"Between the Bridges" 2002 by Teddy Linenfelser
		Photo courtesy of Diane "Bykowicz" Hassan  Class of '70

December 26, 2002
Well, as folks across the country seem to know, we had a very, very white Christmas. Ours began with a beautiful Christmas Eve candlelight service at Trinity Church - and no snow under foot, coming or going! The traditional music from talented parishioners made you glad to be alive and thankful for so many of the simple things in life.

"Nothing but class!" Channel 7's "Eye Witness News This Morning" featured the Grand Island High School Band last Friday morning. I didn't see them but heard they made an impressive appearance, not only with their fabulous music but also in the way they were appropriately dressed.~~~~Did anyone else see Santa Claus driving his Harley Davidson motorcycle down Ransom Road and waving to those passing by?

Looking Back 40 years - Chuck Moore and his Deejays emceed a "Turn-About" Record Hop at the firehall sponsored by the Islettes majorettes. The dance was a "better dress" affair.~~~~The Historical Society was granted a provisional charter effective for a term of five years. Announcement was made by town attorney Salvatore G. Capizzi who donated his services since the Society was formed in March 1962.

Looking Back 30 years - The retirement of Dorothy Waltman, secretary to Supervisor Raymond P. Griffin, was announced.

Lordy, lordy! Guess who's turning 40! Happy big 4-0 to Li-Anne "Rowswell" Mufson who will celebrate with family and friends in California on December 29th. Click her name and send her a birthday greeting.~~~~Happy birthday to Bradley Stone (5 today), Margie Walker (tomorrow), William Garrison (21 tomorrow), Tyler James Nogle (two-years-old tomorrow), Abigail Dallasandro (6 tomorrow), Chelsea Schmidt (5 on Saturday), Connie Ford (Saturday), Jennifer Raham (her 20th on Sunday), Laurel Moher (Sunday), Alex Bowerman (5 on Monday), Kathy Lazenby (cheers on the 31st!), Nick Pelosi (special greetings on the 31st), Jeffrey Nordvik (his 16th on Tuesday), Jeanette Ray (Tuesday), Jessica Mae Conrad (two-years-old on Wednesday), Maria Bobak (a teen on Wednesday), Sebastian Chevez (Wednesday), and Elaine Clarke and Rolland Card (Wednesday).~~~~A belated happy birthday to Barb Gatti who celebrated hers on Sunday.

Our sympathy to the families of Doris Houck who died on December 19th and former resident Anna Mae Kanavel who passed away on December 22nd. Click for complete Death Notices.

Please keep 10-month-old Jadon Russell Garman in your prayers and pray that his gift of life (a whole liver transplant) is made available very soon.

Former residents Beverly and Bob House of Tempe, AZ are wished the best on their 40th wedding anniversary on December 29th.~~~~Congratulations to Doug Harding (Saint Douglas) on his promotion with the New York State Power Authority.

"Get Well Wishes" go out to Helen Hassan who has been in Mount St. Mary's hospital for the past week. Hopefully, she was able to be home for Christmas. Get well cards may be sent to her home at 4206 East River Road, Grand Island, NY 14072.~~~~Glad to hear that Ann Dlugokinski is home and on the mend.

You may visit the Department of Defense web page by clicking Defend America and sign a brief message thanking the men and women of the U.S. military services for defending our freedom. The compiled list of names will be sent out to our soldiers at the end of the month. Thanks to former resident John Grycel for forwarding this to me.

"See you next year. May it be a happy and prosperous one for Grand Island and its residents." That is how my mother, Marion Klingel ended her column she wrote as editor of the Island Dispatch on December 27, 1962 - just 40 years ago.

December 19, 2002
Grand Island High School graduate John Cunningham, who is currently serving in the US Navy, will be home for the holidays with his wife, Sherri and children, Laura and Nick, beginning December 23rd. John is the son of Rita Class of Riverdale Drive.~~~~Congratulations to Grand Island High School senior and honor roll student Marcella Ford and her mother, Kathleen Ford, on being chosen to perform in the production of Me and My Gal at the Lancaster Opera House. The show starts a three-weekend run on January 9, 2003 with performances at 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday.

So glad to hear that Shirley Luther, who recently dealt with some serious heath problems, is beginning to feel much better.~~~~Please keep Christine Ryshkus in your prayers and we certainly will, too.

I have a little more information on Robert S. Williams, the former Island resident, who served with the United States Navy in the mid '50s. He lived in the 900 block of Ransom Road until at least 1969, and the name of the company he worked for upon leaving the service was Bigilow-Sanford. As I mentioned here last week, a Navy buddy is trying to track him down.

Congratulations to Tom Arida on a 297 (719) game he bowled with the Men's A Best Roofing league this week.~~~~Impressive bowlers in the Friday Night Businessmen's league last week were Jim Nogle who bowled a 265 in a 736 series, Mike Mallwitz who rolled a 729 series, and Mike Sander who had an impressive 277 game in a 690 series.~~~~Former longtime Island resident Ivy Dodge is a part of the first class to graduate from the Seneca Niagara Falls Gaming Corporation's in-house training center. Ivy is one of 315 newly minted casino dealers. The casino opens at noon on New Year's Eve.~~~~The Grand Island Snowmobile Club has a new website. Click Snowmobile Club and be sure to check out the Club Photos to put you in the spirit of the season.~~~~Just for a horse laugh, click Singing Horses and then click on each horse.

Fifty years ago Ted and Jackie Filosofos were awaiting the birth of their baby boy. Yes, Teddy Filosofos turns the big 5-0 on Saturday and we wish him a very happy birthday.~~~~Happy birthday to Patty "Bykowicz" Turner (her 35th today), Sue Braun (It's today!!), twins Alexis Elizabeth and Grace Marie Fredricks (5-years-old tomorrow), Jerilyn Karb and Janie (Martin) Hiam (tomorrow), Nancy Samrany, Millie Vanthoff and Karen (Hillman) Lloyd (Monday), Paul Harper Sr. (happy 90th on Tuesday), Melissa Marlin (her 10th birthday on Tuesday), Joe Kuszczak (30 on Tuesday), and Chris Eberhard (Wednesday). A very happy birthday to Ann Kruse who celebrates her 95th birthday on Saturday. (Anna Kruse, c/o Robert Arsenault, 64581 E. Sugar Cane, Tucson, Ariz 85739)~~~~A belated happy birthday to Alma Senn who celebrated on December 16th.

Brian Keith Sandstrom and his bride, the former Sherry Marie Reid, were married Friday in Messiah Lutheran Church, Lewiston. They will live on Grand Island following a trip to the Bahamas.~~~~Very best wishes to former resident and co-worker Mandy Malaney who became engaged to Dennis Duke over the weekend.~~~~As mentioned in the Between the Bridges last week, Ray and Anne Ehlert will celebrate the 60th anniversary of their wedding on the 23rd. Happy days, folks.

Looking Back 50 years - The Community Chorus and members of the various Island choirs sang Carols at several points on the Island Saturday evening, December 20, 1952.~~~~Choral director Carol Thompson planned a holiday dinner dance for the Sidway School Glee Club. Held at the school cafeteria on December 20, 1952, the event was for 7th, 8th and 9th graders and their guests.~~~~Fred Redinger of Bedell Rd., who served the community as Santa Claus at many children's and adult parties on the Island for several years, announced his retirement. Tom Hogan took over many of Santa's responsibilities in December 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - The Grand Island Taxpayers Association passed a resolution on December 6, 1962 offering a $100 reward for information which would lead to the conviction of those found to be responsible for setting any of the large fires on the Island in recent months.~~~~Grand Island Biological Laboratories announced its plan to locate on Staley Road if property owned by Lillian Killian could be rezoned.~~~~A good turnout of Island residents attended an open house at the Nike Site on Saturday, December 15, 1962 despite poor weather and road conditions.~~~~Barges used on bridge construction in the Niagara River the previous winter were replaced by dredging equipment which was digging a trench in the river bed for a 12-inch crude oil pipeline which stems from Hamilton, Ontario.~~~~Gladys Smith was appointed director of the Golden Age Club replacing Dorothy Bascomb.~~~~GI Lodge No. 1138 F. & A.M. elected Ralph B. Kreger, Lewis E. Morgan, Charles A. Austin, Elmer L. Kaegebein, Fred Campbell and Clarence A. Davis to various offices.~~~~The Ladies Auxiliary of the Fire Company elected Helen Hy to a second term as president. Others serving the year 1963 were Vice President Vera Ferguson, Recording Secretary Helen Peck, Corresponding Secretary Kay Haller and Treasurer Barbara Peck.~~~~The Home Extension Evening Unit held its Christmas party in the Buffalo Launch Club December 11, 1962 when Dorothy Fancher, entertainment chairman, provided skits performed by several of the Home Extension ladies.

Our sincere sympathy to the family of Robert H. Cortright and Gertrude Sarkees who died recently. Click for complete Death Notices.~~~~Winifred Smith of Warsaw, NY died December 16, 2002. Our condolences to her son, Doug Smith of Hennepin Road. A memorial service will be scheduled at a later date.

An American Red Cross Blood Drive is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday at the Knights of Columbus Hall.

Please remember the Neighbors Foundation if you haven't done so already. It's never too late.~~~~Prayers of peace go out to those who are grieving, lonely, hurting, or abused. It is sad to know that some of our Island neighbors may not be able to fully enjoy the spirit of the holy season this year.

December 12, 2002
A tip of the hat to Islanders Paul Leuchner, Mary Beth Bush, Margaret Conway, Liz Lutnick and John Sobol who are leading the way for our community's fight to keep another Peace Bridge off of our Island.~~~~High school seniors Christian Dommell and Caren Bartosz received national honors for their PSAT Performance. Be sure to read Donna Webb's school board report on how well they did.

Do any of my older readers remember Robert S. Williams, a former Island resident, who served with the United States Navy in 1954? I have had a request from a former Navy buddy to help locate him. Robert Williams, upon leaving the military, is supposed to have worked for a company called Subject Company.~~~~Congratulations to Jackie Mordaunt on being named Director of Development for The Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northtowns.

Former residents Scott Wiesenberg and Pat McNulty Yensan are the proud grandparents of a baby girl, Abigail Lynne Wiesenberg, born on December 4, 2002 to their son, Eric Wiesenberg and his wife, Kim of Rochester.~~~~Chris and Ed McCaffery are coming back to the Island for Christmas and Ed has already sent me a request to "get rid of that snow." The McCafferys lived on the Island for 37 years and now winter in Pt. Charlotte, FL and live in Silver Lake.

Cheers and happy birthday to Ted Filosofos who turns 75 years young on Sunday. The former Island resident continues to work hard with lots of therapy to bring himself back to good health. Ted and Jackie's address is 5568 SW 24th Ave., Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33312 for those who would like to send birthday and holiday cards.~~~~Island native Ann Kruse will turn 95 on December 21st and would surely love to hear from friends on the Island. Her new address is Anna Kruse, c/o Robert Arsenault, 64581 E. Sugar Cane, Tucson, Ariz 85739.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Isle native Walter DeGlopper, Laura (Geraci) Clement and former Ferry Village resident Ann M. Landel who died recently. Helen Rita Clody also passed away this week. Click for complete Death Notices.

Peggy McNulty still has a few Grand Island cookie cutters in stainless steel and engraved Grand Island, NY, at $8. Email Peggy gabbypeg1@netzero.net to order - or to have one mailed out, send check or money order for $10 to M. McNulty/ Grand Island Cookie Cutters, PO Box 1185, Grand Island NY 14072.

Today's the day. If you happen to see Kathy Loncher or Dave Hammond, wish them an especially happy birthday. They'll know exactly what you mean.~~~~Happy birthday to Denise Dewey and Lauren Whitney (tomorrow), Katie Rustowicz (10 on Saturday), Elizabeth Beach (Sunday), Kara Black (Sweet 16 Monday), Nancy Hayes and Betty Lantz (Monday), Arvilla Kendzierski (happiest of days on Tuesday), and Jaclyn Coe (13 Wednesday).

Happy anniversary to Anne and Ray Ehlert looking forward to their 60th on December 23rd, to Chris and Jim O'Dea who will celebrate their 40th on Sunday and to Harvey and Katherine Killian Long who will mark their 58th anniversary on Tuesday.~~~~Congratulations and best wishes to Sandy Trautman and Bob Reed who were married by Rev. Diane Phinney on November 30, 2002.

Looking Back 50 years - David Yensan, 9, won first prize in WEBR's writing contest. The subject of the contest was "Why I'd Like to Go to the North Pole to see Santa Claus," and David's prize was a trip to the North Pole in the Adirondacks.

Looking Back 40 years - Five-year-old Howard Robinson starred in the Island Theater Group's production of "Littlest Angel." The story was adapted for theater by Isle residents Mary Heyden, Alphia Prosser and Doris Berger and was directed by Elizabeth Beach. Among cast members for the performances held in the Huth Road School auditorium December 14-15, 1962 were Ann Tierney, Marsha Jasper (Thornblum), Monica Maguire and Sharon Rusch.

Looking Back 30 years - Cyrena Dixon accompanied a Carol sing on the reed organ during the Historical Society's "Hanging of the Greens" at River Lea on December 17, 1972. The organ once stood in the Island Congregational Church and was given to the Historical Society by the DeGlopper family.~~~~Ed Parker advertised piano music and dancing girls when he opened his Silver Dollar Saloon December 13, 1972 in the former Edgewater Hotel at 4130 East River Road.

If you would like to have your relatives or friends who are serving in the military overseas receive holiday notes and cards from Island residents, send me their names and addresses and I will include them here. As quoted in Dear Abby's advice column over the weekend, "Writing holiday messages to our servicemen and women is one of the best gifts that anyone, any age, can give this year."

The Travel Channel's "Buffalo Uncovered" is scheduled to be shown on Channel 52 at 5 p.m. Saturday.

Have you sent in your donation to the Neighbors Foundation of Grand Island yet? The address is P. O. Box 155, Grand Island, New York 14072. For Foundation news click Neighbors Foundation Page.

The High School's Winter Concert takes place tonight (Dec. 12) at 7:30 p.m. in the Grand Island High School auditorium.~~~~Click for complete information on the Parish Players Arsenic and Old Lace auditions. Click the same for dates of auditions for the youth production, Jungle Book.~~~~Santa arrives at Tops Market on Saturday and will visit with the children from 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.~~~~The community is invited to Trinity UM Church 6 p.m. Sunday, December 15, 2002 for a Family Music Night With A Birthday Party For Jesus.~~~~Please remember Bob and Scarlet Garman and Baby Jadon this Saturday. Click Town News Page for more information on Saturday's fundraiser for their baby, 10-month-old Jadon Russell Garman.

December 5, 2002
I am happy to announce that Scarlet and Bob Garman's 10-month-old son, Jadon has been chosen the 2003 American Liver Foundation, Buffalo Office, Poster Child. A fund raiser for the very sick little boy's family will be held at the Holiday Inn Grand Island on Saturday, December 14th. Click for Ticket Information.

Plenty of snow Sunday and Monday kept the highway crew very busy for hours - over 24 straight is what we've heard. Speaking of the highway department, congratulations to Earl Eastman on his retirement and to Paul Bartolomeo of Greenway Road who has just been hired as a motor equipment operator.

Happy birthday to Emma Lee Schultz (her 4th birthday today), Carolyn Kreutz (today), Miranda Lea Proctor (two-years-old tomorrow), Don Astridge (18 tomorrow), Lis Renczkowski (tomorrow), Joan Staub and David Conboy (Saturday), Bobbi Cap (cheers on Sunday), Donna Webber (Monday), Amanda Heftka (10 on Monday), Robert Killian (16 on Tuesday), Marianne Tranter (very best wishes on Tuesday), Paul Linenfelser Sr. and Duffy Macguire (both celebrating a big one on Wednesday), and Joelle Logue (Wednesday).

In case you've been wondering what Jimmy Arias is up to lately, he is doing color commentary for ESPN and its affiliates. Jimmy, a former Grand Island resident, is the finest tennis player in Western New York annals and was ranked fifth in the world in 1984.

Looking Back 50 years - Kay Valyear's Mariner Troop held a baked goods sale at Smitty's Quick Lunch, now part of the Contract Interiors plaza, on December 6, 1952 to benefit a needy family.~~~~Clarence Baumann, chairman of the Chamber of Commerce Christmas Dance on December 6, 1952, was assisted by Frank Shear, John Gast, Bill Daigler, John Derr, Frank Pinzel and Carl Vella.~~~~Deanne Long designed and painted religious Christmas scenes which were placed in the triangle near the fire hall. Various Island civic organizations helped to establish this Christmas observance project which continued for several years.~~~~The Home Bureau's annual Christmas party, held at the Buffalo Launch Club on December 2, 1952, was attended by a record 105 women. Alice Soch, Peg Pfohl, Bern Dekdebrun and Charlotte Lewis put on a one act play they called "Low Bridge".

Looking Back 30 years - Jim Desemore, a 10th grader at Grand Island High School, was entering the North Atlantic Figure Skating competition in New York City December 7-12, 1972.

The Sesquicentennial historic pageant videos ($10) are available here in the Isledegrande.com office and are selling like hotcakes. Also available are the Sesqui Events videos and DVDs ($10 & $15).

Our sympathy to the families of James D. Wald, Cecelia H. Weselak, Alex Szur and former resident Mabel E. Sanders who died recently. Click for their complete Death Notices.

Grand Island Democratic Town Chairman Jeff Stone took part in a game of ice hockey at Cazenovia Rink in South Buffalo last week. Jeff was among about two dozen guests of Assemblyman Brian Higgins.

Our Grand Island High School Madrigal Singers will perform 1:30 p.m. Sunday, December 8, 2002 at the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site (641 Delaware Avenue, Buffalo, NY) which will be open from noon to 5 p.m. at $1 admission. For more information, click Inaugural Site

Islanders Sam Santospirito, Mark Priest and Robert Priest are among cast members of the Western Door Playhouse production of The Spy On The Niagara Frontier. The play takes place at the Niagara Arts and Cultural Center (Niagara Falls High School), 1201 Pine Ave at Portage Road 7:30 p.m. December 6-7 and 2:30 p.m., December 8. Tickets are seniors/students/$9 and adults/$11. Call 754-4295 or click Western Door Playhouse.

A memorial service in observance of the attack on Pearl Harbor, December 7, 1941, will be held at the Charles N. DeGlopper VFW Post #9249 Friday, December 7, 2002.~~~~Residents are urged to vote for other locations besides the Grand Island proposals for a new Peace Bridge at a presentation on Saturday, December 7th. For story, click Peace Bridge Proposals Here Could Mean Disaster.~~~~The Historical Society's final Christmas Open House 2002 takes place from 1-4 p.m. Sunday.~~~~A Sesquicentennial Wrap-Up Meeting will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, December 10 in the Grand Island Memorial Library meeting room. All committee heads are invite to attend.

November 28, 2002
Birthday kids!?         Shown from left are Richard Benns, Jim O'Dea, and JoAnn Vanderheite. Richard celebrated a birthday earlier this month, Jim's birthday is today and JoAnn was born on the 29th. A very happy birthday to everyone and also to Barbara "Beck" Muratore who celebrated on the 25th. All four attended Sidway School together.

Congratulations to Sarah DeRose who took first place with her photo, "Parthanon," which she entered in a contest sponsored by Continental Camera, Depew, NY. Her prize? A ten-sheet package of Luminos Belgian Linen Premium Inkjet Paper.

Congratulations and happy 50th anniversary to the parishioners of St. Timothy Lutheran Church, especially those who were there for the first service held November 30, 1952 in the American Legion Hall. A photo of the 65 in attendance was taken by Isle resident and photographer Joe Ferro. Easily identified were Gertrude Reimann and her children, Claire and Eric. No doubt husband, Howard and their oldest daughter, Trudy (O'Connor) were also in the picture. Do any of my readers have this photo?

Best wishes newlyweds. Janine Louise Mock and Jeffrey Forbes Dueck were married Saturday in Whitehaven Road Baptist Church. Making their home on Grand Island are Laurie Anne Paul and Dean William Delo. Mr. and Mrs. Delo were also married on Saturday.

Happy birthday to Don Loder (tomorrow, the 28th), Josal Diebold (16 tomorrow), Eric Harnden (10 on Saturday), Kathryn Sheehan (96 on Saturday), Christopher Carter (a teenager on Saturday), John Podlucky (his 20th on Saturday), Pat McNulty and Cheryl O'Gorman (Monday), Lois Schoenfeld (cheers on Tuesday), Alan Endres (10 on Tuesday), Claire Card and Marie Long (Wednesday), and Kristen Atkinson (four-years-old on Wednesday).

Looking Back 50 years - Town Board members devoted considerable time to problems arising from the construction of the two anti aircraft bases on the Island. Sewage lines on town highway property were draining into Gun Creek, and town roads were being damaged by heavy traffic.~~~~Highlights of Grand Island's once-in-a-century centennial celebration were reviewed in a series of colored movies and slides at the November 1952 PTA meeting at Charlotte Sidway School. The movies, presented through the courtesy of the Elmer Kaegebein's, included shots of the grand prix races, the parade and the pageant. Slides shown by Heber Ashley Jr. were of familiar Island personalities in the garb of yesterday as they took part in the events of the celebration. Also shown through the courtesy of Mrs. Richard (Anne) Buzby were a number of slides of the cornerstone laying at the William Kaegebein School.~~~~Marion and Peace Justice Don Hawley entertained several soldiers from Staley Road Army camp in their home on Thanksgiving Day.~~~~Jean Webb (Bleich), who was attending Cazanovia Junior College, spent the Thanksgiving holiday with her parents Mr. and Mrs. Elmer Webb.~~~~Cub Pack 254 met at the Sidway School Friday night, November 28, 1952 when Den 5 and 0 put on skits relating to the theme, "Faith of His Father." New members who became Bobcats were Walter Pankow, Rickey Stefik, Peter Glor, Ronnie Mueller, Jarman Benns, Ronny Anderson and Clifford Smith. Among others in Pack 254 were Dan McMahon, Tom Stedman, Henry Ensminger, Jim Killian, Galen Young, Richard Beardsley, Donald Flessing, Robert Grycel and Rickey Sturm.

Looking Back 40 years - The Casuals and the Isletones provided the music for the Islettes record hop at the Sidway gym on Friday, November 30, 1962. DJ's were Chuck Moore and Jim Wendell.~~~~The newly elected president and fire chief of the Grand Island Fire Company in December 1962 were Don Anderson and Bill Wood.

Looking Back 25 years - John Simon's new $100,000 service station was nearing completion at the rear of the property where the former Marty's gas station was still standing in December 1977.

Wayne F Weis, GIHS Class of '78, has recently returned to the Island after 24 years of seeing the world. He and his wife, Louise and children Elena and Mitchell have relocated here from Hamilton, Ontario. Former classmates may remember Wayne in the high school productions of Arsenic and Old Lace when he played the part of 'Teddy' and as 'Emile' in South Pacific. If you knew Wayne way back when, why not drop him a line?

Our Grand Island Historical Society members will have River Lea open to the public from 1-4 p.m. on Sunday, December 1st and again on Sunday, December 8th. The holiday theme this year is "150 Years Of Christmas." For complete information, click Historic Society Web Page.

Hope your Thanksgiving holiday is blessed.

November 21, 2002
Saturday's burial of the Sesquicentennial Time Capsule has been postponed. For details, click Time Capsule.~~~~The VFW Ladies are offering $50 and $25 for the Island's two best Apple Pie bakers this Saturday. Click VFW Post
for all the details.~~~~Tops Markets has announced that our Grand Island Blvd. store will be one of 34 stores to offer Charter One in-store banking.

Good luck to Grand Island High's champion diver, Kelly Beatty who will compete in the New York State Swimming championships this weekend.~~~~The Grand Island Varsity Vikings football team had a superb season winning the Class A Semifinals. Though the boys did not win in Ralph Wilson Stadium where they played Sweet Home for the Section VI Class A title before an estimated 3,000, they made a great showing. Among the leading players were Mike Feathers, Mike Blocho, Chris Sica, Jeff Bull, Pat McCarthy, Brett Kern, Josh Bernardoni, Paul Scappechio, and Jeremy Roberts. Can anyone tell me how many times the Vikings made it to the Class A semifinals?

Our Lady Vikings Soccer Team deserves a ton of credit for their incredible season. They are the first Grand Island team and possibly the first western New York team to reach the state finals. Congratulations, girls.

As mentioned here last week, Rick Pelham is recovering from open heart surgery. Though he is not to have any visitors yet, he is home where cards of cheer may be directed.

John Alexander Connell and his bride, the former Jaclyn Lee Conover were married Saturday in St. Stephen Catholic Church. Grand Island High School graduates, they are the children of James and Kathleen Conover and John and Rebecca Connell of Grand Island. The newlyweds will also live on the Island.~~~~ Congratulations to Dorothy and Donald Wendel who celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary last month with a renewal of their marriage vows in St. Stephen's Church, followed by a reception at River Oaks Golf Club. The Wendels were married October 18, 1952.

Our sympathy to the families of Marjorie Gilmore, Margaret M. Ragnar, Edwin J. Koepp, Jack Costanzo, George L. Zelonis and former resident Joanne P. Guize who died this past week. Click for their complete Death Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - Lucky recipients of turkeys Saturday night, November 22, 1952 at the American Legion's pre-Thanksgiving party were Mrs. Melvina Williams of Fix Road and Walter DeGlopper of Ferry Road. The event cleared $200.~~~~Grand Island volunteer firemen learned to use the new resusitator during a training session November 25,1952. The Resusitator, the first of such equipment for the Fire Company, was financed by a Kiwanis Club rose sale.

Looking Back 40 years - A November Christmas tree sale was advertised by Marin Evergreens. The ad offered 'Scotch Pine at $2 - Choose Now, Cut Later.' Edith and Claude Marin ran their business at the end of Kirkwood Drive for many years.~~~~The Sandy Beach Restaurant, being run by the Gibbons family, began serving pizza in early November 1962~~~~The Richard Ray Restaurant in the Grand Island Plaza changed hands, becoming the Beachcombers Restaurant when Islanders Marcy and George Buell took over the operation in November '62.

Looking Back 30 years - On Monday evening November 20, 1972, following a closed session of Grand Island's Board of Education, it was announced that Supervising Principal Veronica E. Connor, Administrative Assistant Reva Kohn and Clayton Ames, superintendent of Buildings and Grounds had tendered their resignations.

Looking Back 20 years - Miss Mary Mead was installed Beloved Queen of Aries Triangle 131 on November 11, 1982 in the Masonic Temple on Ferry Road.

Happy birthday to Beverly Benton (today), Marilyne Brandoni and Jennifer "Galbo" Przybylski (special greetings tomorrow), Bill Click, Kevin Rosman and Betty Kaeffer (tomorrow), Doris Rees (Sunday), Lois Morgan (80 on Monday), Lorrie Markarian (Monday), Heather Zilbauer, Stephanie Goris, Dennis Parrino, Joe Samrany and Ginger Stamler (all celebrating on Tuesday), Jacqueline Currie (Sweet 16 on Tuesday), and old, old friend Jim O'Dea (celebrating a big one on November 27th).

Thanks to Mike O'Dea for identified four more members of Boy Scout Troop 510, pictured in our Old Photo Album. The busload of boys and leaders, photographed by Island resident Wendell D. Stratton, were about to take off for a trip to West Point in September 1958. Mike named John Braddell, Pete Sloan, Lee Tiffany and himself to the lists of "unknowns." Thanks also to Ruth "Owens" Lougen for identifying her dad, Richard Owens in the 1953 Jaycees photo.

Please read Liz Lutnick's article by clicking our Viewpoints Page. She, along with several other Island residents, is doing all she can to get the word out for residents to take responsibility to stop the absurdity of having the Peace Bridge built across the Island. Let's all do our part by either attending the December 7th meeting in Buffalo or writing our displeasure to Assemblyman Sam Hoyt or Senator Byron Brown - or both.

Click Send Us Your News for details on how to submit news/photos.

November 14, 2002
Good luck to the Grand Island High School Girls Soccer Team. (Click photo for larger view.) The girls left at noon today, and are playing tomorrow in the State semi-finals. Complete stories on the fabulous Lady Vikings appear on Isledegrande's High School Page.

A very happy birthday to Samantha Kuszczak (9 today), Ryan Foote (today), Sterling Haslam and Jacob Kreutz (tomorrow), Brian Kopf (Saturday), Sierra Marie Maras (2-years-old Saturday), Jon McGinn (16 on Sunday), Roberta McNulty and Sonja Miller (Sunday), Joseph Shanor (a teenager on Monday), and special greetings to Kathy Mentor celebrating on Wednesday.

If you are far away from Grand Island and would like to take a look at the Island's flowers, trees, the river and Buckhorn Park in general, click Buckhorn Island - July 2001 and Kayaking Buckhorn - June 2002. Credit for the photos goes to Michael C. Calanan.

Our sympathy to the families of Edward C. Lee, Sophie D. Zelonis, Consuela Frisch, MSgt. William J. Bedford and former resident Rachel Fodero who died this past week. Click for their complete Death Notices.

Welcome, Robert David Arch, born to proud parents Lisa Lozo and Dave Arch. Robert, who weighed in at six pounds, 11 ounces on Wednesday, November 6th, is the grandson of Joanne and Richard Lozo and Barbara Arch, all of Grand Island.~~~~A tip of the hat to Linda Long Rossitto. Linda was in the M&T parking lot with her 6-year-old daughter, Christina, when they discovered a bank envelope containing a large amount of cash. They took the envelope to a bank employee who was able to return it to its very grateful owner.

A speedy recovery to Rick Pelham, a Grand Island Fire Company paramedic and tremendous asset to the community. Rick is recovering from open heart surgery.~~~~Paul Gorman, another volunteer firefighter, suffered a broken ankle and has recently had surgery.~~~~Fire Company President Mike Dallassandro and his wife, Karen hit a deer enroute back to the Island from a vacation. Both were quite shaken up but not seriously injuried.~~~~As mentioned here last week, Ted Filosofos is recuperating from a stroke. The mailing address for Ted and Jackie is 5568 SW-24th Ave., Fort Lauderdale, Fla. 33312.

If you are working on geneology, these sites will be a big help. Click Family Search or Family Search 2. Thanks to former resident Don Allen, who is also providing me with a wealth of information and photos of his family that settled on the Island over 150 years ago. The only black family on the Island for decades, its members made their mark and were well loved and respected. The death of eighty-two-year-old James A. Williams on July 21st of this year was the end of a very long era. Property on Fix Road still remains in the Williams family. Don, by the way, is the great grandson of the original settlers, Mary and John Williams.

Looking Back 50 years - Residents in Voting District #3 in Grandyle Village would no longer vote in the refreshment stand at Stony Point and Love Road. The polls were moved in November 1952 to the new, nearly completed William Kaegebein School.~~~~It was announced at the town board meeting that Thomas Benton Jr. was tranferring his water distributor contract to his son, Thomas Benton III.~~~~The Organization Committee of the new St. Timothy Lutheran Church met for the first time at the East River Road home of Howard Reimann.~~~~Ribbon cutting ceremonies to officially open the new West River Parkway were held on Tuesday, November 18, 1952 at Big Six Creek bridge. Members of Charlotte Sidway's Glee Club sang vocal selections.

Looking Back 40 years - The new "Meet the Teens" column by Betty Bonning in the local, weekly paper featured Sidway Jr. High School student Rhonda Adams (Miller). According to the column, "Rhonda is interested in art, has a talent for impersonations and enjoys singing."~~~~1000 children saw the movie "White Wilderness" presented by the Grand Island Co-operative Nursery School in Island schools forty years ago.~~~~The Island's first Tops Market (now Wilson Farms) opened on Love Road on Wednesday, November 12, 1962.

Looking Back 30 years - The Grand Island High School Spotlighters produced the play, "Life With Father" on November 17-18, 1972. Heading the cast were John Russell and Mary Stewart as "Father" Day and his wife, Vinnie. Shelly Boudreau (Swanick) played the part of Mary Skinner. Others in the cast included Michael Williams, Jeff Stone, Thomas Gormandy, Louie Vacanti, Kevin Brady and Gretta "Simmons" Falank .~~~~Reg Schopp opened his own jewelry store in the Grand Island Plaza 30 years ago this week.

Looking Back 20 years - Mike Gast, president of Island Cable Inc. presented the town with the company's first annual payment of $8,950.72 for its franchise for Cable TV.~~~~"1982 Girl Swimmers Best in GI History" was the headline of Bill Rohring's column, "To The Point..." in November of that year. Record setters were Sue Samland, Anne Drexelius, Katie McDonough, Tammie Stevens (Gorman), Jennifer Wilkinson, Tracy Roesch and Kelly Valone (Maurer).

Bob Dee of East River Road recently hosted the American Bonanza Society at a picnic in his airplane hanger. About 30 members of the Society flew into the Niagara Falls Airport in private planes (Beechcraft Baron or Bonanza) where Bob's wife, Ilene, assisted with the hospitality for the day-long event.

Celebrating their 10th wedding anniversary are Ted and Lisa Kessler. Happy days, folks!

Connor Middle School's 4th annual International Night takes place tomorrow from 6-9 p.m. (Nov. 15) at the school. There is always lots to see and do and there is no charge.~~~~The Historical Society's headquarters, River Lea in Beaver Island State Park, will be open Sunday from 2-4 p.m. "Grand Island School Memories" is Sunday's theme which will include special exhibits of school days in the Island's past.

November 7, 2002
Former resident Ted Filosofos, now of Fort Lauderdale, Florida, had unexpected open-heart surgery last Friday (Nov. 1). Ted came through the double bypass surgery quite well, however he suffered a stroke over the weekend. Prayers and cards of encouragement would surely be appreciated. Jackie and Ted's email address is JTFilos@webtv.net.

Married Saturday were Phyllis M. Capizzi and Richard M. Dworak in St. Joseph Cathedral, and Michele Susan Johnson and Joseph Richard Graves in Kloc's Blossom Grove. Best wishes, newlyweds.

Connor Middle School 6th grader Scott Quider, who was featured in the Buffalo News over the weekend, has been collecting pop cans and saving the refunds to buy potatoes that he takes to the Friends of Night People on the West Side in Buffalo. So far Scott has dropped off about 3,000 pounds of potatoes to the soup kitchen.

Happy birthday to my very first childhood friend, Richard Benns, who will celebrate a milestone birthday on the 11th.~~~~ Happy birthday to Mike Schopp, Marge Egan and Joe Cushner (today), Lois Affuso and Marla Wendel (tomorrow), Ann Senn (her 98th birthday tomorrow), Tom Rayhill (16 on Saturday), Mildred Dingey (cheers on Sunday), and Victor Cap (Wednesday's his big day).

Happy days, happy year and a wish for many more anniversaries to George and Marianne Christensen who are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary tomorrow - November 8th.~~~~A belated happy 50th anniversary to Patricia and Harry S. Mullany II of Grand Island. Married on September 20, 1952, they were guests of honor at a family dinner in John's Flaming Hearth.~~~~David and Viola "Eastman" Gingher, who were married October 1, 1952 in Trinity Evangelical United Brethren Church, recently celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in the Eagle House Restaurant, Williamsville. Best wishes to the Ginghers.

For the interest of our runners who may not have seen the site, I have posted a link for the Dick Bessel Independence Day Run 2002 web page on the Recreation Department Page. Just click Bessel Road Race 2002 Results for all of this year's runners and statistics.

Saturday, December 14th is the date of a fundraiser at the Holiday Inn to benefit the family of nine-month-old Jadon Russell Garman. Details on how you can help will be posted here next week. For more information, see Baby Jadon’s Story.

Looking Back 50 years - Clifton and Ruby Rogers were the sponsors and Lee Forster's orchestra provided the music for Grand Island's first servicemen's dance for the men stationed at our anti-aircraft base. It was announced that dancing partners would be available to the servicemen attending the dance held Saturday, November 8, 1952 in the fire hall.~~~~Dan Linenfelser Sr.'s Wayside Furniture store on Express Highway and Vern Mooney's Snack Bar adjoining the furniture store (now Contract Interiors Plaza) were heavily damaged by fire in an early morning (4:15 a.m.) blaze on Sunday, November 9, 1952.~~~~"Centennial Shares To Be Paid In Full" was a headline in the November 13, 1952 Island Dispatch. Preferred memberships at $5 each were to be redeemed the first week in December 1952.~~~~Eighty-six teenagers and three chaperones attended what was probably the very first Sidway School skating party at the Rainbow Roller Rink in North Tonawanda Saturday night, November 8, 1952. Less than half made reservations so there was difficulty in providing ample bus transportation from the Island to the rink.

Looking Back 40 years - The town board adopted the Niagara Rose, a bright red hybrid flower, as its official flower. Originated and developed by West River Road resident Clarence Davis, the beautiful rose was the result of nearly ten years of experimentation and cross pollination. The recommendation that it be adopted by the town came from Cinderella Isle Garden Club members.~~~~Police agencies were assisting the Erie County Sheriff's Department in an investigation of a fire which destroyed a new $55,000 ranch home at 1843 West River Parkway early Thursday morning, November 8, 1962. It was the fourth large scale fire on the Island in recent weeks.

Looking Back 30 years - Jr. Football League members elected the following new officers for 1973: President Al Schoenle, Vice President Tony Lucca, Treasurer Chuck Meyer, Secretary Dolorous Bykowicz and Committees Chair Joe Mineo. Elected to the Board were George Shaw, Rich Byron, Harvey Brenner, John Cacciatore, Jean Harper and Al Raepple.

Looking Back 20 years - Markus Beck, a member of Boy Scout Troop 575, received his Eagle Scout Award in October 1982.

Tops Markets announced last week that plans for the proposed convenience store and gas station at the corner of Ransom and Stony Point have been scrapped. A Tops Xpress is already under construction to the left of the Tops Market on the Boulevard and should open before the end of the year. That makes four "quick stop convenience stores" within 'skipping' distance!

Sarah McMahon, a third-year student at the University of Notre Dame and a member of its Army ROTC, escorted the flag into the stadium during Saturday's Notre Dame/Boston College football game. On hand to cheer on Sarah and her team were her parents Karen and Dave Conboy, a cousin, former Island resident Missy Conboy, and aunt and uncle Rebecca and Jim Conboy.~~~~Attention Class of 1973. It's time to begin thinking about your 30th class reunion!~~~~Hello to Mrs. Spatuzzi's third grade class at St. Stephen School whom, we hear, checks out Isledegrande.com on a regular basis.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Lewis Frankenfield, Gay Macro and Bernice Ciszek who died this past week. Click for their complete Death Notices.

Congratulations to the Grand Island Varsity Vikings football team on winning the Class A Semifinals last Friday night, and to the Grand Island Viking Girls Soccer team on winning Tuesday's Section VI Class A girls' soccer championship. Good luck to both teams as they hopefully advance to the next level. Stories on the games appear on our High School News page.

October 31, 2002
Congratulations to Phyllis Lange who bowled a 290 with the Golden Age Club at Island Lanes in a no tap game Tuesday, October 29th.~~~~Congratulations to Balbir Singh on being one of those selected to be a Buffalo News 'NeXt' correspondent for 2002-2003 from 100 teens who applied.

Bryan Smith, a 2002 Grand Island High School graduate, has been home on leave from the Navy and will be in town for at least another week. After his leave, he will be stationed in California for two weeks before leaving for a two-month stay in Spain. Bryan is the son of Karen and Barry Smith of East River Road.

Former residents Jim and Georgia Grosstephan of East Quogue, L.I. have announced the engagement of their daughter, Marcia A. Grosstephan of Grand Island, to Jacob R. Smith, also of Grand Island. Their wedding is being planned for August 7, 2004.~~~~Living on Grand Island are newlyweds, Michele L. Spampinato and Joseph R. Lasker who were married Saturday, October 26, 2002 in St. Andrew Catholic Church, Town of Tonawanda.~~~~Best wishes to George and Pat Bowman on their 50th wedding anniversary on November 3rd and to George and Hazel Rowe on their 30th anniversary on November 4th.

Our sympathy to the families of Barbara J. (Smith) Study, Margaret Stamler, Julie "Parwulski" Oursler, Gladys G. Sloan and Laura M. Conboy who died this past week. Click for their complete Death Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - Mrs. Howard (Gertrude) Reimann was in charge of a series of round and square dances at Sidway School preceeded by basketball games. Mr. Dembrow would be back again to teach and call the square dancing.~~~~Supervisor George J. Burgstahler, uncontested in the supervisor election, received the highest number of votes at 1861 in the November 1952 election.~~~~Members of the Grandyle Village Property Owners Association elected President Leo B. Costin, Vice President Helen Ball, Secretary MaryLou Kohlhagen, Assistant Secretary Ruth Horner, and Treasurer Henry Metzler.~~~~November 5, 1952 was the first publication day of Charlotte Sidway School's monthly school newspaper, "Between the Bridges." Sixth grader Tommy Close of Stony Point was the winner of the 'name the newspaper' contest.

Looking Back 40 years - Photographs being taken of the Kaegebein School children on November 2, 1962 would be in "color" for the first time.~~~~Miss Deborah Jean Robinson was installed Beloved Queen of Aries Triangle #131 on November 8, 1962.~~~~Grand Island Motors, Inc (Ford) conducted a football contest which ended Saturday, November 7, 1962. Winners included the 8-year-olds Charles Bagdy (1st), John Podlucky (2nd), and Jeff Brown (3rd); and 9-year-olds Jim Shackleton (1st), Robin Lang (2nd), and Dan Carr (3rd).

Looking Back 30 years - The first preschool story hour took place Thursday, November 2, 1972 in the library on the second floor of town hall.~~~~Kiwanis Club members elected President Clark Nesbitt, Vice Presidents Fred Haefner and Earl Eastman, Secretary Al Raepple and Treasurer Art Miller.~~~~Miss Magdelene Miller, a new high school faculty member, was working with the Spotlighters on her first attempt in Island theater with the production of "Life With Father." "Maggie," who is now Mrs. Scott Kennedy, is still teaching at the High School. ~~~~The Grand Island Life Singers, a group of 25 teens from Trinity UM, Emmanuel UM and St. Stephen's Roman Catholic churches was formed and made their first public appearance Saturday, November 4, 1972 in Trinity UM Church with their presentation of the musical, "Life." Music was under the direction of Rev. Fred Dixon.

Looking Back 10 years - The Beaver Island Casino was destroyed by fire on Thursday, October 29, 1992.

Happy birthday Emily Mary Fred (2-years-old tomorrow), Sarah Kustich (4-years-old tomorrow), Triston Wilkinson (tomorrow), Julie Lockett (Saturday), Mary Carminati (Sunday), Marilyn Andujar (Monday), Jacob Schmidt (a teenager on Monday), Alexander Frye (10 on Tuesday), Emily Kahn (entering her teens on Wednesday), and Joshua Less (6 on Wednesday).

A speedy recovery to Joe McMahon who is recuperating from hip replacement surgery and to my husband, Jim Linenfelser, who had eye surgery yesterday.

Election Day is Tuesday, and voters in districts 6, 7, 9 and 10 who previously voted at Kaegebein School, will vote at the Bible Presbyterian Church Family Life Center, 1650 Love Road.

This is the weekend of Kaegebein PTA's Craft Show and the Chamber's Community Trade Show. Check our Calendar of Events for other happenings this week, including a Chicken Pot Pie Dinner on Election Day.

October 24, 2002
Congratulations to the Veronica Connor Middle School Modified Football Team. The boys, coached by Mr. Henry Carney, finished the 2002 season Wednesday undefeated. The photo is of our grandson, John C. Bidell, a member of the team, after a rain-soaked game on Masters Field. The VCMS cheerleaders are awesome, I might add.~~~~Congratulations to Greg Barker, Ken Brodie II and Bob Catopovic on their championship boat racing season. Check out our Sports Page for details.

Marisa A. Smith became the bride of Brian C. Busch on Saturday, October 19, 2002 in a ceremony in Kenmore United Methodist Church. She is the daughter of Paul and Maye Smith of Grand Island.

Our sympathy to the families of Lillian M. Mesmer, Stanley J. Lucas, Margaret Stamler and former resident Janet Cavanaugh who recently passed away. Click for their complete Death Notices.

Former Island resident Dan Gregory is directing the comedy/drama "It's About Time," which he also wrote. The cast will include Dan's daughter, Kelly and the play takes place at the Kenan Center's Taylor Theater in Lockport. Call the theater for details.~~~~Congratulations to Grand Island High School Girls Soccer Team goalie Corinne Razem who has given the team at least nine shutouts this season. Corinne will be featured in the Niagara Gazette tomorrow as its Athlete of the Week.

A speedy recovery to Harvey Long who had surgery on the 10th. Harvey is now home and we hear he's doing well.

Lorrie "Pownall" Savas and her husband, Stephen were blessed with their first child, Stephen Robert Savas, born July 31, 2002 weighing eight pounds, seven ounces. Steven Robert was 24 inches long at birth! The Savas family lives in Franklin Lakes, New Jersey and proud grandparents are former Baseline Road residents Bob and Carol Pownall who are now living in Williamsburg, Virginia. Click Islanders In The News to see this beautiful baby's picture.

The historic pageant is now history! Kathryn Sheehan, David Long and Sharon Long Nichols were in the audience and they actually took part in the Centennial Pageant in August 1952. I believe I was the only one in this past weekend's performances who also took part in the '52 pageant. The enthusiasm of the audience, especially Saturday night, was all we needed to know our long hours were well worth it. Photos are on the Sesquicentennial page and I will continue to add to them each week as they are submitted. A special note of thanks to all of the friends I have made throughout the pageant production - thank you so much for the flowers. What a nice surprise!

Looking Back 50 years - Over the summer of 1952 earth moving equipment had been digging a canal from the East River to a few feet from the East River Road under the direction of Michael Steffen who was creating the private canal and selling ranch type homes there. On Friday, October 17, 1952 the last of the earth was moved and the canal filled up with water in about one half hour.~~~~The 9th grade Class of '53 elected the following officers on October 17, 1952: President Joan Lafferty, Vice President Carl Miller, Secretary Gail Burgstahler, Treasurer Roger Killian.

Looking Back 40 years - The Grand Island Nursery School again sponsored the UNICEF drive on Grand Island.~~~~Bob Wells of WGR was master of ceremonies for "Teen Time," a Teen Talent Night at the Huth Road School on November 2, 1962.~~~~The Grand Island Home Extension's past president Dorothy Waltman and current president Millie Vanthoff presented two "coin cards" to Assistant Fire Chief Bob Hoag for the fire company's fund drive. The cards held about $8 worth of quarters which were inserted and then covered with a gold sticker to keep them in place. The fund drive must have been successful as it was conducted in this many for several years.

Looking Back 30 years - The Trinity Middle School Youth Group held a Halloween party on October 22, 1972 when Cindy Bleich, Vicki Bidell (Wilkinson), Kevin Lipp and Abby Baker were announced the winners of the costume contest.

Congratulations and best wishes to Sue and Dan McMahon who will celebrate their 30th wedding anniversary on Sunday, to Liz and Eric Reimann who will be married 35 years on Monday and to Clay and Elaine Clark, marking their 40th on Wednesday.

Longtime Ferry Village resident Maryan Traun, who is residing at the Bristol Home, Room 203, 1500 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14209 is celebrating her 93rd birthday today. Pick up a card or drop her a note and let her know you are thinking of her.

True to form(!), our daughter-in-law, Laury Linenfelser, has been celebrating her 30th birthday all week. Hats off to Mike Carr's Village Inn staff for the fabulous spread we enjoyed at Laury's surprise party there on Monday night. What fun!

Happy birthday to Jim Pax and Diane Pelosi (today), John Bidell Jr. (a teenager tomorrow), Mallory Katherine DelSignore (3 tomorrow), Norm Baumann (best wishes tomorrow), "Bernie" DeGlopper Bailey (her 90th on Saturday), Peter Marston and Paul Soto (Sunday), Joanne Gesl and John Trianda (Tuesday), and Julie Dee and Bill Pioli (Wednesday)

Don't forget to turn your clocks back early Sunday morning when daylight savings time begins at 2 a.m. We will all gain an extra hour of sleep.

Please check our calendar of events for the weekend and the week's happenings. The Ladies Auxiliary of the Grand Island Fire Company will hold their chowder and baked goods sale Saturday and will also offer Krispi Kreme Donuts. Golden Age Club members will hold their annual holiday bazaar at the Golden Age Center, 3278 Whitehaven Road, on Sunday. Have a wonderful weekend.

October 17, 2002
When Robert Garman, GIHS Class of '89 and his wife, Scarlet, of Tracey Lane became the parents of their third child, a baby boy, born on February 8th of this year, they had no idea of their little son's future. Jadon Russell Garman, at three months old, was diagnosed with Alpha 1 Antitripson, a life-threatening disease that attacks the liver. It has just been confirmed that he will need a whole liver transplant. Efforts to seek monetary help with travel expenses, unpaid leaves from work, and other costs not paid by insurance are in the earliest planning stages and we are hoping that generous Island residents will help out the Garman family in any way they can, be that financially or with assistance in fundraising. More information on how you may help will be listed here as it becomes available.

There's plenty of time to pick up a birthday card and send it off to Bernice "Bernie" DeGlopper Bailey. Bernie will be celebrating her 90th birthday on October 26, 2002 at a party for family and friends with Douglas DeGlopper serving as Master of Ceremonies.

KatieLynn Beauchamp and Kyle Bridenbaker who were married in St. Timothy Lutheran Church on Saturday. The bride is the daughter of Daniel and Patricia Beauchamp and the groom is the son of Jeffrey and Susan Bridenbaker.~~~~Kelli Ann Preve and David A. Kompare were married Saturday in Trinity United Methodist Church. Kelli Ann is the daughter of Francis and Claudia Preve of Grand Island and the groom is the son of Mary Kompare of Buffalo and Joseph Kompare of Tonawanda.~~~~Best wishes newlyweds.

Our sympathy to the families of Mary Faith Peterson, Bernice M. Leiner and former resident Herbert J. Grover. Click for their complete Death Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - The chorus at Trinity EUB Church presented "Marrying Marion" with Marion Pinkow and Wally Simms in the leads on October 23-25, 1952.

Looking Back 30 years - The Grand Island Vikings remained undefeated in league play by edging Cleveland Hill, 7-6 on a rain-soaked field 30 years ago this week. Coach Gene Masters cited team effort, especially the play of Glyn Lipp, Bill Mancuso and Terry McDonnell as factors in this important victory.

A very happy anniversary wish goes out to Gary and Carol Roesch, who will celebrate their 40th on October 20th.

Happy birthday James "Butch" "Puppet" DiTullio.   He's talented. He's friendly and generous. He's Jack of all trades. And he's turning 60 on Tuesday. Email a big happy birthday to Puppet at weembaman@aol.com!~~~~~Happy birthday to Adam Heftka (7 tomorrow), to Walter Hillock (a teenager on Saturday), Larry Hillock, Jim Milne and Heidi Sue Mumm (Saturday), Michael Madigan (6 on Sunday), Joe Macaluso (Sunday), our daughter-in-law Laury Linenfelser (cheers on Monday), and Patrick Gallagher (10 on Wednesday).

Welcome back! Jack McCaffery has moved back to the family homestead at East River and Kirkwood Drive with his wife, Wendy and children, Thomas and Clarice Mae. Jack's parents, Ed and Chris McCaffery originally bought the house for their large family in 1963.

Congratulations to Grand Island High School diver Kelly Beatty who scored 276.70 points last Friday to break Karen Learmen's Niagara Frontier League record of 267.90 set in 1986. Kelly is an honor student in her junior year at Grand Island High. Karen is a member of the Grand Island High School Class of '87.~~~~Our Grand Island Varsity Vikings Football Team beat West Seneca East with a score of 28 to 14. This Saturday is homecoming and the Vikes go up against Williamsville South at 2 p.m. on Masters Field. Go Vikings!

Tonight's the night (Thursday, 7-8 p.m.) to sign up for unlimited Friday night skiing with the "Ski Kissing Bridge" at the Grand Island Memorial Library.~~~~Trinity's Fall Festival, featuring a roast beef dinner takes place tomorrow (Friday) from 4-7 p.m at Trinity UM Church.~~~~The Historic Trinity/Historical Society Fashion Show, "History in Fashions" is set for 2 p.m. Saturday in Historic Trinity Chapel.~~~~The Historic Sesquicentennial Pageant of Island history and music takes the stage at Huth Road School 7 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets are $2 and should be available at the door. Refreshments will be served during intermission.~~~~The Fire Company will hold Open House Saturday from noon to 3 p.m. Click Fire Company for complete details.~~~~Check the Isledegrande.com Calendar for other events.

October 10, 2002
Former resident Sue Hamilton wrote for information on contacting old friends from the Grand Island Art Society. However, I was unable to put her in touch with the members she mentioned using the email address she wrote from. "Sue, if you see this, email me again," and friends of Sue who can help put me in touch with her, please write to me at teddy@giecom.net.

Daffodil bulbs will be planted around the Island on Saturday morning. Those willing to volunteer for the job are to meet at the town hall at 9:30 a.m. when bulbs, soil and planting equipment will be provided.~~~~The date of the burying of the Sesquicentennial Time Capsule will be announced here at Isledegrande.com as soon as we get the information. The Time Capsule will not be buried on October 19th as previously announced.

Supervisor Peter McMahon took part in the Harvest of Harmony Parade in Grand Island, Nebraska over the past weekend. Pete met Ken Gnadt, mayor of that Grand Island while attending a national mayors meeting in New York City. Mayor Gnadt made the trip to our Grand Island and served as an honorary parade marshall for our Sesquicentennial parade on July 4th. The Nebraska parade featured 86 high school marching bands!~~~~JoAnn Vanderheite's annual Dried Flower Sale is set for this Saturday (Oct. 12th) at her home at 1635 West River Road. The sale will feature her own colorful, one-of-a-kind artist designed and grown wreaths, arrangements and more, and runs from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Lee Tetkowski, a member of the League of Women Voters Buffalo/Niagara, presented a prize winning Powerpoint program on the problems and cost of sprawl for Joan Droit's Book Discussion Group, a part of Continuing Education and held at the Golden Age Center on Friday morning, October 4th. Accompaning Lee was Active Co-Chair of the League's Sprawl Committee, Ann Huberman of Buffalo. To have the presentation at your next meeting, call the League's office, 884-3550.

Our sincere sympathy to the family of Gene Stoklosa who passed away yesterday (Oct. 9, 2002).~~~~~A memorial service for Michael Giambra will be held at 7 p.m. Friday (October 11th) in St. Stephen Church. A former Grand Island resident who had been living in Cape Coral, Florida, Mike died Aug. 24, 2002 after a short illness.~~~~A memorial service for Dolores S. Rogers will be held on October 19th in St. Stephen Church. Mrs. Rogers, a well-known artist, died on August 11th. Our sympathy to her family~~~~Click Giambra, Rogers and Stoklosa for complete obituaries.

Looking Back 50 years - The cornerstone laying of the $1,250,000 William M. Kaegebein School took place at 2 p.m. October 12, 1952.~~~~The Frank Butcher family's house on East River Road was badly damaged by a fire on October 12, 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - President John F. Kennedy crossed the Island on the Thruway on Sunday, October 14, 1962. Does anyone have the group photo of the Grand Island Girl Scouts, leaders, parents and siblings who gathered at the south bridge to see the President?~~~~Ground was broken for a new "Tops" supermarket and gas station to be built on Love Road. The grocery store was going up next to the Grandyle Pharmacy building and the service station was being built west of Mesmer's Dairy. The Pharmacy was being expanded in what is now the present location of Picasso Pizza.~~~~Sidway Junior High School's last 9th grade graduating class held an election of officers on October 11, 1962. Elected to serve the class were President John Killian, Vice President Kathy McFee, Treasurer David Schaefer and Secretary Jayne Pless.~~~~Scott Hennigar, 11, found an 1867 nickel in the west riverbed at Fix Road.~~~~Clayton Kenworthy won the All Gauge Event at the 4th Invitational Flaming Leaves Shoot in Lake Placid with 100 straight.~~~~The Grand Island Community Chorus, formed in '52, was rehearsing Monday nights in Kaegebein School.

Looking Back 15 years - Rev. Earl King offered his first church service at St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church on Sunday, October 11, 1987.

Paul Malecki, accompanied by his wife, Marcy, hit the jackpot on Saturday (October 5) at the Flamingo Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada. Good going, Paul!

Celebrating their first anniversary on Sunday and wished the very best are Jason and Maureen Weis. Happy anniversary also to Bobby and Ilene Dee celebrating their 13th anniversary on Monday and to Bob and Kristen Franklin Rosser who will be married three years on October 16th.

Happy birthday to Roger Thaler and Willian Barbur (today), Jacob Mongold (6 tomorrow), Mike Hachee (Saturday), Benjamin McDowell (16 on Saturday), Tom Trader (a big one on Sunday), Kyle Oursler (a teenager on Monday), Stephanie Voyzey (6 on Monday), Shirley Luther (Tuesday) and Kalli Pedlow (10-years-old on Tuesday).

Bill and Phyllis "Lafferty" Tanner were in town from Gilbert, Arizona this past week and stopped by our house to look over the place where Bill grew up on the west end of Ferry Road. Phyllis, Sidway Class of '55, and Bill, Sidway Class of '53, spent time visiting Phyllis' sister, Sharon Thompson and family of Fix Road.~~~~Sonja Miller's prize winning, miniature, long-haired daschund has given birth to two puppies. One is spoken for and the black silver dapple male is available. Call her at 851-1547 for more information.

An open house will be held at the Hidden Oaks subdivision off Fix Road and between Baseline and Alt Blvd. from noon to 6 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday and also on Saturday and Sunday of the following weekend. If you have not seen this secluded residential area, you will be pleasantly surprised!

The Grand Island Varsity Vikings Football Team beat Lew-Port 23-6 last week. The boys have a 7 p.m. game at West Seneca East tomorrow night (Friday, Oct. 11th). Go Vikings!

Don't be left out. If you want tickets for the Historic Fashion Show, the Historic Pageant or the Historical Society's Holiday luncheons, it's time to check into tickets before it is too late. Just click the event for more information.~~~~Schools are closed Monday due to the Columbus Day holiday.

October 3, 2002
  
Special greetings to my former classmates Joan "Schlueter" Wright (left), Roy Campbell and Lorraine "Walgate" Wilcox who are celebrating their birthdays this week.~~~~Happy birthday to Paul Nixon (a teenager tomorrow), Margie Walker (tomorrow), Dylan Michael Russo (his first birthday on Saturday), Mallory Zilliox (a teen on Saturday), Matthew Pietrzak (entering his teens on Sunday), Craig Blowers (10 on Sunday), Mary Jo Soto and Carol Ann Weingartner (Monday), Kelly Carminati (cheers on Monday), Bob McCormick (a big one on Monday), Ryan Ayers (a teenager on Monday), Andy Dinsmore (big birthday on Tuesday), John Linenfelser (Tuesday), Barb Jarzab (Wednesday) and Diane Hassan (the big 5-0 on Wednesday).

Dawn Elisa Smith and Gerald Raymond Donnelly were married in the gardens at the Park Savoy, Florham Park, N.J. The bride is a graduate of Grand Island High School and Canisius College, summa cum laude. Best wishes, newlyweds.

Kimberly and Jonathan Weis of Coconut Creek, Florida are the parents of a baby girl. Elle Marie Weis was born September 12th weighing seven pounds, six ounces. Proud first time grandparents are Bill and Nancy Weis of Wallace Drive.

Congratulations to Diane and Herb Miller on the birth of their first grandchild, Cameron Rose Kolat, born Thursday, September 26, 2002. Cameron Rose is the daughter of John and Alyssa "Miller" Kolat who reside in Fairfax, Virginia. The little baby girl weighed in at five pounds, five ounces.

Looking Back 50 years - The Ashley family provided movies and over 150 color slides of the town's Centennial pageant, the Union Church Service, the Centennial grounds south of Sidway School, the grand prix auto race, Island memorabilia exhibits, whisker contest, Old Timers' Reunion, individual costumes etc. which were shown on Sunday, October 5, 1952 and Monday, October 6, 1952 at Emmanual Chapel.

Looking Back 40 years - Vivian Smudski served as Horticulture Chairman for the East Park Garden Club. Hostesses were Mrs. Leon Shippy and Eleanor Cullen when the Club met October 10, 1962 in the Undercroft of St. Martin-in-the-Fields Church.~~~~Mrs. Richard Bensman was the new president of the Willow Lawn Garden Club. Other officers in 1962 were Vice President Betty Killian, Treasurer Mrs. Joseph Demo Jr., and Secretary Ellie Zarbo.~~~~Boy Scout Troop 510 participated in a weekend campout with 600 area Boy Scouts in Beaver Island State Park.~~~~Irma Hawkes was serving as publicity chairman for the Island Theater Group.

We are hoping to have tickets for the historic pageant available here in our Isledegrande.com office any day now. The pageant takes place in the Huth Road auditorium 7:30 p.m. Saturday, October 19th and 2 p.m. Sunday, October 20th. The theatrical overview of Island history will include music and dance, and good times and tragedy. Tickets must be purchased for either performance. Cost is $2 or $5 per family.

The Sesquicentennial Grand Ball, long awaited by many of us, was a tremendous success. Those of us from Isledegrande.com thoroughly enjoyed it all and wish to thank the committee of hard workers headed up by Kathleen Graves, who oversaw ever small and large detail. Our only wish is that it would happen again in our lifetime! We have posted photos of the Grand Lady cruise and the Ball but would be glad to consider adding to those pictures. Email or dropped off any others you would like to have us consider posting.

Members of the Grand Island Historical Society invite the community to come to River Lea in Beaver Island Park for their October meeting beginning at 7:30 p.m. tonight (Oct. 3). The program is titled, "Current/Historic G.I. Happenings."

September 26, 2002
  
Jeanne Marie (Dinsmore) Ensminger (left), Dave Salt and former resident Elizabeth (Glor) Allen, Isle natives, are all celebrating milestone birthdays this week. Happy birthday Jeanne Marie (Sunday), Dave (tomorrow) and Liz (today).~~~~Couldn't forget Dave Grant's big birthday tomorrow! If you see him this week, wish him a happy 60th.

Clark Daniel Jaquith was born Saturday, September 21st weighing nine pounds, eight ounces. He is the first child of Daniel and Holly Smith Jaquith of Locke, NY. Holly is a 1982 graduate of Grand Island High School and the daughter of Doug and Polly Smith of Hennepin Rd.

Welcome, Makenna Elizabeth Scalise, born Friday, September 13, 2002 to Karen and Don Scalise of Laurie Lane. Makenna, who weighed in at six pounds, 13 ounces, was welcomed home by her brother, Eric, 17 months. Proud grandparents are Joseph Scalise and Paula Macumber of Grand Island and Genevieve Scalise of Clarence. Great grandparents are Stewart Macumber of Florida and Rose Scalise of Pennsylvania.

Our sympathy to the families of Sheila A. Martin, Edie Andrews and former residents David M. Darnley and Gloria J. (Anderson) Pagels who passed away this week. Click for complete Death Notices.~~~~Betty J. Lafferty, a longtime member of the Sandy Beach Yacht Club, died on September 19th.

Grand Island High School graduate Michael T. Hurley was married Friday to Tracy L. Cummings.~~~~Derrick Michael Smith and Amy Lynn Burns were married Saturday in St. Stephen's Church. The groom is also a graduate of Grand Island High School.

Several residents were in the audience enjoying the music of Islander Fran 'Zerilli' Wilczek who was singing with her band, "Smooth As Silk," at John's Flaming Hearth Saturday night. The group returns to the "Hearth" on Saturday, November 16th and will play from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.~~~~Happy birthday to Don Walsh who celebrated his 80th birthday in style Saturday night with a big birthday bash at John's Flaming Hearth. Don's son, Tom Walsh made the arrangements and a great time was had by all.

Congratulations to Mike Monaco who caught a wall-hanger bigmouth, an 8-pound, 4-ounce bass that measured 23 inches in the East River.

Happy birthday to Kristen Burns (Sweet 16 today), to Robin Long and Joyce 'Riordan' Clark (today), Sean Christian Rustowicz (his first birthday today), Cappy Cooke (10 on Saturday), Jim Dinsmore (Saturday), Nancy Blundell and Joann Hasselbeck (Sunday), Matthew Hamm (20 on Sunday), Jim Wright (16 on Sunday), Lee Cohen (Monday), Jackie Kowzan (20 on Monday), Kevin Dyer (10 on Tuesday), Alicia Marie Fisher (a teenager on Wednesday), Jaidan Kheara Hiam (2 on Wednesday), and Shorty Vanthoff (Wednesday).

Congratulations and best wishes to Dave and Vi Gingher who will celebrate their Golden Wedding Anniversary on October 1st.~~~~Best wishes to Sandy and David Dee celebrating an anniversary tomorrow and to Steve and Barb Stouter who will mark their 7th anniversary on September 30th.

Looking Back 125 years - A Post Office was first established on Grand Island in October 1877.

Looking Back 50 years - The first contingent of Army personnel arrived on the Island and set up sites for the installation of barracks for the men who would arrive shortly. Lt. Carl Schirmer and six men were busy at the Staley Road site and a similar group was doing the same on Ransom Road.~~~~Roy Campbell received the Silver Arrow achievement award at the September Cub Pack #254 meeting 50 years ago. The new Cub Pack included Island newcomer Richard Sturm.~~~~Fran's Tot Shop, formerly located in Fran Brennan's kitchen on West River Road moved into Grandyle Plaza on October 2, 1952, filling the last of the five new stores. Marge Stratton of West River Drive was the winner of Fran's Tot Shop doll drawing.

Looking Back 30 years - ~~~~A Grand Opening was held at the new Niagara Savings & Loan.

A speedy and complete recovery goes out to Brian Brandon who was injured last Friday in an all-terrain vehicle accident.

A family retreat for people with disabilities is being held from 1-6 p.m. September 29 at St. Stephen Church. Call Sharon Urbaniak at 847-5514 for further information.~~~~For information on this year's Crop Walk For Hunger Relief which takes place Sunday, click Crop Walk.

This Saturday night is the Sesquicentennial Grand Ball at the Holiday Inn. Surely there will be plenty of photos from this grand event but why not take a look back to 50 years ago in our Old Photo Album where there are five photos, courtesy of Peggy Pfohl Bauman, of the town's Centennial Ball held in the Beaver Island Casino?

September 19, 2002
Happy birthday to Vickie Harnden (special greetings today), Ryan Kwiatowski, Peter McMahon, Sandy Arch, Bonnie Sciuk and Dave Goris (all celebrating today), Christian Mason (5 today), Christopher Soluri (his 25th tomorrow), Paul Baer (21 tomorrow), Jeri Schopp (tomorrow), Madison Reese Nowak (first birthday on Saturday), Annemarie Bykowicz (Sweet 16 on Sunday), Kenny Martina (10-years-old on Monday), Walter Hughes (Monday), Susan Hillock, Eric Stefik and Betsy Cali (Tuesday), Jackie 'Carlson' Weiss (cheers on Tuesday), David Rodriguez (5 on Tuesday), Rick Pelham and Jill 'Bates' Smedley (Wednesday), David Dee (the big 6-0 on Wednesday), Forrest Michael Carr (first birthday on Wednesday), and George Zelonis (his 97th on Wednesday).

Welcome, Blake Anthony Bielec, born July 15, 2002 to Greg and Angela Bielec. The six pound, 15 ounce baby boy is the grandson of Paul and Debi Bielec and Sal and Marianne Santa Lucia, all of Grand Island.

Maria Lynn DeFeo, daughter of Don and Betty DeFeo of Whitehaven Road was married on Friday, August 16, 2002 to Glenn Patrick Buchheit. Maria is a 4th grade teacher in the North Collins school district.~~~~Nicole Goss and Kerry Lanthier were married August 31, 2002 in New Covenant Tabernacle Church in Tonawanda.~~~~Amanda J. Piccolo-Houck, the daughter of Richard and Melissa Piccolo of Grand Island, became the bride of Scott G. Ranger on Saturday, September 14th in Trinity UM Church.~~~~Jonathan E. Conta and his bride, the former Jennifer L. Ueblacker were married Saturday in Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, West Seneca. The groom is the son of Patricia and Robert Conta of Grand Island.~~~~ Living on the Island are David J. Lavin and his bride, Julie M. Vendette, who exchanged nuptial vows at 2 p.m. Saturday in Williamsville United Methodist Church.~~~~ Best wishes, newlyweds.

Looking Back 40 years - The Rod & Gun members challenged the American Legion Post to a game of Donkey Baseball. A photo of Bob Weatherbee, Ken Maurer, Mike Meyer and Charlie Stack in wigs, dresses, skirts, blouses and all that frilly stuff appeared in the weekly paper in 1962. Does anyone have the picture?

  
Looking Back 30 years - Grand Island 28-Tonawanda 8! Quarterback Mike Rodriguez (left) led the Viking offense to its first victory of the season, passing for three TDs, kicking four extra points and setting up the final score on a great option play which Mike Costello (center) ran for 38 yards. Pete Hayes, for the second week in a row, led all defensive tackles with seven.

Looking Back 20 years - Gloria Brown was the women's 50-and-over champion at the "Run for the Grapes" in St. Catharines, Ontario.

Our sympathy to the families of James Anthony Pappano and Irene Mankiewicz. Click for complete Death Notices.

Excitement is building as the Sesquicentennial historic pageant rehearsals get into full swing. Still needed for the October 19-20th performances are teenaged boys as well as a few more adults to take part in some crowd scenes. Call Elizabeth Beach at 773-4960 if you would like to take part.

The Grand Island High School Varsity Vikings beat Starpoint 41-14 on September 7th and went on to win over Niagara-Wheatfield 25-7 this past Saturday. The Vikings play Sweet Home on their home field on Ransom Road this Saturday at 2 p.m. Go Vikings!

September 12, 2002
The new McMahon's Family Restaurant has become a business sponsor of Isledegrande.com, thank you to Joe and Fran McMahon who opened their place this summer. For the complete menu, visit McMahon's Restaurant Website.

First time grandparents and extremely happy about it are Ben and Bernie Franklin of Carter Drive. Their daughter Kris (Franklin) Rosser and her husband, Bob of Tempe, Arizona are the parents of a seven pound, eight ounce baby boy, Jesse Rosser, born Tuesday morning, September 3rd in Chandler, Arizona.

Congratulations to former residents Joseph and Denise 'Allen' Schmadel on the birth of a son, Justin Patrick Schmadel who weighed in at five pounds, six ounces on September 4, 2002. Proud grandparents are George and Gail Allen of Florida and Frank and Monica Scmadel of Marcy, N.Y. Great grandparents are Richard and Dorothy Lovelee of Grand Island, and Harold Allen of Niagara Falls.

Best wishes, newlyweds. John Fitzgerald, son of Patricia and Gerald Fitzgerald of Grand Island, was married Friday, September 6th to Janine A. Racsumberger. The Fitzgeralds will live on the Island following a trip to Aruba.

Happy birthday to Dan McMahon, Hazel Nailor and Kate Cady (tomorrow), to Michael Higgins (10-years-old tomorrow), Matthew Robert Wellence (5 tomorrow), Penny Ball, Chris Kennell and Wally DeGlopper (Sunday), Matthew Wasson and Mary Goris (Monday), David Cyman (a teenager on Tuesday), Lauren Patricia Chadwick (two on Tuesday), Christine Wright (a teenager this week), Zdenka Gast (Wednesday) and Mike Carr (Tuesday!!!).~~~~A belated happy birthday to Rob Luthringer who celebrated on Monday.

Looking Back 40 years - Under the direction of Assistant Chief George Downs, an early morning barn fire was fought by the Grand Island Fire Company on Sunday, September 16, 1962. Isadore Carline's barn burned at 2389 Whitehaven Road. Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary members Helen Peck, Helen Hy, Alma McTigue, May Capizzi, Kay Haller and Vera Ferguson prepared and served coffee and sandwiches to the firefighters.

Looking Back 40 years - Nicholas A. Roeder filed an appeal for the Niagara River Station Fishing Club requesting that the Howard Benns property at 355 East River Road be rezoned for a private club.

Looking Back 30 years - Co-chairing the annual Republican picnic in September 1972 were Liz and Eric Reimann and Diane and Clark Nesbitt. "More and more young people are taking an active role in party politics," the weekly paper said 30 years ago.

Crystal Seiling was crowned Peach Queen last Sunday during the Lewiston Peach Festival. A former Island resident, Crystal was chosen from a group of 25 entrants. A recent Lewiston-Porter graduate, she is entering the University of Buffalo on a full academic and athletic scholarship.

E. Donald Foley passed away on September 8th and Michael James Delahunt died on September 11th. Our condolences to their families.~~~~Our sympathy to the family of former resident Shirley Krzes who died on August 31st. Cards may be sent to her daughter Tina Arthur and grandson, Jordan Arthur at 5000 Butte St. #193, Boulder CO 80301.~~~~Rev. Monsignor Richard A. Graeber, former pastor of St. Stephen's Church, died on Wednesday, Sept. 4, 2002.~~~~Click for complete Death Notices.

The annual "Treasures Festival," sponsored by Chamber of Commerce takes place from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday on Whitehaven Road between Baseline and Grand Island Blvd. For information and table reservations, call the Chamber office, 773-3651.~~~~ The Bud Bakewell Bantam Minor Hockey Team, which includes quite a few Grand Island players, will hold a car wash fundraiser at Tops from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. this Saturday.~~~~River Lea in Beaver Island State Park will be open from 2-4 p.m. Sunday. Historical Society members will present the history of the Grand Island Bridges and the ferry boats that transported folks to and from the Island before 1935.

September 5, 2002
Our sympathy to the families of John E. 'Jack' Thompson, Audree Rittenhouse and Donald R. Crowell who died this past week. Click for complete Death Notices. A memorial service for former resident Edward H. Lenhard will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, September 15th in the Sandy Beach Yacht Club.

Town Clerk Nancy Samrany is in need of registered Republicans and Democrats to serve as paid Election Inspectors for the Tuesday, September 10th primary election. Call her immediately at 773-9600 ext 622 to see if you qualify.

Best wishes to Brian J. Lehman and Heather K. Morganti who were married Saturday in St. Stephen's Church. The bride, a fourth year medical student in University at Buffalo's School of Medicine, is the daughter of Joseph and Lynda Morganti. Mr. and Mrs. Lehman will make their home on the Island following a trip to St. Lucia.

Very best wishes to former Islanders Dave and Arliss Lantz who will be celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary on September 6th in Batesburg, SC. Their family will honor them with a reception on the 8th in South Carolina.~~~~Chuck and Jane Goris will surely be remembered by their eight children and families tomorrow, September 6th, as they reach their Golden Wedding Anniversary. Cheers to Jane and Chuck!~~~~High school sweethearts David and Carol Dusenbury will celebrate their 40th anniversary on Sunday and are wished many more happy years together.~~~~Good friends Butch and Julie Meyer will toast to their 25th anniversary on Monday, the 9th. ~~~~Dan and JoAnn Linenfelser, marking their 34th anniversary on Saturday, look forward to having their family together for a baptism party for their newest grandchild on Sunday. ~~~~In the "Can You Beat This" department, are Sophie and George Zelonis who will be married 74 years on September 11th. May the Lord bless them.~~~~ Also wished the best on their anniversaries are Don and Julie Dee, married four years today, Erin and Brian Russo, celebrating the same anniversary today, and Jeff and Nicole 'Dee' Hoffman who will be married two years on the 9th.

Thanks to Doug Henderson for identifying some of the 1963 Orioles Major League Little League team members pictured in the Old Photo Album. The team was coached by his father, Don Henderson.

Happy birthday to Collin Michael DeMartin (first birthday today), Lisa Mrkall (tomorrow), Dylan Russell DeGlopper (two-years-old on Sunday), Michael Edwards (60 on Monday), Mikayla Ann Claus (3 on Monday), Jessica 'Coppola' Eastwood (Tuesday), Jason Steiner (a teenager on Tuesday), Madison LaVerne Mongold (3 on Tuesday), June Ann Chadima (6 on Wednesday) and Walt Cowan (a milestone on Wednesday).~~~~A belated happy 50th to John Study who celebrated on September 2nd.

Looking Back 50 years - The Centennial's Community Concert was moved inside St. Stephen's Barn due to rain on Sunday, August 31, 1952.~~~~Sidway School opened on Monday, September 8, 1952 to 885 registered students, 162 more than the previous year. Lillian Shear was a new first grade teacher and Lyn Mauri (Laman) and JoAnn Hasselbeck were the new art and girls physical education teachers.~~~~Strauss Shoe Store opened in the new Grandyle Plaza in September 1952, complete with X-ray machine for accurate fit.~~~~Terry Thompson opened her new beauty shop in her home on the Stony Point extension 50 years ago.

Looking Back 30 years - A Father and Son Cookout was held September 7, 1972 at Bible Presbyterian Church for all fathers and sons interested in the formation of a Christian Service Brigade for boys. Fred Thompson served as the leader.~~~~Among the youth of Grand Island who helped to make the blood drive a success in September 1972 were Donna Robinson, Donnette Hennigar (Rayhill) and Betsy Dannels. The girls took charge of babysitting during the drive. Other teens who assisted during the day were John Dudley, Sherry Shaw (Watkins), Mike Cap, John Watkins and Dave Wuensch.~~~~Trinity Church Rally Day events, which were chaired by Tom and Ellie Zarbo, featured Pete Hayes high aloft over the picnic in a hot air balloon.

The Isledegrande.com guestbook grew by 26 names in August. Among those signing on were Gary Burnworth (Sandy Lake, PA), David McMoil (Hopkins, MN), Greg Roberts (Carefree, AZ), Brian Diebold (Foresthill, CA), Beth 'Robinson' Judson (Roswell, GA), Michele 'Wake' Verrier (Aurora, CO), Peter Steinlein (Virginia Beach, VA), Bil Loth (Lower Kingswood, NA), and Debra 'Agnello' Morgan (N. Billerica, MA). Please let us know if you change your email address and please let your friends and relatives know about Isledegrande.com!

The new, up-to-date map of Grand Island with an easy-to-read key to street locations is now available throughout the town, compliments of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce. The Chamber's map committee was chaired by Andy Chambers with assistance from Sue Hillock, Bev Kinney, Jim Sharpe and Director of Communications Kathleen Pytel.

Gale and Richard Sander are proud grandparents of a baby boy. Thomas Joseph Podsiadlo Jr. was born to Tom and Gale 'Sander' Podsiadlo of Cheektowaga and welcomed home by his sister Elizabeth Irene, 19 months.

Committees are underway for Class reunions for the Classes of 1983 and 1993 and webpages are posted here at Isledegrande.com. All '83 and '93 classmates are urged go to their reunion page (click the date above), scroll down for information, and offer your help if possible. Classes 1973 and 1978 are urged to get a start-up committee together and then let us know so we can help promote your reunions on your own webpage during the coming year.

The Varsity Viking Football Team plays at Masters Field on Ransom Road Saturday. The game against Starpoint begins at 2 p.m.

The Antique and Classic Boat Show, antique car show and race boat display takes place Saturday at the Buffalo Launch Club, 503 East River Road. Food and refreshments will be available.

August 29, 2002
Welcome, little Islanders! Danna and Mark Podgorny are proud parents of a third son. Justin Ronald Podgorny was born Thursday, August 22, 2002 weighing in at nine pounds, three ounces. The new baby was welcomed home by his brothers, Michael who turned 5-years-old this month and Kyle, 2 1/2. Proud grandparents are Rick and Pam Fries, Kathy and Vic Podgorny and Nancy Fries. The baby is also the grandson of the late Ronald Fries.~~~~John Evan Fletcher II weighed in at seven pounds, four ounces on August 6, 2002. He is the son of John and Lisa Fletcher and grandson of Joe and Lisa Grasso and Jean Fletcher all of Grand Island. He is also the grandson of Dan and Casey Powell of Tonawanda and the late Edwin Fletcher.

A speedy recovery to Sarah McMahon who is home and recovering from surgery.~~~~Cards of cheer are in order for Ann Kruse who is in Room 242 in the Schofield Residence, 3333 Elmwood Ave., Kenmore, NY 14217.

September 1st is a very special day for Nancy and Joe Samrany. That's the day they will celebrate their 46th wedding anniversary.

>From what we're hearing, it sounds like the whole town is coming out for the Sesquiquicentennial Ball on September 28th. Click Sesquicentennial Ball for two feature stories on this fabulous celebration of our town's 150th birthday.

Laura DeLong, who moved from the Island to Virginia in her senior year at the high school, graduated from Nansemond River High School in Suffolk, VA in the top half of the Class of 2002. Congratulations, Laura.~~~~The Grand Island All Stars have won every local tournament they have entered for the last two years. For the complete success story on this Little League team from Grand Island, click GI Little League.

A tip of the hat to the "Connections" board and all those responsible for the new sign at Whitehaven and the Boulevard. For information on how non profit Island groups may promote their events below the permanent sign, contact Connections Chairman Reg Schopp.

Our sympathy to the families of Carol A. Dyck, Darla Grasso and former residents Michael Giambra, Virginia Marie Ricey, Elva J. Reiter and Harriet Emke who died this past week. Click for complete Death Notices.

Did any of you crack open more than two or three double yoked eggs this week? While husband Jim was cracking eggs into a frying pan at the river Sunday morning, he kept reporting double yokes. When he shouted "four double yokes," we all got up from the table and raced to the grill to see if he was kidding. Not so! Six out of the twelve eggs in the carton had a bonus yoke.

Michele Bruno became the bride of Sean Oehlbert on Saturday at the Buffalo Launch Club. She is the daughter of Anthony and Patricia Bruno of Grand Island.~~~~Jennifer R. Madia and John F. Schratz were married Saturday in St. Stephen Catholic Church. The bride is the daughter of Michael R. Madia of Grand Island and former resident Antoinette Oros of Buffalo.~~~~The wedding of Michelle Cesa and Ryan Glor took place Friday, August 23rd in St. Paul Lutheran Church, North Tonawanda. William and Maureen Glor of Grand Island are the parents of the bridegroom.

A big thank you to Mike and Christine Carr who are trying to hang on to the flavor of Ferry Village. Not sure how long their Bedell House Hot Dog Stand will remain open this season, but the food is outstanding, especially the great big hamburgers! For those who don't know, the historic little building on the East River is located at the foot of Ferry Road in the Village.~~~~Isle residents Leonard and Louise Alessi, new owners of the former Showcase Restaurant, have been having a great deal of remodeling done readying the place for an opening date which we haven't heard just yet. The new restaurant is just north of Pizza Hut on Grand Island Blvd.

Looking Back 50 years - It was 50 years ago this week that the five-day Centennial celebration was taking place. Most events happened on the property now occupied by the Post Office on Baseline Road. Art Staley won the Centennial wrestling match over The Iron Talon of Buffalo and Islander Jim Welfare defeated Bill Muscato of Buffalo.~~~~Though the crowd in attendance at the Grand Prix sports car race on Saturday, August 30, 1952 was estimated by Buffalo newspapers as 100,000, the figure was considerably narrowed by local officials of the Centennial who figured that a more realistic estimate was 40,000 people.~~~~The late Eddie Redinger won the Greased Pig Contest held Sunday, August 31, 1952 during the "Oldtimers' Reunion."~~~~Fred D'Ingillo (1st) and Ford Cowden (2nd) were winners of a beard contest held the same day. Other winners were Bill Goodwin, Roy Trautman, Floyd Brockwell, Clayton Ames and Carl Vella. Judges were Fred Kaegebein, William Rhode and local barber, Frank Amato.~~~~Newspaper reports confirmed that about half of the 600 guests assembled at the Centennial Ball on August 27, 1952 in the Beaver Island Casino wore clothing which dated back at least 100 years.

Happy birthday to Sharon Nichols (today), Andy Boehm (special greetings today), Marie Saskowski (Tomorrow's the big day), Eric Sander (eight tomorrow), Debbi Robinson and Rob Beach (Monday), Michael Butcher (21 on Monday), Sean Dinsmore (a big five-years-old on Monday), Max Russell (his 4th birthday on Monday) and Bobby Dee and Ilona Lang (Wednesday).

Please check our Calendar of Events. Among the fall activities coming up are a pot luck at the next Historical Society meeting; the Antique & Classic Boat Show, race boat regatta, & antique car show; Martin's Fantasy Island Sesquicentennial Days for Islanders; the Rotary/Lions Golf Tournament; the Chamber Of Commerce Treasures Festival; and an open house at historic River Lea in Beaver Island State Park.

Have a safe holiday weekend. Schools open on Wednesday, September 4th. And summer's here to stay!!! (A little longer, that is.)

August 22, 2002
Wow! Greg Barker's "The Rewinder" has had a great boat racing season this summer. Read all about his grand championship and the success of Islander Bob Catapovic's racer, "Fission," on our sports page.

A fond farewell to Mandy Malaney who is leaving the area. Mandy has worked with us here at Isledegrande.com and took an active part in the Sesquicentennial. See you at the Ball, Mandy!

Barbara Brown is 'campaigning' to win a $10,000 computer lab for Huth Road Elementary School from Kraft Foods. Just click "Vote" and help out an Island school.

The Trautman family owned a seven-acre farm on Bedell Road which was eventually split up into one acre lots and taken over by family members years ago. Most of the families who occupied the seven houses in a row were in attendance at the Trautman reunion held Saturday at the home of the late Joe and Maria Trautman and now owned by grandson Richard Trautman and family. Recognized as the oldest in attendance was Gladys Trautman. Little Emily Czyrny, only ten weeks old, was the youngest. Emily is the daughter of Joe and Donette "Webb" Czyrny of Schutt Court.

Looking Back 50 years - The mayors of surrounding towns were asked to judge the prize waltz and best costume contests at the upcoming August 27, 1952 Centennial Ball in the Beaver Island Casino.

Looking Back 40 years - Mrs. Henry (Val) Gardner won first prize with her water color painting at the Erie County Fair in 1962. Paulene Wagner won first in oil painting.~~~~The Republican Committee candidates sponsored a Grand Island party at the Glen Casino in Williamsville on Tuesday, August 28, 1962 with 375 attending. Picked to take part in the floor show were Town Attorney Sal Capizzi, Democratic Committeeman Ed Burns, and William Click.

Looking Back 30 years - Joey Fusco's Muscular Dystrophy Circus netted $38.50 for the cause.~~~~Grand Island's JV cheerleaders attended a clinic at Seton Hill College in Pennsylvania. Pictured in the Island Dispatch were Co-Captains Joann Ward and Cheryl Samrany with DeDe Bonsack, Leslie Rosene, Kim Wagner, Debbie Gillen, Meg Buckley, Jodi Whelan and Maureen McDonnell.

Former residents Nancy and Dave Duysters recently spent a week on an Alaskan cruise followed by another week doing a land tour all the way up to Fairbanks with their daughter, Kara. Nancy and Dave are celebrating their 25th wedding anniversary on Tuesday, August 27th. Why not click "Duysters Email" and send them good wishes?~~~~Best wishes to Kathy and Wayne Benton on their 30th anniversary on Sunday, August 25th and to Ray and Debbie Billica who will celebrate their 24th on the same day.

Happy birthday to you! Celebrating birthdays this week are Ryan Colosi (his 21st today), Cassie Lynn Shickluna (her 4th birthday today), Lydia Senger (5 today), Betty Ellis (her 70th tomorrow), Randy Hillock (tomorrow), Jackie Sullivan (tomorrow), former resident Shellie Smith (special greetings tomorrow), Kurt Raepple (the big 4-0 tomorrow), Andrew Boron (his 16th on Saturday), Arlene Wunsch (10-years-old on Sunday), Judy "Davis" Webb (joins our club on Monday!) and Brielle Backland (6 on Monday).

Our sincere sympathy to the family of former Enola Road resident Ed Lenhard, 63, who passed away in his home in Weekie Wachie, Florida Sunday, August 11th after battling a long illness. Click for complete Death Notice.

Diana S. Taefi and Randall S. Staub were married in the Delaware Park rose garden on Saturday, August 17th. The bride is the daughter of Dr. Parviz and Barbara Taefi of Buffalo and the bridegroom is the son of Joan and Kenneth Staub Jr. of Grand Island.~~~~Michael B. Hann, the son of Island residents Bruce and Paula Hann, was married to Maureen A. Johnston on Saturday in St. Michael Catholic Church, Buffalo.~~~~Residing on Grand Island are newlyweds Christopher M. Goulet and his bride, the former Melissa Kelley Mruk who were married Saturday in Holy Trinity Lutheran Church.~~~~Ashli Ann Warham and David Wayne Passmore were married in Las Vegas on Saturday and will make their home on Grand Island.

Congratulations to Mary Jo Yaksich on being elected president of Women's Committee Foundation of the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra.~~~~Congratulations to Margaret Lacki on being named Employee of the Month for August at Niagara University, Lewiston.~~~~Laurie McCarthy, a Grand Island native who graduated from Mount St. Mary's High School, is a writer and co-executive producer of CBS' most promising new series, "CSI: Miami." Her previous credits include "Felicity" and "Beverly Hills 90210."

We have a new book club on the Island. Christine Ryshkus is the founder of the "First Tuesday Book Club" that meets on the first Tuesday of the month at members' homes. Call her at 773-5457 for more information.~~~~Official Sesqui Grand Island cookie cutters (stainless steel) are still available at $8 each. Contact Peggy McNulty at 716-774-8916 or gabbypeg1@netzero.net to order or for details on mail orders ($10 prepaid). The copper cookie cutters have been sold out.~~~~Historic Sesquicentennial Pageant auditions for men, women and teenagers will be held from 7-8:30 p.m. Monday, August 26 and Wednesday, August 28 in the Grand Island Memorial Library meeting room on Bedell Rd. The pageant, "A Grand Place To Live," has been postponed to October 19-20th.

August 15, 2002
Bill and Danielle "Resty" Click are the proud parents of a son, William Russell Click, born August 13th weighing eight pounds, five ounces. The baby's grandparents are Bill and Gail "Luther" Click and his great grandparents are Bill and Dorothy Click and Shirley Luther. That makes four generations of William Clicks on Grand Island! Congratulations, everyone!

Very best wishes and happy birthday to Sharon Zimmerman (today), to Jean Schlegel (Saturday) and to Brenda Mrkall (this week). Happy birthday to Carson Suffoletta (4 today), Amy Stewart (Sweet 16 today), Michael Scott (21 today), Sally Sutter (today), Jim Dlugokinski (a big one tomorrow), Dorothy Blakelock and Danna Podgorny (tomorrow), Mark Doldan (Sunday), Molly McMahon (Monday), Jessica Laurendi (Sweet 16 Monday), Jason Hollinger (16 Monday), and Charles A. Hall, Shirley Gerspach, Kristen Linton and John Martin (Tuesday).

Longtime Ferry Village resident Maryan Traun is residing at the Bristol Home, Room 203, 1500 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14209. How nice it would be if her many friends here on the Island would send her a card or note to brighten up her days.

Auditions for the Sesquicentennial historic pageant, "A Grand Place To Live," will be held in the Grand Island Memorial Library meeting room from 7:00-8:30 p.m. Monday, August 26 and Wednesday, August 28th. The first performance will be held on the exact date that Grand Island became a township 150 years ago - October 19, 2002. A Sunday, October 20th performance will also take place. Speaking parts will be short, and easy to learn so we encourage those who would like to try it for a first time acting experience to come out and read from the script on the 26th and 28th. Can we also count on the Island's seasoned actors and actresses, singers and dancers getting involved? See you at the auditions!

Our sincere sympathy to the family of Seth M. Walck, 24, who died on Monday, August 12th. Click for complete Death Notice.

Looking Back 50 years - Mabel Dougherty served as hostess at a meeting of the "Ifs and An's Club" held in the home of Emma Metzger of West River Road.~~~~Excitement was high in Grandyle Village and across the Island in August 1952 when the first store opened in the new Love Road Plaza. The BWG (Buffalo Wholesale Grocers) Food Store became a reality on Wednesday, August 20, 1952 with Don Tranter and Ernie Jones at the helm.~~~~Mae Klocke was in charge of a motorcade through Buffalo at 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, August 19, 1952 to draw attention to the upcoming Centennial celebration. Participants, dressed in period costume, presented an invitation to the Centennial to the Mayor of Buffalo.

Looking Back 40 years - Two boys, 10- and 12-year-olds, admitted to one of three robberies to local businesses in a two-week period. A pop machine and candy dispenser were broken into at Grand Island Ford, a small amount of cash was taken from Grand Island Lumber & Builders and nearly $200 in cash was taken from Katrien's Edgewater Hotel.~~~~Members of the Niagara Frontier State Parks Commission agreed to a proposal by the Grand Island History Society to take over River Lea at 8 East River Road (Beaver Island). The agreement was to turn over the house to the Society either by lease or deed for a one-year trial.~~~~Miss Marcy McNamee (Buell), was crowned Neptune Ski Queen by the Neptune Social Skiers Inc. Nine girls were judged Thursday, August 16, 1962 at the Ted-Ra Club. Second runner-up Miss Ellen L. Gibbons was also an Island girl.

Looking Back 30 years - Grand Island Men's Slow Pitch Softball League championship was won by the Hennigar Travel-Realtor team coached by Robert "Clod" McDonnell. Hennigar Travel-Realtor defeated the USMC 20-4 on Wednesday, August 9, 1972. Highlighting the champs' 9-1 season was the hitting power of B. A. Aydelotte and the classic base-running techniques of Kevin "Ski" Zoldowski and William "BH" Hennigar.

Kris J. Christensen and his bride, the former Michelle L. Muffler were married Saturday in Ascension Lutheran Church, Snyder. Kris is the son of George and Marianne Christensen of Grand Island.~~~~Melissa A. Wagner, daughter of Elizabeth A. and James L. Wagner Sr. of Grand Island, was married to Kyle K. Nelson on Saturday, August 10th in Deerhurst Presbyterian Church, Town of Tonawanda.~~~~The former Jessica Kathleen Laible and her husband Michael Thomas Mallabar, who were married Saturday in St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Lancaster, are residents of Grand Island.~~~~Our best wishes to all of the newlyweds.

Congratulations to Pat Pierce on her hole-in-one on the 109-yard 14th hole with a 7-wood at River Oaks and to Josh Wicks who had a hole-in-one at Beaver Island. Josh was using a 5-wood on the 165-yard 13th hole.

If you're looking for a good dinner after Saturday's Tractor Pull, why not head over to the Island United Presbyterian Church where parishioners are holding a Sesquicentennial Celebration Chicken Barbecue from 4-7 p.m. The church is located at 1822 Huth Road.~~~~Click Sesquicentennial Tractor Pull & Show for details on this weekend's exciting tractor events at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club.

The Antique & Classic Boat Society's boat show will be held at the Buffalo Launch Club on Saturday, September 7th. Boat race enthusiasts who enjoy looking back at the race boats and their drivers who made memories years ago will enjoy Leslie Field's Hydroplane History website. Click Hydroplane History.

If you enjoy reading the news at Isledegrande.com as much as some of you tell us you do, won't you please tell your friends and family about us? If you would like to make Isledegrande.com your home page, simply click Set IsledeGrande as my Homepage and follow the instructions, simple as one, two, three

August 8, 2002
Grand Island is about to have a Tractor Pull, an event that may be a first of its kind on the Island. Isle native George DeGlopper is being assisted with planning and promoting by Jim Carlson and between the two, they've come up with two days of excitement taking place at the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club on Saturday, August 17th and Sunday, August 18th. Check out the Tractor Pull webpage for more information. Just click Sesquicentennial Tractor Pull & Show.

With the Tractor Pull and Show a week away, it seems appropriate to run this photo of Ron Webb, Mike Williams and the late Russell Anderson, taking a break somewhere on the Island on a hot summer day in 1956. Click the photo for a slightly larger view.

The Grand Island High School Class of 1987 will reunite for a 15-year reunion at River Oaks under the tent on Saturday, August 31, 2002. For more information or questions, contact Susan Anstett by email (anstett_s@marranohomes.com) or phone, 773-2015.

Congratulations to Matthew and Teresa Linenfelser on the birth of their daughter, Katrina Elizabeth who weighed in at eight pounds, six ounces on Tuesday, August 6, 2002. The baby is the granddaughter of Marion and Stephen Bradley and Dan and JoAnn Linenfelser, and great granddaughter of Fran Clarke, all of Grand Island.

Congratulations to Jacqulene Sondel, daughter of Ken and Sue Sondel. Jacqulene came away with first place in two events at the 4-H Horse Show during the Niagara County Fair August 4, 2002. Read about her other placements at Islanders In The News.~~~~Congratulations to Kera Sauer who won the gold in the women's open figures in the Synchronized Swimming division at the Empire State Games. Click Empire State Games for other Island winners.

Cards of cheer and your prayers are in order for Ann Kruse and Janet Cavanaugh who are both very ill.

Thanks, Mike! As you may have noticed on our front page, the Erie County Sheriff's Report for Grand Island will appear at Isledegrande.com on a weekly basis, thanks to Deputy Sheriff Mike Hilliker. Click Sheriff's Report to find out what's been going on in your neck of the woods!

Best wishes to Karen S. Brzyski who became the bride of Andrew J. LaRoe on Saturday, August 3rd. Karen is the daughter of Richard and Barbara Brzyski of East Oakfield Road.~~~~Kaegebein Elementary School second grade teacher Deanna C. Serio was married to James W. Schoenberg on Saturday, August 3rd in St. Peter Episcopal Church, Niagara Falls.

Happy birthday to Ben Hoover (21 today), Holly "Whitford" Best (the big 5-0 today), Sybil Kennedy (tomorrow), Joseph M. Fusco III (a teenager Saturday), Lindsey Smith (Saturday), Carolyn "Bucknam" McFarland and Betty Clayton (best wishes on Sunday), Marilyn "Dinsmore" Serfass (Sunday), Mike Madia and Melinda Link (Monday) and Michael Podgorny (5-years-old on Wednesday).

Welcome to Mary Haggerty, new Huth Road Elementary School principal. She is the former principal of Pinehurst Elementary, and has resigned that post to head the staff at Huth Road School. Best wishes to longtime Huth Road Principal Peggy Koppmann who recently retired.

Looking Back 50 years - Jerry Thirion, co-chair of the Centennial grand prix sports car race, was asking residents to provide rooms for the drivers and their wives in August 1952.~~~~Members of the American Legion held a grand opening of their new post hall with games of skill and dancing in the evening to Johnny Gast's four-piece orchestra on the grounds of and in the former Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Ferry Village.~~~~The local paper suggested home bureau members "get on the party line" and call Mrs. Walter Kinney, Bertha Bucher, Mabel French or Mrs. Leroy Carlson to help out the Home Bureau with its displays of hobbies, handiwork and skills during the 1952 Centennial.

Looking Back 40 years - The annual inboard-outboard boat races, sponsored by the Grand Island Boating Association, took place Sunday, August 12, 1962 off the Bedell House dock. Terry Pinzel was first, Jim Hartman came in 2nd and Jerry Livingston took 3rd place in the BU (B Utility) event. Among other local racers were Dennis Yakam driving "The Menace" and Rollie Radder racing his "Red Fish."~~~~In the sailing races department, the Ronald Keel Cup for women resulted in victory for "Y'All," skippered by Stella Baylis with Melba Lexo, navigator.~~~~Six Islettes majorettes gave a baton twirling demonstration during the Grand Island Community Band concert held in the Boulevard plaza parking lot in August 1962.

Looking Back 30 years - Gary Player took part in a PGA clinic and 18-hole exhibition match at the newly opened River Oaks Golf Course on Monday, August 14, 1972.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of George E. Casey Jr., 47, who died on August 1st, Maimie J. Grotz who died on August 2nd and former Island school teacher Marie E. (Dwyer) Hannan who passed away April 4th. Click for complete Death Notices.~~~~So sorry to read that Mary Elizabeth Stessing Maj's husband, Otis L. Maj, 59, passed away August 1st, and Joan Schlueter Wright's husband, J. Wilson Wright.

August 1, 2002
Organizers of the five automotive events held last Saturday deserve a huge round of appause for the thoroughly enjoyable and diverse entertainment. Photos on our Sesquicentennial page attest to the success of the day. Be sure to click Sesquicentennial Page and enlarge the photos.

Happy 50th anniversary to Skip and Pat Board. The Boards were married on July 19, 1952.~~~~Best wishes to Adam and Becky Mason on their 5th anniversary tomorrow.

Newlyweds Air Force Maj. Kenvin Rogers and his bride, the former Antonina Tabone were married Saturday, July 27th. Mr. and Mrs. Rogers are Island residents.~~~~Jay Christopher Moran was married to Rachele Lynn Bliemeister on Saturday in St. Stephen's Catholic Church. ~~~~Kristen Koch and John David Brand were married Saturday in St. Stephen Catholic Church. The wedding was followed by a reception in the Buffalo Launch Club. Kenneth and Linda Koch, parents of the bride and John Robert and Joanne Brand, parents of the groom are all Grand Island residents.~~~~Valerie Ann Demmin, daughter of Timothy and Alice Demmin, was married to Robert Anthony Bermel on Saturday~~~~Dr. Craig Matthew Fetterman and his bride, the former Raquel Marie Bach were married Saturday and will live on Grand Island following a trip to Hawaii.~~~~Karen M. Sahr and Jeffrey J. Dole were married Friday, July 26th. The bride is the daughter of Isle residents Helen and Richard Sahr Jr.

Our sincere sympathy to the family of Gertrude M. Cotter who died on July 23rd. Gert was 92. Click for complete Death Notices.

Happy birthday to Diane Victor (today), Francesca Kustra (Sweet 16 today), Marissa Lange (12 today), Thomas Kalman (9 today), George McCraith (a teenager today), Alex Gentry Turner (3-years-old on Tuesday), Bonnie Antholzner (cheers on Wednesday) and Richard Smith (Wednesday).

Looking Back 150 years - The "Jolly Reefers," a hunting and fishing club whose members included Grover Cleveland, incorporated under the title of the Beaver Island Club, and built a club house on Beaver Island.

Looking Back 50 years - Al Endres drove his runabout, "The Sliver" to victory in Cambridge, Massachusetts on Saturday, August 3, 1952 and came home with the world record. Al's time was 80.7453 mph beating the previous record of 75.6 miles per hour. Bill Nogle of Tonawanda built the boat and Al's dad, Ed, installed the mechanical features and took care of the engine repairs, etc. "It took them a year and a half to build that boat, but it only took me a minute and a half to win the race," Al said.~~~~Net profit from the firemen's field day Aug. 3, 1952 exceeded expectations according to Treasurer Gene Bucher. Proceeds would go toward helping to pay for the rest of the new hall under construction.~~~~Members of the Grandyle Village Property Owners Association erected a backstop on their property at the corner of Love Road and Stony Point. A photo in the weekly paper shows Recreation Chairman Mel Kohlhagen and President Chris Cotter getting cement ready for the posts as youngsters Peter McMahon and Ricky Stefik watch the work from the rear.~~~~Senior Girl Scouts of Troop 39, Marilyn Dinsmore (Serfass), Pat Groffenburg (Krantz), Gail Jacobs (Howe), Betty Roth (Moon), Carol Weingartner and Sandra Fleming (Bowers) accompanied by Mrs. Eleanore Dinsmore, spent a week at Camp Merrie Mill.

Looking Back 40 years - Ellie Pritchard made her debut with the Island Theater Group, taking the lead in the August 3-4, 1962 production of Marriage Proposal.

Looking Back 30 years - The new River Oaks 18-hole championship golf course officially opened on August 5, 1972.

Looking Back 20 years - The school board's appointment of Jack Burns as Superviser of Transportation became effective August 4, 1982.

The BBC, featuring all professional musicians from Grand Island will play at the Town Commons Tuesday night concert on August 6th beginning at 7 p.m. If you like the Beatles, you'll love the BBC. Members are Gary Astridge, John Connelly, Russ Thompson, Don Daly, Bruce Lucsok and Frank Maracle.

Oldtimers! Do me a favor and take a look at the Boy Scout photos in the Old Photo Album. Can you help identify anyone? Click Old Photo Album, check out all of the photos and "E-mail Teddy" with names.

The Friends of McMahon will again sponsor the fabulous Steak Roast with Town Supervisor Peter McMahon. This year's event is set for tomorrow (Aug. 2) from 4-8 p.m. at the VFW Post 9249. Reservations may be made by calling 773-9352.

July 25, 2002
Click photo for larger view.
Our very best wishes to Eileen and George Minton of Wallace Drive who will celebrate their golden wedding anniversary tomorrow. George and his bride, the former Eileen Deeley were married July 26, 1952 in St. Martin's Catholic Church in South Buffalo.~~~~The weddings of twins Kathy and Peggy Boettcher took place in Trinity Church on July 26, 1962. Happy 40th anniversaries to Peggy and Tony Fuller and to Kathy and Ed Stisser.~~~~Also wished the best are David and Karen Conboy who will be married 11 years tomorrow.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Concetta Tripi who died at the age of 96 on July 18th and Island native Jimmy Williams, 82, who passed away on July 21st. Click for complete Death Notices.

Melanie E. DeWitt, the daughter of Wayne and Ramona DeWitt, became the bride of Michael A. Lewandowski on Friday, July 19th in Queen of Heaven Catholic Church, West Seneca. Melanie is a graduate research assistant in University at Buffalo department of mechanical and aerospace engineering.~~~~Amy Marie Darin, daughter of Robert T. and Shirley J. Darin was married to Michael Joseph Stockinger Jr. on Saturday, July 20th in St. Stephen's Church.~~~~Maria Christine Slaiman, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Slaiman was married to Brian Thomas Cosen on July 6th.~~~~Susan L. Pell, a teacher in the Grand Island school district, was married to Eugene F. Boyer Jr. on Saturday, July 20th.

Grand Island resident and art conservator Tracy Dulniak and Cleveland resident Beth Campano, who heads the Great Lakes Art Conservation of Cleveland, are taking part in the restoration of the Hellenic Orthodox Church of the Annunciation, the historic church at Delaware Avenue and West Utica Street in Buffalo.

Grinders Skatepark just south of Tops will host a Grand Opening all day Sunday beginning at noon.~~~~The soft ice cream is fabulous at the new "Twist" in that same area.~~~~Tops Market is now open 24 hours a day.~~~~Mark your calendar for the Steak Roast with Town Supervisor Peter McMahon, being held from 4-8 p.m. Friday, August 2, at the VFW Post 9249.

   Sandie Rall Smith of California (left) was in town for the 4th of July and is shown with old friends Jessica Wrobleski Baird (center) and Jessica's mother, Joanne (aka Sarah) Williams-Padula. A highlight of Sandie's visit was while watching the fire works from her brother's shop on Whitehaven Road, longtime Islander Don Burns (right) sat down at an old piano way back in the corner and played as many old Bedell House tunes as Sandie could name. As for Charlotte Guenther Roesch, "She may not have been there.. but she was listening! "

Happy birthday, Ralph! Ralph Barker is turning 90 tomorrow, so if you see him, wish him a very happy day.~~~~A belated happy birthday to Henrietta Hunt who turned 94 on July 19th.~~~~Happy birthday to Lisa Podlucky and Tracy Turner Allen (today), John Spinner (9 tomorrow), Liz Reimann (tomorrow), Cheryl Kloesz, Ruth Englert, Bob Schmidt, Helen Newkirk and Dan Buckley (all celebrating Saturday), Myrtle Killian (her 96th on Tuesday), Jane Costin Rocks (cheers on the 30th - email me, Janie), and Janet Wenner (cake and candles on Wednesday).~~~~Yesterday was Pat McTaggert's birthday. Pat is residing in the McAuley Residence, Room 101, 1503 Military Road, Kenmore, NY 14217. Old friends are urged to send her a card and let her know they are thinking of her.

Looking Back 50 years - Charles and Agnes Morgan and daughter, Marcia, moved into the McMurdo house on Sandy Beach Road 50 years ago.

Looking Back 40 years - Marge and Ray Lippens were the new owners and proprietors of the former Mager's Grill on Ferry Road.~~~~The Lions Club entertained 75 handicapped youngsters at the Buffalo Launch Club. The event was chaired by Ed Falcetti and Robert Bates with Lion Floyd Robillard in charge of food and refreshments.~~~~Islanders racing in the Niagara Frontier Boat races Sunday, July 29, 1962 were 18-year-old John Gast Jr. whose Able Mabel flipped and sank on the downstream turn off Isle View in Tonawanda. Others who either lived on the Island or eventually moved here were Gene Roesch (Lost Weekend), Frank Reichlin (Miss Peggy), Torby Barker (Rewinder), Jim O'Connor (Miss Wa-Ha-Kie), Gordie Reed (Sea Biscuit and Stormalong), Jack Wohlfehrt (Miss Twin City), and Noel Blair (Cheetah II).

Looking Back 30 years - Members of the Lions Club held their 12th annual handicapped picnic at the Buffalo Launch Club on July 26, 1972. The event, chaired by Jerry R. Livingston, drew 600 guests.

A tip of the hat to the youth group from Trinity UM Church. The young people and several chaperones have spent the week renovating homes of the less fortunate in Niagara Falls.

Lyn Laman of Harvey Road will be driving her 1948 MG TC in Saturday's 1952 Grand Prix Re-Enactment. Pictures appear elsewhere in today's Grand Island e-News.~~~~Former resident James Walters is preparing for a bicycle trip across the US for the benefit of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. The 40-year-old father of five will begin the 3,000-mile trip on August 21st. For information on supporting he bike trip, call Jim at 578-7291.

Saturday is the day! All of the following events, unless otherwise noted, are taking place on Grand Island on Saturday: the European Car Show (GI Rod & Gun Club), Classic Car Show (Holiday Inn), Bikes & Blues (Simon's Super Gas, GI Blvd.), All Corvette Show (Fuccillo, Alvin Road), 1952 Grand Prix Re-Enactment (GI Rod & Gun Club) and the Thunder on Grand Island parade around the Island (4 p.m.). Most events begin at 10 a.m. Though they are still being advertised in other publications, the multisports event and Sunday's Solo II event have been cancelled. A Friday night mixer at the Holiday Inn (6:30 p.m.) is open to all for a fee of $15.

July 18, 2002
Best wishes to Ora Glor-Newton who was surprised with a 90th birthday party in her honor last Sunday in Trinity UM Church. Shown from left are her children Barbara, Bernie, Peter, Ellen, Elizabeth and Eugene. Seated on Ora's left is longtime friend Becky Goodwin. Click the photo for a larger view.

Al Bykowicz lost four huge trees including a Crimson King in front of his house a few months ago. Pictured is "The Hassan Tree" as he has named it, a 73rd birthday gift from his daughter Diane (left) and her husband, Mark Hassan (right) and Al's granddaughter, Mackenzie Hassan. Al is shown second from the left, with the new Crimson King behind the group.

Our sincere sympathy to the family of Gloria Kalman and Albert N. Ball who passed away this week.~~~~A memorial service for former resident Robert McColpin will be held at 10 a.m. this Saturday, July 20, 2002 in St. Stephen's Church. The family invites friends to join them for brunch following the service. Click for Death Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - Director Paul Stefik did the preliminary casting for the Centennial pageant using Deane Long's tape recorder 50 years ago this month. Robert Bedell was given the part of his grandfather, Ossian Bedell, a supervisor in 1862 and owner of the Bedell House Hotel. Post Master Ed Sheehan portrayed his uncle Will Conboy, supervisor in 1898. Marion E. Klingel took the part of Mrs. Asa Ransom, wife of an early supervisor, and Fred Redinger played the engineer on the last ferry boat trip across the Niagara from Grand Island.~~~~Rodney Alt, 15 and Claude Webb, 18 swam across the east Niagara River on Sunday, July 20, 1952. They left from Earl Webb's pier and landed in the Village of Wheatfield. The boys were accompanied by a chase boat manned by Earl Long and David Fischer.

Looking Back 40 years - A CYC record hop committee chaired by Cathy Haller (Contino), included Caryl Denler (Kershner), Mike O'Dea, Beth Beach (Glaze), Rozlyn Ortolano (Moore), and Linda Allen (Rayborn). The teens ran the "barn dance" in St. Stephen's barn on July 20, 1962.~~~~The McDonnell children, Jimmy, Christine, Patty, Maureen, Mary, Bobbie, Terry and Mike, were featured on the front page of the Island Dispatch with their new English setter, Prince.~~~~Pfc. Robert F. "Butch" Davisson was given a birthday/bon voyage party by his mother, Helen, in her home on Stony Point while Butch was home on a 30-day leave.~~~~Richard Gerspach and Philip Mergel were one up on contractors planning the new Beaver Island Golf Course in the summer of '62. Dick and Phil, proprietors of the Putt-O-Bit Miniature Golf Course, were about to open next to the Clown House on Grand Island Blvd. Cost of a game of golf? 30 cents!

It was twenty years ago that our family got together for a surprise parade on Carter Drive on the morning of my brother-in-law's 40th birthday. Former Councilman Dan Linenfelser (left) is celebrating his "next" birthday on Sunday and is very deserving of having his school photo appear in this column. While I am at it, I'd like to wish a few of his classmates a happy birthday, too. Second from the left is Betsy "Kinsey" Sims and George DeGlopper who were born in June, Pat Weyland Barroclough who celebrates tomorrow and Kathy Bradley Smith whose natal day is Wednesday, the 24th. Happy birthday, everyone.~~~~Also wished very happy birthdays are Jean Bartholomew (tomorrow), Andrew Sander (7 tomorrow), Amanda Williams (a teenager on Saturday), "Buck" Long (his 7th birthday on Sunday), Bill Buckley (Tuesday), Marvin Zimmerman (18 on Wednesday), and Mike Goris (Wednesday).

Heard through e-mail from several old friends from my childhood who were recently in town for the first time in quite awhile. Everyone loved being back and checking out their old neighborhoods and special spots they remembered. Susan Turnbull and Barbara Glor Martin took the time to walk the nature trail that starts in Ferry Village at the now closed State Marina to Beaver Island Park. Barbara reported seeing a doe and her fawn, as well as several ibis and a great blue heron along the trail there. "It was fun walking on the boardwalk and in the water along the beach. I hadn't done that in ages!"

Best wishes to JoAnn and Gene Hasselbeck celebrating their 50th anniversary this week and to Mike and Alma Anderson who will be married 20 years on July 24th.

Everyone is invited to Trinity UM Church on Sunday at 5:30 p.m. The Trinity Contemporary Band will play as part of Trinity's "Four Nights Under the Big Top." Seating and music will all be under a tent at the Church, 2100 Whitehaven Road. An offering will be taken to help defray expenses and food will be served.~~~~The Grand Island Community Band will play at the Town Commons on Tuesday evening, July 23rd beginning at 7 p.m. The band is being sponsored by Grand Island First Niagara Bank.

July 11, 2002
Mary and Peter McMahon are celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary today. Happy days, folks!~~~~Happy anniversary to Joan and Kip Staub who are marking their 35th on July 14th and to Mary Ellen and Frank Pfohl, celebrating their 40th on the 14th. Best wishes to Nancy and Bill Linton who will celebrate their 37th anniversary on Wednesday.

The wedding anniversary of Dan and Renee Gietz was celebrated in style last Saturday. Dan and Renee, who were married 25 years on July 9th were completely surprised by a party on the river at the Bastian home, given by daughter Danielle, son Ethan, and friends and family. This was the site of the original wedding reception!

Congratulations to Joseph Pasqualichio, recipient of a scholarship from RealtyUSA. The awards are given based on short essay or poems, high school average and letters of recommendation.

Looking Back 50 years - Norma Weast opened her beauty shop in her home on Staley Road for the first time on Monday, July 14, 1952. ~~~~Father Edward Schwegler cancelled the annual church picnic to make more workers available for the Centennial.~~~~Robert T. King and Nathaniel A. Barrell announced that for the first time in thefive-year history of Grand Island Playhouse, a production was held over a second week. The title of the play was "Burlesque" which would run through Sunday, July 6, 1952.

Looking Back 45 years - The M&T Bank opened in the new Grand Island Plaza on July 1, 1957.

Looking Back 40 years - Bee Hillock, Masie Dommell, Phyllis Schmidt, Shirley Kaiser, Marge Gonzo, Midge Schmidt, Bonny Downey, Dianne Richards and Janice Crawford, members of the Town Recreation Department's new women's softball team, played their first game on July 11, 1962.

Looking Back 30 years - Cindy Bleich, Steven Morgan, Randy White and David Scalise were among the 18 Huth Road School students who were recipients of the School's H Pin award.~~~~Supervisor Raymond P. Griffin cut the ribbon at a dedication ceremony for the Tower Park tot lot at Blackmon and Carl roads on Saturday July 8, 1972.~~~~Mike Dowd received the Athletice of the Year award during Grand Island High School graduation exercises in June 1972.~~~~Grand Island firemen, under direction of Don Barth, were helping with the relief of flood victims in Olean.~~~~Steven Jamieson, 16, of Marilyn Drive lost his life in a tragic accident while working at River Oaks Golf Course.

Looking Back 25 years - Jerry Stay purchased Arnold's restaurant in the summer of '77, and named it after his 2-year-old daughter Shelby.

Looking Back 10 years - Fire destroyed much of the Mesmer's Dairy on Love Road on July 16, 1992.

Best wishes to Kelly D. Seitz on her marriage to Matthew C. Wodzinski on Saturday. Kelly is the daughter of Rex and Sharon Seitz of Grand Island.~~~~Eric David Hardman, son on Douglas and Elaine Hardman of Grand Island, was married Saturday to Jennifer Susan Meyers in St. Timothy Church.~~~~Mary Katherine DeLoughry, daughter of Thomas and Kathleen DeLoughry of Grand Island, was married to Timothy Wayne Bieger on Friday, July 5th, the 27th wedding anniversary of her parents.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Rodney Alt, Amelia Price and former residents Robert McColpin and Robert H. Killian who recently passed away. Click for Death Notices.

Happy birthday to Sarah Webb (9 today), Lisa Capage (today), Ashley Dragonette (6 tomorrow), Melissa Goris (her 20th on Saturday), Taylor Marie Benton (2 on Saturday), and Patrick Morrison (18 on Tuesday)

Entrie fees for the Bikes 'N' Blues Cruise - Motor Cycle Show being held at John Simon's Super Gas on July 27, 2002 have been lowered o $5/pre-registration and $6/day of show.

The Sidway reunion was a great event thanks mainly to Shorty Vanthoff with special thanks to his committee. Details on the class photos that were taken will appear here in the Between the Bridges column next week. I'm asking former Sidway students again if there isn't a copy of the Charlotte Sidway School yearbook from 1947 that someone is willing to part with.~~~~Class photos taken at the Sidway Reunion are available through Barbi Lare at $5 for a 5 x 7" and $7 for a 8 x 10 which includes shipping. Click Barbi's website for further information.

A speedy and complete recovery to Ellen "Blakelock" Martin, who really wanted to attend the Sidway School reunion. Ellen, who was hospitalized last week, is doing somewhat better.

Congratulations to Patrick Gallagher who was the winner in the boys division of the Kids Race on the 4th of July and Jeannie Taylor was the winner in the girls division. Click for Complete Race Results.

A million thanks to Jodi Hayes Dodd and Brad Robinson who quickly took care of disposing what the horses left on the Boulevard just in time for Teddy's Islettes Reunion girls to parade through in their single line formation.

There's a lot going on over the next week so be sure to check our Events Calendar.

July 3, 2002
Betsy and Mike Cali are proud parents of their first child, Joseph Michael, born Monday, July 1, 2002. The baby, who weighed in at seven pounds, 15 ounces, is the grandson of Reg and Jerri Schopp, and Michael and Janelle Cali of Niagara Falls. Click Baby Joseph for a trio of his first photos.

The person mentioned here last month, who is hoping to acquire a 1979 edition of the Grand Island High School yearbook, is now offering a $50 reward on top of the shipping charges. Please E-mail me if you can help out with this yearbook search.

Peggy McNulty will be happy to tell you all about her newest grandchild, a boy, Jacob Michael Benedict, weighing in on Saturday, June 29th at a whopping 9 pounds, 4 ounces. The baby's parents are Peggy's daughter, Denise Benedict, and her husband, Carl who are also mommy and daddy of 5-year-old twin, Matthew and Christopher, all of Rochester.~~~~Speaking of Peggy McNulty, her creation of cookie cutters in the shape of the Island went over extremely well at the craft show and sale held Saturday and Sunday at the Town Commons. Decorating ideas are endless! Email Peggy to find out if they are still available!

Looking Back 50 years - Marge Esack of Alt Blvd. was director of the Brownie/Girl Scout Day Camp held in the Sidway School woods in July 1952.~~~~ Island farmers, the Ernie Consiers of Ransom Road and the Henry Schutt family on Stony Point gave their blessing to the Centennial Committee and pledged support for the Centennnial Sports Car Race. The race course was eventually changed from the original Ransom and Stony Point area to Whitehaven, East River and Harvey Road. Race Chairman Jerry Thirion, Centennial President Merton McElroy and Island Dispatch owner George Pagan visited and found property owners cooperative in providing parking for the thousands of cars expected for the race. Click 1952 Centennial Grand Prix Re-enactment for photos of the race.~~~~Capacity crowds of 25,000 were reported at Beaver Island State Park on July 4, July 6 and July 13, 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - The Melrose Subdivision on Bronson Road was being planned by Christianson Homes Inc. Richard H. Christianson was president of the 40-home development, to be built on a man-made waterway and offering docking facilities on most of the 75 ft. lots.~~~~Pete and Tom Hayes were advertising their latest business, Hayes Displays, located at 2249 Stony Point. Slightly amazing at the time was their offer to "show you a pool that can be constructed above ground."

Best wishes to the following who are celebrating birthdays this week: Chris Affuso (the big 4-0 on the 4th), Katerina Fees (Thursday), Jacob Zimmerman (7 on Saturday), Ryan Link (a teenager Saturday), Earl DeGlopper Sr. (Saturday), Cathy Thomas (her 50th on Monday), Shannon Robillard (6 on Tuesday), Vivian Smudski and Lois Martene (Tuesday), Colin Gallagher (entering his teens on Tuesday), Alfred Bykowicz (Wednesday), Abby Englert (10-years-old on Wednesday), and Susan Andrews (Wednesday).

Happy 10th anniversary to Tom and Cathy Thomas who were married on July 10, 1992.~~~~Congratulations to Richard Leonard Gambino and his bride, the former Christine Ellen Wirth, who were married Saturday in St. Stephen Catholic Church.~~~~Best wishes to Heather L. Kaiser and Stephan R. Wright who were married Saturday in Trinity United Methodist Church.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Suzanne Somer Dawson, Robert O. Dorfer Sr. and infant Brooke Madison Dynko who died this past week. Click for Death Notices.~~~~I'm so sorry to report the death of Peggy Butler's mother, Marie Stimec, on Saturday, June 29th. Mrs. Stimec resided in Toledo, Ohio.

This past weekend will not be forgotten soon by those of us who enjoyed the Sesquicentennial festivities. A tip of the hat to Robin Swedish and her committee who did their homework and ran the fantastic craft show, complete with live bands and vendors of all kinds at the Town Commons.~~~~Sue Hillock's KidBiz brought out over 50 children who came well prepared to handle the adults and other kids who stopped by their tables and bought their products.~~~~Ruth Englert and St. Stephen's families are to be thanked over and over for the fun they provided Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Lawn Fete. We wish these events could happen every year.

Please check the front page of Isledegrande.com's E-News and the Events Calendar for all of the holiday activities and more (concerts). To all of the Islanders who are back "home" for reunions of all kinds, especially Ollie Burrows, "Welcome Home." For me, the Teddy's Islettes reunion is the frosting on the cake. Thanks "girls" for the excellent performance I know you will provide in tomorrow's parade and for the keepsake gifts I'll treasure forever. And to my former schoolmates of the Sidway Class of '57, "can't wait to see you all at the reunion." By the way, for those who have asked, that reunion begins at noon!

June 27, 2002
Look at him! Isn't he a cutie? Can you tell it's Tommy Rall? Wish him a happy 40th today. (Click photo for larger view.)

Among five Tonawanda High School graduates recently honored by the school's Distinguished Alumni Steering Committee are Pfc. Charles N. DeGlopper, Class of 1941, deceased, Medal of Honor winner, and Louis "Ramblin' Lou" Schriver, Class of 1947, country music personality and president/general manager of WXRL Radio.

Welcome back to the Island to my former baton twirlers coming in from across the nation for the Teddy's Islettes Reunion in Thursday's parade. They are Caryl Denler Kershner (Colorado), Megan O'Hara Petkewec (Washington), Robin Klonarides (Virginia), Marlene Grob Alvarez (Arizona), Debbie Vanthoff Salimi (Florida), Lori Burrows (California), Alyssa Miller Kolat (Virginia), Tracy Turner Allen (North Carolina) and Amy Lynn Valone (New Mexico). Unfortunately Amy Dzierba (Seattle, Washington) and Nichole Millar King (Turkey) were planning on being here right up to the last minute but will not be able to make it home.

Bonnie McDermott, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Michael McDermott, was the recipient of the Mount St. Mary Award, the highest honor for graduating seniors of the Academy. Bonnie will attend Alfred University this fall.~~~~Grand Island High School biology teacher, Mary M. Walter was married Saturday to Donald W. M. Colpoys.

A group of our Grand Island Jr. Vikings (80 lb. and 100 lb.) will be playing a football game tomorrow, June 28th during the halftime of the Buffalo Destroyers game. If you happened to be at the game, be sure to cheer them on.

A very happy birthday to Judy Schneider and Eric Billica (today), Norm Stessing (a big one tomorrow), George DeGlopper (a bigger one tomorrow!), Eric Beyer (a mere 30 tomorrow), Brian Lipp (his 16th birthday on Saturday), Katie Smith and Alicia Ellson (both turning Sweet 16 on Saturday), Maxwell Costello (three-years-old on Saturday), Elaina Bolles and Jackie Kehoe (both turning 5 on Sunday), Gary Roesch (July 1st is the big day), Pat Colosi (cheers on Monday), Margaret Giles and Bob Kopf (Monday), Chelsea Robillard (4 on Tuesday), Cassidy Hogrewe (a teenager on Tuesday), and Ed McCaffery (his 70th on Wednesday).

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Edna Braddell, Joanne LaClair, James S. Prouse and former resident Frank Butcher who died this past week. Click for Death Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - The Cub Scout Pack #75 end-of-the-year picnic was held in Beaver Island Park at which time the pack, under Committee Chairman Marshall Sawdey, was officially divided into two groups, the newest becoming Cub Pack #254. Cub Scout Charles Ford received his Weblos award and was accepted into Boy Scout Troop #75 by Scoutmaster Bill Vanthoff. Cub Scouting on Grand Island was organized in May 1925. ~~~~A serious and on going water shortage took place in the summer of 1952. Residents in the Grandyle Village, Duplex, Ferry Village, Oakfield and Colony Road areas as well as Beaver Island State Park had been asked to refrain from any unnecessary water usage. Water Superintendent Horace French said at that time the water plant was operating 24 hours a day for the past three weeks, to try to keep up with the water shortage.

Looking Back 45 years - It was on June 30, 1957 that Island native Fred Grehlinger was found murdered in his house. The brutal death of the former school board member and reclusive farmer was never solved.

Looking Back 40 years - George Pagan sold the Island Dispatch to Rodney L. Hall on July 2, 1962.~~~~The proposed town seal designed by Harold Doerr was displayed in the town hall.~~~~Playground workers, including Marilyn Maurer Lewis, Dwight Gray and Judy Dower Babel, were receiving $1.38 per hour from the town.~~~~The Richard Ray Restaurant was under the new managaement of George Buell and featured 24-hour service effective immediately.~~~~Harry Tucker retired after 25 years with the postal service and was honored at a dinner in the newly opened Villa Pompeii at 2231 Grand Island Blvd.~~~~Pat DeCillis, retiring Cub Master of Pack 425, received an engraved desk set from the leaders, parents and scouts for his four years of service to the Pack.

Looking Back 20 years - Jack Remmes of East River Road raced his Wheelhorse tractor to first place at the Sunday, June 27, 1982 2nd Annual Lawn Mower Race on the West River Service Road. Race originators were Floyd Doring and Patrick Murphy.

Mike Schopp, Islander and sports talk hosts who is making his way to the top in a hurry, will be on the grandstand in front of Fire Headquarters announcing the parade units as they pass by on Thursday morning.~~~~Sesquicentennial event representatives may be heard on the Iney Wallins radio show on WHLD 1270 tomorrow (Friday) from 1-1:30 p.m.

There are definitely too many activities going on this weekend on the Island to mention. Check out our Events Calendar and have a great Sesquicentennial weekend!

June 20, 2002

This is Randy White and Donnie Most, who played "Ralph Malph" on the Happy Days TV show. Randy, a member of the Class of '70, now living in Indianapolis, Indiana turned 50 yesterday (June 19th) and is wished the very best.

We receive so many nice notes and comments on Isledegrande.com and the e-News. Thanks to everyone who has recently let us know you like what we're doing. This one from former resident Tom Fleming was short and to the point, and one of my favorites - "By the way, the Islegrande site--and your column--are priceless. It's almost like living on the Island again!"

A speedy recovery to Molly Zogaria who had surgery on Friday, is recuperating at home and would surely enjoy notes of cheer from Island friends.

Thinking of discarding old school yearbooks? Don't do it. We have had two requests for Grand Island High School yearbooks this week. Wanted are a 1976 and a 1979 edition. I, myself, am still hoping to obtain a copy of the Charlotte Sidway School yearbook from 1947. Let me hear from you via E-mail if you can steer us to any of these yearbooks.

Dawn M. Bridenbaker became the bride of Brett A. VeRost on Saturday, June 15th in St. Stephen's Catholic Church. The VeRosts will make their home in Town of Tonawanda.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Dolores M. Cane, Daniel L. Binner, S/Sgt. Darrell 'Newbaby' Covert, and former residents Nancy C. (nee Benton) Meister, George C. Scranton Jr. and Bruce C. Vogler, who recently passed away. Click for Death Notices.

Looking Back 90 years -
Click each photo for larger view
Click for June 23, 1912 News Clipping.
It was 90 years ago that the Eagle Park Disaster took place on June 23, 1912. At the end of that day, picnickers filled the pier and began swaying to the music of a popular song as they waited for the ferry boat to pick them up and take them back to Buffalo. The mid section of the pier collapsed and loss of life was numbered at somewhere around 37 women and children.~~~~Heritage Magazine will be publishing an depth article and photographs on the Eagle Park tragedy. The publication, by Paul F. Redding, is due on Tops Market magazine rack in July.

Looking Back 50 years - The Cub Scout Circus parade on June 21, 1952 formed at Trinity EUB Church and proceded to march to the circus grounds at St. Stephen's barn when the ringmaster was none other than Mr. Felix Grycel.~~~~Many of the 27 Sidway School ninth grade graduates were recognized in June 1952 when Senator Walter J. Mahoney gave the address. Some of those honored were Gail Burgstahler (Excellence in Weekday Religious Education Program), Phyllis Miller (Safety Patrol), and Charles Albright, Rod Alt, Bob Buzby, Michael Costin, William House, Wesley Link. Ernest Marin, Keith Vanthoff, George Mayer, James Pierson and Stanley Ziomek (Athletic awards).

Looking Back 40 years - Aries Triangle and DeMoley members enjoyed an evening of fun at a weiner roast hosted by Aries' Beloved Queen Karen Fitzsimmons (Fuller) at her home on Fix Road.

Looking Back 30 years - The 19-member eighth grade of St. Stephen School had the distinction of being the very first graduating class in June of 1972.

In the "What Else Is New" department, we had yet another heavy rain storm on Monday. Connor Middle School officials kept students inside the building at dismissal time due to excess lightning.

This is a picture of myself and our dog, Shadow, taken in our driveway at 1530 Love Road just about 50 years ago. My family and I celebrated my big birthday last night in the Village Inn where we saw, among lots of other old friends, Barbara Anderson who is in town from Florida. Barb was dining with daughters Carol and Cathy, son Mike Anderson and one son-in-law and two grandsons. Mike and his wife, Alma who reside in Kingsland, Georgia will celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary on Monday, the 24th.

Best wishes to Ray and Ann Dlugokinski, married 10 years today, to Lee and Sid Cohen celebrating 40 years on Monday.

A very happy birthday to my son Jim Linenfelser celebrating his 33rd birthday today, to Savannah Kustra (her tenth today), Beverly Kroetsch and Paula Callahan (milestones today), Bob Beach and Jason Linton (today), James McDonnell (11 tomorrow), Marilyn Johnson (hip, hip hurray for Marilyn - Sunday's her big day), Tom Dahlquist (Monday), Nancy "Buckley" Valone (Tuesday), Jan Rose (best wishes on Wednesday), and Brian O'Connor and Joshua Billica (Wednesday).

Cory Bota will report for basic training for the Air National Guard at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas on July 10. A senior at Grand Island High School, Cory has been attended flying lessons for about two years and will acquire his pilot's license in the near future. He was featured in the NeXt section of Tuesday's "Buffalo News."~~~~Be sure to read the special story on 12-year-old Brittany Stallard. Click Brittany to read all about her.

Good luck and success to Island native Rich Milkas who will officially open his Copy Cat Print Center on Monday. Rich offers copying, printing, desktop publishing, graphic design, resumes, and all printing needs in his location at 1859 Whitehaven Road (rear).

The annual Keith's Classic Memorial Golf Tournament and Carly's Club Auction for Kids and Cancer Research takes place July 8th. Click Keith's Classic for complete details.

Longtime Island teacher Marge Egan, now retired, wrote a school play many years ago titled "Our Island Home." The play is being repeated from her original script at Kaegebein Elementary School this week. The public is invited to attend the 1 p.m. June 20th performance to see this historical treat aimed towards a 4th grade audience. Kaegebein School Principal John Wiertel and second grade teacher Lesli Sandusky have been working diligently to present the play as part of Kaegebein School's contribution to the Sesquicentennial celebration.

Check our Events Calendar for details on the opening of Grinders Skate Park tomorrow afternoon, Jackson Music's Buffalo Niagara Guitar Festival tomorrow night, and the Pie Baking Contest on Wednesday and be sure to mark your calendar for the St. Stephen's Neighbor Days and the Sesquicentennial Craft Show.

June 13, 2002
This good looking Navy sailor is none other than the well known Kester Bleich. We're sure Kester would like everyone to know that he's celebrating his 70th birthday on Tuesday, June 18th. Happy birthday, Kester and many happy returns of the day!

The Sesquicentennial committee is asking for everyone's help in determining who is Grand Island's oldest native still residing on the Island. Please take time to "e-mail me" with any information that may help in the search.~~~~Elizabeth Beach would still like to hear from a few more actors and actresses (no experience necessary) to take part in the Sesquicentennial's historic pageant. Call her at 773-4960.

Members of VFW Post 9249 deserve our heartfelt appreciation for all they do to promote patriotism and preserve the memory of our soldiers who have given their lives while serving our country. Sunday's dedication of the beautiful new headstone at the grave of Charles N. DeGlopper was one more example of the works of our local VFW.

The Grand Island e-News at Isledegrande.com has a new format as of last week. The headlines should show up "green," but after you click and link to each story, and then return to the front page, those you've read should show up "blue."

Mike Gates of the Lake Shore Fire Company writes, "I am trying a longshot! I am interested to see if we can locate our first new pumper. It was a 1938 Buffalo Fire Appliance. The last known whereabouts was on Grand Island. . . sold to a resident in the mid 50's." Do any of my readers recall who had a fire truck and used it to water their lawn from the Niagara River? E-mail Mike Gates at mgates@elderwood.com and tell him you read the request in the Between the Bridges column in the Grand Island e-News.

Holly S. Hubbard, daughter of Richard W. and Barbara E. Hubbard, became the bride of Dennis R. Wilson on Saturday, June 8th in St. Bartholomew Episcopal Church. Th Wilsons will live in Middletown after a trip to Bermuda.~~~~Traci Ann Barone was married to David Alan Storms on Saturday in St. Stephen Catholic Church. The bride's parents are Russell A. and Roslyn Barone of Grand Island.~~~~Deanna L. Sorri and Mark E. Dlugokinski, both Grand Island High School graduates, were married in St. Timothy Lutheran Church on Saturday.~~~~Kathleen A. Collins became the bride of Dr. Christian M. Krawczyk on Saturday in St. Stephen Catholic Church. The bride is the daughter of Patricia M. Collins of Grand Island and the late David A. Collins. Richard M. Krawczyk and Karen Krawczyk, also of Grand Island, are the groom's parents.

Congratulations to Joe Menter and Chris Wozniak who received Contribution and Achievement awards for their contribution to Niagara County Community College student activities.

Let's fly our American Flags tomorrow, National Flag Day, and every day.

Happy birthday Ryan Harnden (a teenager today), Danielle Hassan and Evan Harnden (today), Kayla Lee Staub (her 2nd birthday today), Paul Sommer (a big one today), David Conboy (turning 8-years-old tomorrow), Jamin Cope (tomorrow), Kristin Zilliox (19 tomorrow), Stacey Scott (Sweet 16 on Saturday), Evan Busch (a teenager on Sunday), Karen "Kohlhagen" Wallace (cheers on the 17th), Jillian Wohlfehrt (5 on Tuesday), Christopher Stessing (10-years-old on Tuesday), Nancy Linton (best wishes on Tuesday), Nancy Dahlquist (5 on Wednesday), Justin Hoover (18 on Wednesday), Teddy Linenfelser (that's me, turning 60 on Wednesday!) and Mira "Tetkowski" Berkley (special greetings on Wednesday).

Bud and Lucille Long are wished a very happy 60th anniversary tomorrow. Best wishes to Mike and Dodie "Dekdebrun" Meyer who are celebrating their 50th anniversary tomorrow. Extra special good wishes to two couples celebrating their 40th anniversaries on Sunday. They are Peggy and Norm Bauman and Bob and Eileen Drumm. The Drumms, by the way, will be in town visiting later this month.~~~~A belated happy 3rd anniversary to Tamie and Jeff Matthews who celebrated yesterday.

Looking Back 50 years - Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary member Martha Tardiff held a "Come As You Are" party in her Love Road home on Wednesday morning, June 18, 1952. Auxiliary members who attended were Alice Benton, Bertha Bucher, Fay Higgins, Jessie Loder, Laura Winters, Eva Wohlfehrt, Helen Peck, Mabel Nuttall, Rose Blampin, Mabel Bartlett and Pearl Shrugrue.~~~~Newly elected officers of Trinity's Youth Fellowship were President Fred Bidell, Vice President Joyce Wheeler, Secretary Joan Batt and Treasurer Annette Linton.

Looking Back 40 years - Peggy Crowell and Betty Jane Harding served as co-chairmen of Neighbor Days at St. Stephen's Church on June 16-17, 1962. Phyllis Breier was in charge of the children's games and Charlie Gollwitzer headed the Saturday evening dance committee.~~~~"See it here, the Worlds' Largest Candy Bar" was being advertised by Bells IGA located at 1721 Grand Island Blvd. A giant Baby Ruth was on display to promote the store's "Guess the number of Peanuts" contest..~~~~Rev. David E. Serfass was named pastor of Emmanuel EUB Church, Baseline Road.

Looking Back 30 years - Mike Cap ended his Viking track season undefeated in the 440 race as did Mike Costello in the 880. The mile relay team of Costello, Bob Lewis, Mark Lesinski and Cap ended the season with 14 wins and no losses.~~~~Eighth graders Meg and Mary Sullivan were awarded Girls Athletic Association's (GAA) highest award as outstanding girl athletes.

Paul Malecki, who has spent five years on the ship building project of "The Royal William of 1790," has been honored with the opportunity to have the ship on display at the Fisher Price Team Center Building. Eventually the ship, four foot in length, will be moved to the main offices. Congratulations, Paul.

The Rotary Club hot dog sale is set for tomorrow and Saturday, Trinity's Chicken Dinner takes place Saturday and registration for summer youth activities will be held at the Nike Base on Saturday. Check our Events Calendar for other activities scheduled for this week and have a great weekend.

June 6, 2002
The Sesquicentennial celebration is fast approaching and we will be needing volunteers to help with the sale of the Sesquicentennial Program Books, t-shirts, hats and keychains. The items will be available for sale at the VFW flea market this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

A memorial service will be held on June 9th for Donna Paxhia (nee Sander) Ebersole who died on December 13, 2001.~~~~~Our sympathy to the family of Gerald J. Coates who passed away on May 31st. Click for Death Notices.

It gives me great pleasure to wish Ora Glor Newton a very happy 90th birthday. This coming Monday is her big day but be sure to check the May 30, 2002 Between The Bridges column to read about the planned celebration.

If you click this photo, you will get a good view of the talent of former resident Barbara Beck Muratore who has taken up painting over the past decade and has made quite a success with her work. She and her husband, Paul will be located on site 057 on Franklin Street, Buffalo during this weekend's Allentown Village art show. A former resident of East River Road, Barbara went to Sidway School and Riverside High School with many of us.

Happy birthday to Jason Wilkinson (16 today), Victoria Aronica (her 3rd birthday tomorrow), Dr. Russ Colosi (the big one on Saturday), Debbie Becker (cheers on Saturday), Christopher Golde (21 on Monday), Betsy "Kinsey" Sims (Monday), Chris Beyer (wish him a happy 50th on Tuesday), Rosemary Whiting (Wednesday), Andrew Robinson (10 on Wednesday), Jordan Miller (her 20th on Wednesday), and Tim Mordaunt and Jeff Baumler (sharing milestones this week).~~~~A belated happy birthday to Ehde Beth "Stamler" Parrish. Yesterday was the day. (S. Ernest and Ehde Beth Parrish, 503 Greenhill Dr., Benton, Ky. 42025. Ph: 270-527-3745)

Our neighbors Bob and Betty Clement are wished a very happy anniversary on the occasion of being married for 55 years tomorrow. Best wishes to our son and daughter-in-law Jim and Laury Linenfelser who are celebrating their 5th anniversary tomorrow.

Looking Back 50 years - Art Wade used his jeep to pull a hay rig loaded with Grand Island Drum Corps members who went door to door selling Grand Island Centennial Membership Certificates 50 years ago this week. Love Road resident Hank Boehm was chairman of event.~~~~Members of the Sidway School 9th grade graduating class led by President Jim Pierson, Vice President Joan Hanna (Johnston), Secretary Joan Anderson (Dekdebrun) and treasurer Stan Ziomek, held their class dinner at the Park Lane on June 11, 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - Kathy Stamler and Art Bascomb won first prize for their "twist" dancing in the Buffalo Launch Club's "Teenage Contest."~~~~Katrein's Edgewater Park Hotel was advertising dancing on Saturday nights with music by the "Esquires."

Looking Back 30 years - Do any of my readers have the Class of 1972 picture, taken indoors at the high school?~~~~Dave Scheuing, a senior at the high school, won the award for highest ranking Class B at the Canadian and American Dog Sledders Spring Meeting June 4, 1972. Dave was racing seven dogs in his class and placed in every race he entered in the 1972 season.~~~~Scout Master Tom Ott of Troop 254 presented Eagle Scout awards to George and Philip Barker on June 5, 1972.~~~~Joe Smith was asked by Lawrence Welk to come up and direct his orchestra in the Memorial Auditorium June 9, 1972. Joe, who directed a spirited version of "Bye Bye Blues," was a Middle School music student of Victor Chiodo at the time.

Welcome home, Sean. Sean McMahon is home from his 3-month tour of duty in Afghanistan, much to the delight of his son, Jacob, his wife, Mary Ann and parents, Peter and Mary.

Charles N. DeGlopper Remembrance Day is Sunday, June 9th as proclaimed at this week's town board meeting. This is the weekend of the VFW military display of WWII memorabilia at Historic Trinity. Hours on Friday through Sunday are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. A service will be held at 1 p.m. Sunday to dedicate the new headstone at the DeGlopper gravesite in Maple Grove Cemetery. Please check the Events Calendar for a long list of other activities taking place this weekend.

A reminder to everyone - If your American flag is torn and tattered, replace it. If you are not flying a flag, why not purchase one for your yard or garden. If you need information on where to get the best deal on American flags, call Ellie Maier. Island residents, she and her husband are in the flag business (Custom Flag & Poles, 773-1437) and also carry quality car flags that last forever!

Congratulations to all of the GIHS Concert Band and Wind Ensemble musicians who played in the end of the season concert last night and received continuous standing ovations for their fantastic performances.

Christine and Mike Carr of Village Inn fame have opened the Bedell House Hot Dog Stand which is a hop, skip and a jump from the Inn. Christine and her sister, Sara will be operating the historic stand overlooking the river in Ferry Village that offers picnic tables and a nice breeze off the Niagara.

May 30, 2002
With a promised trip to Niagara-on-the-Lake by friend Barbi Lare, Joan Santospirito was not surprised at Barbi's request to stop on the way, to shoot a picture at St. Martin's Church. But she was totally surprised to see family, friends, schoolmates and even some of those from her wedding party congregated for a surprise 70th birthday party in her honor last Saturday. Happy birthday to Joan, whose natal day was in February, making the party that much more unexpected. Click the photo for a larger view.

Our sympathy to the families of long time Island residents Karl H. Buehrig and Dorothy I. Tosetto who recently passed away. Click for Death Notice.

Though I will certainly remind you closer to the party, the six Glor kids are hosting a 90th birthday celebration Open House from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 7th at Trinity Church, 2100 Whitehaven Rd. All friends of Ora Glor Newton and her family are invited. The Glor "kids" - Bernie, Barbara, Elizabeth, Peter, Ellen and Eugene - suggest you bring or send a card to 1595 Love Rd. "We're showering her with cards to put in a Memory Scrapbook!"

Steven Purpora, son of Island residents James and Donna Purpora, was married to the former Samantha A. Fasolino on Friday, May 24, 2002. The newlyweds will live in Williamsville, following a trip to Hawaii and Las Vegas.~~~~Nicole A. Ryder became the bride of Michael J. Heh on. May 5, 2002. She is the daughter of Island residents Robert Ryder and Rosanne J. Ryder.~~~~Sharon Lee Saj was married to Joseph Eugene Zdarsky Jr. in St. Joseph Cathedral on Saturday, May 25th. The bride is the daughter of Isle residents Robert and Donna Saj.

It's official! Fran and Joe McMahon have signed a lease for the Islander Restaurant and are in the process of renovating and looking forward to opening soon. Joe and Fran and their children have much experience in the business and we wish them well in this new Island venture.

A big happy birthday to Jim Watz celebrating today and to Eleanor Swain marking her 75th birthday tomorrow. Best wishes to Marilyn "Ford" Fortner (June 1st), Kathy Molnar (June 3rd) and Janet Mumm (June 4th). Others wished a happy birthday are Adam Schopp (a teenager on Saturday), Terry Swain (Saturday), twins Joshua and Ryan Miller (9 years old on Sunday), Joe Podlucky (his 16th birthday on Monday), Christopher Bidell (a teenager on Monday), Brendan Sheehan (4 on Tuesday), and Michael Stewart (Wednesday).

Looking Back 50 years - Paul Stefik, chairman of the Boy Scout Committee of Grand Island, praised Scoutmaster Wilfred Vanthoff, his assistant Bill Kirk, along with John Dohn, John Loth, Carlton Mayer, Marshall Sawdey and Leo Costin for the tremendous job they did with the scouts for the year 1952.~~~~With the new William Kaegebein School fully under construction in May 1952, it was noted in the local weekly paper that no building permit had been applied for.~~~~At the closing of the year's Christian Doctrine program at St. Stephen's Church, little Miss Kathie Grycel (Farmer) and Martin Schwagler Jr. of the First Communion Class headed the May procession and performed the May Crowning to honor the Mother of God. I remember May Crowning as a day the girls in my neighborhood prepared for by walking the roads in and around Grandyle Village practicing our songs for that special Mass. I also remember prizes being awarded for the best notebooks turned in to Father Schwegler.~~~~Ed Dunshie and Bob Smith moved their Grand Island Lumber and Builders into its new quarters on "Express Highway" on June 1, 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - Town Recreation Commission Chairman Norm Cahill presented a plaque to Ann Goodman who was honored at the Town Recreation Commission's Spring Banquet for her seven years of outstanding service to her community in field of recreation.

Bill Koch made the Buffalo News this past weekend regarding the "Mayor's Impact Team." Click "Bill" for the complete story!

A Krispie Kreme Doughnut Sale to benefit Team Diabetes takes place at HSBC Bank on Saturday, the fundraiser to benefit Diane Tetkowski Miller Pokorski will be held Sunday and a "Gun Safety & Awareness" Seminar is scheduled for Tuesday in the high school cafeteria. Details on these events and more may be found by clicking our Events Calendar.

May 23, 2002
"Welcome home" and happy birthday to Molly "McMahon" Power celebrating tomorrow. Molly and her husband, Roland, have just relocated back on the Island and are living on Stony Point.~~~~Happy birthday Catherine Long and Marissa Cooney (today), Cathy "Haller" Contino (Saturday), Lee Tetkowski (Sunday), David Linenfelser (16 on Monday), Stephanie Affuso (Sweet 16 on Monday), Larry Rall and Nancy Aydelotte (Monday), Molly Constance Mason (her first birthday on Monday), Cris Sugar (cheers on Tuesday), Kay Haller (Tuesday), Liam Dodd (9-years-old on Wednesday), Pam Ball Fries (Wednesday), Sharon Bauer (a milestone on Wednesday), Zachary Bowerman (7 on Wednesday) and Jim Rayhill (a teenager on Wednesday).

Because the weather has not cooperated with the final construction of the new skate park, owner Paul Irving has announced that Grinders Skatepark next to Tops Market will not be opening this weekend as previously scheduled. More complete information may be found on the Town News Page.

Our sympathy to the family of Grand Island native Warren S. Stamler who passed away on Friday.~~~~A memorial service for Helene Kerr will be held in St. Stephen's Church on Saturday.~~~~A service of celebration for Ellen Moest Charles, who taught public school on Grand Island for several years, will be held at Brighton Community Baptist Church at 3 PM on Sunday, May 26, 2002.~~~~ Click for Death Notice.

Looking Back 50 years - In an article in the weekly paper featuring some of the 1952 Centennial plans, Centennial Ball Chairman Mae Klocke announced that prizes would be awarded at the Ball in the Beaver Island Casino for the most authentic costume, best waltzers and oldest in attendance. Also reported were plans for the display of antiques of 100 years or more to be held in Sidway School by the Home Bureau, and a Pet Show sponsored by the Boy and Girl Scouts.~~~~The Sidway 7th graders won the 2nd annual Field Day on May 29, 1952.~~~~With so many Island boys going into the service, the Grand Island Young Men's Club was disbanded "at least until after the emergency (Korea) was declared off." ~~~~The seventh graders, including Richard Smith, Phil Simpkins and Ron Webb won The 2nd annual Charlotte Sidway School Field Day held behind the school on May 29, 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - Ninth grader Nancy Collins wrote and delivered the invocation during the Sidway Junior High School Class Day ceremonies on May 25, 1962. A dance in the school, with music by the "G Clefs, was held that evening."~~~~Proprietors Donna and Larry Tidd held a grand open for their Larry's Supermarket in Sandy Beach on May 24, 1962 and advertised an ice machine in front of store. Could it have been one of the first on the Island?

Looking Back 30 years - Mr. Manuel Alverez conducted the Grand Island High School Concert Band in a Memorial concert on the lawn of River Lea on Memorial Day 1972.~~~~Arlene Kay, Beth Killian, Kathy Thompson, Sue Arcouet (Hillock) and other Campfire Girls paddled canoes a total of 30 miles on a two-day trip from above Calicoon, NY and finished at Minisink, NY May 19-22, 1972.~~~~It was on May 29, 1972 that a dedication ceremony for the VFW DeGlopper Post 9249's eternal flame took place in DeGlopper Memorial Park.

Looking Back 20 years - Thanks to the persistance of Supervisor Bunny Luther, the eternal flame in DeGlopper Memorial Park would again burn brightly on Memorial Day and thereafter. The flame had previously burned from its inception in 1972 until July 2, 1973.~~~~The Sandy Beach Park Club, celebrating its 40th year in 1982, elected Mike Lemaster, Ron Easton, Pete Mayor, Chet Dulak and Robbie Davis to its board.

It is with great pleasure that I wish Reta and Lou D'Orazio best wishes for many more anniversaries together. The D'Orazios will celebrate their 50th tomorrow, May 24th.

A very happy birthday to former resident Marty Wolvertine, who just celebrated his 80th birthday and congratulations and best wishes to Marty and his bride, Ann who were married on May 4, 2002 in Daytona.~~~~Joelle R. Kaczynski was married to Michael William Zimmerman Saturday in St. Stephen Catholic Church. The Zimmermans will be at home on Grand Island.

The next Sesquicentennial meeting will be held 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 28th at the Library meeting room. Everyone is welcome.

Live music? Yes - Live music at River Oaks Clubhouse will be featured Thursday, May 30th and will continue through the season. River Oaks, the place to be this summer, will soon be a business sponsor and have a web ad connected to Isledegrande.com where the entertainment schedule will be posted.

Charles DeGlopper, nephew of World War II hero Charles N. DeGlopper, will be guest speaker at this year's Memorial Day Services to be conducted at 10 a.m. Monday, May 27, 2002 in DeGlopper Memorial Park.~~~~Have a beautiful weekend.

May 16, 2002
Saturday's tree planting in Vets Park has been postponed to 9 a.m. June 8th. Supervisor McMahon reports that the grounds are far too wet to use the necessary equipment to dig the holes.

This is 12-year-old John Bidell, our grandson, and our son-in-law Donny Dee taking their first ride in Johnny's boat on Saturday. Safe boating, boys! (Click photo for a larger view.)

Though we all know the Village Inn needs no hoopla from me, I must say that the prime rib this past Saturday night was exceptional. Newcomers to the Island looking for variety in good food at reasonable prices, take note! The Village Inn is located on Ferry Road in Ferry Village.~~~~Good news for bikers. The rebuilding of the original 1959 bike path from Beaver Island Park to the Grandyle Village area is in the works as is an extention of the path under the South Grand Island Bridge.

Sally Head, Scott McMichael and Anna Quider have been named "Year 2002 Academic All-Stars" by the Buffalo News. Congratulations, everyone.

Our sympathy to the families of Catherine A. Colosi, James A. Bedford, and former residents Calvin "Cal" W. Lamb, John Dower and Betty L. Kane who recently passed away.~~~~Walter S. Merwin of Venice, FL died on May 9th.~~~~ Click for Death Notice.

My heart goes out to Ehde Beth "Stamler" Parrish who is mourning the death of her brother, Isle native Warren Stamler, and is very upset about not being here due to health problems. Doctors forbid her to travel here from her home in Benton, KY. Email messages to let her know you are thinking of her at this difficult time may be sent by clicking Ehde Beth.

Best wishes to Richard H. Sander Jr. and his bride, the former Mary K. McCann who were married Saturday, May 11th in Nativity of Our Lord Catholic Church in Orchard Park.~~~~Happy first anniversary to MaryJo and Paul Soto, celebrating on Saturday.

Happy birthday, Joe! Today is the day that Joseph McMahon made his debut on Grand Island, but I find it hard to believe that it was 50 years ago!!! ("What does that make me, Joey?")~~~~Happy birthday to Brian Andrew Minton (2 today), Tina "Krzes" Arthur (tomorrow), Stephanie Senn (8 tomorrow), Bob Pownall Sr. and Frank Pinzel Sr. (Saturday), Adam Garlapow, Sandy Caffery, Dick Lovelee and Elvira Lyden (all celebrating on Sunday), Stephanie Fike (Sweet 16 on Sunday), Kate Lynn Endres (a teenager on Monday), Sydney Mae Dworak and Christopher James O'Connor (both celebrating their first birthday on Monday), Terry Turnbull (Tuesday), Steven Michael Parisi (3 on Tuesday), Joan Kingston (Wednesday) and Vickie Lynn Soluri (her 21st birthday on Wednesday).~~~~Happy birthday to brothers Mike and Tom McDonough who are celebrating their birthdays on Wednesday, May 22nd. Tom turns the big 4-0 and Mike is pleased he's not there - again!

Looking Back 50 years - The first Masonic Lodge ever to be organized on Grand Island was consecrated and dedicated May 19, 1952 before 300 Masons assembled at Trinity Fellowship Hall. First Lodge #1138 Master was Cecil A. Manchester.

Looking Back 40 years - The Rotary Club presented its "Food, Fun and Fashion Show" May 19, 1962 at the fire hall. Models, wives of members, included Lois Orchard, Carol Askew, Jeanette Courey, Jan Crocker and Florence Roberts.~~~~More than 70 female softball players signed up for a new league sponsored by the Grand Island Recreation Commission in the Spring of 1962.~~~~A Mississippi Sternwheel "Paddle" boat was launched Friday, May 18, 1962 at Fantasy Island. The boat was built by Edwin "Pop" Schroeder and christened "The Mark Twain." Fantasy Island was about to open for its 2nd season.~~~~Members of the Gear Jammers, a teen car club on the Island, presented $100 to the Cancer Crusade from funds raised at their recent record hop.~~~~Jane Holcombe and Thasia Goodman (Woodworth) received the highest academic awards at the 2nd annual awards assembly May 14, 1962 at the Sidway Junior High School.

Looking Back 30 years - Miss Cathy Parisi (Thomas) produced her first dance review on Sunday, May 21, 1972 in St. Stephen's cafetorium. The recital, "Adventures in Dance," also featured the students of Norma Ferrara's Young Dancers Workshop.

Best wishes to former Greenway Road resident Audrey Maureen Loder and her husband, Ryan Wesley Shaw who were married on May 11, 2002 in Seminole Florida. Parents of the bride are Mary McNulty Loder of Bradenton, Florida and Dale Loder of Wauchula, Florida.

Sue Hillock, chairman of the KidBiz Sidewalk Sale 2002, has announced that the Chamber of Commerce KidBiz training session will be held from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, May 30, 2002 in Grand Island Memorial Library. Click KidBiz for further information.

Members of Grand Island Girl Scout Troops 46 and 437 will be selling hot dogs and drinks in Tops parking lot from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. this Saturday and Sunday. Stop by for a quick lunch!

Costumes, music, dance and Island history! Come out and be a part of it. Auditions for an historic pageant, part of the town's Sesquicentennial celebration, will be held in the Huth Road School auditorium tomorrow evening (Friday) from 7-9:30 p.m. and Monday, May 20 from 7:30-9:00 p.m. For more information, click Sesqui Web Page.~~~~Please check our calendar of events for weekend activities.

May 9, 2002
Congratulations to Liam Dodd, who was named player of the game Monday night when the Boston Red Socks tied the Royals in their first game of the season under a lengthy downpour at Vets Park. Liam, 8, a member of the Red Socks, is a third grader at Huth Road Elementary School.~~~~The Malecki Plowing Men's bowling team took first place in the the A-Best Roofing league at Island Lanes. Not to be outdone, the Malecki Plowing Women also took first place in their A-best league. This was the first time anyone remembers a sponsor having the two winning teams. Congratulations to Paul Malecki.~~~~And last but not least, congratulations to Bill Wood, the big winner of a fist full of cash. His name was picked from the split club drawing at the Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary Chowder Sale on April 20th.

Longtime Isle resident Rich Milkas of The Copy Cat Print Center is bringing his business to Grand Island and will be located behind the Island Dispatch at 1858 Whitehaven Road. Rich is also located at 1121 Elmwood Avenue at Forest in Buffalo.

Rob Beach, of Beach Tours, put together two Internet slide shows. If you've got the burgers on the grill, I would not suggest you start watching the photos as they do take some time but are breathtaking and well worth it. Click "2000 Alpine tour" or "2001 Alpine tour" . By the way, the Beach family of West River Road has been in the motorcycle world tour business for over thirty years.

Celebrating their first wedding anniversary on Saturday, May 11th and wished the very best are Jeremy and Jennifer Pullano. Happy anniversary, folks.

A belated happy birthday to Jodi Hayes Dodd who celebrated on Tuesday. Happy birthday to Kelly Maurer (today), Bob Monoco, Donny Dee and Paul Fields (tomorrow), Gretchen Beyer (special greetings on Tuesday) and Lyn Laman and Tom Butler (Tuesday).

Our sympathy to the following families on the deaths of their loved ones: Helene Kerr, Rena K. Ponton and Judith A. Roemer and former residents Betty L. Kane and Calvin "Cal" W. Lamb. Click for Death Notice.

Looking Back 50 years - A dance to help finance parade uniforms for the Fire Company Drum Corps was held May 10, 1952 in the "old" fire hall. The trousers were to be navy blue with gold stripes to go with red fitted jackets with navy and gold trim and styled similar to a "bell hop's".~~~~Grandyle Village mail boxes on Harry Tucker's route and also those on Bob Weatherbee's route were moved from the north side to the south side of the road in May of 1952.~~~~Dan Linenfelser Sr.'s Wayside Furniture business was being expanded to double the floor space, and an addition to Jessie and Bill Reese's building had recently added the Grand Island Quick Lunch. Contract Interiors is now in what was the Wayside building, and the Reese building still stands across from the Burger King Restaurant.~~~~The Sandy Beach Yacht Club Commodore's Ball on Saturday, May 10, 1952 honored retiring Commodore Kenneth Kinsey. New commodore at the time was M. J. Kermer.

Looking Back 40 years - Mrs. Lyman M. (Ruth) Baker was elected to the school board in May 1962 when a total of 814 eligible school voters registered in the Charlotte Sidway School.~~~~Members of the Huth Road School PTA presented a musicale, "Kavestone Kapers," at their Carnival of Fun May 12, 1962 when Torgier Fadum, Elise Heiser, Melody Measures, Billy Burke, Joe Sheehan, Nancy Wanacott, Johanne Colosi and John Shaeffer put on a skit titled "The Case of the Frustrated Corpse." And it was artist and PTA mom Margaret Villano who created several prehistoric creatures that wagged their tales and bobbed their heads to welcome those attending the Huth Road PTA Carnival in 1962.~~~~An organizational meeting was held May 13, 1962 at 8 East River Road, the boyhood summer home of Grover Cleveland. The meeting was under the direction of William R. Callahan and Island resident Richard D. McCarthy and James Montanari of Buffalo whose goal was to save the former Hussey estate from destruction. Said at that time to have been built around 1832, the preservation of the landmark house was also in the trio's plans. The land had been taken over by the State for a golf course.~~~~Tom McKeen was elected president of the Chamber of Commerce in May 1962 in the Grand Island Rod & Gun Club.

Looking Back 30 years - Among Islanders dancing on the "Dialing for Dollars" show May 10, 1972 were Denice Adcock, Deborah Bronzino, Timothy MacKenzie, Dawn Marcolini, Jackie Martin, Kathleen Robinson and Valerie Voisard. Norma Ferrara directed and choreographed the ballet.

Just a reminder - the Sesquicentennial Program Books, reasonably priced at $10, are being sold in the banks, town hall, Maria's Hallmark, Holiday Inn and deSignet Jewelry.

Among the newest to commit to coming back to Grand Island to be a part of the Teddy's Islettes Reunion marching unit in the July 4th parade are Marlene Grob, Nichole Millar King, Sue Simmons Radcliffe, Robin Schendel Klonarides and Megan O'Hara Petkewec. The list is still growing!

Grand Island Little League opening day ceremonies have been postponed from last week to this Saturday, May 11th at Vets Park.~~~~Junior Viking Football registration takes place Saturday. For more information/forms click Jr. Viking Football Web Page.~~~~Saturday is also the day of the Grand Island High School S.A.D.D. organization's car wash at town hall.

May 2, 2002
Sesquicentennial Program Books have arrived and are available at $10 in deSignet Jewelry, 1869 Whitehaven Road. For the complete story click Sesqui Web Page.

Former resident Traci Roesch, Class of '84, has just started a new career with the opening of "Rub-a-Dub," a dog grooming business, in Anchorage, Alaska. An animal lover all of her life, Traci is now making house calls where she washes, drys, trims and combs dogs of all sizes in her specially equipped motorhome. Traci was featured on an Alaska television newscast and if the video is still on line, you can see her by clicking "Rub-a-Dub."

Kathryn Sheehan, one of the Island's oldest residents, has just published Grand Island Facts and Folk Lore, a history of Grand Island through 1947. Click Islanders In The News for the complete story.

Best wishes to Kimberly Ann Miller, assistant director of admissions at Canisius College, and Francis Zabawa III, a U.S. Customs Service inspector, who were married Friday, April 26, 2002 in St. Andrew Catholic Church, Town of Tonawanda.

Our sympathy to the families of Mae (Webb) Eastman, Robert A. Hopwood, James R. Hartwell, Paul E. McSweeney and former resident Charles Alexander Walker. Click for Death Notice.

Looking Back 50 years - Sixth graders attended a dance from 8 p.m. to midnight 50 years ago today in the Sidway gym where they took part in 30 dances including the Rhinelander, Green Sleeves, a polka and Buffalo Gal, all taught by music teacher, Carol Thompson. Sixth grader Claire Ann Rupp (Bishop) reported in the Island Dispatch that "this was the best event in our school year."~~~~Phyllis Miller was in charge of decorations that included balloons and streamer, for the Trinity Jr. High Youth Fellowship May Day Party. Bernice Glor, Carlton Schutt, Nancy Mote, Sally Swalm and Noel Dilliot served on the refreshment committee. Youth Fellowship officers in 1952 were President Carl Miller, Vice President Connie Godfrey, Secretary Gail Burgstahler and Treasurer Miss Miller.


Looking Back 25 years - Bob Beach and his wife, Elizabeth of West River Road are shown in their three-wheeled vehicle that Bob put together with parts from cars, a motorcycle and a helicopter. "The 45-horse-power engine gets the machine up to 65 mph" and Bob said he got 55 miles to the gallon - in 1977. Click the photo for a larger view.~~~~In the spring of 1977, Fire Chief Gary Roesch announced the establishement of a police squad for the Grand Island Fire Company to maintain traffic control when answering fire and first aid calls. The new unit was headed by Captain Earl Eastman Sr.~~~~Members of the Grand Island Rotary Club elected President Alvin H. Giles Jr., Vice President Leo Allen, Secretary Norm Jansen, Treasurer Dieter Beck and Directors Dr. Robert Harper and Norman Bauman.

Looking Back 20 years - Kevin Savory and Markus Beck, members of Boy Scout Troop 575, achieved their Life Rank and were honored at the Troop Awards Dinner April 21, 1982. Scoutmaster Deloss Krause and Assistant Scoutmaster Paul Glassman officiated.

Luigi and Reta D'Orazio are celebrating their golden wedding anniversary on Sunday and Jeanne and Ken McMahon will celebrate their 40th anniversary on Sunday. Best wishes for many more anniversaries, folks.

A very happy birthday goes out to Catherine Mary Navagh (6 today), Brent Fred Jr. (8 today), Stephen M. Stouter (a big 2 tomorrow), Jean Bleich (tomorrow), Katie Hillock (11 tomorrow), Mary Elisabeth Rustowicz (3-years-old on Saturday), Emily Hazel Harnden (7 on Saturday), Colin Lewis (Sunday), Carol Hugill (Monday), and Kevin Thomas Minton (5 on Monday). A belated happy birthday to Sesquicentennial Chairman Mike Schneider.

A young man from Fredericksburg, Virginia has contacted me regarding the collection of fire/EMS department patches from all over the country. The patches will be made into a quilt in remembrance of those who lost their lives on September 11, 2001. If you think you can help out, click on his "Quilt Website."

Island resident and golf instructor Keith Zahner was recently featured in the Buffalo News. Click The News for the story.

If you would be interested in taking part in the VFW Post 9249 Ladies Auxiliary's 3rd annual Flea Market and Craft Sale, make your reservation ($10) by calling Nina Goss, 773-6892. The "Market" won't be held until Saturday, June 8 however the tables are being rented on a first come, first served basis.~~~~Antiques dealer Barbara Podlucky will be the speaker tonight at the Historical Society meeting at River Lea. Her topic is "Another Look at Our Own Antiques."~~~~Grand Island Little League opening day ceremonies have been postponed to Saturday, May 11 at Vets Park.~~~~And don't forget the annual Golden Age Club Gram's Garage Sale from 10 a.m to 2 p.m., Saturday at the Nike Base.

April 25, 2002
This young man has experienced many things in his lifetime. Check out his story by clicking Islanders In the News and see what's new with ragtime piano player Don Burns.

After a great dinner at Cathy & Jim's Del and Herb's this past Saturday night, I would highly recommend you try any one of the superb entrees cooked to perfection by Chef Brian O'Connor. Starting off with an excellent French onion soup, we followed that up with an "Ancho crusted sea bass with crisp fried tortillas and a white bean chili sauce," as well as some prime beef orders, served by hostess with the mostest, old friend Joni Mayse.

Happy birthday to Brad Robinson (yesterday), Christopher Walker and Nicholas Bull (today), Lisa Braun (10-years-old tomorrow), Betty Campell and Dr. Bob Miller (Saturday), Bethany Leiner (10 on Saturday), Karrie Lee Williams (her 13th birthday on Sunday), little Victor Freeman Jr. (two-years-old on Sunday), Rita Hagerman (Sunday), Diane Goupil (Monday), Samantha Warden (8 on Monday), and Amber Spiesz and Krystin Hoppel (both turning 10 on Wednesday).

Best wishes to Wendy and John Gaydica on the occasion of their 40th wedding anniversary on Sunday.

Bill Schultz of Grand Island made good on 63 percent of his kills helping Niagara CCC's Men's Volleyball team win three matches in pool play to advance in the Eastern Volleyball Intercolligate Association Tournament in Dallas. NCCC's team beat Ithaca and Utah State when Bill had an 80 percent kill average.

Grand Island High School graduate Cynthia Jane Gorman, was married to Darin Ryan Marple on Saturday, April 20th in Austin, Texas where the bride is an attorney with the State of Texas Department of Public Safety.~~~~Paul Justin Burdick and his bride, the former Michelle Lyn Forbes, were united in marriage Saturday in Unitarian Universalist Church of Buffalo.

Marjorie Drive residents Eric and Jean Pecoraro are the parents of a baby boy, Ryan Eric Pecoraro, born February 1, 2002 weighing seven pounds, one ounce. Proud grandparents are Barbara and Larry Gill, Bob and Carol Willer, Russell and Sue Pecoraro, and Lynn and Don Stephenson. Ryan Eric's great grandmother is Jeanette Willer.

Our sympathy to Ann Weingartner on the death of her mother, former resident Nellie C. Weingartner, who recently passed away, and also to the families of former residentsThomas A. Mckeen and Lillian DeGlopper Bell. Click for Death Notice.

Looking Back 50 years - The town board approved the expenditure of $915 for remodeling of the town offices including the lowering of ceilings, installation of light fixtures and general repair. The building was demolished in 1968.~~~~Fire Company volunteers met on a Sunday 50 years ago this week, to stake out the foundation in preparation for excavation for their new hall. Plans were for a garage for two trucks, a meeting room, a kitchen, a bar, and lavatories at an estimated cost of $50,000.

Looking Back 40 years - School Business Manager Richard Buzby, at the April 23, 1962 town board meeting, pointed out to the board that the town's assessed valuation had failed to keep up with its student population enrollment and further, that the taxable valuation for this (1962) year's budget shows a $100,000 deduction for property purchased by the State for the golf course in Beaver Island State Park.~~~~A fire at the Ford Agency, 2509 Grand Island Blvd., destroyed two cars and 75% of Grand Island Ford Agency parts stock on April 29, 1962. In the same May 3, 1962 edition of the Island Dispatch was a photo showing Grand Island Ford officials Paul McCarthy and Sam Kurland with the huge search light used nightly to call attention to their Grand Island Blvd. agency.

Looking Back 30 years - Mrs. Burton Smith was the recipient of a Grand Island High School PTA honorary life membership in the spring of 1972.

Grand Island PTA Council, in collaboration with the Island's public schools, is sponsoring a district-wide poster contest in celebration of Grand Island's Sesquicentennial. PTA Council President Sue Campbell reports that grade level winners will receive awards and will have their posters displayed for all to enjoy.

Roxanne Santa Lucia, a Northwood University sophomore from Grand Island, was granted the Niagara Frontier Automobile Dealers Association Scholarship for the 2001-02 academic year. She is the daughter of Marianne and Salvatore Santa Lucia.~~~~Paul C. Allaire has been named assistant dean and director of the Career Resource Center in the University at Buffalo School of Management.~~~~Island resident Captain Thomas Flaherty was honored at the 25th annual retirement and awards dinner sponsored by the Erie County Sheriff's Badge & Shield Club with a "Special Award," the first of such recognition ever given. Captain Flaherty was honored for his determination and courage while recovering from serious line-of-duty injuries he received when a drunk driver struck his patrol vehicle head-on in October of last year.

Carol deNeufville, who grew up on Grand Island and attended Grand Island High School, will be married to Karl Fugelsoon June 22, 2002 at the New York Botanical Gardens in New York City. Carol, who is a nurse at St. Joseph's Medical Center and Karl, a professor of art history at Towson University, will settle in Baltimore, MD.

The Parish Players will offer "Tom Sawyer" over the weekend. The cast will include lots of local kids including Lee Becker playing the part of "Tom." Check the Parish Players Web Page for further details.

April 18, 2002
This is Peter Gollwitzer's 9th grade photo from the 1956 Sidway School Yearbook! If you see Pete on Monday, be sure to wish him a very happy birthday.~~~~A belated happy birthday to John Papai. If you went to school with John, you know exactly how old he turned on April 15th.~~~~Happy birthday to Mark Hassan (he's turning 49-years-old today), Adam Garlapow, Lela Mancuso and Jane Baedeker (all celebrating milestones tomorrow), Margaret Villano (her 85th birthday on Saturday), Jacob McMahon (6-years-old on Saturday), Sam Akinbami (a big one on Sunday), Jim Wagner Jr. (his 20th on Sunday), Cindy Bleich (Sunday), Conner Trieskey (4 on Monday), Erin Fred, Jim Williams and Mae Klocke (Monday), Genna Baldassare (3 on Monday), Linda Kutzbach (Tuesday), Alexandra Dzielski (6 on Tuesday), and last but certainly not least Bonnie Janowsky (Wednesday).

I'm hopeful that Marion "Long" Young's mailbox will be full of greeting cards and notes on Tuesday, April 23rd, her 95th birthday! Marion taught in the one-room schools here and went on to teach in the Charlotte Sidway School. Her address is 2215 Hopkins Dr. West, Bradenton, Florida 34207.

Our school board members honored Schools Superintendent Dr. Paul Fields at a reception following a budget meeting Monday night. The occasion was the 10th anniversary of Dr. Fields' tenure as head of Island schools. Now there's a man who has brought nothing but the best to our school district and to Grand Island.

Joseph Pasqualichio, a very involved senior, ranked sixth academically in his Grand Island High School Class of 2002, was featured in the Buffalo News this past weekend.~~~~ Isle resident Paul Facklam has been named a director of the Chapter 77, Vietnam Veterans of America.~~~~The 2001-2002 Western New York All-Academic Basketball Teams include Grand Island High School students, Sally Head and Phil Lee.~~~~Congratulations, everyone.

Best wishes to our nephew, Matthew Linenfelser and his bride, the former Teresa Bradley who were married Friday, April 12th in St. Stephen's Old Church. The Linenfelsers will reside on the Island, of course!

Looking Back 50 years - The Ladies of Trinity EUB Church served dinner to the Fire Company members and wives in Trinity Fellowship Hall on the occasion of the Company's 14th anniversary 50 years ago. A dance band was hired to play in the fire hall after dinner, however only half of the musicians showed up due to the others becoming lost trying to find the place. Toastmaster for the evening was Glen "Smitty" Smith and Fire Company President Ed Kruse was in charge of arrangements.~~~~A ten-ton roller purchased by the Highway Department was replacing a 30-year-old, old time steam roller. According to Highway Superintendent Harold Yensan, the cost was $7963.~~~~Gertrude Gay and Charlotte Guenther entertained at a farewell party for Harold "Buzzy" Anderson, Melvin Webb and Robert Killian who were leaving for the Army in the spring of '52.

Looking Back 40 years - Mr and Mrs. Fred Corey were new owners of the Clown House set to open April 23, 1962.~~~~The Gear Jammers, a car club for teenagers, was under the sponsorship of the Grand Island Recreation Department in 1962.

Looking Back 30 years - The Varsity Vikings Baseball Team beat Bishop Duffy in the first game of the 1972 season. John Podlucky went the entire 7 innings, giving up just 5 hits while striking out 7. John, Ron Sepanski, Mike Rodriguez, Glenn Lipp and Greg Chick were stars of the game.~~~~Huth Road PTA Life memberships were presented to Kay Brown and Madeline Colley by Twin Projects Chair Mary Ann Arsenault.~~~~Seven-year-old Charles Sturniolo drowned in the fast moving Gun Creek behind the Bell residence off Ransom Rd. Diving repeatedly, teenager Kathleen Bell (Olszewski), tried in vain to find him. Only three days later another tragedy was averted when the mother of a 4-year-old boy rushed to a deep pond in the same general area and saved the life her son after being alerted by two small children.

Did you know that Grand Island was part of Niagara County until April 2, 1822 when the Legislature created Erie County out of that portion of Niagara County which lies south of Tonawanda Creek? For an interesting book on Grand Island history, pick up a copy of Rob Roy McLeod's "Cinderella Island" at the town hall or the Chamber office.

Our sympathy to the family of former resident William Parkinson, who passed away Thursday in Daytona Beach, FL. Click for Obituary.

Watch "Between the Bridges" for the opening of the Islander Restaurant by a longtime Island family. Word is that the building is undergoing a major remodeling. I'll keep you posted.~~~~Rumor has it that the Soft 'N Shine Car Wash building on the Boulevard will be closing the car wash operation in favor of the automotive repair shop.~~~~Interested in joining the Niagara Sailing Club? If so, call Eric Raepple (773-0903) or Brian Atkinson (773-5576).

"Krispi Kreme Doughnuts" will be for sale at the Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary's spring chowder and baked goods sale this Saturday. Chowder, to be sold around 11 a.m. or when ready, will be sold by the bowl or in bulk to those bringing containers. Fresh home baked goods and a nice selection of cutlery will also be available.~~~~Looking for things to do this weekend? Our Calendar of Events lists the chowder sale at the fire hall, the used book sale at the library, a three-day Sesquicentennial Quilt Show, the Grand Island Half Marathon, Open House at the Historical Society, and a Spaghetti Dinner at St. Stephen's. Click our Events Of Calendar for complete details.

Members of the Teddy's Islettes Reunion group will practice tomorrow night in the Sidway gym and Saturday afternoon in the Connor Middle School gym. Among my former students whom I have not been able to contact are Kim Duermeyer, Kim Harris Staub and her sister, Dawn Harris. Please email "Teddy" at teddyL@isledegrande.com if you can put me in touch with them.

A Sesquicentennial meeting, open to all residents of Grand Island will take place 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 23rd in the Grand Island Memorial Library.

Send your news for the Between The Bridges column to my "email address" at teddyL@isledegrande.com

April 11, 2002
Miss Veronica E. Connor died peacefully yesterday. A resident of Ransomville, Veronica had a million friends here and her happy-go-lucky mood prevailed to the end of her life. Her voice never wavered, even as she hit 90 and beyond, her laughter never faded, and she was always willing to share one more funny story of her years spent with the students and teachers at the Island's first central school so many years ago. Click for Obituary.

Welcome to the newest baby on Grand Island - Nicholas Andrew Ratajczak, son of Rob and Christine "Ciechoski" Ratajczak of Hennepin Road. Nicholas weighed in at eight pounds, fifteen ounces on Saturday, April 6, 2002. Proud grandparents, all of Grand Island, are Art and Elaine Ciechoski, Debbie and Andy Beyer and Irene Ratajczak.

If you think you spotted former resident Jessica Utts on television, you probably did! She has been doing research on statistical studies of ESP and has been interviewed periodically for various TV shows. Jessica has appeared on Larry King, Nightline, CNN News, A&E, Discovery and more. Click Jessica Utts to view her website. Jessica lived on the Island with her parents and four siblings from 1956 to 1966 and would have graduated with the Grand Island High School Class of 1969.

Named a recent 'Educator of the Week' through the WBEN and Dunlop Tire Awards program was our own Sidway School kindergarten/first grade teacher, Margie Benevento. Good luck to Mrs. Benevento who is now eligible to win the Educator of the Year Award in June.

Must be spring! "Recumbenteers Recumbent Bike Club" kicks off its bike riding season Saturday here on the Island.~~~~The Greater Buffalo Track Club's Grand Island Half Marathon is scheduled for 9 a.m. Saturday, April 20th. Click Island Half Marathon for more information.


Karen Vanthoff was surprised to see about 10 turkeys walking past her kitchen window Saturday morning. She described them as "chubby" and wasn't sure just what they were until she got outside with her camera and heard them gobbling. Click the photo for a larger picture. Several years ago we kept getting growing reports of people seeing 10 deer in their yard and the next report was 12 deer etc. Have any readers seen as many as ten turkeys on their property?

Congratulations to Isle bowler Frank Greco on his 300 game this past week. Frank's 300 helped him rack up a 734 series while bowling with the Friday Night Businessmen.~~~~Congratulations to Evelyn Knapp who bowled the high single, 221, with the Golden Agers at Island Lanes last week.

Tootie Maurer, who lost her battle with cancer this week, was born here and her family, and her husband's family date back further than most residents of Grand Island. Our sincere sympathy to her family and to the families of Thomas F. Wheeler, Nancy C. Heyer, George J. Meyer and former Town Clerk Ruth M. Horner who also passed away this week. Click for complete Death Notices.

Topnotch local skier Robert Wright of Grand Island took the silver medal in the 45-49 male age division at the recent NASTAR (National Standard Race) championships at Park City, Utah.

Looking Back 50 years - Fifth graders in Mrs. Adamine Kennelly's class, including Judy Kuehling (Semler), Bob Stamler, Patty Kendall (Shaffer), Myron Ortolano, Nancy Benton (Meister), and Bob Webb, visited the Wonder Bread Baker and received little loaves of bread.~~~~JoAnn Daigler became the bride of Gene Hasselbeck in Trinity Evangelical United Brethren Church on April 12, 1952. Best wishes to the Hasselbecks on their 50th anniversary tomorrow.

Looking Back 20 years - Snow, high winds and very low temperatures 20 years ago this week kept Superintendent Norman Mrkall and the highway department very busy trying to keep the Island's roads clear.

A belated happy 40th birthday to Sue "Simmons" Radcliffe, a member of the Class of '80 and now living in the Town of Freedom. Sue celebrated on April 6th.~~~~Happy birthday to Paul F. Kane (yesterday), Dave Kaiser and Jim Boettcher (today), Marsha Hammond and Amy Bidell (tomorrow), Bill Linton, Nicole Butcher, Bob Kingston and Mark Kingston (Saturday), Val Gasbarro (18 on Saturday), Taylor Bedford (9 on Saturday), and Jeremy Pullano and Larry Gill (cheers on Wednesday).

"Dollar General" was opened for the first time this past Saturday in the old Odds & Ends store in the Boulevard Plaza. Several 19" color televisions were given away, and we hope to report the winners next week.

It may seem a little early to announce Marion Young's 95th birthday on April 23rd, but this will give all who have known her time to pick out a special card or sit down and right her a note. Marion taught in the one-room schools here and went on to teach in the Charlotte Sidway School. Her address is 2215 Hopkins Dr. West, Bradenton, Florida 34207.

Sorry for the short notice, but I just came across the announcement of an eight-hour Boating Safety Course being given by the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 03-08 at Connor Middle School, 1100 Ransom Road tonight (Thursday). Call 632-1749 for information.~~~~Today is Thursday, April 11, 2002 and the weather forecasters are predicting a beautiful weekend. Enjoy it! Oh! Oh! Scratch that!! Weekend weather is not looking good.

April 4, 2002
This very handsome lad is Henry Ensminger as he looked as a Sidway School 9th grader. Happy birthday to Henry who turns the big 6-0 on Saturday.

Don't forget to turn your clocks ahead one hour Saturday night. Daylight Savings Time kicks in early Sunday morning, April 7th.

Happy birthday to Zoe Dodd (7 today), Natalie Baldassare (6 today), Peter Figliotti and Heather Aronica (special greetings tomorrow), Amanda Szarzanowicz (5 tomorrow), Clark Nesbitt (his 30th tomorrow), Shari Cooney (cheers tomorrow), Joanne Spiker and nine-year-old Rachel Spiker (Saturday), Janet Sentz and Don Portik (Sunday), Nathan Busch (10 on Sunday), Eric Dahlstrom (his 20th on Sunday), James Rustowicz (7 on Monday), Kaitlyn Affuso (10 on Monday), Mary Ann Arsenault (Tuesday), baby Rhett Bradley Robinson (his first birthday on Tuesday), Stew Becker, Dorothy Dillemuth, Edna Braddell, Jim Worley and Dodie Meyer (all on Wednesday).

We've all seen a lot of the September 11, 2001 websites but this one, sent to me from my neighbors, Bob and Pat Haag, impressed me very much. Click World Trade Center - September 11, 2001 to view at least 10 minutes of photos of that most horrific day in American history.

Grand Island's Sally Head, a senior at the high school, has been named to the All-WNY Basketball Fourth Team. Sally, who led the Varsity Girls Basketball Team in the Niagara Frontier League Class 2-A title, a first for the Grand Island girls team, is a volleyball and softball all-star and twice named Grand Island's Female Athlete of the Year. To that we add that she carries a 4.0 grade point average and is ranked #2 academically in the senior class of 221.~~~~Val Gasbarro, also a senior at the high school, received honorable mention recognition in the all-WNY Basketball rankings.

A scam artist used an Island woman's bank card to steal $2,596 from a Falls branch of HSBC Bank, according to a scanty report in the Buffalo News Monday. The lady, who lost her bank card earlier last month, told authorities whoever took the card used it to deposit two bad checks into her bank account and then withdrew the money.

Sincere sympathy to the families of William J. Gibson and June S. Pinzel who died this past week. Click for complete Death Notice.~~~~Older residents may remember the Bauer family who lived on East Park near Stony Point. Sharon has written that her father, Fred Bauer, of California passed away March 31st. A complete notice may be found on the 'Deaths' page momentarily.

Though I mentioned former Grandyle Village resident Paul Stefik when I first heard from him in January, Paul has written a request to hear from any "oldtimers" out there who would like to reminisce about the town as it was 50 years ago. Paul, now 87-years-old, wrote and directed the Island's Centennial Pageant and the Pageant song, "Grand Old Island" in 1952.


Looking Back 50 years - Behind Castle Walls was the title of Sidway School's spring operetta which included 16 musical numbers and took place on the school's stage April 3-4, 1952. Among the performers were Connie Godfrey (Millikan), Jim Pierson, Lee Thomas, Bob DeGlopper, Carl Miller, Albert Glose, Melinda Link, Bob Buzby and Carol Kingston (Ullrich). Larger pictures appear in "The Old Photo Album."~~~~With Richard Franklin and Elaine Macoomb (Williams) moving to the Island and joining Mrs. Margaret Webster's 1st grade class at Sidway School, the overcrowded classroom now boasted nearly 45 students.~~~~It was Ladies against the Firemen on a Saturday night at LaSalle Grand Alleys in March 1952. The local weekly paper reported that Alice Benton hit a wet spot on the floor and fell and skinned her knee and then Eva Wohlfehrt fell down and bruised her wrist. The ladies put on a big feast for everyone back at the (old) fire hall.

Looking Back 40 years - It was announced that there would be no more racing at Bob Wright's Grand Island Karting Raceway, once in the area of what is now Island Pools. The kibosh on Bob's venture was probably due to neighbors' complaints of noise. Karts of light weight were to be made available to rent.~~~~The State of New York announced the sale of several beautiful mansions south of Cox Road along East River, to make way for the Beaver Island golf course. The sale would commence by sealed bid at 10 a.m. on April 17, 1962 in Beaver Island Park.

The loss of the Island's 'Relsco Printing' on the Boulevard will surely be felt by so many of us. Started nearly 40 years ago by the late Larry Runions, the operation has been run for many years by Mike Braun Sr. who passed away in February, The business will close its doors tomorrow, April 5th.

The deadline for registering for space at the "Sesquicentennial Craft Show" is April 30th. The Show takes place on Saturday and Sunday, June 29-30 on the town hall grounds, and should be a fun and profitable event for crafters from all over the area. For information and a registration form, click Sesquicentennial Craft Show.

The following are just a few of over 30 Islanders who have signed our "new" guestbook in the past two weeks: Mike O'Dea, Cheryl 'Himmel' Harper, Penny Ball, Lisa 'Doebert' Geisenhoff, Martye 'Haas' Haas, Sally 'Bayse' Holbein, Kimberly 'Long' Domagala and Richard Lozo. Please sign our guestbook. It's a great way to get reacquainted with old friends and classmates.

March 28, 2002
Once again our community is in shock over the death of one of our young people. Cole W. Aydelotte's tragic death Saturday evening has brought about monumental sympathy for his parents, B.A. and Nancy, his younger brother, Ross and his grandmothers and other family members. Our prayers go out to the entire Aydelotte/Sasala family.~~~~Sincere sympathy to the families of Joan D. Hoag, Joseph C. Mercer and Bella Medzadourian who died this past week. Click for complete Death Notice.

Grand Island student David Bentley scored for the Buffalo Saints Hockey Team Sunday as the team won its fifth consecutive New York State Midget Major Tier 1 Championship, beating West Seneca, 4-2. The Saints (32-12-4) advance to Colorado Springs on April 3-7 to compete for the national title.

Paul Denler, who grew up on the Island, has been involved in a serious automobile accident last Thursday, (his birthday) and is now in intensive care in a Milwaukee hospital. Cards from old friends from "home" may not only cheer him up but might surprise him! Paul's address is N91W 20635 Hillview Dr., Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin 53051.~~~~A speedy recovery to Hazel Rowe. Get well cards and notes of encouragement may be sent to Hazel's home.

Island resident Darin Hughes received the Joseph Wachowiak Outstanding Citizen Award for - at the risk of his own safety - aiding an injured motorist who had been thrown from her car on the Youngmann Highway. The presentation was made at the 25th annual retirement and awards dinner sponsored by the Badge & Shield Club.

Congratulations to Tom Rajczac on being named to the Niagara Frontier League Golf All-Stars 2001-2002 First Team.~~~~Congratulations to four Grand Island Viking wrestlers on being named to the Niagara Frontier League Wrestling All-Star 2001-2002 teams. They are Chris Ciechoski, Josh Roberts and Derek Kirkendall, all second team, and Jeremy Roberts, third team.

We are encouraging everyone to fill out our "Survey" whereby you will be listed in our new guestbook, email and graduation directories.

Looking Back 55 years - The Sidway School 8th grade's Oricle Yearbook for the year 1947 was probably ready to go to the printer. Does anyone out there have this yearbook they would be willing to part with? Please email "Teddy" at teddyL@isledegrande.com.

Looking Back 50 years - Seven hundred Centennial certificates went on sale at $5 to raise money for the Centennial and insurance costs to be paid in advance. Certificate chairman was Hank Boehm.~~~~Gene Howland and Rev. Franklin Beck, stars of the winning Trinity Greys team helped beat the Trinity Maroons at Kaliber's Alleys, somewhere off the Island in March '52.~~~~Girl Scouts of Grand Island celebrated their 12th anniversary Friday, March 22, 1952 in the Sidway School gym where we sang Scout and Brownie songs. Receiving the highest recognition that evening was Melinda Link who had earned her first class award. It was the 5th anniversary for the Brownies of Grand Island.

Looking Back 40 years - Sandy Beach Supermarket at Wallace Dr. and Middle Road was under new management and operating as Larry's Supermarket in the spring of 1962.

Looking Back 30 years - Cub Scout Terry Lunney and Webelo Richard Volaro were winners of the Cub Pack 425 Fire Engine Race Derby at Huth Road School on March 24, 1972. Other race winners were Chris Affuso, Phillip Stoddard and Bernard DeLong. Cubmaster was Hank Kammerer.~~~~A new "tot lot" playground was in the works by the town recreation department at the water tower property in the area of Ward Park and Carl Road in the spring of 1972.

A very happy birthday goes out to Morgan Green (8 today), Kelly Mongold and Diane Dohn (today), Michele "Sarama" Blythe (tomorrow), Travis Kelley (5 on Saturday), Scott Duscher and Barry Smith (Sunday), Tracey Shickluna (a mini milestone tomorrow), Sarah McMahon (19 tomorrow), Debbie Bleich (Tuesday), Jean Haller, Linda Cappola, Wendy Gaydica and Dave Pelosi (Wednesday).

Great bowling gained Fred Gleave Sr. his name on the sports page of the Buffalo News. Fred bowled a 279 with the Men's A Best Roofing League. Stephie McGinn and Pam Wiegal were also listed among Island Lane bowlers. Both gals rolled a 237 with the Ladies A Best Roofing League.

Despite the extremely windy conditions last Saturday, the children had a good time searching for eggs and winning prizes in front of Tops Market. Following the hunt, all participants were treated to hot chocolate and cookies in the play area of Tops Market by Tops Manager Fran Davis.

We hope all of our readers have a wonderful holiday weekend.

March 21, 2002
Jodi Hayes Dodd and I presented a program on Isledegrande.com and the Sesquicentennial for the Harmony Circle at Trinity Church today where a group of at least 50 women gathered for lunch. It was nice to see so many people I've known over the years including Beverly "Billica" Benton who has moved back to the Island. Our presentation, by the way, included a tour of Isledegrande.com and a set of nearly 20 photographs taken at the time of the town's Centennial celebration in 1952.

Best wishes to Brandy Leigh Kujawa and Phillip Richard Miano who were married at 2 p.m. Saturday in St. Christopher Catholic Church, Town of Tonawanda. For Brandy's wedding photo in the Buffalo News, just click "Brandy!"

A Sunday practice for the Teddy's Islettes Reunion group, scheduled for this weekend, has been cancelled. Practices will be held this Friday night in the Sidway gym and Saturday afternoon in the Middle School gym. All former members interested in taking part in the Sesquicentennial/Independence Day parade are asked to contact "Teddy" at teddyL@isledegrande.com.

Becky Goodwin is recuperating from recent surgery and is with her son, Dr. Jerry Goodwin in Miami, FL. Friends may mail cards and notes of cheer to her at 9841 West Suburban Court, 33156~~~~Hazel DeGlopper is a bit under the weather. Send her a note and let her know you are thinking of her.~~~~Doris Rees is recovering from knee surgery and should be out and about with all her usual activities real soon.

Congratulations to Sarah and Rob MacNeil on the birth of their daughter Madison Elizabeth on March 12, 2002. Baby Madison, who weighed in at nine pounds, six ounces, is the granddaughter of Deanna and Mike Geblein, Greg Zilliox and John and Peggy MacNeil all of Grand Island.

Eighty and beautiful! That's Delorous DiTullio who just celebrated her 80th birthday on Tuesday, March 19th. Happy birthday, Dee.

According to a recent Buffalo News article, Navy Island eagles seem to be flourishing and in February Tom Burke spotted six eagles from Grand Island, and later Bill Burch also spotted as many as five at one time. The article says the best place to try to spot eagles is on the West River Parkway at the water intake, near Buckhorn Island State Park.

Our sympathy to the families of Angeline De Masi, Isabel B. Taylor, John Sutherland Scott, Patrick Lenehan and Kuldip "Deep" Chopra who passed away this week. Click for complete Death Notice.

Best wishes to Skip and Lynne Uonites who will be married nine years on Tuesday, March 26th.

Happy birthday to Paul Roeder and Pat Dunlop (today), Meredith Ruland (her 5th birthday today), Jim Olmstead (Saturday's the big one), Pat Harding (It's Saturday & it's special!), Mike McNulty and Larry Hagerman (Saturday), Jillian Sheehan (6 on Sunday), Jack Mahnk (cheers on Monday), Michael Christopher Brown (5 on Monday), Martin O'Dea, John DeGlopper, Amy Blundell and Nancy Sandford (Monday), and Ellie Robinson (Wednesday).~~~~A belated happy 18th birthday to our co-worker and Grand Island High School senior, Mike Mehltretter.

Looking Back 50 years - The new Grand Island Citizens Association asked the school board to investigate the large number of students being failed at Sidway School each year.~~~~Cub Pack 75, totalling 80 members, was split into #75 and #254 in March of 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - In recognition for many years involvement with Girl Scouting on Grand Island, Mary Lou Kohlhagen and daughters Susan Long, Carol Hamlin and Karen Wallace were featured in a Girl Scout family story in the Island Dispatch 40 years ago.~~~~The first planning meeting to form the Grand Island Historical Society was held on March 21, 1962.

Looking Back 30 years - The third annual Grand Island High School musical production, "Guys and Dolls," took place 30 years ago, with John Russell as Sky Masterson, Sally Oberkircher (Foks) as Sarah Brown, Joanne Robinson (Podlucky) as Miss Adelaide, and Chuck Bagdy as Nathan Detroit. Director was Adel Robinson and Nicholas D'Angelo was musical director.~~~~Though he is referred to as Louis A. 'Marco' and Louis 'DeMarco,' a feature story on Lou Macro and his "new" Grand Island Optical business, appeared in the "Island Dispatch" 30 years ago this week! Lou was located at 2095 Baseline Road not far from where he's doing business today.~~~~Kevin Zoldowski was coordinating a program of citizen involvement in an all out quest for the freeing and return of our Prisoners of War.~~~~The Zonta Club's first ever antique show and sale was held March 25-26 in the Beaver Island Casino with Betty Trianda, chairman and Veronica E. Connor, honorary chairman.

Looking Back 20 years - Sidway School had just entered the Computer Age with the purchase of an Apple II computer with money from a Title IVB Federal grant. "Children who are now in grade school will be in the job market in the year 2000 when computer literacy will be as vital as knowing the basic skills," Sidway Principal Catherine DiVizio explained at a School Board meeting at the time. ~~~~Derek Wright, a third grader at Kaegebein School, took third place in the Bill Koch Youth Ski League Eastern Championships held at Tupper Lake, NY. Derek was top racer in his 8-9 year old age group from WNY and competed against 48 of the best boys in the region.

The Children's Easter Egg Hunt takes place Saturday morning in Tops parking lot. Click Recreation Department Web Page for complete information.~~~~The Masons will hold their annual Palm Sunday Pancake Breakfast at the Buffalo Launch Club. Complete details appear on our Events Calendar

Be sure to mark your calendar for the next Historical Society meeting being held 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 4th at River Lea in Beaver Island Park. Featured will be "Carl Norman's Magic," a show with an historical perspective.

March 14, 2002
Recreation Department Director Linda Tufillaro has just announced that a Sesquicentennial Beard Growing Contest similar to that of 1952 is getting underway with results being announced at the American Legion Band Concert July 1st. Check our Sesquicentennial Page for complete story and photo.


The Sidway Reunion reservation list is growing on a daily basis with classmates from all across the nation and those right here on the Island making plans to attend the July 6th event. Pictured are just a few of those who attended the school between 1937 and 1963 and all have recently celebrated milestone birthdays. They are (left) John Grycel, C. Robert Smith, Rosemary "Loth" Fisher, and Patty Lou Exley who will celebrate her birthday on St. Pat's Day. Pat Exley is on the list of missing Sidway students. Let us know if you have information on how we may contact her.

Jean Brighton was featured in Sunday's "Lifestyles" section of the Buffalo News. According to the article, "It's SEW Much Fun," Jean, a longtime seamstress, is currently a sewing student of Grabowski-Osuch, which was the focus of the article.

Did you see the McCarthy School of Irish Dance students on Channel 2 News early Monday morning? The dance group which involves a lot of Island dancers will perform at Friday's Fish Fry at St. Stephen's and again at the Huth Road School Bazaar Saturday at 1 p.m. McCarthy School of Irish Dance teacher/director and Island resident Beth McCarthy has just opened a new dance studio in the plaza across from St. Stephen's Church.

Our sympathy to the families of Arthur C. Walter and Donald I. Hubbard who passed away this week. Click for complete Death Notice.

Looking Back 50 years - Norman Hause was the president of the newly formed Grand Island Citizens Association, formed to study conditions in the town and Island schools.

Looking Back 30 years - A luncheon on March 15, 1972 at the Inn In the Park in the Beaver Island Casino, was held to form a Democratic Women's Club. Installed as the first officers were President Jackie Filosofos, Vice President Nancy Samrany, 2nd Vice President Kathy Meosky (Head), Recording Secretary Donna Schoenle, Corresponding Secretary Rita DeGlopper, Treasurer Joyce O'Brien and Historian Norene Griffin.~~~~Roy and Irma Hawkes opened the Island's first employment agency, Hawkes Prestige Employment Agency across from St. Stephen's 30 years ago.~~~~The town board, in a 5-0 vote at the March 6, 1972 meeting, abolished the old Recreation Commission and created a new Parks and Recreation Department.~~~~A Lay Witness Mission was held March 17, 1972 by members of Trinity United Methodist's Lay Committee: Mr. and Mrs. Donald Green, Mrs. Stanley (Bay) Ellson, Dan Danielson, Mrs. Donald Hall, Rev. Allyn Foster, Joan and Frederick Bidell and Rev. A. Walker Hepler. Mrs. Bruce (Caroline) Gentz designed the mission banner..~~~~Grand Island Supervisor Ray Griffin was elected chairman of the Erie and Niagara Counties Regional Planning Board.

Looking Back 20 years - A court decision resulted in a reduction in the assessed valuation of River Oaks property from $514.080 to $269,420 at which time the town and school district were called upon to refund part of the taxes received on the land in 1980 and 1981 as well as the 3% interest on the overpaid taxes.

Happy birthday to Mindi Kratz (Sweet 16 tomorrow), Ed Hardison Sr. (tomorrow), Scott Kaniecki (his 16th birthday on Sunday), Nancy Anderson (the big 4-0 on Sunday), Nonnie Carroll, Bob Tranter and Sandy Hingston (Sunday), Rachel Morgan (Sweet 16 on Tuesday), Carol Sharpe and Delorous DiTullio (Tuesday), Lester Lee (Tuesday's the big day), Sue Gill and Evelyn Till (Wednesday), Mary Jo Kane (cheers on Wednesday), and Sarah Elizabeth Berlinger (her first birthday on Wednesday).

Best wishes to Hazel and Walter DeGlopper on their 66th anniversary today and to Paul and Marcy Malecki who are celebrating their 18th anniversary on Sunday.

East River Road resident and writer Ruth Stahl has a delightful and very interesting feature story, "Old Toys for the New Year" published in the March issue of "New York-Pennsylvania Collector," an antiques, art & Americana publication. I picked up the "paper" at the Zonta Club's antique show last weekend where Ruth was among the antique dealers. Eighteen full color photos are included in her two-page article.~~~~After browsing through the tables of antiques and collectibles at the Zonta show on Saturday, Jim and I had some fun reminiscing with former resident and antiques dealer Donna Titterington Leary, who had a couple of good grade school stories to tell about my husband! Donna asked about many of her classmates of the 50s and is hoping to attend the Sidway School reunion July 6th.

New information about the Grand Island High School reunions being held this summer is being posted on the various reunion pages. Click Class Reunions to find yours!

This weekend brings the St. Stephen's Fish Fry, a town meeting with Assemblyman Sam Hoyt at town hall, the Huth Road school Bazaar and the VFW's St. Patrick's Day dinner. Check our Calendar of Events and front page for more information. And for an evening of good music, the High School Strings Department's annual Kaleidoscope Concert at High School is scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday evening. There is no admission.

March 7, 2002
Those of you who remember Lori Burrows, who, as a child, lived with her family on Broadway, will be happy to hear about what Lori refers to as "my miracle." Her brother, Tom's daughter, Sara Burrows, 19, gave Lori her kidney and another chance at life through a transplant operation on January 30th of this year. Lori, who began baton lessons in 1963 when she was 4-years-old, will be twirling with the Teddy's Islettes Reunion baton twirling corps on July 4th with lots of family and friends to cheer her on.

Marc Anthony Scibilia, featured in the Buffalo News on Sunday, performed on WKBW-TV during the Variety Club Telethon. Marc, who has been playing piano for eight years, is 15 and began performing professionally at age 10.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Charles W. Whiting, Richard J. VonWryeza, James R. Young, Jack R. Stark and life long resident Kenneth F. Wagner who died this past week. Our condolences to the families of former residents Samuel J. Bonette, Edward J. Aldridge and Kathleen A. (Deneke) Dixon who also recently passed away. Click for complete Death Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - When I read in the March 1952 Island Dispatch that favorite teacher Margaret Webster was teaching 43 first graders at Sidway School, it certainly seemed impossible until I realized we still had only one school. The William M. Kaegebein School was under construction at the time and Charlotte Sidway School was bursting her seams with overcrowded classrooms.

Looking Back 40 years - "What's happened to the proposed new town hall?" That was Marion Klingel's question in her "Around The Town Hall" column in March 1961 where she stated that the last published information on the building of a new hall was given at the September 18, 1961 town board meeting.~~~~An organizational meeting of the Homewood Taxpayers Association took place Friday, March 2, 1962. Property owners in the area of First, Second, Third, Fourth streets, Falls Link and avenues in this section between Whitehaven and Bedell roads were invited to join ~~~~James A. Malaney of West River Road was appointed town recreation director for the remainder of the year.~~~~Ford Strong and William House served as co-chairmen for the Rod & Gun Club's Fox Hunt Saturday morning March 4, 1962.

Happy birthday to Morey Cohen (today), Ginny Wilkinson (Sweet 16 today), Rosemary "Loth" Fisher (cheers today!), Bud Link, Dr. Nicole "Gerber" Ryba and Jeffery M. Kane (tomorrow), Joseph Andrew Gizzo (two tomorrow), Chandler Cole (4 on Saturday), Herb Miller (a big one on the 10th), Diane Nesbitt (Sunday), Emily Bolles (double digits - 10-years-old on Monday), Tiffany Turner (11 on Monday), Hazel DeGlopper (her 91st birthday on Monday), Anne Linenfelser (her 21st birthday on Monday), Barbara Anderson (Monday), Karen Smith, Susan Anstett and Ralph Hoover (Wednesday), and Adam Kratz (18 on Wednesday).

Bob Robillard and his bride of 25 years, Lucy, are wished the very best on Tuesday, March 12th, their silver anniversary.

St. Stephen School Lenten Fish Fries continue from 5-7 p.m. on Friday's in the school cafeteria, 2080 Baseline Road.~~~~The Zonta Club's annual Antique Show and Sale is set for tomorrow and Saturday in the Buffalo Launch Club.~~~~Breakfast will be offered this Saturday at the VFW Post.~~~~St. Stephen's Boy Scout Troop #630 will hold its annual Spaghetti Dinner from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday in St. Stephen's cafetorium, 2080 Baseline Road.~~~~And please don't forget the Wednesday Lenten Luncheons being held by the Grand Island Ministerium at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church.~~~~Enjoy your weekend!

February 28, 2002
Elephants on our bridge? Yes, and tossing trunksful of hay out the top of the tractor-trailer they were being transported in. Seems the trailer was just too tall and had its top ripped off Monday night by the low overhangs on the North Grand Island Bridge in route to the Niagara Falls Convention Center where the elephants are performing with the Sterling and Reid Brothers Circus.

Congratulations to Grand Island High School JV Hockey Coach Gene Kozek on being named WNY JV Club Hockey Coach of the Year. Gene's JV team took first place in the League and will play in a championship game 3 p.m. Saturday in the Buffalo State Arena. <Complete Story>

A big happy birthday to Carolyn Manzo celebrating today, and also to Kevin Sander (two today), Mary Ann Love (extra special good wishes today), Patrick McMahon (today), Michael Rayhill (10 tomorrow), Janie Cooke (7 tomorrow), Ashley Gorman (her 8th birthday tomorrow), Eleanor Kessler (tomorrow), Jamie "Akers" Smith (Saturday), Jeff Denler (cheers on Sunday), Jane Goris and Kevin Smith (Monday), David Vanthoff (Wednesday), Karen Hutzler (Sweet 16 on Wednesday), and Kara Duysters (21 on Wednesday).

Our condolences to the families of Hazel D. (Colley) Hartmann and former resident Stanley V. Sankes. Click for complete Death Notice.

If you've ever heard Brent Minet play piano, keyboard or organ, you know why he was chosen the recipient of the "Muddy Waters Award" in the category of Most Promising New Talent for 2002. The presentation was made Feb. 9th by Blues Beat Magazine.

Looking Back 50 years - George J. Burgstahler was appointed supervisor, to fill the term of the late Edward C. Oberkircher.

Looking Back 40 years - The Rogues provided live music for a Gearjammers record hop at Sidway School 40 years ago. ~~~~Federal approval of the north and south thruway exits at Long Road, sought since 1960, "are certain to spur business development at the north end of the Island."~~~~A total of 250 fathers and 350 children enjoyed a potluck supper, movies and sporting events at Kaegebein School Tuesday night, February 27, 1962. The PTA program was arranged by Mrs. George (Doris) Rees and Mrs. Thomas MacGuire.~~~~A fire at the 125-year-old landmark Riverhaven Lodge was a total loss Saturday afternoon, March 3, 1962. Fire Chief Paul McTigue, who directed Fire Company operations from 1-7 p.m., estimated damage at between $50,000 and $75,000. The building was the home of Grand Island's first supervisor and part of the Whitehaven sawmill settlement.

Looking Back 30 years - The Fancher family held a Grand Opening for their Fancher's Flower Shop located across from St. Stephen's Church.

Looking Back 20 years - Jean Willer (Pecoraro) qualified to compete in the US Gymnastic Federation's state competition for Class IV gymnasts.~~~~Grade school boys from St. Stephen School's basketball team, coached by Vince Fisher and Joe Vaganek won the Father Duffy League title Feb. 28, 1982. Lead scorers were Captain Mark Dzielski with 18 points and Ted Kessler with 7.~~~~Eric Beyer, a fourth grader at Sidway School and Jeff Organisciak, a fourth grader at Huth Road School, were members of the Wheatfield Blades Squirt Minor Hockey Team, winner of the New York State Championship in March 1982.

Best bowlers! Dan Hartman bowled a 278 (766) at Island Lanes with the Generic Bowlers, and Mike Sander bowled the high game of 279 (677) for the PJ Garvey Men's league also at Island Lanes this past week.

Congratulations to Bob and Sue Jackson on winning a trip to the Cayman Islands this week through radio station Kiss 98.5.

Boaters and waverunner operators, take note! A Safe Boating Course given by the Buffalo Power Squadron begins 7:30 p.m. tonight at the Buffalo Launch Club. For necessary course information, click BLC Page.~~~~A Meatloaf Dinner will be offered from 4-6:15 p.m. Saturday by the members of the VFW and will be followed by "Kentucky Derby Nite." Details? Click VFW Page.~~~~Save the weekend of March 8-9th for the Zonta Club's annual Antique Show and Sale taking place this year at the Buffalo Launch Club.~~~~The Historical Society will host former Island teacher and Sidway School Principal Catherine DiVizio next Thursday, March 7th in the Library where she will present a program on the Architecture of Buffalo.

February 21, 2002

Click photo for larger view
The Long family dates back much further than most on Grand Island. Harvey Long, born in the Long homestead on Long Road near the Boulevard, will have lived here 80 years on Saturday, February 22nd. Happy 80th birthday to Harvey, shown here wearing his Fire Company baseball shirt in a 1948 photo on Baseline Road.~~~~Others celebrating special birthdays this week are Sherry "Oberkircher" DeBruyn (Saturday), Scott Tetreault (Monday), Debbie Kennedy Rogoza (Tuesday), and Jim Lindsey (Wednesday).

Happy birthday to Jack Kennell, John Braddell Jr., Linda Braddell and Pat Hitcho (today), Sheila Wietan and Mike Podlucky (tomorrow), Lil Carpenter (Saturday), Lauren Braun (12 on Sunday), Tom Ryan (25 on Monday), Mike McMahon (Monday) and Deb Hutzler (Wednesday).~~~~A belated happy birthday to Bill Hackett who celebrated a big one on Sunday, February 17th.

Congratulations to Jason and Wendy MacClellan on the birth of a son, Jason James MacClellen, born January 25th weighing six pounds, two ounces. Proud grandparents are Isle residents Jim and JoAnn MacClellan and Judy Tannenhaus and Alex Murchison of Kenmore.~~~~Diane and Clark Nesbitt are celebrating their 36th wedding anniversary and are wished the best on Tuesday.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Leonora F. 'Pat" Woodward, Donald F. Bellinger and former residents William "Bucky" Carminati Sr. and Thomas R. Webber who passed away this week.~~~~The death of Michael D. Braun, Sr. of Relsco Printing came as a shock to so many of us. Our condolences to Mike and Sue and the rest of Mike Sr.'s family.~~~~Ellen "Moest" Charles passed away Friday in Lafayette, La. Miss Moest taught first and second grade in the new Charlotte Sidway School in the late 1930s and early 1940s.~~~~ Click for complete Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - Sheds, formerly used for horses and wagons, and being dismantled to make way for the new fire hall, were auctioned off to high bidders Earl Mattison of Huth Road ($105) and Howard Killian of Whitehaven Road ($165).~~~~Dan Heimbach and Roger Dohn were lead scorers with 20 and 22 points respectively 50 years ago this week when the "Islanders" basketball team beat the Tonawanda Griffons (Tonawanda sophomore intra mural champs) with a score of 48-47.~~~~Richard "Dick" Narad won the back stroke event in a time of 1.16 when his high school swim team, the Tonawanda Warriors, defeated Lockport, 49-17.~~~~Marion Pinkow was named the new choir director at Trinity Church 50 years ago.~~~~Phil Killian was crowned Grand Island's undisputed ping pong champion in a tournament held at the Young Men's Club of Grand Island which met in Larson's Soda Bar on Baseline Road across from St. Stephen's Church. In his last game to win the championship, Phil beat Ed Zuchowski Sr. in a close battle.~~~~Mike Edwards, Peter McMahon, Richard Prange, Spike Vampotic, Dennis Yakam and Robert Grycel helped Robert's brother "Johnny" Grycel celebrate his 10th birthday on February 22, 1952. If you remember John, please email a big happy birthday to him this week.

Looking Back 40 years - Shirley "Kreger" Luther served as secretary for her Tonawanda High School Class of 1942 twenty-year reunion committee in 1962.~~~~LaVerne Harding showed movies of Grandyle Village events of the 1940s when 32 original Love Road residents who moved into the Sears and Roebuck homes in 1942 met at Del & Herb's for a 20-year celebration. For photos click Grandyle Village~~~~The Fire Company was called during a blizzard on Friday evening, February 23, 1962 when 30 "merrymakers" found themselves snowed in at the Buffalo Launch Club.

Looking Back 30 years - The Island Theater Group produced "Ninety Day Mistress" staring Norma Richards as Leona Hastings, Paul Baerkley as Danny, Dorothy Ginsburg as Judith Hastings and Bob Beach as Leona's long lost father.

Congratulations to Scott McMichael on being named a finalist in the 2002 National Merit Scholarship Program. Scott, a senior at Grand Island High School. is the son of Dennis and Barbara McMichael.

A tip of the bowling alleys ball cap to the following Island Lanes bowlers. John Lesczak had a perfect 300 (757). Bill Gerfin rolled a 299 in a great 802 series. Both men were bowling with the Men's A Best Roofing league. Shawn Vaine rolled a 275 (683) in the Sharpshooters League.

For complete information about Wednesday Lenten Luncheons, click Grand Island Ministerium.~~~~The community is invited to the Knights of Columbus Hall Saturday night for the annual Las Vegas night. Click Knights Of Columbus for complete details.

February 14, 2002
The entire Island is grieving for the family and many friends of Travis Hennigar, lost over the weekend. And I believe the community is feeling a strong sense of thankfulness for his friend, Jeffrey Critelli who survived. Though the media credits the paid personnel who did, indeed, do their best job, it was the volunteers of the Grand Island Fire Company who gave up two 10-hour+ days that included searching the river and assuring the safety of the dive teams and others with no thought of compensation or publicity.

Fifth grader Alexandra Imperi Mason, who played the part of Amaryllis in the February 8th performance of "The Music Man" at the high school, had more than the usual family and friends in the audience. Alex's grandparents, Ken and Marilyn Lewis flew in from Florida and her aunt, Jodi flew in from New York City. Alex is the daughter of Jeff and Laura Mason. Congratulations to the entire "Music Man" cast for a superb performance.

Best wishes to Elizabeth M. Watz of Grand Island and James Lakeman who were married Saturday, February 9th in St. Stephen's Church. The Lakemans will be at home in Williamsville after traveling to Aruba.~~~~Happy anniversary to Merle and Maisie Dommell celebrating tomorrow, February 15th and to Lee and Marilyn Randolph marking their anniversary on Saturday.


The late Gene Masters, Grand Island's legendary coach, and well-known and longtime Vikings Coach John Roth were inducted into the Tonawanda Athletic Wall of Fame on Friday, February 8th. Masters, a graduate of the Tonawanda High School Class of '48 who went on to coach a total of 44 years (1957-2001), and Roth, an N.F.L. All Star in three sports, graduating from Tonawanda High in 1967, received the Eldredge Club Award in their senior year as the outstanding senior athletes of the year at Tonawanda High School.

For Grand Island High School Sports Briefs, click High School News

Our sincere sympthy to the family of Howie Benns, a member of the Grand Island High School Class of 1978 who passed away on Friday, February 8th. Click for complete Notice.

Happy 140th birthday to St. Stephen's Church. First service in the first St. Stephen's Church was held on February 16, 1862. The first church building is still standing just north of the Thruway on Baseline Road

A Buffalo News review on the Amherst Saxophone Quartet concert Friday, February 8 at Westminster Presbyterian Church gives credit to Islander Steve Parisi's Nina's Samba as "a jumping, up-tempo delight. Extended solo riffs for each of the instruments highlighted this infectious number which wanted to make you get up and dance."

Happy birthday to Jackie Filosofos (special greetings today), Todd Sipson (a milestone today), Jeremiah Crowe (16 today), Emily Cole (8 today), Betty O'Dea Carr (today), Lynn Kahn (tomorrow), Deanna Cole (her 18th on Saturday), Craig Walker (Saturday), Grace Olszewski (7 on Saturday), Amanda Stamler (Sweet 16 on Saturday), Pat Kostenbauder and Kathy "Grycel" Farmer (Sunday), Alyssa Ryan (9 on Sunday), Bob Pownall Jr. (a milestone on Sunday), Sean Ford (his 18th on Sunday), Michelle Gast, Mike Meyers and Bob Dworak (special birthdays on Monday), Kathy "Butler" Treadwell (Monday), Karen "Macumber" Scalise and Dorothy Rowswell (Tuesday), Margaret Staub (her 90th birthday on Tuesday), Jennifer Watkins (Sweet 16 on Wednesday), Ben Castleberry (20 on Wednesday), Tommy Smith (6 on Wednesday), Madeline Porter (8 on Wednesday) and Kathleen Ann Brady (9 on Wednesday).

Looking Back 50 years - Supervisor Edward C. Oberkircher, in office for only a few weeks, died Wednesday, February 13, 1952.~~~~A Gay Nineties Revue was produced by Island residents and teachers on February 14-16, 1952. Parts were taken by Mae Thomas, Tom Hogan, Marilyn Trick, Chris Cotter, Bud Link and Veronica Connor who took the part of "Mollie's Mother." A feature of the show was a Bowery Dance by Gert Radius and Lou Jerge.~~~~Purchasing six lots at Love and East Park roads was defeated 25-15 by voters at Sidway School Friday night, February 8, 1952. One voter remarked that the school could spend the $5000 to better advantage by improving the drinking water at the (Sidway) school. "Sulphur makes the water particularly unpalatable." Remember?

Looking Back 40 years - Clare Bush and Philip Kerns were named best twist dancers at the Sidway Jr. High Valentine Party in 1962 and Tom Drake and Marian Guz were chosen king and queen.~~~~Work on the new high school began 40 years ago this week with heavy equipment moved to the Ransom Road site by general contractor John W. Cowper Co.~~~~Jess Tromanhauser of Jenell Drive was a contestant for the USO Talent Parade after an audition where hundreds took part and a few were chosen. Elaine Carlson was guest soloist.

Looking Back 30 years - Scout leaders honored for their time and interest in Boy Scouting activities during the Tuesday, February 8, 1972 Kiwanis Club meeting were Steve Kneidle of Troop #630, Del Krause of Troop #575 and Tom Ott of Troop #254. Making the presentation was President Emery Ashley.

Looking Back 20 years - Mike Endres was the recipient of the Pop Schroeder Award as the Outstanding Driver of the Year (1981) at the B&T Power Boat Association's awards night on February 20, 1982. Mike won the Grand National Championship in his 7-liter Orange Crush in the summer of 1981.

Attention, Class of 1992! Plans for a 10-year reunion of the Class of '92 are announced on our Reunion Page. Click Class of '92 for information.

Former Love Road resident Ron Swick is starring in O'Connell & Company's production of "The Fantasticks" which is playing through March 9 at Cabaret in the Square in Amherst.~~~~Audrey J. Czesak-Kennedy, chief executive officer of Trinity Title & Abstract Corp., has been appointed to the Erie County Commission on the Status of Women by County Executive Joel A. Giambra.

Sesquicentennial News and much more to come! A concert by the American Legion of the Tonawandas has been locked in for July 1st, Island organizations have been offered the opportunity to provide food and refreshments during the Sesqui Craft Show, a major event taking place June 29-30 in the center of the Island, and several Isle clubs are already working on floats to be entered in the gigantic parade scheduled for July 4th. To hear more about what will be going on in "your town" this year, stop by the Sesquicentennial planning meeting scheduled for 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 26th in the GI Memorial Library Meeting room.

Grand Island has a lot going on in town this week, including "Town Tax Day" tomorrow, and the Grand Island Ministerium's first Lenten Luncheon on Wednesday. Click Events Calendar for a week's worth of activities.

February 7, 2002
The storm that left many Island residents without power for as long as three days will long be remembered. Candles and flashlights came in handy as did fireplaces and woodburning stoves. When the electricity did come back on in some neighborhoods, the cable was still out. We watched some old family videos with our 12-year-old grandson who kept our inside wood supply fully stocked. Thanks, John!~~~~Jim and I are especially proud of our grandaughter, Amy Bidell, who was chosen to speak during the DARE awards presentation at the Huth Road Elementary School yesterday. A complete story with photo appears in today's edition of our Grand Island e-News.

Huth Road School students had not one, but two days off this week. Though Friday was a scheduled holiday for the second through fifth graders, school was also cancelled today (Thursday) due to a heating problem.

Carmen and Maria Laurendi of RealtyUSA's Grand Island office were recently presented RealtyUSA's Ultimate Achievement Teams Award.~~~~Former resident Dr. Roger E. Kaiser Jr. has been appointed medical director by the Erie County Medical Center Healthcare Network board of managers. Roger is a member and associate medical director of the Grand Island Fire Company's paramedic program.~~~~Lou Panzica of Ferry Road has been named chief operating officer by his employer, Power Drives, a Buffalo-based supplier of automation and fluid power solutions. Lou, a CPA, will oversee all operations at the company's nine locations, working out of corporate headquarters in Buffalo.~~~~Congratulations, everyone!

The Grand Island Vikings Swim Team beat Kenmore West 66-28 in a Niagara Frontier League meet this week. Congratulations, swimmers.~~~~Sally Head led the Girls Basketball Team with 21 points as they beat Niagara Falls 56-36 this week.

The Wednesday Lenten Luncheons, sponsored annually by the Grand Island Ministerium, will be held at Whitehaven Road Baptist Church beginning February 20th. Click Ministerium Page for details.~~~~A church sermon featured in the Buffalo News "Life Styles" section of Saturday's paper was that of our own Rev. Paul E. Robinson, senior pastor of Trinity United Methodist Church since 1990. If you missed it, just click "here!"

Cathy and Jim's Restaurant received rave reviews this weekend. Owner Ilona Lang has hired topnotch Chef Mike Litzel and has brought back some of the tempting menu specials sadly missed over the past year.

Best wishes to Bob and Evelyn Ragnar Barclay who were recently married.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Ruthann W. Jones, Lura Jean Lenzner, Harry G. Stoll, James B. Welfare and Island native Dick McNamee who passed away this week. Click for complete Death Notices.


The Costello twins - 1970 graduates
Those celebrating very special birthdays this week include Ellie Wiant (special greetings on Saturday), Linc Nutting (a big one on Tuesday), Carol Roesch (a big happy birthday on February 12th!) and (shown above) Penny "Costello" Linenfelser and her twin Patty Rink (Tuesday's the big day).~~~~Happy birthday to Glenn Skelly (8 today), Robert Podlucky (his 18th tomorrow), Grace Giambra (5 tomorrow), Christopher Ford (his 30th on Saturday), Irma Dworak (her 96th birthday on Saturday), Richard Dobmeier, Barbara (Glor) Martin and Harold Arcouet (Monday), Jagger Robert Click (2 on Monday), Kim Baldassari (Tuesday), Andrew Fred (turning 5 on Wednesday), Roger Butcher and Tom Grycel (Wednesday) and Charlotte Swalm (this week).~~~~A belated happy birthday to Linda Sobieski who celebrated her 50th on Monday.

Looking Back 50 years - The Bedell House was under the new management of Louis P. Meyer.~~~~The Harper family on Love Road were new Island residents 50 years ago. Paul, Bob and Carol Harper (Rolfe) were the newest students at Sidway School - still the only school on the Island.~~~~Island residents, warned of their danger, were donating sweaters of a very flamable material and a very strange "feel" to the Fire Company for demonstration purposes at Monday night drills.~~~~The builder of the new Coldbrook development, behind the Love Road homes in Grandyle Village promised home buyers he would donate a community hall to their neighborhood.~~~~Fire Chief Henry Ehde reported a total of 47 calls for 1951. (Our Fire Company responded to a total of 164 calls this past week!)

Looking Back 40 years - Marion Klingel's editorial in the February 8, 1962 edition of the Island Dispatch promoted the idea of forming an historical society on Grand Island.~~~~Hank Alt moved his Grandyle Mart from the Love Road Plaza to the Island Lumber & Builders Supply on Grand Island Blvd. where he was advertising ice skates sharpened for 25 cents.~~~~Frank Vacanti and his family were newcomers to the Island and East River Road 40 years ago.

Looking Back 30 years - The Sandy Beach Garden Club elected Anita Cole chairman and Grace Jasper, assistant chairman.~~~~Mary Carminati bowled the high game several weeks in a row with the Ladies Night Out League at Island Lanes 30 years ago this month.~~~~The Sports Boosters Club in January 1972 honored the 1971 Champion Viking Football team at a dinner in the Buffalo Launch Club. Captain Daryl Smith was presented the Most Valuable Player (MVP) on defense award and Mike Dowd received the MVP on offense. John Podlucky won the coveted "Helmet Award" for his outstanding statistical season. The championship team was coached by Gene Masters, Roger Wise and Bill Riffel.

Looking Back 20 years - Linda Braddell's "Snow Wonders" won the co-ed, one-pitch softball tournament championship beating out the "Mean Machine" 12-2 in a field of 14 teams at the 2nd annual Recreation Department's Annual Winter Weekend activities at Beaver Island Park.~~~~John Derigo became the Commodore of the Buffalo Launch Club in January 1982.

Russ and Stacy Person are the parents of a baby boy, William Russell Person born November 23, 2001, weighing 8 lbs, 1 oz. Proud grandparents are Rolph and Nancy Person of Grand Island, and James Snyder of East Randolph, NY. Click Islanders In the News to view William Russell's photo.

Grand Island High School students take to the stage tonight at 7:30 p.m. for the opening performance of "The Music Man" which runs through Saturday evening.~~~~The annual Carnival Day at St. Stephen School takes place from 11 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at the School.

Another "newer" baby has been reported for our First Sesquicentennial Baby Contest! Alexandria Francesca Anderson was born January 8th at 8:37 a.m. Congratulations to proud parents, Patty and Tim Anderson of Spicer Creek. The last date for registering is February 15, 2002.

January 31, 2002
We think we have the First Sesquicentennial Baby born on Grand Island. His name is Benjamin Paul DeFranks and he was born on January 24, 2002 weighing six pounds, four ounces. First time parents are Paul and Sondra DeFranks. Proud Isle grandparents are Gloria and Jim Galoppo. The First Sesquicentennial Baby Contest deadline is February 15th. Good luck to the DeFranks!

Val Gasbarro led the Girls Varsity Vikings Basketball Team to a 62-51 win over Niagara-Wheatfield with 22 points.~~~~Grand Island's WNY Club Hockey Team is #1 among large schools in the league.~~~~Ken Carter had a great game this week while bowling on the Men's A Best Roofing League at Island Lanes. Kenny scored a 299 in a 797 series.~~~~Congratulations to Grand Island's Wrestling Team. The boys won the team title last week at the Depew Tournament edging Barker by 2 1/2 points.

The Sidway School Reunion Committee is asking our readers for help in locating the following students for the July 6th reunion: Dennis and Terrie Guilfoil, Kathy McGregor Guinn, Charles F. Soch, Barb Soch, MaryJane Barker Lockwood and Linda Barrus Andrews.

Our sympathy to the families of Bernard J. McTague, Irene (Boblak) Miller, Jack F. Hugill Sr., and former resident Sylvia E. Mash, who died this past week. Click for complete Death Notice.

Best wishes to Daniel M. Hiam and his bride, the former Janie L. Martin who were married December 8, 2001 in San Juan, Puerto Rico. Click Islanders In the News to view their picture.~~~~Jack and Marge Breier are celebrating their 54th wedding anniversary today. Best wishes to the Breiers who have been Isle residents nearly that long!

A speedy recovery to Ken Wagner who is back in the VA Hospital. Notes and cards of cheer for Ken should be directed to Room 913, 3495 Bailey, 14215.

A very special lady will celebrate her birthday tomorrow, February 1st. Happy "80th" to Helen Hassan who has lived on and loved Grand Island for 41 years.

Happy birthday to Sue Radder (today), Hailee Clayton (5 today), Maribeth Head (20 today), Conner Bolles (8 today), Mandy Malaney and Stacey Burridge Ford (tomorrow), Lee Richard (16 on Saturday), Maria Ramsperger (her 4th birthday on Saturday), Samantha Ruotsi (7 on Saturday), Cheryl Wasson and Don Kaiser (big ones on Saturday), Beth Bates and Norm Courey (Saturday), Joseph Diebold, Ilene Dee and Rita DeGlopper (Sunday), Andrew Carlson (4 on Sunday), Sally Head (18 on Monday), Mark VonWryeza (cheers on Monday), Kip Staub (Tuesday's the "big" day), Michael Podlucky (5 on Wednesday), and Brent Minet (21 on Wednesday).

Looking Back 65 years - It was 65 years ago tomorrow, February 1, 1937, that the new Charlotte Sidway School opened to about 100 students in grades 1-8 with two grades to a classroom. Among the children who went from their little school house to the new central school on its opening day were Betty Forsythe Killian, Howard Kaiser, Shirley Kreger Luther, Mae Webb Eastman, Doris Webb Kaiser, Philip Killian, Geraldine Schutt, Bobby Mesmer, Dorothy Lyden Lovelee, Emory Webb and many of their siblings.

Looking Back 50 years - St. Stephen's Church, beginning February 3, 1952, began offering four masses each Sunday at 8 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:15 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. to accommodate the growing parish population.~~~~Lee Tetkowski and Deane Long were busy as beavers preparing the scenery for a Gay Nineties Revue which was presented by the Sidway School PTA on February 14-16, 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - Brownie Troop 732 was meeting in the Huth Road Elementary School under the leadership of Barbara Bagdy and Betty O'Dea.~~~~The Post Office substation in the Love Road plaza was closed in January 1952.~~~~Lights on the north and south bridges were being replaced with new standards and sodium vapor lights of the same type as planned for the new bridge.

Looking Back 30 years - Susan Arcouet (Hillock) won 2nd prize in the Northern District's apple pie baking contest sponsored by Camp Fire Girls on February 5, 1972. Competitors were from Kenmore, Tonawanda, Amherst, Clarence and Grand Island.~~~~The Middle School Mathletes, a math club for students with an above average aptitude in math skills, was in its second year in February 1972 under the direction of Dick Bessel.~~~~Mr. Frederick Kuhn's 6th grade reading class took part in a play, "Twelve Angry Men." Cast members included Jeff Goris, Charles Brice, Terry Smith and Lisa Samrany (Podlucky).

Looking Back 20 years - A major project of the Grand Island PTA Council in January 1982 was the "Talking Grand" campaign.

For those of you who have asked about former resident Marie Frampton, she is living in Binghamton. Her address is Room 212, Elizabeth Church Manor, 863 Front Street, Binghamton, N.Y. 13905. Surely she would appreciate hearing from old Island friends.

The VFW is offering a Groundhog Day Breakfast from 8:30 a.m. to ?
Grand Island Little League holds baseball sign-up on Saturday
The Grand Island Rotary Club hosts its annual Chili Supper and Sale from 11:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the High School cafeteria. Have a good weekend!

January 24, 2002

Happy birthday to Tempe, AZ resident Floyd Anderson who will celebrate his 60th birthday next Wednesday, January 30th. This school photo was taken from our 1957 Charlotte Sidway Yearbook, the year we graduated from 9th grade. As I've said before, 1942 was a very good year!

We are still waiting to hear who will be the First Sesquicentennial Baby Of the Year. If you know of a family on Grand Island whose new baby was born on or after January 1, 2002, tell them about our contest which boasts a long list of nice prizes.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Kenvin R. Moreau and Marie L. Giancarlo who recently passed away. Click for complete Death Notice.~~~~A group of Ken Moreau's former students are having a prayer service for him this Saturday at 10 a.m. in St. Stephens Church.~~~~Regina M. Gross-Fitzsimmons, a member and past matron of Chapter 875, Grand Island Order of the Eastern Star and wife of the late Edward J. Fitzsimmons passed away on Tuesday, January 22nd.

Rolland Miller, shown on his sailboat out on the Niagara, is wished the happiest of birthdays from his children, Tim of Grand Island, David of New Jersey and Donna Alway who is living in California. Rolland and his wife, Nida are long time Kirkwood Drive residents, living here since the early 1950s. The retired owner of "Rolland's Jewelers" on Grand Island and Tonawanda, he is still an active sailor, hunter, fisherman, and blackpowder shoot enthusiast as well as remaining active in Trinity Church activities. Happy 80th birthday Rolland. Sunday, January 27th is the big day.

Happy birthday to Kelsey Nordvik (a teenager today), Sarah Ramsperger (8 today), Ray Dlugokinski and Peter Glor (tomorrow), Amy Millar (18 tomorrow), Peter Garrison and April Kaiser (teenagers tomorrow), Michael Giambra and Sam Clarke (both turn 7 on Saturday), Daneen Gallagher (Saturday), Danielle Quider (her 20th on Sunday), Amy Dzierba and Susan Benns (Sunday), Stephanie Williams (Sweet 16 on Sunday), Joanne Hughes and Martha Criddle (Monday), Jeremy Fraser (Tuesday), Eric Sharpe (11 on Tuesday), Nell Roberts (special greetings on Tuesday), David Clayton III (6 on Wednesday), Rich Foks (celebrating big ones on Wednesday), and Dennis Criddle and Gary Howard (Wednesday).~~~~A belated happy birthday to Lynne Uonites who celebrated on the 14th. Lynne and Skip, who have been living in Seminole, Florida for the past seven years, are looking forward to coming back to the Island for the 4th of July/Sesquicentennial festivities and the Sidway School reunion.

Twenty years ago today Karen and Rom Figler were joined in marriage. Happy 20th anniversary to the Figlers.

I recently received a nice note from Ehde Beth "Stamler" Parrish who is now living in Benton, Kentucky. Ehde Beth, whose family dates far back in Island history, lived on the Island from 1925-1945 and would enjoy hearing from anyone who remembers her.

Looking Back 50 years - Saturday night was Basketball night at the Sidway School gym 50 years ago. Though sparked by 13 points each from Bob Buzby and Bill Linton, Grand Island's "Greens" team was beaten by Riverside.~~~~New Year's resolutions from students in the 5th grade class of Mrs. Adamine Kennelly (Ubel) and published in the January, 1952 "Child Chatter - All About Sidway" in the Island Dispatch included those of Robert Webb: "I will not shoot BBs at animals"; John Pedlow: "I will try to play games better in gym classes"; and Wendy Holden Gaydica: "I will continue my hobby and will help my mother in every way I can."~~~~And last but not least, Kay and Art Haller became the proud parents of a son, Arthur on January 30, 1952. So if you see Art this week, wish him a very happy big 5-0.

Looking Back 40 years - "Tomorrow is a Day," a play concerning family life was presented in Kaegebein School Tuesday, January 30, 1962 at the combined meeting of the Kaegebein/Huth PTAs and directed by Betty Beach. Cast members included Alice Doerr, Mrs. Don (Kitty) Zoeckler; Vivian Grossman, Beth Beach, Mrs. Dale Gwin, Mrs. John Lautz, Fred Prosser, Trey Elgar and John Barrus.~~~~The possibility of an annual international music festival locating on the Island was made known here for the first time when the 1962 Philharmonic Achievement Drive was under the direction of Mrs. Roswell (Margaret) Pfohl and Mrs. John B. (Isabel) Allen.

Looking Back 30 years - Pete Hayes and family were running Helf's on Grand Island Blvd. and advertising 59 cent "Treasure Chests" with a free gift tucked in with the hamburg, French fries, and soft drink. Daughter Jodi "Hayes" Dodd remembers her "cous" Ross Kaiser making furniture out of milk crates while working for her father. Helf's, by the way, was opened as The Clown House and is now known as the Islander Restaurant.~~~~Among Webelos Cub Scouts receiving awards at the January 28, 1972 Pack 423 meeting were David Doebert and Greg Lewis.~~~~Cub Pack 452's Pinewood Derby winner was Den 2 member Arnold Jonathan whose car came in first in a field of 50 in the William Kaegebein School. Charles Huff and Russell Certo took 2nd and 3rd respectively.

Looking Back 20 years - Chamber officers in 1982 were President Robert Bonsack, First Vice President John McCarthy, Vice President Paul Harper, Secretary Nancy Job and Treasurer Reginald Schopp.

The Sidway School Reunion Committee (1937-63) is looking for Brenda Youngs, Kathy Beam, and Theda Lockwood. If you have information, please email me.

The engagement of Erin Alyssa Slotiuk to Russell Franklin Mesmer has been announced by her parents, Nathaniel and Janel Slotiuk. Mr. Mesmer, the son of Robert and Joy Mesmer and the bride-to-be are planning a June 2003 wedding.~~~~Joseph and Christine "Lascelle" Boos are the proud parents of a baby girl, Alexis Renee Boos, born November 8, 2001 weighing seven pounds, six ounces. Isle grandparents are Rick and Karen Lascelle.

Attention, Teddy's Islettes members, 1961-1987! A new practice schedule and new pictures have been added to the Teddy's Islettes page. We will practice 12:30 p.m. Saturday in the Middle School gym.~~~~Grand Island Little League will hold baseball sign-up on Saturday, February 2 and Saturday, February 16 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Grand Island Memorial Library. For more information, check the Grand Island Little League page.

Don't forget this Saturday's Winter Fest 2002, sponsored annually by the Town Recreation Department. The fun day begins at 10 a.m. and runs until 3 p.m. at the Nike Base, 3278 Whitehaven Road near West River. Click Recreation Department Page for complete details - and think snow!

January 17, 2002
Happy big 6-0 to former resident Boyd "Billy" Williams, now residing in Venice, Florida with his wife, Donna. Bill turns 60 tomorrow so why not click his name and send him an e-mail greeting.~~~~Happy birthday to Nicholas Kingston (18 today), Deane Long (today), Pat Smith and Bill Stewart (tomorrow), Travis Mikulski (4 on Saturday), Denise Allan, Mary Kremer-Hartrick, Julie Meyer and Peter DeGlopper (all celebrating on Saturday), Chelsea DeGlopper (her 14th on Saturday), Andrew Masiello (6 on Sunday), Abram Morgan (a teenager on Sunday), John Gast, Don Kutzbach, Fran Burrows, and Bob Aronica (all on Sunday), Josh Lange (his 21st on Sunday), John Thomas, Gale Sander, Sharon (Dinsmore) Herrald, B. J. Revill and Mary Cooke (birthday cakes on Monday), Jack Gorman (6 on Monday), Margie "Rall" Hunter, Amy Morgan, Jamie Mangus, Kurt Lorence and Carol Hamlin (all on Tuesday), Bev Thomas and Joan Raab (Wednesday), Patricia Carminati (Sweet 16 on Wednesday), and Stephanie McMahon (Sweet 16 this week).~~~~Happy birthday to Mackenzie Hassan and Terry Benton who are bothcelebrating birthdays this weekend. Don't miss their picture. Just click Islanders.

Congratulations to our Grand Island Vikings. The Boys Swim Team outscored North Tonawanda in a close 96-90 meet.~~~~The Boys Basketball team beat Ken-West 69-57. Bryan Brown led the scoring with 24 points and Jon Steele added 18. The boys also beat North Tonawanda 58-47 (Brown, 17 points).~~~~The unbeaten Varsity Vikings Girls Basketball team suffered its first loss in a close one against Ken-West, 29-28. Leading the scoring were Val Gasbarro and Jamie Dougherty with 9 apiece. Victory to the tune of a 55-44 score was the name of the game when the girls met North Tonawanda this week. Sally Head led with 16 points and Val Gasbarro added 15.~~~~Grand Island's Hockey Team had a 7-3 victory over St. Joe's last week.

Alicia Tutwiler, former Viking swim star, won the 100 (58.99) and 200 (2:10.36) free stylefor her Buffalo State team in a 124-88 loss at Cortland.

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Laura T. Amannn, Bill Marshall and Roger F. Burl,who passed away this past week. Click for complete Death Notices.

Looking Back 50 years - Grand Island organizations pledged $1045.45 for Centennial operating expenses when they met in January 1952. Merton McElroy, named temporary chairman, appointed a nominating committee of six to select 15 candidates to act as a Board of Directors of the Grand Island Centennial Inc.~~~~Betty and Carlton "Joe" Killian moved into their new home on East River Road on Sunday, January 20, 1952.~~~~Grandyle Village residents Gert and Chris Cotter, Hank and Ann Boehm, MaryEllen and Art Hau, Velma and Laverne Harding and Bill and Betty Wheeler, the wives of which were members of the Sitting Hens Club, met at Mesmer's Supper Club in honor of Andrew and Helen Sunderland who were moving from the Island.

Looking Back 40 years - When Dick Morgan's boat lift floated down the Niagara on January 23, 1962, deputies and the US Army helicopter from the Missile Base in Sanborn, NY were dispatched to the river due to a Buffalo resident's attempt to rescue the "run-away" Grand Island dock. The man made it to shore safely, but empty-handed. The report was from the pages of the January 25, 1962 edition of the Island Dispatch.

Looking Back 30 years - A brand new YWCA "Mom's Club" was formed on Wednesday morning, January 19, 1972 in Trinity UM Church. The following officers were chosen from the 30 women who attended: President Ella Gisman, Vice President Barb Brennan, Treasurer Gloria Worley and Carol Berlinger, Hospitality.~~~~John Podlucky with 22 points, led the Varsity Vikings Basketball team to a 58-50 win over Iroquois on Friday, January 21, 1972.~~~~The Recreation Department was offering Free Play For Girls, including floor hockey, at Huth Road and Kaegebein elementary schools on Saturday afternoons.~~~~The New York Telephone Company, at 2:01 a.m. January 22, 1972 activated its new electronic communications center at 1717 Baseline Road. The new telephone office, which would allow Isle customers to dial long distance without having to give their telephone number to the operator, "is one of the most advanced in the world."

The Sesquicentennial Committee is still accepting patron ads (and other advertising) for its Historic Program Book. See our Sesquicentennial Page for information on how your family or business can be included in this keepsake publication.

Teddy's Islettes Reunion group will practice 6:30 p.m. Friday, January 18 in Miss Cathy's Dance Studio. There is no Saturday practice this week.

We have added a new page to our Grand Island e-News titled "Island Memories" and you can be a part of it. Just click Island Memories to read our first entry from former resident Mike Stefik who remembers the soft ice cream at The Clown House in the 1950s.


The Erie County Sheriff's Substation, Grand Island Police Dept., Grand Island Animal Control Officer and Erie County Legislator Charles M. Swanick are officially in new quarters at 1858 Whitehaven Road following a ribbon cutting on Wednesday afternoon.~~~~Children and others will be enjoying a long weekend as schools are closed Monday in honor of Martin Luther King Day.

January 10, 2002
Heading up the birthday list and wished a great day is Judy Link who turns the big 6-0 on Monday. 1942 was a very good year!!!~~~~Roll on the drums! Earl and Rita's boy is turning 50 on the 16th. Happy big 5-0 to Earl DeGlopper Jr..~~~~Happy birthday to Peter Fabiano (his 30th today), Derrick Schutrum (6 today), Liz AuClaire (cheers tomorrow), Susan Head (10 tomorrow), Nicole Fischer and Valerie Paris (13 on the 13th), Tracey Bryan (Happy Monday!), Adam Mazenauer (his 18th on Tuesday), Monica Greco (Sweet 16 on the 16th), Bryan Funk (16 on Wednesday), Amber Malaney (20 on Wednesday) and Phil "Felix" Grycel (his 83rd birthday on Wednesday).

Grand Island High School graduate Shawn Haseley, with 13 points, led the Buffalo State Bengals to a 75-54 win over Hilbert College in a Buffalo State tournament over the weekend. The win gave the Bengals the title of the Buffalo State/Holiday Inn Men's Basketball Invitational.~~~~Among the high rollers of the week at Island Lanes was Dan Hartman who bowled a 280 (638) in the Thursday Night Labatt's Men's League.

Our sympathy to the families of Lt. Col. (Retired) Ronald B. Wetterau and Eileen C. Perkins who passed away last week. For further information click Death Notices.~~~~John R. Schuler, a former commodore and member of the Buffalo Launch Club, died on January 5, after a brief illness. He was 64.

Looking Back 50 years - A new policy went into effect for the Island Dispatch on January 10, 1952, when Publisher George Pagan began printing it weekly and for the first time on a cylinder press. The Dispatch, first published by Ollie and Dorothy Howard, had previously been delivered every other week since its inception in March 1944.~~~~Sidway students and their teachers began visiting the Grand Island Memorial Library in the basement of the old town hall on Thursday and Friday afternoons. Chosen in abc order, fifth graders Gary Bartlett and Shirley Benton were the first to serve as assistant librarians for their class in January 1952.~~~~New Cubmaster Lloyd Brockwell was introduced at the January Cub Pack #75 meeting in the Sidway School gym when Cub Scouts made Indian headdresses and performed skits. Barry Hamilton, John Gast Jr., Galen Young and Donald Flessing were welcomed into Pack #75 as Bobcats.~~~~John Hall, Jerry Livingston and Diane Hamilton (Adams) had major parts in the Christmas play, "The Legend of the Snowman," produced on the Sidway School stage in December 1951.

Looking Back 30 years - Grand Island officially becoming a first class town as of January 1, 1972.

Congratulations to our sports teams! The Grand Island Vikings Boys Basketball Team beat Niagara Wheatfield 54-52 when Chris Martello scored in the last four seconds of the game. Bryan Brown led the team with 18 points.~~~~The Grand Island Vikings Boys Swim Team recently beat Lew-Port 88-11.~~~~Final score for the Girls Basketball team's recent game against Niagara Falls was 49-47. Lead scorer Val Gasbarro (21) tied the game on a pair of free throws, and then won it on a short jumper with 14 seconds left. Sally Head chipped in 18 points.~~~~Grand Island Boys Bowling Team member Geoff Crossley bowled a 280 in a recent Niagara Frontier League meet.~~~~Sally Head led the Girls Basketball Team with 17 points as they beat Kenmore East 46-36 on Tuesday and the Boys Basketball team lost to Ken-East 40-39.~~~~Bryan Brown (18) and Mike Feathers led Grand Island over Tonawanda, 65-61 in a non-league game this week.

Former Grandyle Village resident Paul Stefik recently called me on the phone to reminisce a bit about the Island's Centennial Pageant, "Grand Old Island" which he wrote and directed back in 1952. Paul, now 87-years-old and living in Sun City, Arizona, also wrote the words to the song of the same name.

If you missed last week's edition of the Grand Island e-News, you may want to look back on "Year 2001 In Review." Just click "Year 2001"

Former members of Teddy's Islettes (1961-87) are reminded that the reunion group meets at 12:30 p.m. this Saturday in the Middle School gym.

Our Isledegrande.com team here in the GIECOM office has put together a great list of prizes for the parents of the Grand Island's First Sesquicentennial Baby born in 2002. We're excited about the contest and are asking everyone to let friends and relatives who may possibly have or are about to have the winning baby, know about the contest.

January 3, 2002
Best wishes to Holly Marie Smith who became the bride of Daniel Howard Jaquith of Kirkville on Saturday, December 29th in the United Church, Canandaigua. A graduate of Lebanon Valley College, Annville, Pennsylvania, Holly is a teacher in Ithaca Community Childcare Center and has a master's degree from Florida International University.


These four little kids were attending Charlotte Sidway School when their photos were taken in 1949 and they are all celebrating special birthdays. From left to right are Dick Robinson who had quite a birthday bash in Florida on December 22nd, Peggy Boettcher Fuller and her twin sister Kathy Boettcher Stisser who were born on January 5th and Eric Reimann who will celebrate on January 7th. A very happy birthday to my former schoolmates.~~~~ Others wished the best on their day are Sarah "Zilliox" MacNeil (her 21st today), Mike Peters (20 today), Hanna Panzica (4 tomorrow), Joseph Peter Kuszczak (2 tomorrow), Justin Long (20 tomorrow), Ellen Martin and Lynn Vaine (tomorrow), Hollis Busch (cheers tomorrow), Jonathan Figler (a teenager on Saturday), Fran Clarke (her 80th birthday on Sunday), John Bidell Sr. and Jackie Foote (Sunday), Sandra Less and Kathy McNulty (celebrating milestones on Sunday), Kyle Joseph Podgorny (two on Tuesday), Betsy Tranter (a big one on the 8th), Maggie Rustowicz (5 on Tuesday), Lee Randolph (Tuesday), Karen Raepple (Wednesday), and Jeff Sipos (18 on Wednesday).

Our sincere sympathy to the families of Jeannette M. White-Holland, Erwin F. Schulz, Rose Mendola and Mary Bates who died recently. For further information click Death Notices.

Sally Head, a senior at Grand Island High School has been named to the Niagara Frontier League First team and to the "Coaches All- WNY" Second Team. Jen Breier has been named to the Niagara Frontier League Second Team and Michelle DelZappo received Honorable Mention for the Niagara Frontier League. Congratulations, girls!

Looking Back 50 years - A special meeting was held in the Buffalo Launch Club January 3, 1952 for all organizations to consider a Grand Island Centennial celebration.~~~~Maury McFee (Davidson), newest member of Leader Marion Robertson's Brownie Troop 221 was elected its president. Other officers chosen were Vice President Marianne Shear (Tranter), and Treasurer Kathy Boettcher (Stisser).~~~~The town highway department's truck on which a new plow was soon to be mounted was equipped with fully automatic hydraulic controls, and noteworthy enough to be mentioned in the local paper.~~~~Members of St. Martin-in-the-Fields parish and special guests attended the dedication of their new church on January 6, 1952.

Looking Back 40 years - Winner of the Jaycees lighting contest was the Walter Maday property at 4850 East River Road.~~~~A fire Friday night, January 5, 1962 caused extensive damage to the second floor of the Buffalo Launch Club. Charter fire company member Cyril Diebold remembered the 1930 fire that destroyed the original BLC. Kenmore firefighters came by ferry with equipment to fight that fire.~~~~"Skip" Helbock was the proprietress of the Golden Thimble in the Grand Island Plaza.~~~~Grand Island was equipped to receive water from the Niagara County Water District and was to be billed for a minimum of 200,000 gallons a day as of January 1, 1962.

Notes of cheer and get well cards are in order for Kenny Wagner who is in the VA hospital.

I received a call from David Carlson, son of the late Elaine Carlson, a very talented singer who lived on the Island with her husband and children in the 1960s. Elaine, who sang and performed in many Grand Island productions, had a long list of credits to her singing career. Her son Dave is looking for any recordings of his mother's voice. Contact Dave via email or get in touch with me if you can be of help.

A couple of my own requests are for pictures of the Beach House when it was Batsfords and also a photo of the Sidway School, the one story version, as it looked from 1937-1947. I have also been in search of a 1947 Charlotte Sidway School Yearbook to complete my set.

Happy anniversary to Sherry and John Watkins who are celebrating tomorrow in their home town of Brighton, MI, to Al and Faye Popiel marking their 49th anniversary tomorrow, and to Jean and Ken MacDonald celebrating their 40th on January 6th.

Long-time members of the Sandy Beach Yacht Club may remember Howard W. Compson, who was among the original members of the club. Compson died Sunday Dec. 23, 2001 at age 92.

Music lovers, take note. The Miami of Ohio University Men's Glee Club will perform at St. Stephen's Church at 7:30 p.m. tomorrow night (Jan. 4). For more information, click St. Stephen's News.

The Grand Island Snowmobile Club will meet on Wednesday, January 9th. For complete Club information, click Snowmobile Club.~~~~Fire Chief Skip Mrkall is requesting that all Island residents clear fire hydrants nearest their homes to help in case of an emergency.

Last but certainly not least is a mention of the auto accident my husband, Jim and Nancy Hayes were involved in on New Year's Day. Thankfully, neither was more seriously injured. Have a great weekend!

---

2001 Articles by Date:
2000 Articles by Date:
1999 Articles by Date:

---

Email your notes, announcements and corrections for this column to Teddy Linenfelser, Snail Mail to: 2098 Ferry Road, Grand Island, NY, 14072, or drop off information at 1871 Whitehaven Rd. Include your email address and phone number.

---

Other Isledegrande Pages to Visit:
| Businesses | Churches | Email Directory | Government | Groups |
| Guest Book | Please sign in! | Local Artists | New! Photo Album | Recreation | Schools | Seneca Law Suit | Town History | UsefuLinks | Weather |
| Website Design | Wildlife | Home Page |

This website is sponsored by
GIECOM.NET
1871 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, New York, 14072-1803 USA
Copyright © 1995-2002 All rights reserved.