Chamber of Commerce News Web Page 2005 Grand Island, NY, Chamber of Commerce Website
President Beverly Kinney, First Vice President Joanne Kud, Second Vice President John Bonora, Treasurer Judy Schmidt, Secretary Diane Thompson
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Chamber Office: 2257 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY 14072
Phone: (716)773-3651 Fax: (716)773-3316
This Chamber is organized for the purpose of advancing the economic, industrial, professional,
cultural and civic welfare of Grand Island; to encourage the growth of existing industries
and business, while giving all proper asssistance to any new firms or individuals seeking to
locate in Grand Island; to support all these activities believed to be beneficial to the
community and area, and in general to promote the welfare of all area citizens following always
those policies intended to accomplish the greatest good for the greatest number of people.
Brochures, Maps, Videos and Post Cards (viewed on opening page of website) available through the Chamber
Office. Feel free to email us and we will forward your request to the Chamber Office or call (716)773-3651.
Thank you for your interest in Grand Island.
Chamber Elections - 2005 Ms. Lokken and the Grand Island High School Madrigal Singers performing at the Chamber's holiday party before the presentations. Maverick Swanick, son of Legislator Chuck Swanick, attended the Chamber event on his father's behalf to accept a Certificate of Appreciation.
Click photo for full view. Youth Ambassador Committee with 2005-2006 Youth Ambassadors from left are Past President Jim Sharpe, President Bev Kinney, 2005-2006 Youth Ambassador Karalyn Rossi, 2005-2006 Youth Ambassador Carissa Bailey, 1st Vice President/Youth Program Chairperson Joanne Kud and Chamber Director Tony Brindisi. Last year's Youth Ambassador Mike LoFaso and Kari Tondera received a total of seven proclamations each from area officials. Although Kari was unable to attend the event, her mother, Carolyn Tondera, accepted the awards on her behalf. Shown from left are Mike LoFaso, Carolyn Tondera, Joanne Kud and Bev Kinney.
Members of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce, at their December 13th Christmas party, re-elected three incumbents to the Board of Directors and three newly elected directors. Incumbents re-elected were Fran Davis, Wilson Farms; Skip Mazenauer, Niagara Frontier Publications, and Mike Welch, M.J. Welch Enterprises. Sam Qureshi, Tops Market and Michael Anthony Rossi, Esq. were elected as new Board Directors along with past Secretary Diane Thompson. The three incumbents, Sam Qureshi and Diane Thompson will each serve three-year terms with Mike Rossi serving out a vacated seat for two years.
James Sharpe, Sharpe Associates, will remain on board as past president; Bev Kinney, Carol Ann Hair Fashions, as president; Joanne Kud, as first vice president, with John Bonora, Advantage Capital, as second vice president; Judy Schmidt will remain as treasurer; and Victor Gagliardi as newly appointed secretary.
Other directors include Dawn Bonora, Mary Kay Independent Sales Consultant; Tom Kanaley, Fuccillo Chevrolet; Dorothy Bitner, Traffic Safety Promotions; Steve Morgan, Contour Financial Planning; Tony Brindisi, The Keller Group; Angelo Grande, Technology Camp of America; and Dr. Sherry Bradford, Oncology Research Therapeutics.
"The Chamber looks forward to another productive year," President Bev Kinney said this week. "The Chamber’s Board meetings are open to all members and the general public at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Grand Island each third Tuesday of the month," she said.
The installation of Directors and Executive Officers will be held on Tuesday, January 17, 2006. "Please attend some of these meetings and show your support for the business community," Ms. Kinney urged.
Chamber of Commerce
Announces 2005-2006 Youth Ambassador Scholarship Program Semi-Finalists and Finalists - November 2005 Semi-finalists (left) Brandon Antonelli, Dana Szczepaniak, Karalyn Rossi, Carissa Bailey and Alexander Grande
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Carissa Bailey and Karalyn Rossi, finalists
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has made its decision on who will represent the youth of Grand Island at special town, school and Chamber events as the Chamber's 2005-2006 Youth Ambassadors. They are Carissa Bailey and Karalyn Rossi who were chosen from five semifinalists who included Brandon Antonelli, Dana Szczepaniak, and Alexander Grande. Carissa Bailey
Carissa Bailey is currently a senior at Grand Island High School and is very active in many school activities and organizations such as: DECA (Regional Representative), President of Spotlighters and numerous choirs and orchestra. She is on the Superintendent Advisory Council, along with Interact and the Humanities Club. Awards include: DECA top ten at states in public speaking, two-time All-State Choir and Pride of Grand Island three times. Carissa is enrolled in the CEIP/Internship program where she will gain experience with Huth Road Elementary School to develop her workforce readiness skills. Her future plans are to attend college to earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Education and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education. Karalyn Rossi
Karalyn Rossi is a senior at Grand Island High School who is taking a very active role in school, both academically and through extracurricular activities. She participates in the following clubs and organizations: President of the National Honor Society, Class of 2006 Historian and a member of DECA, Student Council, Mock Trial, Library Club, and the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. During the summer she volunteered her time to coach a youth basketball clinic held at the Grand Island High School. She also registered new voters during Island Happenings and participated in St. Stephen’s chicken chowder sale for the Hurrican Katrina relief victims. After high school, Karalyn plans to attend the University at Buffalo and then law school where she will earn her Law Degree.
Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Extends
Youth Ambassador Scholarship Program - 2005
Selection for the 2005-2006 Youth Ambassador program has been extended until Friday, October 21, 2005. Grand Island residents who are in 10th, 11th, or 12th grades are eligible to participate. Applications are available at the Grand Island High School Guidance office and at the Chamber of Commerce office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd. Two Youth Ambassadors will be chosen this year. Each will be awarded a scholarship thanks to contributions from local businesses.
The two winners will represent the youth of Grand Island at special town, school and Chamber events. For further information, please call Joanne Kud at 773-3651 at the Chamber of Commerce Office.
Chamber Ribbon Cutting - Official Opening of New Headquarters - 2005 Shown are Town Councilmen Dan Robillard and Mary Cooke, Past President Jim Sharpe, Chamber Director Victor Gagliardi, Chamber President Beverly Kinney, Kathy Lenihan Representing Congresswomen Louise Slaughter, Candidate for Erie County Legislature Michelle Iannello, and Town Councilman Gary Roesch. Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel attended but is missing from the photo.
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Members of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce held a ribbon cutting during the Grand Opening of their new Grand Island Blvd. headquarters on Thursday, September 29, 2005. The Chamber of Commerce extends a special thank you to the Grand Island Holiday Inn, Wendy's Restaurant and Pizza Hut for generous donations of refreshments.
Chamber Thanks Rev. Kevin Backus For Bringing National Conference To Island - 2005 Chamber President Beverly Kinney with Rev. Kevin Backus
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Members of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors would like to thank Chamber member Rev. Kevin Backus of Bible Presbyterian Church for his integral part in bringing the National Association of Nouthetic Counselors Annual Conference to Grand Island. The Nouthetic Counselors are dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in men and women and who counsel those in conflict, will be attending workshops held October 3-5 at the Grand Island Holiday Inn Resort and Conference Center. This is the Association's first time on Grand Island with over 50 local residents volunteering their time to assist 800-1000 Biblical Counselors during their stay in our community.
Chamber Announces Grand Opening, Ribbon Cutting - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced a Grand Opening of its new location at 2257 Grand Island Blvd. The event is being held from 4:30-7:30 p.m. with a ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Thursday, September 29, 2005. For photos, click Chamber Headquarters
JoAnn Kud, Outgoing Youth Ambassadors Receive Chamber's Certificates of Appreciation - 2005
(left) 2nd Vice President, John Bonora and President, Bev Kinney presented Youth Program Chair, Joanne Kud (center) with an Award in Recognition for her outstanding leadership and dedication to our area youths.
(right) 1st Vice President and Youth Program Chair Joanne Kud, along with Chamber President Beverly Kinney, presented Certificates of Appreciation to outgoing Youth Ambassadors, Kari Tondera and Michael LoFaso for their outstanding support and community involvement as this year's Youth Ambassadors. 2005-2006 Youth Ambassador Program
Selection for the Chamber's 2005-2006 Youth Ambassador is now in progress, Grand Island residents who will be attending 10th, 11th or 12th grades in September 2005 are eligible to participate. Applications will be available in the Guidance Office at Grand Island High School and at the Chamber Office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd.
Two Youth Ambassadors will be chosen this year with each being awarded a scholarship, thanks to contributions from local businesses. The winners will represent the youth of Grand Island at special town, school and Chamber events. All completed applications must be received by Friday, October 7, 2005. For further information, contact the Chamber office at 773-3651.
The Chamber of Commerce thanks the following Youth Ambassador Sponsors received so far this year! Platinum
Grand Island Moose Family Center #180 Gold
Fuccillo Chevrolet
Town Councilman – Dick Crawford
Dr. Laurence Wright, DDS Silver
West Seneca Printing
Rockwood Brothers Collision
SIHI Pumps, Inc.
Carol Ann’s Hair Fashion Bronze
Dr. Thomas Ramming
State Farm Insurance
TOPS Market
Certificates of Appreciation Presented by Chamber - 2005
Chamber President Beverly Kinney presents a Certificate of Appreciation to Island Happenings Chairperson Dawn Bonora. August 4, 2005 . . .Certificates of Appreciation for sponsors of Island Happenings and Kid Biz were presented at the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors meeting held at the Grand Island Holiday Inn Resort and Conference Center this past week. All sponsors and committee members were in attendance for this special recognition of community involvement and local youth support for the 9th annual event which was held on July 2nd. Chamber President Beverly Kinney presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Kid Biz Chairperson Sue Hillock and Kid Biz Co-Chair and Trainer Mike Heftka. Also receiving certificates were Kid Biz sponsors Paul & Tammy Irving of Grinders Skatepark and Angelo Grande of Technology Camp of America; Island Happenings Chairperson, Dawn Bonora; Island Happenings Co-Chair Angelo Grande; Island Happenings sponsor Christopher Pepper of the M.O.G.; Island Happenings sponsor Beverly Kinney of Carol Ann's Hair Fashions; and Island Happenings sponsor Ridge Council DeMolay Chapter Advisor, Steve Morgan who accepted the certificate on behalf of Senior Councilor Rob Sugar and Past Master Councilor Abe Morgan.
KidBiz Coordinator, Trainer, Sponsors Receive Certificates Of Recognition - 2005 Pictured with Grand Island Chamber of Commerce President Beverly Kinney are KidbBiz Trainer Mike Heftka and KidBiz Coordinator Sue Hillock.
Click photo for full view. Pictured are Paul and Tammy Irving of Grinders Skate Park, Sue Hillock and Angelo Grande of Technology Camp of America.
Click photo for full view.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce presented certificates of recognition to KidBiz Coordinator Sue Hillock, KidBiz Trainer Mike Heftka, and Official KidBiz Sponsors Technology Camp of America and Grinders Skatepark at its monthly meeting.
The 9th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale was a great success with over 90 young entrepreneurs setting up shop at the Town Commons. KidBiz was developed by the Small Business Development Center at Buffalo State College and designed to give children in the third through sixth grade the experience and excitement of running their own business.
KidBiz made its debut on Grand Island in 1997 as part of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce “Plaza Happening” with 30 children selling their products along the sidewalks at the Grand Island Plaza, and has grown in popularity over the last eight years.
Sue Hillock coordinates the event, which includes a business training session taught by Mike Heftka. Topics such as pricing, marketing and customer service are discussed at the class. Angelo Grande of Technology Camp of America and Paul and Tammy Irving of Grinders Skatepark joined together in supporting the event and provided t-shirts for the kids making it even more festive.
Chamber's Youth Ambassadors To Sell Hot Dogs - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Youth Ambassadors will hold a hot dog sale from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, August 6, 2005 in front of Tops Market. For a donation of $2.50 you will receive a hot dog and soda, with all proceeds going towards the Youth Ambassador Scholarship Fund.
Judy Schmidt Receives Certificate of Appreciation from Chamber - 2005 Chamber President Beverly Kinney presenting Judy Schmidt, chairperson of the 4th of July Float Committee with a Certificate of Appreciation at the monthly Board of Directors meeting.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Judy Schmidt, chairperson of the 4th of July Float Committee during the Board of Directors meeting at the Grand Island Holiday Inn Resort and Conference Center. Chamber President Beverly Kinney thanked Judy for her dedication and unique design ideas on the construction of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce float at the annual Grand Island 4th of July parade celebration for the past three years.
Chamber Announces Scholarship Winner - 2005 Chamber 1st Vice President and Scholarship Chairperson Joanne Kud with Scholarship Award recipient Christopher Mehltretter and Chamber President Beverly Kinney at this year's 4th of July parade with the Chamber float.
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The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that Christopher J. Mehltretter, a graduate of the Grand Island High School Class of 2005 is the winner of this year's Chamber Scholarship Award. Christopher will be attending Ohio Technical College and will major as a Diesel Technician. The Chamber chooses a student who demonstrates a degree of commitment to community service and extra curricular activities. Christopher received numerous awards from Pride of the Island, Varsity Hockey and Student of the Month as well as volunteering at church youth groups and the Relay for Life campaign. The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Scholarship Committee included Chairperson Joanne Kud, Chamber President Beverly Kinney, Michelle Warmus of M&T Bank; Chamber Director Tony Brindisi and Chamber Secretary Diane Thompson.
Chamber's New Location - Stop By! - 2005
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The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has moved to its new location at 2257 Grand Island Blvd. Stop in and see the Chamber's new facility directly across from the Town Hall.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce held its annual Island Happenings and KidBiz on Saturday, July 2, 2005 at the Town Commons. This year over 90 young entrepreneurs participated in the 9th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale. Technology Camp of America and Grinders Skatepark purchased t-shirts for all the young participants. Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro and the Town Board provided the Glenn Wallace Concert and the bounce houses. Local teen band Silent Genius provided musical entertainment in the gazebo.
Grand Island Kids Day -Saturday, July 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. - 2005
• KidBiz - Over 90 young entrepreneurs will set up shop at the 9th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale. Items to be sold include old toys, sports cards, books, arts and crafts, homemade goodies and drinks. Technology Camp of America and Grinders Skatepark are the official sponsors of KidBiz.
• Glenn Wallace - Grand Island Recreation Department will host a summer concert featuring Glenn Wallace in the gazebo at town hall. Glenn Wallace is a singer, songwriter & musician who plays a variety of stringed instruments including guitar, dulcimer, Autoharp, mandolin and others. His songs are warmly uplifting with lyrics that speak to each one of us. Showtimes are 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
• Face Painting – Free for all kids from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
•Moon Shot and Obstacle Course – Bounce, twist, and tumble in the Moon Shot and Obstacle Course! Free for all kids from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
•Chiavetta’s Chicken Barbecue – At 12 noon, Ridge Council DeMolay will begin serving Chiavetta’s chicken dinner to include chicken, salad, roll, and pop for just $10. Chiavetta's is known for quality and taste and has been a Western New York tradition for over 50 years.
•Hotdog Sale - Youth Ambassadors Kari Tondera and Mike LoFaso will host the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Youth Ambassador Hotdog Sale. Hotdog and pop for $2.50 with proceeds benefiting the Youth Ambassador program and Scholarship Fund.
•Barbeque Ribs – Matt Oskinski of Polish & Company will be barbequing his famous ribs at noon.
Island Happenings - July 2 - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Island Happenings event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2005 in the Town Commons. In conjunction with this event the Youth Ambassadors will be selling hot dogs and sodas, donated by Sam Qureshi, store manager of Tops Market, and Frank Budwey, Owner of Budwey's Supermarket. Money raised will go towards the Chamber Youth Ambassador Scholarship Fund.
Among the features at this year's Island Happenings will be live music with Glenn Wallace, face painting, raffles, a bounce house and more.
The Chamber's 9th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale, larger than ever before, will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Town Commons in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce Island Happenings. KidBiz will be staged along the sidewalks at town hall.
Members of the Ridge Council Chapter Order of DeMolay will hold a
Chiavetta's Chicken Barbeque. The dinner ($10) includes chicken, two salads, roll and soda. A portion of the proceeds will go towards
the Chamber's Youth Ambassador Scholarship Fund and to Masonic Youth Groups.
Local businesses, clubs and organizations will showcase their products and services and promote their activities.
Chamber's KidBiz Training Well Attended - 2005 Mike Heftka is pictured with Island young people who attended KidBiz training last Thursday.
Click photo for full view.
A record attendance of over 40 young entrepreneurs attended the KidBiz training Thursday evening, June 9, 2005 in the Grand Island Memorial Library. Topics such as pricing, marketing and customer service were covered. The Chamber's 9th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale will take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Town Commons in conjunction with the Chamber of Commerce Island Happenings event being staged from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
on Saturday, July 2, 2005.
KidBiz, being held along the sidewalks at town hall, was developed by the Small Business Development Center and designed to give children in the third through sixth grade the experience and excitement of running their own business. Over 70 booths are expected at this year’s event where kids will sell books, toys, crafts, baked goods, and a whole lot more.
KidBiz is sponsored by Technology Camp of America and Grinders Skatepark and is an excellent opportunity for children to engage in a real-life business experience.
All businesses, clubs and organizations have been invited to participate and showcase their products and services. Island Happenings features will include a Chiavetta's Chicken Barbeque, Youth Ambassador hotdog sale, live music with Glenn Wallace, face painting, raffles, bounce houses and more.
For further information about KidBiz call Sue Hillock at 773-6723 or the chamber office at 773-3651.
DeMolay To Offer Chiavetta's Chicken Barbeque At Island Happenings - 2005
Members of the Ridge Council Chapter Order of DeMolay will hold a
Chiavetta's Chicken Barbeque during the Saturday, July 2, 2005 Island Happenings, a Chamber of Commerce event in the Town Commons (Town Hall). The dinner ($10) includes chicken, two salads, roll and soda. A portion of the proceeds will go towards
the Chamber's Youth Ambassador Scholarship Fund and to Masonic Youth Groups. Hours for Island Happenings are from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Local Businesses Support Young Entrepreneurs - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced the sponsors of the 9th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale 2005 are Technology Camp of America and Grinders Skatepark. This year’s event will be held Saturday, July 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Town Commons.
KidBiz was developed by the Small Business Development Center at Buffalo State College and designed to give children in the third through sixth grade the experience and excitement of running their own business. KidBiz training was held June 9th at the Grand Island Memorial Library where young entrepreneurs learned various aspects of running a business from KidBiz Trainer Mike Heftka.
For more information about KidBiz call Sue Hillock at 773-6723 or the chamber office at 773-3651.
Chamber Announces Business Sponsors For Island Happenings - 2005
Ridge Council Chapter DeMolay: (left) Abe Morgan, Island Happenings
Chairperson Dawn Bonora; (standing) Rob Sugar and Steve Morgan
Grand Island Chamber of Commerce would like to thank the following
businesses for sponsoring the upcoming Island Happenings event scheduled for
Saturday, July 2, 2005 in the Town Commons between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.
• Beverly Kinney of Carol Ann's Hair Fashions
• Christopher Pepper of the M.O.G. (Medically Oriented Gym)
• Ridge Council Chapter Order of DeMolay - The Chapter will hold a
Chiavetta's Chicken Barbeque with a portion of the proceeds going towards
the Youth Ambassador Scholarship Fund and to Masonic Youth Groups.
The Chamber of Commerce reports over 25 vendors have signed up and
invites additional businesses, organizations, crafters and food vendors, as
well as sponsors to participate in this annual event. Contact the Chamber
office at (716) 773-3651 for more information on sponsor packages and visit
the Chamber website at www.gichamber.org for Island Happenings Application. Deadline is June 20, 2005.
Chamber's KidBiz Training June 9th - 2005
The 9th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale will be held Saturday, July 2 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and located in the Town Commons as part of the many activities planned for the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce “Island Happenings.”
Training for KidBiz is scheduled for 6-7 p.m. Thursday, June 9, 2005 at the Grand Island Memorial Library. Young entrepreneurs will learn various aspects of running a business. Topics such as pricing, marketing and customer service are covered at the training event.
KidBiz, developed by the Small Business Development Center at Buffalo State College and Forever Elmwood, was launched in 1996. It was designed to give children in the third through sixth grade the experience and excitement of running their own business.
KidBiz made its debut as a Grand Island Chamber of Commerce project in 1997 as part of the “Plaza Happening.” Mike Heftka and Sue Hillock coordinated the event with over 30 children selling their products along the sidewalks under the canopy of the Grand Island Plaza. Articles sold included old books, toys, crafts, baked goods, and a whole lot more. The young business owners got a sense of running a business as they had to pay a fifty cent rental space fee and received a “license” to sell at the site after the rent was paid.
KidBiz is sponsored by Technology Camp of America and Grinders Skate Park and is an excellent opportunity for children to engage in a real-life business experience. For more information call Sue Hillock at 773-6723 or the chamber office at 773-3651.
Chamber Youth Ambassadors Involved in Island Happenings - 2005 Youth Ambassador Mike LoFaso, Tops Store Manager Sam Qureshi and Youth Ambassador Kari Tondera.
Click photo for a larger view.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce will hold its annual Island Happenings event from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2005 in the Town Commons. In conjunction with this event the Youth Ambassadors will be selling hot dogs and sodas, donated by Sam Qureshi, store manager of Tops Market, and Frank Budwey, Owner of Budwey's Supermarket. Money raised will go towards the Chamber Youth Ambassador Scholarship Fund.
Chamber To Relocate to Grand Island Blvd. June 1st Click photo for a larger view. Grand Island Chamber of Commerce to open at 2257 Grand Island Blvd.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce will move to a new and improved location on June 1, 2005. The Chamber office will be located at 2257 Grand Island Blvd. directly across from the Town Hall. A formal “Grand Opening” celebration is being planned.
Chamber Announces Island Happenings - KidBiz -Youth Ambassador Hot Dog Sale - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announced this week that its annual Island Happenings will be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 2, 2005 on Whitehaven Road between Baseline and Grand Island Boulevard. The event is in conjunction with KidBiz. All businesses, clubs and organizations are welcome to participate and showcase their products and services. Cost for a 15-foot space for Grand Island Chamber of Commerce members is $5. Cost to non-members is $25. For more information, call Event Chair Dawn Bonora at 716-773-7559 or the Chamber office at 716-773-3651.
The 3rd Annual Youth Ambassador Hot Dog Sale and Raffle will be held in conjunction with Island Happenings and KidBiz from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, July 2. A hot dog and beverage will be provided with a $2.00 donation. Each purchase will be automatically entered in the Chamber raffle and all proceeds will go towards the Youth Ambassador Scholarship program. Winning tickets will be drawn at the end of the day. Those entered in the drawing do not have to be present to win. For additional information contact the Chamber office at 773-3651.
Milton Sutter - Chamber's Citizen of the Year For Civic - 2005
Milton Sutter
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Milton Sutter will receive the Civic Award at the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center at 6 p.m. on Thursday, April 7. News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Milton Sutter was born in 1927 and lived in Western New York until he joined the Navy in 1945. He was assigned to a Naval Air Squadron on the Island of Saipan and served there until 1947. After returning home, he attended Radio and Television School for a year. He served the Naval Air Reserve at the Niagara Falls Naval Air Station until he went back on full active duty and was transferred to Los Alamitos Naval Air Station in California. While stationed there he flew anti-submarine missions as a radio operator as well as transport missions. He had two trips to Japan.
Milt made Aviation Electronics Chief Petty Officer at Los Alamitos and was transferred to Olathe, Kansas. His career was spent in aircraft maintenance and aircrew training. He continued to fly various missions with seven trips to Vietnam hauling freight to Dan Nang and Chu Li.
Milt and his wife, the former Grace Hoffman, became involved in the Boy Scouts in Olathe, starting at the bottom and working their way up to executives of the district. Milt also managed Little League Baseball.
He retired after 24 years of service and returned to live in the Sandy Beach neighborhood of Grand Island. In 1970, he was elected to the Board of Directors of the Sandy Beach Park Club. He has served in a number of positions and is currently the president. He has worked tirelessly to make the Sandy Beach community a better place by volunteering to do everything from grass cutting to major repairs and renovations. His neighbors say they are very fortunate to have Milt and Grace as neighbors as they are the first to offer helping hands.
Milt has been a licensed amateur radio operator since 1951 and is involved in building and flying radio-controlled aircraft. He is a member of the Naval Fleet Reserve Association.
The Sutters were married in 1951 and have four children, Kathleen of Wellsville, Kansas; Carol of Baldwin, Kansas; Sally of Tulsa, Oklahoma; and a son, Daniel, of Town of Tonawanda.
Scroll down for complete list of honorees. Join the chamber in honoring these businesses and individuals. Dinner tickets are available at the chamber office or by calling 773-3651.
Sherry Schimley - Chamber's Citizen of the Year For Service to Youth - 2005
Sherry Schimley
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Sherry Schimley will receive the Service to Youth Award at the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7, at 6:00 p.m. News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Sherry Schimley’s passion, excellence and level of commitment have benefited the students, teachers, and community of Grand Island. Her volunteer efforts span many years and include active involvement in GIHS Instrumental Booster Club, Grand Island Soccer Club, Kaegebein and Connor Middle School PTA’s, Brownies and Nursery School.
Sherry helped to establish the Grand Island Instrumental Booster Club. She has been an active member in the organization since its inception and is currently serving as co-president with her husband, Mark. Sherry’s dedication to the school music program has allowed the students to travel to compete nationally. She is one of the first to volunteer to chaperone the many trips that the students take. Chaperone duties include working four straight days taking care of students, walking hotel hallways at 2 a.m., helping with the inevitable emergencies at contests and performances and lending a hand unloading and loading equipment and luggage. Thanks to her hard work, and the work of others like her, the GIHS Booster Club is able to provide top name artists, conductors, composers and quality instruments for the students of the program.
Sherry serves on the Board of Directors for the Grand Island Soccer Club and has been the registrar for 10 years. She was scholarship chairperson, team manager, and handled the publicity for the club. Her volunteer hours involved working with board members, coaches, and administrators, and helping to create the family oriented soccer club experience. In addition to her board member responsibilities, she also designed a computerized a registration system to accommodate growth of over 220% during the 1990’s.
Sherry was Council Delegate for Connor Middle School PTA. She was also chairperson of School Services, Scholarships, and Tops Tapes for Kaegebein PTA along with co-chairing Room Parent and School Store. She has achieved Lifetime Membership of Kaegebein PTA. Sherry was a Girl Scout Brownie Leader and carnival co-chairperson. She also was a board member of the Grand Island Cooperative Nursery School, responsible for the newsletter for six years.
Sherry and Mark have been married for 30 years and have been Grand Island residents for 26 of those years. They have four children, Kristen of Annapolis, and Karen, David and Michael of Grand Island. Sherry is a member of the Youngstown Yacht Club and enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching her children play sports and music, sailing and traveling.
Scroll down for complete list of honorees. Join the chamber in honoring these businesses and individuals. Dinner tickets are available at the chamber office or by calling 773-3651.
Rotary Club - Chamber's Organization of the Year - 2005
Grand Island Rotary Club has been named Organization of the Year by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and will be honored at the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7, at 6:00 p.m. News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
"Service Above Self" - that is the motto of Rotary, and the Grand Island Rotary Club puts this into practice as part of a worldwide organization. Globally, there are about 1.2 million Rotarians who belong to more than 31,000 clubs in 166 countries. Rotary clubs are non-political and non-religious; they are open to people of all cultures, races, and religions. Rotary members are business and professional people who strive to serve others through their vocations, community projects, and international efforts, which will foster world understanding and peace.
The Rotary program that has probably touched the most lives is their international campaign to eradicate polio. PolioPlus began in 1985. Since then, there has been more than a 99% reduction in the number of polio cases worldwide. In 1994 the western hemisphere was declared polio-free, and this was followed by Europe in 2002. By the end of this year, Rotary will have contributed half a billion dollars to this worthy cause. Rotary continues to provide volunteers to assist in national immunization programs in countries still battling this crippling disease.
After the devastating tsunami on December 26, 2004, Rotary sprung into action. They have set up a special fund called "Solidarity in South Asia," to accept donations. The money will be used to provide both short- and long-term aid to the affected communities as they rebuild. Rotary clubs are also working with UNICEF and the Red Cross to offer immediate assistance. Rotary clubs in Great Britain and Ireland collected over $1.9 million for tsunami relief. About half of that money funded 800 Aquaboxes and 500 Shelterboxes to areas devastated in Sri Lanka and India. One Aquabox can supply pure water to a family of four for three months. Each Shelterbox contains a tent and basic supplies for up to ten people.
The Grand Island Rotary Club began in 1959 and currently has 42 active men and women as members. They meet every Wednesday at 6:15 p.m. at the Buffalo Launch Club. Some of their many community service projects include the clean-up of Beaver Island Parkway as part of the Adopt-a-Highway Program, planting of daffodils to beautify Grand Island Boulevard, providing funds to construct the gazebo at Town Hall and the new foyer at the Golden Age Center, sponsoring the Interact Club (a junior version of Rotary) at Grand Island High School, honoring "Students of the Month" in recognition of their academic accomplishments and community service, bestowing scholarships to graduating seniors, and ringing bells and collecting donations for the Salvation Army during the Christmas holiday season.
International service efforts include hosting international exchange students and groups of young professionals who come from Rotary clubs in other countries, setting up micro finance and micro development programs in Africa, fortifying wheat with micronutrients, such as iron, to eliminate malnutrition, renovating a school and constructing greenhouses in Bolivia, digging wells in Haiti, creating new houses in Bolivia to reduce transmission of Chagas Disease, which is the third leading cause of death in Central and South America, and building a hospital in Nepal that will serve 300,000 people.
This past February marked the 100th Anniversary of Rotary. It began when a small group of men organized the first Rotary club in Chicago in 1905. In the words of Kofi Annan, Secretary-General of the United Nations, "Rotary has the ability to organize campaigns to mobilize support for some of the worthiest causes that exist, and that makes Rotary a precious resource.”
Other honorees to be recognized this year are Grand Lady Cruises, Business; Rockwood Brothers Collision, Business Persons; Ted Bates, Community Service; Milt Sutter, Civic; and Sherry Schimley, Service to Youth.
Join the Chamber in honoring these businesses and individuals. To purchase dinner tickets call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Rockwood Brothers - Chamber's Business Persons of the Year - 2005
Bob and Tim Rockwood
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Bob and Tim Rockwood of Rockwood Brothers Collision have been chosen Business Persons of the Year and will be honored at the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet.
Bob and Tim Rockwood, industrious by nature, launched themselves into the business world at a young age. Their first auto body repair shop was located in North Buffalo, near where they grew up. Looking to expand into a larger building, in 1980 they rented space for their collision shop on Grand Island Blvd. Customers appreciated their excellent workmanship and their business continued to successfully grow. In 1985 they purchased the building complex on Whitehaven Road, the current location of Rockwood Brothers Collision, Inc. Bob and Tim have high quality standards and provide customers with helpful advice on how to deal with a car accident. They show sincere caring about their customers, offer first-rate repair jobs, and deliver service in a friendly way. Tim and Bob refurbished one of their buildings on Whitehaven Road in 2003 to house the office of Legislator Chuck Swanick, the Grand Island Police, Public Safety, and the Erie County Sheriff’s substation.
The Rockwood brothers are grateful for the support they have received from the Grand Island community. In turn they have contributed back to the community by supporting many fundraisers and Rotary Club projects such as the concession stand and pavilion at Veterans Park. In addition, Tim and Bob orchestrated a chicken barbecue with fellow members of Glen Coe Conservation Society as part of the fundraiser for Meghan’s Miracle, a local girl in need of a double-lung transplant. They donated their time to paint helicopters for the Erie County Sheriff’s Department and they can always be counted on to support Little League Baseball and youth soccer organizations.
On a personal note, Tim moved his family to Grand Island in 1990 and is the proud father of Blake and Paige. Bob and his wife, Dr. April Rockwood, Professor of Occupational Therapy at D’Youville College, moved to Grand Island in 2004. Their four children, Travis, Joycie, Jeremy, and Katrina all attend Grand Island schools. Bob is a member of the Amateur Trap Shooting Association and International Bow Hunting Organization. He belongs to Grand Island Rod & Gun Club, Buffalo Shooting Club, and is on the board of directors at Glen Coe Conservation Society. Bob and Tim are members of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce. Both Rockwood families enjoy skiing and camping.
Other awardees include Ted Bates-Community Service, Rotary Club-Organization, Milt Sutter-Civic, and Sherry Schimley-Service to Youth. Join the Chamber in honoring these businesses and individuals on Thursday, April 7th at the Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center. For ticket information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Chamber Names Bronze Sponsors of Citizens of the Year Event - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces Bronze Sponsors of the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award. Supporting the event that honors Grand Island’s finest are Advantage Capital, American Pharmaceutical Partners, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, Cataract Customhouse Brokerage, CIR Electrical, Emerson-Control Techniques, Contour Financial Planning, L.L.C., First Niagara Bank, The Grand Lady Cruises, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Coldwell Banker Chubb Real Estate, M & T Bank, Realty USA, Rose Liquor Store, Sunoco-Super Gas, and Technology Camp of America.
Other sponsors include Fuccillo Auto Park, Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center, and Fujisawa Healthcare as Platinum Sponsors.
Gold Sponsors are HSBC Bank USA, A. J.’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Invitrogen Corporation, and Niagara Frontier Publications.
Silver Sponsors of this year’s event are Tops Friendly Market, Keller Group, and Oncology Research Therapeutics Inc.
The award banquet will be held at the Grand Island Holiday Inn on Thursday, April 7, at 6:00 p.m. and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made our town a better place. To purchase tickets, call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Chamber To Raffle 7-Day Cruise & More At Citizen Of Year Event - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce will raffle a 7-day Holland America Cruise along with
many other getaway packages this year at the Citizen of the Year Awards Banquet
Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center Thursday, April 7, 2005
• Cocktails - 6 p.m.
• Dinner - 7 p.m.
• Dinner Tickets – Adults $40.00 – Children - $16
To obtain tickets on the Scholarship Raffle ($10 each) before the Dinner, contact the Chamber Office (716) 773-3651 or any Board of Director.
For more information on the April 7th Citizen of the Year Dinner, scroll down.
Ted Bates - Chamber's Citizen of the Year For Community Service - 2005
Ted Bates
Edgar (Ted) Bates will be awarded the Community Service Award by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce at the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet.
Ted was born in Meadville, PA. He attended The Mercersburg Academy and Yale University where he was a member of The Fence Club (a social fraternity). He married Beth in 1960 and honeymooned in Hawaii. They were attracted to Hawaii and stayed two years. While there, he worked in Waikiki where he managed the Reef Tower Hotel. His son, Warren, was born in Hawaii. Ted was a member of the Hawaii Hotel Association.
He was hired in Hawaii by Northwest Airlines and was moved to Detroit to work with their sales staff. Their daughter Karen was born in Detroit. Northwest Airlines transferred Ted to Buffalo to assume the duties of Area Sales Manager, and they moved to Grand Island where they have lived since 1964. Their daughter, Jill, was born here.
He joined IBM in sales in 1966 and stayed with them until they purchased Hennigar Travel Service in 1975. They retained ownership of the agency (which changed names to Red Jacket Travel Service) until 2000 when the agency was sold to R J Koch Travel Service.
Ted joined the Rotary Club of Grand Island in 1975 and remains active in their many endeavors; He served as president of the club in 2001-2002 and presently serves as Assistant Governor in Rotary District 7090. He has held several positions of responsibility, most recently as project director for Rotary’s addition of a new entranceway at the Golden Age Center. He has received the Outstanding Leadership Award and Service Above Self Award, the latter being the motto of Rotary International.
He was also honored as a Paul Harris Fellow, one of Rotary’s most significant designations.
During his years as President of Red Jacket Travel, he served as president of the Grand Island Plaza Merchants Association. He initiated the first Community Happening held in the Grand Island Plaza where Kid Biz was introduced.
In 2003, he was made chairman of Grand Island’s first American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. He was asked to serve as honorary chairman in 2004.
Ted’s interests also involve the Buffalo Launch Club where he served as commodore, officer and director. He has since been honored with a Life Membership. While serving as Vice Commodore, he was the officer in charge of the building expansion, which included the addition of first floor restrooms, entranceway and portico in 1980.
Civic duties have included membership on the Grand Island Zoning Board of Appeals & the Economic Development Advisory Board.
Ted and Beth plan on moving to Florida in the very near future where they will establish a permanent residence. They hope to enjoy frequent visits from their seven grandchildren.
Others to be awarded are Grand Lady Cruises-Business of the Year; Rockwood Brothers Collision-Business Persons of the Year; Rotary Club-Organization; Milt Sutter-Civic; and Sherry Schimley-Service to Youth.
This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7, at 6:00 p.m. News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies. For ticket information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Grand Lady Cruises Inc - Chamber's Business of the Year - 2005
Richard Deegan
Grand Lady Cruises Inc. has been named Business of the Year by the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce and will be honored at the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7th. News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Richard Deegan of Colden is captain of the Grand Lady, an 80-foot dining yacht that can carry more than 100 passengers and is docked at the Holiday Inn. He purchased the vessel in Naples, Florida in the spring of 1998 and transported it to Grand Island. Grand Lady Cruises has truly become a family business with wife, Frances, son Andrew, and daughter, Jenna all taking an active part in the day-to-day operations.
Offering an upscale setting for corporate and social functions, The Grand Lady was named a Distinctive Passenger Vessel by Passenger Vessel News and an Outstanding Passenger Vessel by the trade publication Maritime Reporter.
Deegan participated in the 1995 Whitehouse Conferences on Travel & Tourism and served on the Erie County Tourism Advisory Committee, Niagara Tourism Task Force, Niagara County Tourism Advisory Board, and Chamber of Commerce of the Tonawanda’s.
He currently is a member of the Passenger Vessel Association-Small Operators Council Chairman, New York State Tour Boat Association, American Bus Association, Ontario Motor Coach Association, Niagara Frontier Tourism Task Force, Buffalo/Niagara Skal International and the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce.
Deegan is a Vietnam Veteran receiving an Honorable discharge with Army Commendation Medal with Valor.
Grand Lady Cruises has been very supportive of local service groups and organizations donating gift certificates for fundraising opportunities. The Grand Lady was the setting for a moonlight champagne cruise during the Town of Grand Island’s Sesquicentennial Celebration and Grand Ball with Deegan donating the use of the yacht. The Grand Lady and Captain Deegan are truly an asset to the Grand Island community.
Chamber Announces Citizens of the Year - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces the 2004 winners of the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award as follows.
• Business – Grand Lady Cruise
• Business Persons – Rockwood Brothers Collision
• Organization – Rotary Club
• Community Service – Ted Bates
• Civic – Milt Sutter
• Service to Youth – Sherry Schimley
This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7th and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made the Town of Grand Island a better place. News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Platinum Sponsors for the event are Fuccillo Auto Park, Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center, and Fujisawa Healthcare. Gold Sponsors to date include HSBC Bank USA, A. J.’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Invitrogen Corporation, and Niagara Frontier Publications. Silver sponsors include Tops Friendly Market, Keller Group, and Oncology Research Therapeutics Inc. Bronze Sponsors are Advantage Capital, American Pharmaceutical Partners, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, CIR Electrical, Emerson-Control Techniques, Contour Financial Planning, First Niagara Bank, Mary Kay, M & T Bank, Realty USA, Rose Liquor Store, and Sunoco-Super Gas.
To purchase dinner tickets ($40) call the Chamber office at 773-3651.
Citizen Of Year Platinum Sponsors Announced
Fuccillo, Holiday Inn, Fujisawa Take Top Spot - 2005
(left) Tom Kanaley of Fuccillo Auto Park and Citizen of the Year Chair Beverly Kinney; Beverly Kinney and Dan Gilliland of Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center; (right) Beverly Kinney and Scott Aladeen of Fujisawa Healthcare
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that Fuccillo Auto Park, Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center, and Fujisawa Healthcare have signed on as Platinum Sponsors for the 39th annual Citizen of the Year Award.
This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7th and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made the town of Grand Island, NY a better place. News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Gold Sponsors to date include HSBC Bank USA, A. J.’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Invitrogen Corporation, and Niagara Frontier Publications. Silver sponsors include Tops Friendly Market, Keller Group, and Oncology Research Therapeutics Inc. Bronze Sponsors are Advantage Capital, American Pharmaceutical Partners, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, CIR Electrical, Emerson-Control Techniques, Contour Financial Planning, First Niagara Bank, Mary Kay, M & T Bank, Realty USA, Rose Liquor Store, and Sunoco-Super Gas.
For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Grand Island Chamber Seeks Citizen Of Year Nominations - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce will host its 39th Annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet in the Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7, 2005. The Chamber is currently accepting nominations for this year’s award. Suggested categories for nomination include business, businessperson, corporation, civic, education, community service, and senior citizen. Nomination forms may be found in the 2005 Chamber of Commerce phonebook, on the chamber website www.gichamber.org or at the Chamber office, 1980 Whitehaven Road. Deadline for nominations is February 11. For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Health Insurance Open Enrollment Forum - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce will hold an Open Enrollment Forum for members and interested parties from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, January 26, 2005 at the Holiday Inn Grand Island, 100 Whitehaven Road. Representatives from Community Blue, Independent Health, Univera and The Dental Shop will give brief presentations and answer any insurance plan questions. RSVP at 773-3651.
Grand Island Chamber To Host Citizen Of Year Award Banquet - 2005 Nominations Being Accepted
News 4 Anchor Erika Brason
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that News 4 Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies for the 39th Annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 7, 2005 and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made our town a better place.
Ms. Brason graduated from Syracuse University and soon went to work for WIVB-TV. She spent several years in the Sales & Research Department before turning to a career on air. Ms. Brason currently anchors “Weekend Wake-up” on Saturday and Sunday and does general assignment reporting during the week.
The Chamber is currently accepting nominations for this year’s award. Suggested categories for nomination include business, businessperson, corporation, civic, education, community service, and senior citizen. Nomination forms may be found in the 2005 Chamber of Commerce phonebook, on the chamber website www.gichamber.org or at the Chamber office, 1980 Whitehaven Road. Deadline for nominations is February 11. For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
If you are a member of this organization, we need your help. GIECOM.Net has partnered with the Connections program to help Grand Island as a community "Get it Together." Please visit our website G-I-Together.ORG and fill out our SURVEY. Every group on Grand Island will have its own FREE web page showing: meeting times and location, contact persons, your Mission Statement and a listing of events. We will also be linking your news events that appear in the local media and on IsledeGrande.Com, Grand Island's E-News Source, to your page, maintaining an archived journal of pictures and news. This is the perfect opportunity for your group to connect with potential new members and the community.
