 4th.
Happy 51st wedding anniversary on Sunday, December 1st to Dick & Joan Group!
The Niagara Gazette named two GIHS soccer players as their Players of the Year for 2013. Freshman forward Madisyn Pezzino scored 40 goals, 13 assists for a total of 93 points. She was also named All-Western New York honorable mention, first team All-NFL and one of the MVP's of her team. Senior Ryan Ross had 21 goals and 4 assists for a total of 46 points. He was named first team All-Western New York and first team All-NFL. Nice work Madisyn and Ryan!
The Niagara Gazette named GIHS senior Brock Tetreault as 2013 Boys Volleyball Player of the Year. Brock led the Vikings with 344 kills, 28 aces, 71 digs and 28 blocks. He is a two-time All-Niagara Frontier League first team selection and his team MVP this year. Congratulations Brock.
Check out the new Grand Island Snowmobile Club website. The club is gearing up for a great winter season and new members are welcome. Current members are asked to help out this weekend with the final days of trail marking.
Shop Small is on Saturday, Nov 30th. Stop by your hometown jewelry store at DeSignet, 1869 Whitehaven and find your favorite someone a beautiful item to place in his or her stocking.
Click for larger view Our very own Mary Stewart again did well with one of her fabulous photos at the Pixoto online photography community and competition website. Her photo of Niagara Falls, taken from the Skylon Tower, was in the top 20% in the Travel photo category for the month of October.
Seats are still available for Grand Island Historical Society's Holiday Luncheons at River Lea on Tuesday, December 3, Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7. Call Carol Moore at 773-3817.
The Neighbors Foundation "Share Your Happiness" campaign is still accepting $5, $10, $20 and $25 cards from suggested merchants: Top's Markets, Dollar Tree, Walgreens, Rite-Aid, Target, Walmart, Toys R Us, Macy's and Kmart. If you can help mail to: Neighbors Foundation, PO Box 155, Grand Island, NY 14072 or call foundation board President Hank Kammerer at 773-1245 for pick up.
Happy Thanksgiving everyone!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Happy birthday to Ben Kose (22) and Tyler Lorence (8) today, November 21st. Happy birthday on Friday, November 22nd to Chris Gress and happy anniversary to Chris and husband Ray Gress that same day.
Supervisor Mary Cooke will be appearing on the live television show "Access To Government", on Thursday, November 21st at 9:00 p.m. with host Bill Angus. This will be simulcast on WLNF 90.5 FM radio and live streamed at www.lctv.net. You can call in with questions from 9:00-10:00 p.m. at (716) 434-1733.
Grand Island High School senior Kevin Borowicz was named Niagara Gazette Player of the Year for Golf. He shot a 75 at Willowbrook Golf Course to win the Niagara Frontier League championship this fall. He has been named first-team All-NFL for three straight seasons. Nice job Kevin.
Shane Kinney celebrated his 16th birthday On November 11th and then bagged his first bear on opening day in the Southern Tier, November 16th. Click photo for view with Shane and bear. That is one exciting week!
Seats are still available for Grand Island Historical Society's Holiday Luncheons at River Lea. Luncheons are at noon on Tuesday, December 3, Friday, December 6 and Saturday, December 7. A program, "Children's Fashions of the Past", will follow the luncheon. A boutique with unique gifts and homemade holiday cookies will be open for your shopping pleasure! For reservations please call Carol Moore at 773-3817
Grab a hot turkey sandwich courtesy of the Ladies Auxiliary at the VFW on your way to the Light Up the Boulevard Electric Parade on Saturday, November 23rd. They open at 4pm and the parade is scheduled to start at approximately 5:20 after the race.
The Neighbors Foundation "Share Your Happiness" campaign would like to provide some modest amount of store gift cards to the parents of the 7 - 13 year old children that are helped. They are accepting $5, $10, $20 and $25 cards from suggested merchants: Top's Markets, Dollar Tree, Walgreens, Rite-Aid, Target, Walmart, Toys R Us, Macy's and Kmart. If you can help, submit your donation by Monday, November 25th. Mail to: Neighbors Foundation, PO Box 155, Grand Island, NY 14072 or call foundation board President Hank Kammerer at 773-1245 for pick up.
Say Cheese Pizza has live entertainment this weekend. Friday night "The Heritage" will be playing "Real. Country. Music" and Saturday night "Cold Dark Train" will be playing Rockin Blues. Music begins at 9:00 p.m.
You gotta see this quick video, "The Million American Jobs Project." Can you say bye bye dollar stores?
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, November 14, 2013
Happy birthday to my nephew Ryan Foote celebrating in the Florida Keys and to Sarah Brand today, November 14th. Happy birthday on Saturday, November 16th to Annabelle Linenfelser turning 6. Happy birthday to Sierra Yarnes three years-old on Sunday, November 17th. Happy birthday to Doug Bauer and Kathy Mentor on Wednesday, November 20th.
Happy anniversary to Ted and Lisa Kessler, married on November 14th, 21 years ago.
Jason and Kristine Lesh of Grand Island welcomed into the world their son Carter Jay Lesh born on Thursday, October 24, 2013 at 3:58 am weighing in at 7 pounds 6 ounces. Eileen and Chuck Lesh of Grand Island and Emily and Dan Lynch of North Tonawanda are the proud grandparents.
Island native Shane Bennet plays for the Ontario Junior Hockey League Milton Icehawks and was in town on Monday, November 11th for a game with the Junior Sabres. Shane scored the final goal and the Icehawks won 4-2. Shane was with the Junior Sabres for two years before he was traded to the Milton team. The Niagara Gazette did a nice write-up on Wednesday, November 13th.
;Aceti's Wine and Spirits is hosting a free fun-spirited wine tasting social with a relaxed atmosphere at the store on Saturday evening, November 16th from 4:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. They will highlight over 40 wines from all over the world. Everyone is welcome!
You still have time to make your appointment for an eye exam at Grand Island Optical. They will donate $5.00 for every exam completed in November to the Neighbor’s Foundation of Grand Island.
WearBlueFridays...this initiative is in support of our troops. The idea is to wear blue on Fridays until all our troops come home, "to show solidarity and support for our troops with dignity and respect." That is not so hard to do, save your blue outfit for Fridays each week.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, November 7, 2013
Happy birthday to Scott Hammond and Doug Smith on Friday, November 8th. Happy 21st birthday on Saturday, November 19th to Katie Samland. Happy birthday to Shane Kinney (16) on GI, and Lucia Roesch (5) in Florida on Monday, November 11th. I wouldn't be surprised if Gramma & Grandpa Roesch are down visiting!!! Happy birthday to Town Hall employees Maria Burns on Tuesday, November 12th and Pam Barton on Wednesday, November 13th.
Congratulations to newlyweds Renee (Gress) and Mike Driskell, married on October 19th. They have just returned from their honeymoon in St Croix, USVI.
Senior Alex Neutz and the U.B. Bulls played their last home game in front of a nationwide audience on ESPN2 on Tuesday, November 5th. He caught two touchdown passes that earned him record-tying honors and helped the team win 30-3. The next two weeks will be on the road, Tuesday evenings, Nov. 12th at Toledo, ESPNU at 7:30 p.m. and Nov. 19th at Miami, OH, ESPN2 at 8:00 p.m. Alex and the Bulls will be back in town playing at Ralph Wilson Stadium, Friday, November 29th at 1:30 p.m. Great job Alex!
Above from left, Allyson Nemeth, Jessica Flash, and Chase Luthringer.
Three 6th graders from St. Stephens School competed in the Miss All Canadian Spooktacular Halloween pageant in St. Catherines, Ontario on Saturday, October 27th. Between the girls they took home awards, trophies and tiaras for: Best Dressed, Best Hair, Best Ghoulish Costume, Queen Online Scary photo, Queen Photogenic, Queen TV Personality, 1st runner up Photo, 2nd place Talent, 2 places Overall Hi Point winners, and All Canadian Royal Highness. Nice work ladies!Congratulations to the GIHS Viking Boys and Girls Soccer, Boys Volleyball and Football teams for making it into the playoffs, all had outstanding seasons.
The Town is honoring the Veterans of the Cold War, Iraq and Afghanistan Wars on Monday, November 11th at 11:00 a.m. at the Veteran's Day Service at Vet's Park. Everyone is welcome to attend.
Don Kilian saw this Bald Eagle in the hockey rink at Kaegebein School while driving on Broadway, Sunday, November 3rd. Now that is not something you see every day.
The Town Recreation Department Sunday Family Swim started this week. You can swim on Sundays from 12:00 – 2:45 p.m. at the High School Pool. The pool will not be open during the holiday break in December.
The Buffalo chapter of the Blue Star Mothers of America are collecting for care packages to send to troops overseas. Check out the list and see if you can help make the soldiers a bit more comfortable with goodies from home.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, October 31, 2013
Morgan Proctor is turning 10 today, hope you have a frightfully good birthday! Happy birthday to Emily Fred and Andy Chambers on Friday, November 1st. Happy birthday Saturday, November 2nd to Carol Zimmerman and Blake Rockwood. Anthony Weis is turning nine on Sunday, November 3rd and Allie DeMartin will be 15 on Monday, November 4th. Happy 21st birthday to Alexander Frye on Tuesday, November 5th. Happy 11th birthday to Robert Arch on Wednesday, November 6th.
Congratulations to Wendy & Marty Napier celebrating their 5th wedding anniversary on Friday, November 1st. They had a Halloween theme wedding at the Grand Island Moose Lodge in 2008 that from the pictures looks quite fun!
I had an email from an interesting reader this week. John Huling wrote: "I visit your pages often over these many years. I am the direct descendant of George Huling who built the "first permanent homestead" on Grand Island. George was raised by his Grandfather Alexander Huling who was a captain in the Revolutionary war in Bennington, Vermont. He lived in Shaftsbury, VT. Alexander was a Mariner and was also in the 1750's in the French and American war which is how he came to know about Grand Island. His Grandson had heard the stories of the Niagara River and Falls. George first lived in Batavia and had a farm there he sold. The Maple Grove Cemetery was donated to the Island by my Great Grandfather John Marshall Huling. My father and mother are buried there as well. Thank you for keeping the site going."
The Grand Island High School Band & Orchestra students are having their annual fruit sale. The sale begins October 25th and runs through Nov. 12th with delivery on Dec. 14th. The sale of these delicious grapefruits and oranges directly benefit each students trip account. This year they are traveling to the Dixie Classics Festival in Washington, DC in April. You can buy online, Buy Now!
In week eight of the 2013 Buffalo News large school football poll, Grand Island jumped up to #7 from the #10 spot last week with a win over McKinley. Viking Sophomore Jarod Brandon was named to the Connolly Cup, one of eight top performers for the week. He was also named the offensive pick of the Jim Kelly Football Camp Underclassmen of the Week. Nice job Brandon!
Don't forget, during the month of November, Grand Island Optical will donate $5.00 for every eye exam completed to the Neighbor’s Foundation of Grand Island. You can make your appointment online at their website.
The Town of Grand Island's official hours of trick or treating are from 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. tonight.
I recently read for the first time the Rotarians Four-Way Test, "of the things we think, say or do as Rotarians."
1) Is it the TRUTH? 2) Is it FAIR to all concerned? 3) Will it build GOODWILL and BETTER FRIENDSHIPS? and 4) Will it be BENEFICIAL to all concerned?
It seems especially appropriate during election time to share.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
The Grand Island Memorial Library will hold a family story time on Thursday, November 7th at 6:30 p.m.
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, October 24, 2013
Happy birthday to John Bidell on Friday, October 25th. Happy birthday Saturday, October 26th to twins Maxx and Calleigh Anderson turning four. Happy birthday on Sunday, October 27th to Peter Marston and Dominic Cannata. Happy 21st birthday to Jimmie Stewart III and the lovely Nikki Zimmerman, turning 20 on Monday, October 28th. Happy birthday wishes to Dave Wilkinson and Bill Pioli on Wednesday, October 30th.
Interesting news out of a Town Board Workshop this week is the introduction of recycling totes on or before July 2014. The totes are covered and have wheels, like a large garbage can and could be as large as 95 gallons. They will be provided by Allied Waste at no cost to the residents which is a great thing as they average around $75 per tote.
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Robert Eberhard of Grand Island who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Saturday, October 12th.
A "Meet the Candidates" night is scheduled for Thursday, October 24th at 7:00 p.m. at the Family Life Center, 1780 Love Road. Sponsored by the committee chairmen of the four active political parties on GI – Conservative, Republican, Democratic and Independence – the event will feature candidates for supreme court, surrogate judge, family court judge and town justice, as well as Erie County Legislature, Town Council and highway superintendent. Luke Moretti from Channel 4 will be the moderator. Questions from the floor will be accepted.
The Boys Viking soccer team defeated Starpoint on Wednesday by a score of 3-0 in the Section VI Class A-1 Quarterfinals. They are playing Kenmore East in the semi-finals on Friday, October 25th at Hamburg, 7:30 p.m. Also playing on Friday at 7:30 is the Viking football team in the Class A Quarterfinals. They are playing McKinley at Riverside. The Lady Vikings soccer team is playing Albion tonight in the Class A Quarterfinals. The game is at Lew Port, 7:30 p.m. Good luck to all our Viking sports teams.
Don't miss the picture of all the babies on the High School page. Thanks to Mandy Myers for passing it along.
The Grand Island Rod & Gun Club made a donation to the Life Skills special education class at GIHS that enabled the kids to purchase two Guinea Pigs for their classroom. You should have seen their faces at the pet store, they were so excited. Thanks also to Island Pets, who gave the class special pricing.
The seventh annual National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is Saturday, October 26th. Drugs can be dropped off without questions from from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grand Island Town Hall.
Thanks to long time advertisers Aceti's Wine & Spirits and Town Cafe for their recent yearly advertising renewal. We very much appreciate our Isledegrande advertisers and hope you do too!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, October 17, 2013
Happy belated birthday to Chris Ciechoski who turned 50! on October 9th. Happy birthday today to Julius Schopp turning three and to Marissa Booker, Stephanie Kowalak and Jenna Giambra. Happy 10th birthday on Saturday, October 19th to Luke Hooper and Ryan Pinzel, also 10 on Sunday October 20th. Happy Birthday to Laury Linenfelser on Monday, October 21st. Happy birthday wishes to Patrick Gallagher (21) and Gerry Robinson on Wednesday, October 23rd.
I received a nice email from former Islander Kay Milne of The Villages, Florida. She wrote that her husband Jim is celebrating his 75th birthday on Saturday, October 19th and is busy golfing three times a week. Jim was the Assessor for the Town until retiring in 2001 after being diagnosed with Esophagus Cancer and is doing great! Jim and Kay send thanks to all their friends on GI for the prayers and concerns last December when their son, Master Sgt. Jamie Milne passed away, "we are trying our best to do what Jamie would want us to do, enjoy our life". So nice to hear from you Kay and a super duper happy birthday to Jim!
Happy Anniversary on Sunday, October 20th to Gary & Carol Roesch, 51 years and Dan & Sue McMahon, 41 years. Earl & Rita DeGlopper have been married 63 years on Monday, October 21st.
The Grand Island Snowmobile Club is looking for new members. The club meets at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club on the 1st Wednesday of each month at 7pm. Next meeting is on November 6th. You can register for membership at the meeting or go to www.nyssa.com.
Grand Island Day is scheduled for Saturday, October 19th at U.B. Football stadium. Festivities begin at 1:15 p.m. when you can meet the team at the "Walk to Victory". A free pre-game concert by Big Bad Voodoo Daddy begins at 1:30 and there will be family entertainment and activities at Stampede Square from 2:30 p.m. - game time at 3:30 p.m. Come out and cheer on starting senior Alex Neutz who is a wide receiver. Tickets are $10.00.
Don't forget the decommissioning of the GIHS Gene Masters Football Field is taking place on Saturday, October 19th at 11:30 a.m. All former players and coaches are invited to attend and have a hot dog for old times sake!
Kim Waldron from Grand Island Optical informed me that during the month of November, their office will be donating $5.00 for every eye exam to the Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island. Check out their website, you can make an appointment online!
The GIHS Art Club is having a Spooktacular Event on October 25 & 26 at the Nike Base. The younger crowd can enjoy Halloween fun on Saturday from 11 am – 3 pm at the "Isle of Spooky Fun and Scarecrow Contest". Teens and adults can be scared witless at the "The Isle of Horror" on Friday and Saturday nights from 7 - 10pm. See story for details.
Isledegrande photographer Mary Stewart took these photos in Niagara Falls, Canada. The picture of the falls was voted top 3 in the Pixoto website, landmark/travel photo category on October 9th. The butterfly picture was in the top 20% for the week of September 15th. Mary will have her prints at the Golden Age Club Holiday Happenings on Saturday, October 19th.
A bunny found in the Regency area yesterday at noon was reunited with his/her family thanks to FaceBook. The kitten found on Baseline has yet to be claimed by its family. Hopefully someone will claim it before it has to go to the SPCA.
Thanks to long time advertisers Grand Island Chiropractic and The Rose Liquor Store for their recent yearly advertising renewal. We very much appreciate our Isledegrande advertisers and hope you do too!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Happy birthday today, October 10th to Ray Billica and tomorrow October 11th to Jacob Mongold. Happy 7th birthday on Saturday, October 12th to Marissa Mrkall and happy birthday Saturday to Jean Peters and Gary Larsen. Happy 17th Birthday to Stephanie Voyzey on Monday, October 14th. A very special happy birthday to Shirley Luther turning 89 years young on Tuesday, October 15th. Happy 5th birthday to Clare Conboy on Wednesday, October 16th.
GIHS senior Kevin Borowicz won the Niagara Frontier League golf title on Wednesday, October 9th at Willowbrook Golf Course in Lockport. This is his first league title. Kevin won the Section VI title as a sophomore and played in the state tournament as a sophomore and a junior. Nice job Kevin!
Another happy ending here at Isledegrande! Last week we helped reunite a parrot and her family. This week a home was found for Puddles the pup. We do have a cat that was found at 2610 Baseline, lets get her back to her family. It is a grey striped cat with white chest.. very talkative, call 773 3825.
This Friday at 7:00 p.m, Steph Senn is playing in the Kent State vs U.B. ladies soccer game at U.B. Stadium. This is the first time Steph has played in the area since leaving for Kent State last year. I'm sure she'd love to have a great "hometown" turnout!!
The decommissioning of the GIHS Gene Masters Football Field is taking place on Saturday, October 19th at 11:30 a.m., before the 1:00 p.m. football game against Will North. A tent party for all former Vikings Football players and coaches will celebrate the last home game on Masters grass field. All players & coaches from 1964-2013 are invited with free hot dogs provided. All Football, Boys Lacrosse, coaches, Band, Cheerleaders, Drill team members from 1964-2013 will be invited on the field at half-time. For information contact Athletic Director Jon Roth at 773-8812. It will be renamed after all the renovations and be Gene Masters Field once again...whew!
Driving around the Island for the last month shows evidence that not everyone knows election sign protocol....signs should only be posted 30 days prior to an election and should be taken down 7 days after the election.
Don't forget the Grand Island Fire Company annual Open House is on Thursday, October 10th at fire headquarters from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. See flyer for more details.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
Happy birthday today, October 3rd to Jean Marie Ensminger and tomorrow October 4th to Margie Walker. Happy 12th birthday on Saturday, October 5th to Dylan Russo. Happy Birthday to Diane Hassan on Wednesday, October 9th.
Town Recreation Supervisor Joe Menter sent in photos this week of two new benches added to Fisherman's Landing beneath the south bridge. They are beauties!
Take a drive and see the new signage and flower beds at Beaver Island Park. Looks like the state finally decided the unkempt, "natural" look, just doesn't cut it.
Island resident Justin Schoen has made it to the second round in the Intuit QuickBooks win a superbowl commercial contest. His new company is Pro Stanchions, a crowd control equipment company and less than a year in business. Click on the link to vote and help Justin out.
Thanks to Ryan Ayers from Ayers Lawn Care for sprucing up the front of our building. Not only does he do a great job but he does it quickly! Call Ryan at 698-2523 for a free estimate for all your yard, garden and snow plowing needs.
Isledegrande did it again! Within two hours of posting Angel the parrot was lost on our front page, bird finder DiAnne George knew where to find the parents. The Beatty's are so happy to have Angel back at home. Let us know asap when a pet is missing. We post the info and photo on our website, Facebook page and twitter account.
High School senior Tom Doctor was featured in a nice story from the sports section of the Niagara Gazette last Friday, September 27th. Take a look at the story by Mike Meiler
Don't forget the Grand Island Fire Company annual Open House is on Thursday, October 10th at fire headquarters from 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. See flyer for more details.
In Memorium: Howie K. Benns 10-4-59 - 2-8-02, "loving and missing you always, happy birthday love, Mom, Dad, Auntie, Lynda, April, Cindy, Jim, Christine, Kim and Ryan."
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, September 26, 2013
Happy birthday today, September 26th to Madison Martin, Kevin Rogoza, Liz Glor Allen and Cameron Kolat. Happy birthday on Friday September 27th to photographer extraordinaire Kevin Cobello. Also on Friday, Dave Grant, Ashley Bleistein, and Sharilyn Zarajczyk. Happy birthday September 28th to Cap Cooke, Jordan Davis (19), Claire Cinelli and Ron Webb.
Happy birthday on Sunday, September 29th to Dana Robinson, Nancy Blundell, Joann Hasselbeck, Jim Wright Jr., and Matthew Hamm. Happy birthday on Tuesday, October 1st to Ariel Brucato and Allison Mae Walker.
Wendy Krause Napier wants to wish her husband Marty Napier happy 44th on Saturday, September 28th and happy 15th to daughter Samantha Krause on Sunday, September 29th.
Congratulations to John and Joanne Podlucky celebrating their 35th wedding anniversary on Monday, September 30th. See a cute photo of them from high school on the "Islanders" page. Congratulations to Patricia and Scott Shaw who are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary October 1st. They were married at Christ the King Chapel at Canisius College with a reception that followed at the Holiday Inn.
Law enforcement officer Russell M. Pecoraro was laid to rest on Friday, September 20, 2013. He was a retired Chief from the Erie County Sheriffs Dept. and retired Chief of Police from the Princess Anne Police Dept., in Princess Anne, MD. At about mid-day, bagpipes could be heard coming from Kaiser's Funeral Home and the Sheriff's helicopter arrived and hovered over the Town Commons, waiting to escort the funeral procession. Many Town, County and State Police cars and motorcycles joined the procession along with family and friends. It was quite a sight to see.
Check out the classified ads, there is a beautiful house for rent on Greenway and a home for sale with views of the West River.
The Grand Island Chamber will begin their "30 Deals of Giveaways" on October 1, 2013. Check out their webpage (www.gichamber.org) and fill out the registration for a chance to win that day’s prize! There are some great prizes to be given away.
Island artist JoAnn Vanderheite was mentioned in the Buffalo News column "The In Box" by Susan Martin on Sunday, September 22nd with photos of her artwork. The article was about decorating with gourds which is what JoAnn uses to make her works of art. Her works, which begin at $35, have been featured in the 100 American Craftsmen show at the Kenan Center and the Lewiston Art Festival.
Going to be a nice day for the Taste of Grand Island this Saturday, September 28th from noon - 8:00 p.m. on the Boulevard between Whitehaven and Baseline. Last year's event was a hit!
The Ladies Auxiliary at the Charles N. DeGlopper Post 9249 are requesting addresses of servicemen and women who are in war zones, to send Care Packages to. See story for particulars.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, September 19, 2013
Happy birthday today, September 19th to Julie O'Connor, Pete McMahon, Mike Carr and Vickie Harnden. Happy birthday Friday, September 20th to Bruce Senn, Becky Peters, Jennifer Fiels, Lawrence Runions and Lisa Dollendorf.
There is not much in the way of events around town this week but boy is there sporting events! Take a look at the list at the end of the column for GIHS fall sports happening this week.
Get ready for fall and winter clean ups by stopping to see Pete Marston at Marston Power Equipment, 1970 Grand Island Blvd. Pete has everything you need to clean up leaves or remove snow. He also fixes most of your equipment too! Another option is calling Ryan Ayers at Ayers Lawn Care, he does fall leave clean ups and will plow your driveway.
The high school PTSA is raffling off a free voucher for a SAT workshop for grades 10-12 being offered by the GI Community Ed department. All you have to do is join the PTSA by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, September 20th. You can register online at the PTSA page.
The Taste of Grand Island is coming up on Saturday, September 28th from noon - 8:00 p.m. Grand Island Blvd. will be closed between Whitehaven and Baseline Roads during that time. At this point there are over 25 restaurants and 30 vendors participating. The Taste is an all day festival filled with great food, vendors and entertainment. You don't want to miss it!
Looks like the West River Connector Trail that will connect Beaver Island and Buckhorn State Parks has been approved by the Niagara River Greenway Commission. The asphalt trail will be 8 miles long and 10 feet wide and will cost just over $2,000,000. You can read everything you could possibly want to know about the project in the application presented in July to the Commission.
Thanks to long time advertiser Mark Frentzel, Attorney at Law for his recent renewal and to Alice Demmin for her donation. Isledegrande would not be available if it wasn't for our advertisers and reader donations.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Happy birthday today, September 12th to Chris Aronica, Christopher Sadkowski & Callie Harding. Happy birthday tomorrow Sept. 13th to Makenna Scalise & Bethany Kulikowski and to Christine Rose Wright turning 24! Congratulations to Mike & Sandy Beauchamp celebrating their 51st wedding anniversary on Sunday, September 15th and to Tim & Irene Ehde celebratiing their 46th wedding anniversary on Monday, September 16th.
The Buffalo News had islanders galore in the paper this week. For the second time in two weeks U.B. football great Alex Neutz was in a feature article. It even mentioned that he was most likely headed to the pro's!
Grand Island High School sophomore Aaron Bobeck was named part of the NeXt crew as a photographer. NeXt is a weekly section published in the Buffalo News devoted to teens.
Recent Grand Island graduates Jodi White and Dan Konopski, were included in a NeXt article featuring high school students who took courses over the summer. They have attended a creative writing seminar at Canisius College for the past several years.
Don't forget the South/South Bridge work has been rescheduled to this weekend starting at 11pm on Friday and continuing until 9am on Sunday, September 13 - 15.
The "8th Annual Hoffspice Hoffman's Hospice Fundraiser, planned by Justin Hoffman is taking place on Saturday, September 14th at the VFW starting at 2pm. Stop down and show your support. Nice job Justin!
A young GIHS student is in need of your help. Vanessa Haynie has been ill since February 2012 and is on the waiting list for a kidney transplant. Organizers are looking for donations for an upcoming fundraiser scheduled for September 29, 2013. If you can help, take a look at the story in this week's "Islanders in the News" page and/or attend the fundraiser.
The GI Memorial Library has many different programs available this fall. Check out the library page and see the fun programs for kids and adults.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Happy birthday to retired orchestra teacher and former islander Deb Remson today, September 5th. Happy birthday tomorrow Sept. 6th to Judy Schmidt, and also happy 48th wedding anniversary to Judy and husband Bob on September 11th. Happy birthday Mikayla Claus and Jackie McGinty on Monday, September 9th and to June Ann Chadima on Wednesday, September 11th.
Congratulations Kari and Jeffrey Rebmann married June 29th in Los Cabos, Mexico and now residing in Seattle, WA. Happy 36th wedding anniversary to Butch and Julie Meyer on Monday, September 9th.
Mrs. Billie Jean Harper died on Saturday, August 31st. Most people know her as a GI High School hall monitor for the past 32 years, usually found working the front desk. Mrs. Harper just retired at the end of the school year, even though I don't think she wanted to. She was a no-nonsense lady with a heart of gold and a great sense of humor. Every time I saw her I walked away with a smile. She always asked about your kids, who she helped make their way through the halls and your momma, who she had met over the years around town. She loved her Grand Island kids, still referring to us as her "kids" even though some of us were in our 40's and 50's. I will miss Mrs. Harper. Read a story from Isledegrande in 2009 when Mrs. Harper was named a recipient of the NYS Senate Woman's History month.
Patrick Foote won first place in the Annual Niagara River Anglers Association Annual Walleye Contest held Aug. 24th with a total weight for two walleye of 15.98 pounds.
Don't forget the South/South Bridge is being worked on this weekend starting at 11pm on Friday and continuing until 9am on Sunday. That means head to either Long Rd. or Whitehaven Rd., there is no entrance from South State Parkway.
On Monday, September 9th at 6:00 p.m., "The Iron Event" is taking place at the Pearl Street Grille. It is a fundraiser for ALS that began after Grand Island native Dan Tracy was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's disease. See story.
There is a Patriot Day Memorial Service on Wednesday, September 11th, 2013, at 7:00 p.m. at the Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial VFW Post #9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. The service will be held at the Post Flag at the front of the property. Every one is invited to attend this memorial to the victims of the Twin Towers, Pentagon and Flight 93 at Shanksville, PA that occurred on September 11th, 2001.
It's getting busy around town...check out the list of events below that are scheduled for the next week and the GIHS sports schedule.
Primary Day is Tuesday, September 10th from 6am - 9pm.
I'm always amazed at where people are reading us from....today was France, Japan and all over the states!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events - Varsity unless noted.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Happy birthday to my brother Pete Hayes of Providence, RI tomorrow August 30th. Birthday best wishes go out to Patty Mash, the nicest health club director in town, on Saturday, August 31st. Chance Luthringer and Daniel Senn are turning nine-years-old on Sunday, September 1st. Happy birthday to Carol Gress, Sam Linenfelser and Joshua Smith on September 3rd.
My apologies....I overlooked a note from Ray Billica announcing his 35th wedding anniversary to wife Debbie. They were married on August 25th, 1978. Congrats!
Kudos to Town employees from the sewer, water and highway departments that have been working so hard since the August 13th collapse of sewer pipe on Whitehaven Road. This is a huge job! Over 600 feet of pipe has to be replaced and special equipment is needed that is coming in from as far away as Syracuse. To get this equipment on the Island, the bridge needs to be closed to traffic, which means special permits are needed and not in the usual time, but FAST! This pipe contains 75% of the Island's sewer output.
Next week Whitehaven Road will be closed for a time in order to cut through the road. Thank you to all the Town employees, top to bottom who have been busting their butts for the past two weeks.
Alex Neutz had a nice article written about him in the Buffalo News this past Sunday. There is a link on our sports page. Alex was also named one of five players as season-long team captains by the University of Buffalo Football team. Way to go Alex!
Watch for new additions around town as the old Island Leisure Pools buildings have been sold to the Harbor Light Fellowship Center and Advance Auto Parts is moving into Tops Plaza.
Don't you just love Fahim at Island Ship Center? If you are ever having a bad day, just pop in and say hi...he will have you smiling again immediately! Summer hours are over and going back to "normal" next Tuesday at the store, opening at 8:30 a.m.
Reminder: Due to the Labor Day holiday, garbage collection will be one day later all week.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, August 22, 2013
LATE BREAKING NEWS...In a surprise move, Thursday Softball League eventual champion the "Say Cheese Softball Company", re-signed free agent John Gibney, to a two hour contract. Coach and owner John Loos, stated "we miss the Big Fella’s experience and mental toughness". The signing paid dividends as the Big Fella broke up a couple of internal altercations, his presence was felt, as it lead to a comeback from a 17 run deficit. They won 23-22 over Island Lanes 2. Coach Loos said, "John earned his paycheck for that comeback, thanks again John". Shortly thereafter, the "Company" released the Big Fella. Good Luck in retirement Big Guy.
* University of Buffalo sophomore and Grand Island native Silvana D'Ettorre was the lucky student to introduce President Barack H. Obama today at U.B. Alumni Arena. She learned Tuesday evening that she was chosen and went right to work writing her welcoming speech. Silvana spoke in front of a crowd of 7,200 people and had never given a public speech previously.
Happy birthday to Justin Podgorny, 11 today, August 22nd and say happy birthday to Colin Pinzel who is turning four on Friday, August 23rd. Cake and ice cream for Gene Mongan on Saturday, August 24th and my nephew D.J. Foote out in Colorado. Arlene Wunsch will be 22 on August 25th, and happy birthday to Judy Webb, Marisa Atkinson and Brielle Backland on Monday, August 26th.
Alley Cutting was recently named MVP of the Niagara Frontier/Niagara-Orleans League team in the Second Western New York Underclassmen Showcase for softball. Alley pitched five shutout innings in the tournament.
The Sandy Beach Park Club is having a chicken bbq on Saturday, August 24th at 3:00 p.m. The cost is $9 and includes a half chicken, potato salad, roll & butter and a dessert.
Byblos Niagara Resort & Spa (formerly Holiday Inn Resort) has planned a free "BBQ and Blues Bash" on Saturday, August 31st. There will be a blues and jazz band playing from 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m. and food and beverages will be available for purchase. Table seating is limited so guests are encouraged to bring their own chairs or blankets.
The Town Recreation Department is sponsoring a Slow Pitch Softball Tournament on Friday and Saturday, September 6th & 7th at the Nike Base and Kaegebein School. The tournament is limited to 12 teams and the entry deadline is Friday, August 23rd. See flyer, details and registration form
It is a bittersweet time of year for the families of college students headed away. Sure, your house will be cleaner and your food and utility bills will be lower, but we will still miss them. But not for long...do you realize how many breaks they get? It's almost like they are going to camp!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
Happy birthday to Sharon Zimmerman, Peggy Bastian and Bella Duscher (5) today, August 15th.
This is adorable Katie Prell and she is turning eight on Friday. We hope you have a wonderful birthday! Say happy birthday on Friday, August 16th to Jim Dlugokinski and Jackson Stewart. Also to Chris Sexton turning 20 out in San Diego, CA where he is currently stationed with the US Navy on the USS San Diego. Thanks so much for your service Chris.
On Saturday, August 17th say happy birthday to Maisie Mrkall, Sunday, August 18th to Nancy Pioliand Monday, August 19th toBrenda Mrkall and Darren DelSignore. My favorite auntie Mary Ann Stone has a birthday on Tuesday, August 20th and we are hitting the Johnny Mathis concert on August 24th to celebrate.
Congratulations to William & Jennifer Joseph on their 10th wedding anniversary on August 16th.
The "Thunder on the Niagara" races are coming back to Gratwick-Riverside Park in North Tonawanda on Saturday and Sunday, August 17th & 18th. The park will open at 8:00 a.m. and racing scheduled to begin at 11:00 a.m. and run until 5:00 p.m. each day.
The final movie at Town Commons is this Saturday, August 17th, and features "Puss in Boots". Thanks Corey McGowan for bringing another entertaining idea to Grand Island.
I like to let you know of some of the interesting spots that people reading Isledegrande are from. This week visits came from Turkey, Germany, Alaska, Beverly Hills, Palm Springs, Sao Paulo, Brazil and Japan.
The kids are headed back to college in the next few weeks, but the lucky students in the GI School District have three more weeks of summer vacation. They can enjoy the next beautiful week of weather in store for us.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Happy birthday to Holly "Whitford" Best, Brandon Robinson and Shannon McDonough today, August 8th. On Saturday, August 10th say happy birthday to Lindsey Smith Lucinski, and Clark Nesbitt. Clark's wife Diane Nesbitt reported it is a milestone and he is much older than her! Happy birthday to Betty Clayton and Sally Kaiser on Sunday, August 11th.
"Finding Nemo 3" will be shown at Town Commons this Saturday, August 10th. Movies will be starting earlier as the summer winds down, more like 8:30 p.m. instead of 9:00 p.m.
Say Cheese Pizza is hosting a golf tournament on Saturday, August 24th, with a 11:30 start at Beaver Island Golf Course. Proceeds from the event will be donated to the Kaegebein Playground fund. Check with the bartenders at Say Cheese for information.
Thanks to long time advertisier Marston Power Equipment for their recent advertising renewal. Pete Marston can take care of your lawnmowers and snow removal equipment, either fixing or replacing with new.
Last week there were over 6800 hits on Isledegrande from all over the country and from overseas, they included Japan, France, Mexico and England. Just goes to show, no matter where an Islander lives or travels, they want to know what is going on back home.
It seems kind of quiet around town...but not for long! The Hayes clan is getting together from all over the country over the next few weeks. There is a reason we refer to ourselves as the LOUD family.
Check out the Classified Ads page, recently posted a "found" cat and a motor home.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
This just in...In an unprecedented move the Say Cheese Thursday night men's softball team has released their starting first baseman one week before playoffs. After back-to-back weeks of falling down and nearly breaking himself, John Gibney has been shown the door. Coach John Lose stated "for John's safety we had to cut him.” Free agent Gibney could not be reached for comment.
Happy birthday to Hannah Linenfelser, sweet sixteen today, August 1st. On Saturday, August 3rd say happy birthday to Brandon McDonough & Gabrielle Martell (11). Happy birthday to Harry Carter on Sunday, August 4th.
Happy 26th anniversary to Marie and Tom Long today, August 1st and happy 16th anniversary tomorrow, August 2nd to Frank and Amber Penque.
In the Buffalo Muny women’s finals, Island resident and Sacred Heart student Carlee Conway defeated Village Glen teaching pro Brittany Walters, 6-2, 6-4. She is ranked 35th in the East in the 18 & Under division. Congratulations Carlee!
Corey McGowan and Sam Aceti did a great job with the "Concert for a Cure" last Sunday at Canalside in Buffalo. It was a beautiful venue and the food and music were terrific. My fellow concertgoers and I can't wait till next year!
For almost thirty years Phyllis Lange has made a monthly trip to a soup kitchen in Buffalo as a volunteer. She is now hanging up her apron and retiring. Congratulate Phyllis if you see her on her many years of service.
A nice article in the Niagara Gazette features former islander and GIHS class of 2004 grad Christina (Mayer) Groce. She has started a new business called "Baby Cakes" making beautiful cakes and cupcakes. Take a look at the story and see photos of her works of art.
Due to inclement weather the past few weeks, "Despicable Me" is again scheduled for the Grand Island Saturday Night "Summer Film Series". The series is at the Town Commons at 9:00 p.m., bring a chair or blanket.
Isledegrande advertiser Town Cafe Bar & Grill is now serving steamers by the dozen daily through the summer. They have happy hour beers until 7pm every day and say they have the "coldest bottled beer on the island". Take a look at their website to view their menu and hours.
Check out the Classified Ads page, recently posted a twin bed with drawers and appliances.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Happy birthday Friday, July 26th to Lindsey Spiker, John MacNeil, Steve Barnhart, Liz Reimann & Faith Gworek (12). Happy birthday on July 27th to Helen Newkirk. Happy birthday to Tom Cope on Tuesday, July 30th and Jenna Hutzler & Karen Cooney on Wednesday, July 31st.
Congratulations to Chase Luthringer on winning the Amateur Supreme Title at Storybook Nationals Pageant on July 19 & 20th at PeeknPeak Resort.
Can you believe Grand Island made world wide news by having Salustiano Sanchez-Blazquez - 112, the oldest living man as a resident? See Associated Press article.
A resident at the south end of Baseline Road reports their home has many dozens of bats hanging around. They are trying to get the bats to move out to a "bat house".
A big Thank You! to returning advertisers GI Community Federal Credit Union and State Farm - Bob Piatek on their yearly renewal.
The GI Board of Education has invited all residents to a Ground Breaking Ceremony tomorrow, Friday, July 26, 2013 at 10:00 a.m. in front of the High School. It marks the beginning of a three year construction project that will include a new technology wing, updates to middle school and high school science rooms, a new sports stadium and renovations to the high school auditorium.
The Eighth Annual “Paddles Up Niagara” will take place at Beaver Island State Park on Saturday, July 27th. Lots of fun activities for everyone. See story for details.
Due to the rainout at last weeks Summer Film Series, the feature will be "Despicible Me" at the Town Commons on Saturday, July 27th at 9pm.
Just in today.....Robert Healy, the Veteran's Service Coordinator from Niagara University will speak and answer questions regarding veterans benefits at the next American Legion meeting Wednesday, July 31st at the Moose.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, July 18, 2013
Happy birthday tomorrow, July 19th to Tim Ehde and Bill Shaw. Happy birthday to Tracey (Hammond) Senn and Mike Stamler on Saturday, July 20th. Happy birthday to Jeanne Anstett on Sunday, July 21st.
Happy 55th wedding anniversary to Jo and Paul Klock on June 28th. The couple celebrated with family and friends at a Hawaiian themed party at the Knights of Columbus.
Congratulations to Alex Neutz on being named to the Biletnikoff Award Pre-Season Watch List. The Biletnikoff Award goes to the nation’s top receiver in college football.
Mike Yensan & Lyle Dinsmore
Had a great time up in Valleyfield, Quebec this past weekend at the 75th Annual Valleyfield Regatta. Lyle Dinsmore's "Miss Gangway" was part of the Vintage Series and ran so well, Mike Yensan got to take her for a spin. Many Islanders could be found in the pits, among them Gary Roesch, Mike Endres, Mike Geblein, Kathy Barton, Lynn Yensan, Bill and Kathy DeGlopper and Liz and Greg Barker.Don't forget to hit the "Grand Island Fun Fest" on July 19, 20 & 21st in front of Say Cheese Pizza, 1771 Love Road. There is going to be lots of exciting things to do and eat! See flyer for details.
Turner's Port of Call on East River Road was written up in the Buffalo News Gusto today and got good reviews for their food and excellent view. The menu features burgers, dogs, chicken fingers, kielbasa, fried snacks, wings and the famous steak sandwich.
Welcome Island Kids Child Care Center, our newest advertiser. We will have a story next week telling you all about the new business. A big THANK YOU to Wave Lengths Hair Design, McCarthy's School of Irish Dance and Grand Island Optical on their yearly renewal. We can't do it without you!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Happy birthday today, July 11th to our Town Justice Mark Frentzel and Ryan Shea. Happy birthday to Ashley Dragonette, Lindsay Proctor & Becky Stufkosky on Friday, July 12th. Happy birthday #2 to Garnet Schopp on Monday, July 15th. Happy birthday Carolyn Doebert & Luke Austin on Tuesday July 16th. Happy birthday to my friend Sue Sondel on July 15th, hope you have a wonderful day.
Happy 66th wedding anniversary to Donald & Eleanor Swain on June 21st. Happy 61st wedding anniversary to Joseph & Helen Czora this past June 7th.
Congratulations to Chris Carter on his outstanding 1st place finish in the Dick Bessel Race on the 4th of July. Chris is headed to an Ironman competition in Lake Placid at the end of July, mom Susan Carter promises to keep us updated.
The "Grand Island Fun Fest" is scheduled for July 19, 20 & 21st in front of Say Cheese Pizza, 1771 Love Road. There is going to be lots of exciting things to do and eat! See flyer for details.
Don't forget to get your tickets at Aceti's Wine and Spirits for the "Concert for a Cure" at Canalside on Sunday, January 28th.
Congratulations to Amy Garten on her big win at the GI Knights of Columbus Bingo night. I hear they fill the hall and everyone has a riot!
Check another item off the bucket list....heading to Valleyfield, Quebec this weekend for the 75th Anniversary of the Valleyfield Hydroplane Regatta. Going to be hanging out with Lyle Dinsmore and the "Miss Gangway" crew. So excited!!!!
A big THANK YOU to our advertisers Budweys Supermarket, Sandi's Family Restaurant and John's Pizza on renewing their advertising. We can't do it without you!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Wednesday, July 3, 2013
Happy birthday on July 4th to Chris Affuso, Alivia Manzo and Ella MacNeil. Happy birthday to Susan Kowzan on July 5th and to Pete Hayes Sr. on July 6th. Happy birthday to Earl DeGlopper, 86 years young on Sunday, July 7th and Cathy Thomas on July 8th. Happy birthday to Justin Frentzel on Wednesday, July 10th.
Happy anniversary to Jim and Mary Dunbar-Daluisio, married 21 years ago on July 4th.
Congratulations to Justin Sondel and his beautiful bride Maureen on their June 29th wedding. The wedding took place at the Beaver Island Casino and was delightful from start to finish. The ceremony was lovely, food was delicious and dancing outside was great fun.
Even though the weather was a bit iffy, Corey McGowan reports a nice crowd turned out for the first "GI Summer Film Series" last Saturday, June 29th. The next movie is at the Town Commons on Saturday, July 6th at 9:00 p.m. and is "The Sandlot".
Wow!!! Those GI American Legion guys are BUSY! It seems every week they are helping out students, veterans and the community. Thank you for all you do for Grand Island and local veterans.
Thank you to the sponsors of the 2013 "Fire in the Sky" fireworks show, they are Keyser Cadillac, Life Technologies, Martin’s Fantasy Island, Niagara Falls KOA, Pritchard & Kennedy, and Try-It Distributing.
Many reunions are scheduled for this weekend, starting off with the "All Island Reunion" at Mallwitz Island Lanes on Wednesday, July 3rd. The festivities start at 6:00 p.m and live music with "Wide Right" begins at 7:00 p.m. Everyone is welcome to attend.
2013 GIHS Reunions
Class of 2003 - Class of 1993 - Class of 1988 - Class of 1983 - Class of 1973 - Class of 1968
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Happy birthday today, June 27th to Lily Panepinto and Tom Rall. Happy birthday to George DeGlopper and Dick Crawford on Friday, June 28th and to Max Costello on Saturday, June 29th. Happy birthday to Joey Cali, Bob Kopf and Gary Roesch on Monday, July 1st and to Megan Pinzel on July 2nd.
Happy 10th anniversary to my adorable, hard-working husband Brad Robinson on Friday, June 28th, boy that went fast! I'm shooting for the Golden Anniversary! Happy 51st Anniversay to Barbara & Richard Brzyski, married on June 30, 1962 and happy 46th anniversary to Rev. Paul & Eleanor Robinson on July 1st.
Two young Island golfers played in the International Junior Masters tournament at East Aurora Country Club this week. Graduating senior Aaron Schauger is playing in the Bronze flight today and junior Kevin Borowicz is playing in the Gold flight. Nice job gentlemen!
Terry Klaaren is coming back to visit and will have a class in "Plein air" on Wednesday, July 24th from 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at a Grand Island location. Terry will provide brushes and paint, class members should bring a small canvas as a finished picture is the goal. The cost is $30 per person, call Mrs. Lyn Laman at 775-5735 to register. This is a bucket list item for me so I will definitely be there.
Keep in mind "A Concert For a Cure" planned by islanders Corey McGowan & Sam Aceti for Sunday, July 28th at Canalside in Buffalo. Headliner "The Guess Who" will be joined by eight local bands for the all day event starting at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available at Aceti's Wine and Spirits and will save you the online fee. See the website for the complete line-up.
Plan ahead for the "Paddles Up Niagara" event at Beaver Island State Park on Saturday, July 27th. This is the eighth annual event and it gets bigger and better every year. Check out the webpage for information.
I was looking into the Big Six Renovation that was listed on the Niagara River Greenway site as starting in May of 2013. After taking a ride down and seeing no action, I gave NYS Parks Public Affairs Coordinator Angela Berti a call and she reports that the project will start this fall. Take a look at the project, it should be very nice when it is completed.
Two last minute reunions have been added....the GIHS Class of 1968 is having a reunion on Saturday, July 6th - see details, and the GIHS Class of 2003 is having their 10th on Friday, July 5th, see details.
It is amazing to see where our readers come from, this morning two visitors were reading in France. Last Friday I looked at the tracker and there was a reader in Japan and in England, along with all over the United States. Once an Islander, always an Islander!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, June 20, 2013
How sweet is Billy Gworek? He sent in a picture and anniversary announcement. Happy 15th anniversary today, June 20th, Billy & Danielle!!! Another anniversary today...Happy 60th!!! anniversary to Doc Rayhill and his lovely wife Joanne. They were married at St. Benedict's R.C. Church in Eggertsville on June 20, 1953 and have made their home on the Island since 1955.
Happy birthday today, June 20th to Paula Callahan, young Jim Linenfelser and John Frentzel. Happy birthday to Mel Passarelli on Sunday, June 23rd. I just know you are doing something fun Mel! Happy birthday to Cole Glessner and Brian O'Connor on Tuesday, June 25th.
A book written by former islander Thom Hatch was recently reviewed in the Buffalo News. Check out the review by Dan Herbeck of "The real story of Butch Cassidy, the Sundance Kid and their wild bunch"
Sarah Mallare of the Village Inn and her sister Christine Carr recently opened a bakery in the city of Tonawanda. Magpie's Bake Shop is located at 38 Niagara Street and offers pies, cupcakes, cakes and cookies. Starting next week they are open Wednesday - Friday 11am-7pm, Saturday & Sunday 11am-5pm. Good luck ladies!
Watch out for turtles crossing the road! Due to the higher water levels, turtles are moving to higher ground and that sometimes means crossing roadways. I saw one at the south end of East River that stopped all traffic. You can move them, just make sure you move them in the direction they were headed and watch out for the snappers!
Does anyone remember talk of putting an airport on the Island in the 1920's? I just heard an unproven tidbit regarding the Buffalo Airport possibly being located here. If anyone has information, please email me. Thanks!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, June 13, 2013
Happy sweet 36th birthday today, June 13th to Danielle (Hassan) Martin. Also celebrating today are Paul Sommer, Kim Nestark and Jeffrey Wansart III. Friday, June 7th is birthday of David Conboy, Raven Khreis and Jamin Cope. Happy 4th birthday to Claire Neuhaus on Sunday, June 16th. Happy birthday to Morgan Santorio 9 on Monday, June 17th, Kester Bleich on June 18th and Teddy Linenfelser on June 19th. Hope everyone has the best birthday ever!
Happy Anniversary to Mr. and Mrs. Vincent P. Pascoe of Grand Island who recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary.
How exciting! Al and Mike Endres were at the first Stanley Cup playoff final in Chicago between Blackhawks and Bruins yesterday, June 12th. The game did not end till morning in triple overtime.
Left: Mike Heberlein and Perry Jost ready for the lunch crowd. Right: Look at that view!
The old "Bedell House Saloon Dog House" is open and serving food from 11am-9pm, seven days a week at the end of Ferry Road. It is now called "The Old Bedell Grille" and is owned by Debbie Lewis Perry Jost and Mark Savoy. They serve many different grilled items and sandwiches, including lobster rolls. The phone number is 796-9332.
Congrats to GIHS Senior Megan Carroll who was recently named the Niagara Gazette Girls Lacrosse Player of the Year, GIHS Junior Jesse Dhaliwall was named the Niagara Gazette Player of the Year for Girls Track and Kevin Freedman, Niagara Gazette Player of the Year for Boys Track.
As I was looking around "Business First" for the school rankings, I came across the ranking of town/city owner occupied housing. Grand Island was listed as #18 with a population of 20,120, occupied housing units of 7704 and occupied by owner 80.53%. Pendleton was #1 in the rankings with a population of 6,332 and a 93.75% occupied by owners.
I've been searching high and low in the historical files of the town for pictures of the Holiday Inn when it first opened. Anyone out there happen to have any? All I've found is a couple newspaper clippings.
Check out the GIHS Class of 1993 reunion page, Betsy Schopp Cali has been adding attendees fast & furiously! See1993.
Thanks to everyone who made the "Senior Celebration" on Friday, June 7th a smashing success. Rave reviews coming from this year's senior class. The prom at Salvatore's also got great reviews. Congratulations to this year's GIHS graduating class of 2013.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, June 6, 2013
A very happy birthday today to Victoria Aronica. Friday, June 7th is happy day to Lorraine Dale and Brandon Loder. Happy 21st birthday to Ryan Osvath on Saturday, June 8th and a very happy birthday to Nathan Cook on Sunday, June 9th
Happy Anniversary to Jim and Laury Linenfelser on June 7th.
Check out the Grand Island Little League Stock Certificates from 1957 that Terry Swain brought in last week. "The dividend to the investor shall be the personal satisfaction derived in providing the direct means through which the main objective of Little League Baseball may be achieved. To implant in the boys of the community the ideals of sportsmanship, honesty, loyalty, etc." There is more, but you get the idea. Side one - Side two.
Mary Stewart photo
When newlyweds Joe and Kathy Capitula came back from their honeymoon, there was a surprise waiting for them on the front lawn of their home. The words "just married" had been cut in the grass. Joe's father mowed the words in the lawn just before Joe and Caitlin came home. The couple were married May 18th in Albany. Joe is the son of Joe and Pat Paolucci of Grand Island. Caitlin is the daughter of Joe and Kathy Capitula of Albany.
The Grand Island Fun Center is now open! A grand opening took place on Friday, May 31st and the first customers were Paul and Zac Przybyl, pictured above. New owner David Glian is excited about the upcoming season. His hours are Monday-Thursday 4pm-10pm, Friday, Saturday & Sunday 11am-10pm.
In honor of my boy and his birthday last week, we had an Adrian's Ice Cream Pie, OMG! It was so delicious, you must try it, but you have to plan ahead. Call the day before and they will create any flavor you can dream of. FYI: we had the Heath Bar pie.
Anyone thinking about the class of '74 40th reunion? I had an email with a request for information when it becomes available.
Save the date, "Grand Island Fun Fest" is coming! The weekend of July 19-20-21, Love Road will be the place to be for a good time. There are plans for rides, vendors, live music, a comic book show, a bike night, a classic car show and craft vendors. I will let you know more details as they are received.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, May 30, 2013
A very happy birthday to Terry Swain on Friday, June 1st. Terry stopped in with a picture of himself with best buddy Bobby Luther at their Sidway kindergarten graduation in 1953. That is Terry on the left. Hope you are feeling better soon and have the happiest of birthdays!Happy birthday to Mike Stewart on June 4th and to Franklin Mesmer on June 5th. Happy Anniversary to Pattie and Mark Frentzel today, May 30th. On June 2nd, say happy anniversary to Doug and Janet Saltzman.
Memorial weekend was a lucky one for two Grand Island golfers. Playing in Lockport at the Gothic Hills course, Doug Smith had a hole-in-one on the 135-yard eighth hole. GIHS Athletic Director Jon Roth has his first time hole-in-one while playing in a two-day tournament at River Oaks Golf Club. It was on the 144-yard 14th hole. Congratulations gentlemen!
The Niagara Gazette had a story recently featuring GIHS track and field stars Jess Dhaliwal and Kevin Freedman. Jess is ranked first in the state for discus and Kevin is No. 92 in the nation in 110-meter hurdles.
Kudos to Tops Manager Patty Bianco and the Tops Corporation for donating to five Island organizations in honor of the Tops Grand Re-Opening on Tuesday, May 21st. $500 checks were handed out to the Town sponsored Reality Cafe, One Island, One Dream organization, Grand Island Lions Club, Grand Island Neighbors Foundation and the Grand Island Fire Company.
The Grand Island Community Garden is in need of pin-wheels to keep the deer away. Go to the dollar store, grab a bunch and then stick them in the fence. It will look festive too!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, May 23, 2013
A very happy birthday to Catherine Long who will be 90 years young on Friday, May 24th. Happy 25th birthday to Mercedes Miles on Saturday, May 25th. Happy birthday also to Marissa Cooney on Saturday. May 26th is the special day for Lee Tetkowski and Michael Craig Davis. Monday, May 27th is our favorite GIFC Public Information Officer's birthday. Thanks Ray Pauley for getting us all the important fire company info. Tuesday, May 28th is the birthdate of the oh so nice Pat Shaw, along with Ian Cameron and Mitchell Samplinski. Finally, my baby boy Liam Dodd is turning 20 on Wednesday, May 29th. Hope everyone has a fantastic birthday!
A very happy birthday to the traveling Jan Tyson on Saturday, May 25th. Jan is headed with her dad Rev. Tyson to meet brother Dave's grand-daughter, Kiara Rose Santerre for the first time in Connecticut.
Happy 2nd wedding anniversary to Ginger and John Bidell on May 27th.
Congratulations to Christopher G. Sexton who will be graduating from bootcamp tomorrow during the Naval Parade In Review. He will be staying on at Great Lakes for Apprenticeship school. After school, and a trip home in July, he will be stationed in San Diego California. You make your family proud!!!
Mark Raepple shot a 57 and partner Bill Burg shot a 62 recently and won the 2013 Member-Member Championship at Niagara Frontier Country Club. Nice job Mark!
Fahim Mojawalla and his Island Ship Center is taking the weekend off in honor of Memorial Day. He will be closed Saturday, Sunday and Monday, May 25-27th. Summer hours will be in effect starting May 28th at 10am. Enjoy your weekend Fahim!
Liz Wilbert emailed that she heard on the radio the "27th National Veterans Golden Age Games" are coming to Buffalo, May 30 - June 4, 2013. There are 700 Veterans competing and the organizers are hopeful locals will come out to the various activities to show support. See the website for more information.
If you have a reunion in your future always check the reunion page. The GIHS Class of 1983 has new info.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, May 16, 2013
Esther Lozo will be 99 years young on Sunday, May 19th and will celebrate by having dinner with her family. That is amazing Esther, hope you have the best birthday ever!
Happy birthday today, May 16th to Lynn McGinn, can we say....close to a big one! On Friday, Stephanie Senn turns 19, happy birthday Steph and be careful in Canada, eh? Happy 11th birthday to Chase Luthringer on Saturday, May 18th and happy day to Pattie Frentzel on Sunday, May 19th.
Happy wedding anniversary to Paul and Maryjo Soto on Saturday, May 19th.
Welcome home to all the college kids who were away at school! Work hard and enjoy your summer.
A few vacant buildings around town are soon to be opened and back in business. The old McDonald's/TCBY building is soon to be a restaurant and bar. The childcare building on Ransom Road is opening and the "Fun Center" will be back in business, hopefully by Memorial Day weekend. Always nice to report a building put back into use.
There are 15+ (they are still coming in!) garage sales over the upcoming weekend! Check out the list and remember, Isledegrande does not charge for garage sale postings or subscriptions. You could make a donation if you like!
If you have a reunion in your future always check the reunion page. Riverside High Class of '64 are planning theirs for next year, check out the info. they just sent in. Class of 1973 also has new info.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, May 9, 2013
It's a "big one" on Monday, May 13th for Dennis McGinn and as his wife says "it's not 5-0!" Happy birthday!
Happy birthday on Friday, May 10th to my sister Dana Hayes Foote in Sarasota, Fl. Also on Friday, happy birthday to Bob Monoco and Elsa Peters. Happy birthday on Saturday, May 11th to Nikki Fadel and Charlie Lavallee. Happy birthday and Mother's Day to Kim Kinney on Sunday, May 12th. Happy 21st to Victoria Cacciatore on Monday, May 13th and also to Teresa Mayer on May 15th.
Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Donald C. Hamman of Grand Island who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a family gathering in their home. Mr. Hamman and Maryellen Schlau were married April 27, 1963 in North East, PA. He retired from Canadian National Railroad, they have eight children, 17 grandchildren and 17 great-grandchildren .
It is a baskety kind of weekend on GI. The American Legion is having their famous plant/flower basket sale starting at 8am on Friday and Saturday at the VFW on Grand Island Blvd. They sell out quick so make sure you get there before 11am. The Relay for Life Chicken BBQ and Basket Raffle is at the GI Rod and Gun Club on Saturday, May 11th starting at 2pm.
The NALC National Food Drive is Saturday, May 11th. U.S. Postal carriers will be collecting canned goods at your mailbox and they will be used to fill up the food pantries on Grand Island.
Say Cheese has a live band on Friday, May 10th. The "Bob Lee Trio" will be playing at "the Cheese" starting at 9pm.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Happy birthday to Brent Fred Jr. today and Katie Hillock on Friday, May 3rd. Happy birthday on Saturday, May 4th to Mary Elisabeth Rustowicz, Sandie Rall-Smith and Emily Harnden. Sandie Cunningham wrote in to say HAPPY BIRTHDAY to brother Mark Cunningham on Saturday, May 4th. Happy birthday to ME on Tuesday, May 7th, and happy 21st birthday to Kara Dudley on Wednesday, May 8th. My apologies to Brandon Kinney, I goofed on his birthdate, it was April 27th not the 24th. Hope it was a very happy day.
Best wishes to John & Wendy (Colla) Bianco, married on April 5th. Check out their picture on the beach in Hawaii on the Islanders page. Happy 50th wedding anniversary to Sharon and Jim Chamberlain, married April 27, 1963. There are cute "then & now" pics on the Islanders page.
One of our newest and cutest Islanders is Grace Madison Myer, who was born on April 1st. Proud parents are Mandy and Jason Myers.
Be sure to tune into Channel 2 (WGRZ) news this Monday, May 6, 2013 between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 a.m. to view Kevin O'Neill's "Great Kids" segment. It will feature the Grand Island Relay for Life Honorary Caregiver, Huth Road 5th grade student Emily Reynolds, and her sister Caralyn, a 3rd Grade student at Huth Road.
There is a nice write up in the Buffalo News "Gusto" today, reviewing Grand Island's own "Pizza Amore"! Read the review and get ready to drool!
Former GIHS soccer player, Eric Colon-Gonzalez, is playing with "FC Buffalo", of the National Premier Soccer League this summer. He also studies and plays soccer at Division I St. Francis in Loretta, Pennsylvania. "FC Buffalo" plays at All High Stadium located behind Bennett High School.
Get well wishes to the nicest guy on GI, Terry Swain. Hope you're feeling better soon.
May is Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Month. Please be watchful of scooters and bikes. In Erie County alone, there are more than 22,000 registered motorcycle riders.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
There are lots of happy birthdays to shout out this week. Happy birthday to Brooke Christensen and Tessa DeMartin on Friday, April 26th. Dr. Bob Miller is celebrating on Saturday, April 27th. Sunday, April 28th is the birthday of April Wright and happy birthday to Ava DeFranks, Taylor Firth and Joe Aladeen on April 30th.
Bethany Leiner is celebrating her 21st birthday on Saturday, April 27th. Happy birthday Bethany!
Congratulations to GIHS Business Teacher Cheryl Chamberlain! Cheryl has been named by the WNY Education Service Council to receive its 2013 Award for Excellence in teaching.
Congratulations to all of the 2012 Citizen of the Year recipients. They are Linda Tufillaro, Lifetime Achievement, Wavelengths Hair Salon, Business of the Year, Paul Leuchner, Civic Person of the Year, Martin Allen, Educator of the Year, James Watz, Performing Arts Award, Beverly Kinney, Community Service Person and Rev. Kevin Backus, Ministry Award.
This week I added a nice obituary for Mrs. Gertrude Reimann whose memorial service is Saturday. It was written by her daughters, Trudy and Claire, and it describes her life in a charming way that made me feel like I knew her as a person, not just my Huth Road teacher. When you are sending in an obituary, don't mince words; remember we don't charge for them!
There is a walk at dusk through Buckhorn Park on Friday, April 26th from 7:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. called the "Night Buckhorn Swamp People".
"Will O' the Wisp, Swamp Sucker Mist. Leads us astray, along Nightjar way. Whinnyed screech owls fright, by Niagara's flowing might. Hear a rattling snore? A Leopard Frog roars. A symphibian chorus tonight, Buckhorn Theater by candlelight!"
For information and registration, call (716) 549-1050.
GIHS Class of 1988 is having their 25th Reunion on July 5th, check out the details.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Happy birthday Mickey Kujawa and congratulations on her retirement, both taking place today, April 18th. Happy birthday to Jane Baedeker on Friday, April 19th, Genna Baldassarre on Monday, April 22nd, Sydney Neuhaus is turning 5 on Tuesday, April 23rd. Happy birthday Brandon Kinney on April 24th and to my sweetie, Brad Robinson on Wednesday, April 24th.
Mark Hassan is celebrating his BIG 60th birthday today (April 18th) and will be attending a dinner gathering in his honor with his family. Happy birthday Mark!
GIHS senior Ty Gallagher played in the 9th Annual Bowman Cup on Monday, April 15th at First Niagara Center. The cup is sponsored by the Buffalo Sabres and showcases all-stars from the Buffalo and Rochester regions. Ty not only made the team but was mentioned in a story in the Niagara Gazette and a picture was posted in the Buffalo News. Nice job Ty!.
Teddy passed along a link to a story about former Island resident Lois Gibbs on "The Center for Public Integrity" website. The story is titled "From Homemaker to Hell-Raiser in Love Canal" and was posted on April 16, 2013. It was 35 years ago that Gibbs became world famous for convincing then-President Jimmy Carter to okay the removal of 900 families from Love Canal. Link to story.
The Historic Preservation Advisory Board is looking for photos and stories of Grand Island soldiers that died during active duty for an upcoming exhibit. If you have any photos, please bring them to the GI Memorial Library on Saturday, April 27th from 1-4pm for scanning.
Please be watchful around Strawberry Island. Tom Burke stopped in to say a pair of eagles has made the island their home and have some babies in the nest. Signs will be going up shortly to warn visitors of their presence.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Happy 90th birthday to Betty Killian on Saturday, April 13th. I recently saw Betty at a Historical Society meeting and she is as lovely and young at heart as ever!
Happy birthday today to our favorite jeweler at DeSignet, Roman Jurga. Roman is headed to Poland to visit his mom for a few weeks and we wish him bon voyage! Happy birthday to Amy Bidell on April 12th and to former Islander Dan Robinson on April 14th in sunny Florida.
Happy 61st wedding anniversary to Gene & JoAnn Hasselbeck on Friday, April 12th and happy 47th anniversary to Paul & Jean Leiner on April 15th!
Congratulations to Cassie Oursler on another honor for being named All-WNY Girls Player of Year!
Word on the street is that the Parish Players production of "Fiddler on the Roof" is fabulous! If you want to see it, best get a ticket quick.
Marco's Italian Deli officially opened on April 1st and had their ribbon cutting on Sunday, April 7th. They are located in the Grand Island Gas Market located at 1441 Ransom Rd. Owner and Island resident Mark Sciortino also owns Marco's Fine Italian Dining on Niagara Street and three other delis.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Grand Island High School Sporting Events
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Grace Calvano turned 100 on Wednesday, April 3rd and her photo was featured on the TODAY show being congratulated by Willard Scott and Smuckers. Happy Birthday Grace!!!
Happy birthday to Zoe Dodd (18!), Natalie Baldassare and Mike Geblein today, April 4th. Happy birthday to my nephew Rhett Robinson on Tuesday, April 9th and Wayne Kinney.
Happy 40th Anniversary to Vince & Margaret Martello on Sunday, April 7th. The Martello's are planning a cross country trip to celebrate the occasion.
Congratulations to Cassie Oursler on being named the Niagara Gazette Girls Basketball Player of the Year! See story.
Kudos to Bob Piatek of State Farm who is sponsoring "Fourth Grade Foresters", a nationwide program celebrating Arbor Day on April 26th. Each Grand Island fourth grader will receive an individually packaged 12” to 18” evergreen tree seedling, packaged by workers with disabilities, to take home to plant. I will have more information next week on this.
Corey McGowan is at it again. He has planned the "Island Fiesta", a Grand Island bar and restaurant tour to celebrate Cinco de Mayo on May 4th. Tickets are available with and without transportation. Check out the website for more details.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
GIHS Sports, no further information.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Happy birthday to Annalea Masiello, Morgan Green and Liza Bowman today, March 28th. There is a long list of happy's for my mother-in-law Val Robinson of Inverness, FL, soon to be back on Grand Island. Val's birthday is March 28th and retirement day is March 29th. Val and husband Gerry are headed back in May to be snowbirds. Happy birthday to Jeremy Figler on April 1st and to Joel Moyer on April 2nd.
Happy 50th Anniversary to Mr. and Mrs. Frederick Thompson of Grand Island. Mr. Thompson and Ruth Lampe were married March 23, 1963, in St. Paul’s Evangelical United Brethren Church, New York City.
Amy Morgan entered Buffalo Magazine's contest "Buffalo's Best Husband" to honor husband Steve. Although her entry did not win, it was picked as a favorite. She wrote, "His dry wit makes me laugh, his intelligent banter provides fascinating conversation and his charm - well - he still sweeps me off my feet and makes me feel sexy at 50 years old!"
Can you help? The Community Garden had some heavy hitters commit then bail out of getting the project up and running. The posts for the fencing need to be paid for so a donation in any amount would be appreciated. Go to the website if you can help or if you want to register for a garden space.
Word around town is that Serene Gardens has the BEST Japanese food in Western New York. Many islanders have been talking up the restaurant located at 2800 Grand Island Blvd.
The GI Community Federal Credit Union will be closed on Friday, March 29th in observance of Good Friday.
Grand Island Parks & Rec. will be offering a Summer Outdoor Volleyball League at Veterans Park. It will begin Monday, June 3rd. - See flyer.
Save the date and gather up any old Island pictures or historical documents from before 1970 and bring to the Grand Island Library between 1 and 4pm on April 27th. The Grand Island Historic Preservation Advisory Board will be scanning items for their archives.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Happy birthday to Paul Roeder on Thursday, March 21st and Ryan Kernin, Saturday, March 23rd and Linda Koch on Sunday, March 24th.
This week's edition is up a day early as I am traveling to FLA to visit my dad. Sister Dana, brother Pete and my son Liam are all going too! It will be a weekend of Bocce ball tournaments, great food and drink, not necessarily in that order.
Recently heard from the U.S. Border Patrol, based here on Grand Island. They hold a golf tournament every year with proceeds going to "Camp Good Days and Special Times". Since 2004 the Buffalo Sector has been able to raise $27,900 to help ensure the children and families continue to participate in the Camps services for free. Thanks to the men and women of the Border Patrol.
If you think you might be having a class reunion this year, take a look at the Reunion Page for information. We have reunions for GIHS class of '73, '83 and '93, Tonawanda High Class of 1963 and a big blow out party at Mallwitz's that everyone is invited to on July 3rd.
Local businesses and parents of Grand Island High School Juniors and Seniors are being asked to donate to the "5th Annual Senior Celebration". Each year an after prom party is held for seniors as a fun, safe, alcohol and drug free alternative to cap off senior prom and their high school career. Donations may be made in the form of cash, check, gift cards, merchandise or coupons to be used as prizes. Contact teacher Robert Simpson if you can assist in this wonderful event.
Former Islander and current Michigander Julie Urtel Fiato has a cute story on her blog of memories of Kelly's Country Store. Take a look at Easter Basket.
The South Bridge construction project is on hold this week due to the weather. It will start back up on Sunday, March 24th at 8:00 p.m.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, March 14, 2013
***Daniel Senn, son of Jeff and Tracey Senn is appearing in the Western Door Playhouse presentation of "Over The Tavern" at the Niagara Arts & Cultural Center, 1201 Pine Ave. This is the final weekend with shows scheduled for Friday & Saturday, March 15 & 16 at 8:00 p.m. and Sunday, March 17 at 2:30 p.m.
Happy birthday to Nancy Anderson and Sandy Hingston on Sunday, March 17th and Brittany Robinson and Eddie Krecisz on Monday, March 18th. Happy day to Marty Bidell on Wednesday, March 20th.
Very proud mom Sheila Ciechoski wrote in to congratulate her son Christopher Ciechoski on receiving the Section 6 Wrestling "Rookie Coach of the Year". Christopher took over as head coach of the Vikings this season after several years as assistant coach.
Vicki Harnden, Patrick and Toni Antonelli
Adrian's Custard & Beef is now open from 11am - 8pm everyday. I picked up some sandwiches today for the office and they were great! I know it is a little cold out but you should see all the ice cream flavors available, YUM!!!
My mom, Nancy Hayes passed along the following blessing which is just hysterical because our family calls her the "church lady".
An Irish Blessing
May those who love us, love us
And those who don't love us,
May God turn their hearts;
And if he doesn't turn their hearts,
May he turn their ankles
So we'll know them by their limping.
A huge THANK YOU goes to the Zonta Club of Grand Island for making a very generous donation. The group really appreciates the work we do promoting their organization, especially the Scholarship Program.
Take a look at our Classified Ads page this week. I just added a small dwarf bunny that would be a perfect Easter gift for a young child. There are also missing keys listed, they were lost at the north end of the Island.
If you are looking for a unique gift, Trinity U.M.C. Church has a SERV Store that is open on Sundays during services from 9:30 a.m. - noon and Wednesdays during Lent from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. SERV's Mission Statement is "to promote social and economic progress of people in developing regions of the world by marketing their products in a just and direct manner."
The fence went up last Saturday at the GI Community Garden and the area is enormous! If you are interested in getting your green thumb on, go to the website and register for your own piece of "Green Acres". Steve Morgan reported that this weeks fire report is the shortest in recent memory with 15 calls between March 4th - 10th. He also noted that 35 years ago it would have been a busy week!
Get ready, the South Bridge construction project is about to begin. Closures start on Sunday, March 17th and are rumoured to run through and be completed in October.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Happy birthday to town employees Linda Tufillaro and Cheryl Zito on March 7th and to new retiree Diane Nesbitt on March 10th. A very happy 75th birthday on March 11th to Barb Anderson in Ormond Beach, FL. All Barb's daughters went to visit last weekend to help celebrate. Michele Beauchamp is celebrating her birthday on March 12th and is returning to town for a visit. Wish her a happy birthday when you see her! Happy birthday to my charming sister, Karen Hayes Smith, on Wednesday, March 13th and to our honorary sister and island native, Jojo Paczynski Sparcino celebrating on March 12th.
Congratulations to Chris Aronica, recently selected as a 2013 Erie Community College Distinguished Alumni. Chris will be recognized this evening at the college's "Distinguished Alumni and Celebrate ECC Awards."
Snowbird Terry Swain stopped in last week and mentioned his daughter Julie saw Grand Island mentioned in an episode of History Channels "American Pickers". The episode was originally shown on February 18th and was titled "California Streaming." Pictured above is a Road Knights card circa early 60's, that was shown on the episode. This card was handed out when the Road Knight's helped people having car trouble.
Former islander Tina Krzes Arthur read on Isledegrande about another former islander, author Thom Hatch. Tina decided to email Thom and introduce herself and ended up attending a book signing for his new book "The Last Outlaw" in Boulder, CO and met his family. Both Tina and Thom live in Colorado.
Spring forward at 2:00 a.m. this Saturday, March 10th.
Welcome Ayers Lawn Care and owner Ryan Ayers as Isledegrande's newest advertiser. See the welcome story on our business page and check out the website for services.
Heard a few complaints that the concert at the high school on Tuesday, March 5th was a parking lot nightmare with lots of tickets issued. You would think that either the school would separate the middle and high school groups or an announcement could have been made to move the cars.
Grand Island Lady Vikings basketball is in the Far West Regional Championship at Buffalo State College on Saturday, March 9th at 1:00 p.m. Go Vikings!
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Thursday, February 28, 2013
Happy 17th birthday to Sarah Dollendorf and 21st birthday to Mike Rayhill on Friday, March 1st and happy day to Hayden Backlund, turning 12 on March 6th.
Congratulations to Grand Island High School athletes Chris Connors and Cassie Oursler for being honored at the Niagara Falls Police Athletic League annual award dinner.
Breaking News.....Marco's Italian Deli is opening in the Grand Island Market, Stony Point & Ransom Roads. Their Facebook page mentions a April 1st opening date.
Check out the Grand Island Community Garden story on the Town News page. Organizer John Drehs stopped in this week and filled me in. It sounds like it will be a terrific asset to our community.
Pizza Amore has become Isledegrande's newest advertiser. See the welcome story on our business page to learn about all they have to offer.
Members of GIHS class of 1983, are looking for email addresses of classmates so they can skip the expense of mailing. Check out their list of missing emails, and pass along any you may have. The GIHS Class of 1973 has updated their 40th Reunion information. See what Denise Filosofos and her reunion committee have planned.
Gary McDannell photo
The past couple months has seen a spike in pictures of large coyotes being sent in from all over the island. Keep a close eye on your pets outdoors, I'm not sure what the coyotes are eating, but they sure don't seem to be missing any meals! Gary McDannell took this photo on Saturday, February 23rd at Beaver Island.
Kevin Cobello photo
Kevin & Dawn Cobello went to see Bon Jovi last Sunday at First Niagara Arena. They originally had nose bleed 300's but got lucky and were upgraded to seats to the right of the stage. Kevin took some awesome shots with a point and shoot camera. I had to post my favorite.
The Grand Island Parks & Recreation Department Spring/Summer Activities news release came out this week. See the flyer for details.
Our Classified Page has houses for sale or rent, services available and items to buy.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Happy birthday to Brian Robinson on Sunday, February 24th and his daughter Gabby on Wednesday, February 27th.
Don't forget about the Grand Island Parks & Recreation Department Winter Activities. The "Saturday Crafts" and the "Lego Club" are held on Saturdays at the Nike Base and did not break for the winter school holiday. The Sunday Family Swim will start back up on March 3rd at the Grand Island High School. See the Rec. Department webpage for details.
Author David Brown of Sanborn will sign copies of his detective thriller, “The Elusive Chauffeur,” from 1 to 3 p.m. at Kelly’s Country Store, 3121 Grand Island Blvd. on Saturday, February 23rd.
The Village Inn has a $ off coupon posted on Isledegrande that can be used through March 15th. Coupon.
Members of Riverside High School, class of 1964, are looking for classmates to form a committee for the 50th class reunion in the summer of 2014. Anyone wishing to help, please send current address & phone number to rhs64vip2no@aol.com.
Isledegrande.com's Guestbook has become a "go to" for the GIHS class reunion planners. Please update your email address either by going to the Guestbook form or sending your new address to me at jodi@giecom.net.
The "Kickin Grass" Lawnmower Race and Classic Car Show is planned for Father's Day, Sunday, June 16th. The committee is very busy making sure all aspects of the day will be top notch.
If you like to share...send in a photo that captures "how I spent my winter break". Please add the who, what, where info and I will put a page together.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
You might be interested in attending GIHS sporting events. Below is a list of upcoming games.
Friday, February 22nd - Boys Basketball Quarterfinals vs. McKinley, 7:00 p.m. - Away
Saturday, February 23rd - Girls Basketball Quarterfinals vs. Will. South 2:00 p.m. - Home
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Happy Valentine's Day birthday to Kassie Bennett, 18 years old today! Former Islander Bryan Smith turns 30 on February 20th in California, "Hey Bry give Jack Thomas a smooch for me!"
Congratulations to Joel and Lauren Stoorza on their recent wedding! Take a look at the Islanders page to see a great photo of the happy couple.
Corey McGowan has another GREAT idea, an outdoor movie night on Saturdays at a venue to be announced. Picture your family sitting under the stars watching a fun family movie on a hot summer night. There will be a featured restaurant at each showing and food available for purchase. See the Town News story for more details.
Thanks and welcome to Jim Ehde of Grand Island Waste Management and Dave Perri of Pizza Amore for being Isledegrande's newest advertisers. Take a look at their websites to see what they have to offer! Special offer from Grand Island Waste Management for Isledegrande readers, click here.
Congrats to Serene Gardens on their restaurant write up in the Buffalo News Gusto last Friday. They are open for lunch Tuesday - Saturday, dinner - Friday & Saturday and brunch on Sunday.
Just in.....new information from the Class of 1993 about their upcoming reunion July 5th. See info for details.
An article in Business First dated February 7th, by G. Scott Thomas, is titled "Grand Island enjoys top income levels among WNY school districts". See story. I found it a bit surprising, how about you?
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
You might be interested in attending GIHS sporting events. Below is a list of upcoming games.
Thursday, February 14th - Girls Basketball vs. Niagara Wheatfield, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Friday, February 15th - Boys Basketball vs. Lew-Port, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Saturday, February 9th - Indoor Track at Fredonia, 9:00 a.m.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, February 7, 2013
The Endres Family: Terry, Al, Jill, Mike & Katie - Click for larger view
Mike Endres will be celebrating his 60th birthday on Sunday, February 10th, with seventeen of his nearest and dearest for brunch. Hope you have a very happy birthday Mike!Happy birthday to my great niece and little rascal, Kennedy Lucinski, who will be turning three on Friday, February 8th. A February 12th birthdate is shared by two very special ladies, Kim Schopp Kalman and Carol Roesch. Hope you have a very happy Fat Tuesday!
Congratulations to Krista Leann Burzynski and James Robert Zilliox on their engagement, a summer wedding is planned.
The Buffalo Broadcasters Association has re-elected Island resident Dave Gillen of WGRZ, as president.
My dad, Pete Hayes is being inducted into the Tonawanda High School Sports Wall of Fame on Friday, February 8th. We are all very excited and family is coming in from Florida and London, Ontario for the big event. The Rhode Island group can't make it in, they are expecting 24" of snow tomorrow. Dad excelled in football, swimming and track while a Tonawanda Warrior.
Keep in mind the upcoming annual fundraising fishfry dinners. Island Presbyterian Church will have a Ash Wednesday dinner (details), and St. Stephen School (details), will have a fishfry dinner every Friday throughout Lent.
The GIHS Band & Orchestra are now selling their fundraising discount cards. The lovely ladies of the VFW Ladies Auxiliary provide the cards at no charge to the musicians to help raise funds for their biennial road trip to the Grand National Adjudicators Invitational.
Don't forget your sweetie this Valentine's Day! Thursday, February 14th is just around the corner, so stop at Isledegrande advertisers, Flower A Day Florist, DeSignet Jewelry, or Kelly's Country Store to find the perfect gift. You can't go wrong taking your lady out for lunch or dinner. Try the Beach House, John's Pizza & Subs, Sandi's Family Restaurant, Say Cheese Pizza, Theodore's Red Hots, Town Cafe or the Village Inn Restaurant. All loyal advertisers here at Isledegrande.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
You might be interested in attending GIHS sporting events. Below is a list of upcoming games.
Thursday, February 7th - Boys Hockey vs. Will. South 5:00 p.m. - Hyde Park
Friday, February 8th - Boys Basketball vs. Niagara Wheatfield, 6:30 p.m. - Away
Friday, February 8th - Girls Basketball vs. Niagara Wheatfield, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Saturday, February 9th - Boys Hockey vs. Will. East, 1:00 p.m. - Pepsi Center
Saturday, February 9th - Indoor Track at Fredonia, 9:00 a.m.
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Happy birthday to Mandy Malaney Friday, February 1st and happy 30th wedding anniversary to Karen & Keith Call on February 5th.
A message on Facebook from former islander Bob Urtel led me to his daughter Julie's blog...redheadcandecorate.com. Julie grew up on GI and moved out to Michigan many years ago. Turns out she is quite creative, check out her website. Julie (Urtel) Fiato wrote a nice story about her parents meeting 59 years-ago. Mother Jojo (Rank) Urtel grew up on Bush Road.
Shannon Driess is not only an accomplished equestrian, but an artist too! The GIHS sophomore recently designed a sign (pictured above) for Greystone Farms in Akron where she trains with her horse Henry. Parents Scott and Michelle are very proud.
Eddie's Art Shoppe is celebrating its 30th year of "quality, creativity and service". Stop in and see Linda at the shop, 2305 Grand Island Blvd. to see what she suggests to display your memories for all to share.
Thank goodness the college kids are finally back to school. Does anyone else think that a six week winter break is ridiculously long?
Golden Age Club February 14th Sweetheart's Lunch - Senior couples who have been married 50 years or more will be luncheon guests at the GAC. If you are a member call the center or drop by and let them know how many years you have been married, get a free lunch!
Hopefully by now Cathy and Tom Thomas have been reunited with their Maltese, Peaches. Peaches went missing on Sunday, January 27th.
Remember....there is no charge to announce your engagement, wedding, anniversary or birthday, even with a picture! Only at Isledegrande do you get that kind of service.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
You might be interested in attending GIHS sporting events. Below is a list of upcoming games.
Thursday, January 31st - Girls Basketball vs. Niagara Falls, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Friday, February 1st - Boys Basketball vs. Niagara Falls, 6:30 p.m. - Away
Saturday, February 2nd - Boys Swimming NFL Meet, 10:00 a.m. - Home
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, January 24, 2013
Happy birthday to Joyce (Mondry) Warning today, January 24th. Happy birthday on Saturday, January 26th to Tommy Geblein and happy day to Sidway School Phys. Ed. Teacher Kelly Greene on Tuesday, January 29th. Belated birthday wishes to Gary Lazik who turned 50 last week and twins Peter and Paul Minton who celebrated their birthday on January 18th.
*** Special birthday wishes to Wayne Baumler of Omaha, Nebraska and his sister Judy Baumler of Buffalo (also known as Sister Marian Baumler). They will celebrate their birthdays on January 26th (70 and 72 respectively), and are former residents at 5585 East River Road (1947-61), across from the Beach House (used to be Batsfords Delicatessen).
GIHS 2011 grad Ben Tomkins is experiencing a "semester at sea" as his sophomore, winter semester. He will spend 106 days, visiting 14 countries on his way around the world. Ben had his picture taken with fellow passenger Archbishop Desmond Tutu who will be giving lectures as he travels to Cape Town, South Africa. Ben left from San Diego, spent a couple days in Hawaii, and is due to reach Yokohama, Japan on January 27th. I'm going to keep on eye on Ben through his blog.
Congratulations to Amy Morgan who was published in the “My View” column printed in last Friday’s Buffalo News. The column was titled "We can’t all be roller derby queens", see column. Nice job Amy, happy birthday and good luck with your writing. Keep us posted on your progress.
Don't forget about the Grand Island Parks & Rec. Dept. "Snow Sculpture Contest". The contest runs until March 22nd. All you have to do is construct a snow sculpture and call the Recreation Office at 773-9680. Leave your name, address and general location of your sculpture and they will come out and take a picture. Winners will be announced April 4th.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
You might be interested in attending GIHS sporting events. Below is a list of upcoming games.
Thursday, January 24th - Girls Basketball vs. Lockport, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 25th - Boys Basketball vs. Lockport, 6:30 p.m. - Away
Friday, January 25th - Boys Swimming vs. No. Tonawanda, 5:00 p.m. - Away
Friday, January 25th - Indoor Track vs. Lancaster, 5:00 p.m. - Away
Saturday, January 26th - Wrestling at Lew-Port Tournament, 9:00 a.m. - Away
Monday, January 28th - Bowling vs. Niagara Wheatfield, 4:00 p.m. - Away
Tuesday, January 29th - Boys Basketball vs. Lew-Port, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Tuesday, January 29th - Girls Basketball vs. Lew-Port, 7:00 p.m. - Away
Tuesday, January 29th - Bowling vs. Ken West, 3:30 p.m. - Home
Wednesday, January 30th - Boys Basketball vs. St. Mary's, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, January 17, 2013
Super happy belated birthday to Felix (Phil) Grycel who turned 94 on Wednesday, January 16th.
Vincent & Mackenzie
Happy 30th birthday to Mackenzie Hassan on Saturday, January 19th and her son Vincent Pascucci who will be turning five on Tuesday, January 22nd. Birthday wishes go out to Andrew Massiello who will turn 17 on Sunday, January 20th.
Congratulations to Serene Gardens’ Chef Satomi Smith and husband Dr. Joshua Smith. They recently won the award for "Best Kept Secret" at the Buffalo Soup Fest. The Smiths are planning a free "Japanese Cooking Demo and Tasting" on Saturday, February 9th at 4pm. Serene Gardens is located at 2800 Grand Island Blvd. Call 773-LEAF for more information.
Ray Pauley reported that he spotted a cherry tree in bloom on Saturday, January 12th when the temperature reached 65 degrees.
The Lawn Mower Race and Car show is scheduled for Sunday, June 16th and the committee is having their first meeting next week. That means summer is just around the corner!
Special thanks to freshman photographer Aaron Bobeck for taking the fabulous bridge picture at the top of the page and allowing us to post it.
Upcoming Events - See Events Calendar For Details
You might be interested in attending GIHS sporting events. Below is a list of upcoming games.
Thursday, January 17th - Girls Basketball vs. Ken West, 6:30 p.m. - Away
Thursday, January 17th - Bowling vs. Niagara Wheatfield, 3:30 p.m. - Away
Friday, January 18th - Boys Basketball vs. Ken West, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 18th - Boys Swimming vs. Niagara Falls, 5:00 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 18th - Wrestling vs. Lockport, 5:00 p.m. - Away
Saturday, January 19th - Indoor Track at Varsity Select (Fredonia), 9:00 a.m.
Sunday, January 20th - Hockey vs. Lockport, 7:30 p.m. - Dwyer
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, January 10, 2013
Congratulations to Tim and Alice Demmin who are celebrating their 45th wedding anniversary on January 13th and Mr. and Mrs. Richard Wozniak of Grand Island who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on January 5th.
Congratulations are also in order to Col. John Higgins from GI who will assume command of the Air National Guard's 107th Airlift Wing in Niagara Falls on Saturday, January 12th.
GIHS senior Cassie Oursler became the fifth player in Grand Island Girls Basketball history to score 1,000 career points on Friday, January 4th. Cassie has signed a letter of intent to play for Division I Robert Morris University in Chicago in the fall.
Very exciting news....Mary Double D (Dunbar-Daluisio) just informed me that Bingo is coming back to the Island. The Knight's of Columbus, 1841 Whitehaven Rd. is the place on Tuesday, January 15th. The kitchen will open at 6:30 p.m. and Bingo begins at 7:30 p.m. Can anyone remember the last time Bingo was held on the island?
I heard from three GIHS classes this week regarding upcoming reunions. The classes of 1973, 1983 and 1993 are all having reunions on July 4th weekend. Check out the Isledegrande reunion page for details.
Welcome new advertisier, Village Inn Restaurant!
Click for larger view
Grandsons: (l-r) Andrew Sander, Vinny Pascucci, Joey Martin & Kevin SanderDiane Hassan, husband Mark, daughters, Mackenzie Hassan & Danielle Martin & her husband Jim Martin, and four of the grandsons enjoyed themselves at Beaver Island Sledding Hill on New Year's Day.
Thanks to everyone who sent me ideas and words of encouragement this past week. It is a daunting task, trying to make things as interesting and grammatically correct as Teddy. You know she is helping me out…thank goodness!
Upcoming Events
Below is a list of upcoming GIHS games.
Thursday, January 10th - Girls Basketball vs. Niagara Wheatfield, 5:00 p.m. - Away
Thursday, January 10th - Bowling vs. Kenmore East, 3:30 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 11th - Boys Basketball vs. Niagara Wheatfield, 5:00 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 11th - Boys Swimming vs. Lockport, 5:00 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 11th - Indoor Track at Buffalo State, 4:30 p.m.
Saturday, January 12th - Hockey vs. W. Seneca East, 6:30 p.m. - Holiday
Monday, January 14th - Hockey vs. Ken East, 8:45 p.m. - Hyde Park
Tuesday, January 15th - Boys Basketball vs. N. Tonawanda, 7:00 p.m. - Away
Tuesday, January 15th - Girls Basketball vs. N. Tonawanda, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Tuesday, January 15th - Bowling vs. Lew Port, 3:30 p.m. - Home
Tuesday, January 15th - Boys Swimming vs. Ken East, 5:00 p.m. - Away
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
Thursday, January 3, 2013
First things first, happy 35th anniversary to Gary & Emily Dahlstrom on January 6th and happy birthday to Craig Davis on January 7th.
Happy New Year everyone! This has been a crazy start to the new year, Teddy has retired :( and I am just back from vacation.
This column is going to be a work in progress....I have to find a snappy title (I welcome all input), but as always we will be focused on Island news. After the success of Corey McGowan's "Fall Festival" and the Chamber of Commerce "Light Up The Boulevard Parade", we know Islanders are eager to attend community events, so please send in your organization or business news.
Don't forget the happy news....weddings, births, birthdays, anniversaries, etc.
It is always kind of quiet in the beginning of January, but here are a few events you can look forward to attending.
The St. Stephen School Meat Raffle on January 18th.
The Grand Island Alumni Association Annual Comedy Show on January 26th.
You might be interested in attending GIHS sporting events. Below is a list of upcoming games.
Friday, January 4th - Boys Basketball vs. Niagara Falls High School, 6:30 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 4th - Girls Basketball vs. Niagara Falls High School, 6:30 p.m. - Away
Friday, January 4th - Boys Swimming vs. Lew-Port, 5:00 p.m. - Home
Friday, January 4th - Indoor Track vs. Lancaster, 5:00 p.m. - Away
Saturday, January 5th - Hockey vs. Amherst, 5:00 p.m. - Northtown Center
Sunday, January 6th - Hockey vs. NT, 7:30 p.m. - Dwyer Arena
Tuesday, January 8th - Boys Basketball vs. Ken East, 6:30 p.m. - Away
Tuesday, January 8th - Girls Basketball vs. Ken East, 5:00 p.m. - Home
Tuesday, January 8th - Bowling vs. NT, 3:30 p.m. - Away
Tuesday, January 8th - Boys Swimming vs. Niag-Wheatfield, 5:00 p.m. - Away
Send your news to jodi@giecom.net.
