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.
Joanne Kud Elected Chamber President - 2006
Joanne Kud
Members of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce, at their December 12th Holiday Party in the Buffalo Launch Club, elected Joanne Kud (Ramada Inn Amherst Conference Center) to serve as president of the Chamber for the coming year. Re-elected to the board of directors were Andy Beyer, AJ Beyer Mechanical; Dawn Bonora, Mary Kay Cosmetics Sales Director; and Tom Kanaley, Fuccillo Automotive Group. Newly elected directors are Deborah Mann, First Niagara Bank; and Michael Schneider, Grafx Sign & Design. The three incumbents and Deborah Mann will each serve three-year terms with Michael Schneider serving out a one-year term.
Beverly Kinney will remain on board as past president, with John Bonara (Advantage Capital) elected 1st vice president, and Tony Brindisi (The Keller Group) elected to 2nd vice president. Judy Schmidt will remain as treasurer, and Victor Gagliardi (Bouvier Partnership, LLP) will remain as secretary.
Other directors include Dr. Sherry Bradford (Oncology Research Therapeutics), Fran Davis (Wilson Farms), Angelo Grande (Technology Camp of America), Skip Mazenauer (Niagara Frontier Publications), Michael Anthony Rossi, Esq., Jim Sharpe, Diane Thompson (Control Techniques), and Michael Welch (MJ Welch Enterprises).
The Chamber looks forward to another productive year. The Chamber’s board meetings are held on the third Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Grand Island and are open to all members and the general public. The installation of directors and executive officers will be held on Tuesday, January 16, 2007.
Marston Receives Chamber's Property Improvement Award - 2006
Chamber President Beverly Kinney (right) and Chamber 2nd Vice President John Bonora (left) present Pete Marston of Marston Power Equipment with the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Property Improvement Award on Monday, December 11th. Committee members not present are Skip Mazenauer (Niagara Frontier Publications), Tom Kanaley (Fuccillo Chevrolet) and Andy Beyer (AJ Beyer Mechanical).
Click photo for larger view.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Property Improvement Award was presented to Pete Marston of Marston Power Equipment, 1970 Grand Island Boulevard on Monday, December 11th. A resident of Grand Island since 1983, Pete began his sales and service business approximately five years ago and was originally located across the street from his current address. He moved to his current location on April 15, 2004. When asked what he did to improve the previously vacant property, he said he “made it workable for us,” and in the process Pete improved the appearance and safety of his property, thus enhancing the beautification of Grand Island.
Ribbon Cutting Held For Newly Opened Platinum Wireless - 2006
(left) Grand Island Councilman Richard Crawford, Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel, Town Supervisor Peter McMahon, Store Manager George Fitzpatrick, Grand Island Chamber President Beverly Kinney, Store Owner Jim Heller, Chamber 2nd Vice President John Bonora and Chamber Director Michael Welch.
Click photo for larger view. November 30, 2006 . . .The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce welcomed new business, Platinum Wireless, during a ribbon cutting ceremony. Platinum Wireless, opened for business this past week, is a cellular sales, accessories and payment center, located at 2295 Grand Island Boulevard.
Semi-Finalists (left photo) Dianne Maerz, Shannon Howley, Nicholas Shemik, and Sara Slovick
(right photo) Ashley Ray, Bessie Zhang, Corey McGowan, and Abby Cliff
Click photo for larger view. Corey McGowan is currently a senior at Grand Island High School and is very active in many school activities and organizations such as: DECA (President for 2006-07) and CEIP/Internship Program where he is currently interning with Mr. Reg Schopp of DeSignet International. Awards include: DECA top five at Regional competition in the event of Visual Advertising. For nine years he was a member of the Grand Niagara Hockey Team and for the past two years has participated in the annual Food For Friends Drive at the Knights of Columbus. Corey will be attending Niagara University as a business major in the fall of 2007. Bessie Zhang is a senior at Grand Island High School who takes a very active role in school, both academically and through extracurricular activities. She is third in her class for 2007 and will have taken eight advanced placement along with 12 honors classes (including college-level French through Niagara University) by graduation. Bessie is currently Co-Caption of Varsity Cheerleading and employed at Grand Island Memorial Library. She was a Summer Research Assistant at Roswell Park Cancer Institute and had over 300 hours of community service from Roswell, Mt. St. Mary’s Hospital and SABAH. After high school, Bessie plans to attend Duke Univeristy as a biology major and hopes to continue on to a prestigious medical school to obtain a residency in cosmetic/reconstructive surgery and return to WNY to open her own clinic.
New Island Business, Lotions and Potions, Holds Ribbon Cutting - 2006
Taking part in the 6 p.m. ribbon cutting are (left) Chamber Directors Dawn Bonora and Anthony Brindisi, Ciara and Sue Morreale of Lotions & Potions, Chamber Director Victor Gagliardi, Chamber President Beverly Kinney, and Town Councilmen Gary Roesch and Dick Crawford.
Click photo for larger view.
Sue Morreale, owner of Lotions and Potions in Williamsville and Grand Island, hosted a Grand Opening celebration with champagne and hors d'ouvres on Thursday, September 14, 2006. Sue opened the women's boutique in early August at 1713 Grand Island Boulevard.
For more information, click Lotions & Potions Grand Opening
Chamber To Choose Youth Ambassador - Scholarship Opportunity - 2006
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces their Youth Ambassador Program to promote interaction and goodwill between local students and the business community. The program is designed to recognize the youth of this area, and to select two Youth Ambassadors who will represent Grand Island at town and school functions, and community and business events as well. Now in its tenth year, the program is open to all Grand Island residents attending grades 10, 11, and 12 in high school on/or off the Island, for the 2006-2007 school year.
Thanks to contributions received so far from Rockwood Brothers Collision, Douglas Wright, DDS, Town of Grand Island, Grand Island Loyal Order of the Moose Lodge #180, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, Assemblymen Sam Hoyt, Legislator Michele Iannello, Interim Schools Superintendent Lawrence Zacher, First Niagara Bank, and Creative Leather Concepts. The scholarship applications are available at all area school Guidance Offices and the Chamber of Commerce, 2257 Grand Island Boulevard, 773-3651. All completed applications must be submitted to the Chamber Office by Friday, October 6, 2006.
Chamber Accepts American Flag - Sept. 2006
Eggertsville-Grand Island Lodge # 1138, Hiram Lodge # 105 and Harmonie Lodge # 699 of the Grand Island Lodge F & AM of New York teamed up on Sunday, September 10, 2006 for a memorial service to honor the memory of 9-11-01 and celebrate the American spirit. The three Lodges presented flags to 14 community groups as part of a statewide effort, when 30,000 flags were presented. The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce was honored for its commitment to the Grand Island community. Chamber President Beverly Kinney accepted the American made American Flag on behalf of the Chamber Board of Directors, of which, the following were in attendance: Chamber 1st Vice President Joanne Kud, and Chamber Director Dr. Sherry Bradford.
Chamber Representatives Visit GIHS On First Day Of School - 2006
(left) Tony Brindisi, Joanne Kud, Sandra Anzalone, Chris Swiatek. Click photo for larger view.
Grand Island Chamber of Commerce representatives visited the Grand Island High School on Wednesday, September 6, 2006. New GIHS Principal Sandra Anzalone and new Assistant Principal Chris Swiatek were joined by Chamber 1st Vice President Joanne Kud and GISBA (Grand Island School and Business Alliance) Representative Tony Brindisi as they spoke to all four grade levels, 9-12, during separate assemblies, welcoming the students back for the 2006-2007 school year.
Chamber 1st Vice President Joanne Kud explained how the town, local businesses, and the school district have worked together to better the community and enrich learning through such programs as the Youth Ambassador Scholarship Program, Job Search, Shadow Day, and Corporate Bowl.
Farewell To Youth Ambassadors - 2006
(left) Carissa Bailey, Karalyn Rossi, 1st Vice President and Youth Program Chair Joanne Kud and Chamber President Beverly Kinney. Click photo for larger view.
Area business members had a chance to bid farewell to outgoing Youth Ambassadors, Carissa Bailey and Karalyn Rossi, at the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors summer outing, held on the Grand Lady Cruise Boat. Carissa will be attending Fredonia State University, and Karalyn will be going to University of Buffalo.
Selection for the 2006-2007 Youth Ambassador is now in progress. Grand Island residents who will be attending 10th, 11th, or 12th grades in September 2006 are eligible to participate. Applications will be distributed by each of the grades' homeroom teachers. They may also be picked up at the Chamber of Commerce office at 2257 Grand Island Boulevard, or in the 2006 Grand Island Telephone Directory. 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. All completed applications must be received by Friday, September 29, 2006. For further information, please call Joanne Kud at 773-3651 at the Chamber of Commerce Office.
Chamber Awards Scholarship - 2006
1st Vice President and Youth Program Chair Joanne Kud with Scholarship Award Winner Brandon Antonelli and his mother, Toni Antonelli, along with Chamber President Beverly Kinney. Click photo for larger view.
Brandon Antonelli was selected as this year’s recipient of the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Annual Scholarship Award presented at the Chamber’s Board of Directors Meeting on July 18, 2006 at the Holiday Inn Grand Island. Brandon was selected for his academic achievement, leadership and community involvement.
Brandon will attend SUNY at Brockport where he will major in Premedicine. This will lead him to becoming an Orthopedic Surgeon. Brandon was captain of Varsity wrestling and football, and is a two-time winner of the Scholar Athlete Award. He has participated in DECA and was a nominee for the National Honor Society. As for his community activities he had the top overall team in the 2004 Relay for Life, is active on Grand Island Youth Advisory Board and was a Religious Education Teacher.
Island Happenings Huge Success - July 2006
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce hosted Island Happenings on Saturday, July 1, 2006 in the Town Commons with over 40 vendors participating. The Chamber of Commerce thanks the following sponsors: Grand Island Women of the Moose Lodge #180, Designs by Bryans, Carol Ann’s Hair Salon, Java Shop Café, Fuccillo Auto Park, Creative Leather Concepts, and Niagara Frontier Publications. Music and entertainment was provided by Jeannine King (County LIFE children’s show), Jackson Music (kids band) and the “the Strangers” musical group.
Participating in this year’s event were: Anchor Marine, Avon (Lynn Quarantello), Biothi Haus, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, Citizen Corp Council (CERTS), Classic Fence, Cookie Lee, Creative Leather Concepts, Curves, Discount Health Benefits (Fred Claus), Dream Chasers Stained Glass, Fabric Wreaths, Fuccillo Auto Park, Grand Island Democratic Committee, Grand Island Fire Company, Grinders Skatepark, Home & Garden Party, Hoof & Hound, Java Shop Cafe’, Jeannine King (Children’s Book Author), KR Communications, Mary Grace Artisan Jewelry, Mary Kay (Dawn Bonora), Met Life (fingerprint clinic), Michael Anthony Rossi, Esq., Beth Newton, Priscilla M. (Penny) Addoms, St. Martin-in-the-Fields, St. Stephen School, Ann Jalsa, Claudia Preve, Enshrined Body, the M.O.G., Traffic Safety Council, and YWCA of the Tonawandas (GIFTS).
For the Chamber of Commerce' parade winners, click
"July 4 Parade Winners" and scroll down.
Kidbiz 2006 Draws Over 100 Booths - 2006
Photo submitted by Chamber of Commerce - Click for larger view
Mary Stewart Photos - Click for larger view
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce held its 10th annual Island Happenings and KidBiz on Saturday, July 1, 2006 at the Town Commons. The KidBiz Sidewalk Sale was a huge success with young entrepreneurs setting up shop on the grounds of the Town Commons. T-shirts were purchased for all the kids by Technology Camp of America, Fuccillo Auto Park, and AJ’s Heating and Cooling. Sue Hillock and Mike Heftka were in charge of coordinating the training and setup.
KidBiz participants for 2006 include:
Alwareed Abdellatif, Amir Abdellatif, Reem Abdellatif, Elaina Bolles, Alex Brennan, Brian Brennan, Ryan Britt, Abigail Chambers, Natalia Christiano, Ben Cliff, Jane Cooke, Alexandra Corrao, Annaliese Corrao, Jordan Davis, Eric Dudley, Hannah Edwards, Mohamed Eltagouri, Yousuf Eltagouri, Erika Ewert, Korin Frantz, Craig Fucso, Clark Fusco, Emma Garten, Zoe Gionis, Emily Glose, Krista Glownia, Madeleine Goc, Olivia Goc, Ashley Gorman, Jake Hawley, Adam Heftka, Amanda Heftka, Ciara Howley, Samantha Kahn, Julie Kilmer, Alexis Kowalak, Stephanie Kowalak, Elizabeth Kowalik, Ashley Kroetsch, Carly Kruszona, Austin Mahoney, Quinn Mikulski, Travis Mikulski, Aaron Noyes, Matthew Osinski, Callen Piazza, Anne Pilie, Anna Playfair, Marina Scerra, Nikki Scerra, Rachel Schauger, Kenneth Scozzafaza, Lauren Shepard, Heavyn Skura, Cassidy Smith, Molly Smith, Zaida Smith, Jackie Sosnowksi, John Sosnowski, Amanda Sutter, Jessica Sutter, Melissa Ullrich, Emily Valint, Evan Valint, Elena Watt, Rachel Watt, Madelyn Webb, Sarah Williams, Nathalie Winder, Timothy Winder, Marina Wittmann, Jillian Wohlfehrt, Zach Wojnar, Brian Wynne, Emily Wynne
10th Annual Island Happenings / Kid Biz this Saturday - July 1, 2006
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is hosting the 10th annual Island Happenings scheduled for Saturday, July 1, 2006 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Town Commons off Whitehaven Road between Baseline and Grand Island Boulevard in conjunction with KidBiz. Over 40 local businesses, organizations, crafters and food vendors will showcase their products and services and more than 90 youth entrepreneurs will be selling arts and crafts, toys, books and homemade goodies.
The many activities planned for this year's event include: Country LIFE Children’s Show with “Kanga” the kangaroo from 10-11 a.m., Jackson Music “kids band,” 11 a.m.–12 p.m. and “the Strangers” will play from 1-3:30 p.m., with the widest varieties of classic rock, pop rock, country rock and dance music from the 60’s thru the 90’s.
The Grand Island Youth Ambassador hot dog sale will be running from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. in the center of everything along with Charlie’s Catering, cooking up BBQ chicken and ribs.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces a special thank you "to all our sponsors, without their support this event could not be possible." Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, Creative Leather Concepts, Designs by Bryans, Fuccillo Auto Park. Grand Island Women of the Moose Lodge #180, Java Shop Café and Niagara Frontier Publications (Island Dispatch/PennySaver). "We would also like to thank the sponsors of KidBiz; AJ Beyer Mechanical, Fuccillo Auto Park and Technology Camp of America for purchasing the t-shirts for the 10th annual event."
Youth Ambassador Hot Dog Sale - July 1, 2006
In conjunction with Island Happenings/Kid Biz a Youth Ambassador Hot Dog Sale will take place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 1, 2006 at the Town Commons. For a $2.50 donation, you will receive a mouth-watering hot dog and refreshing beverage. Each purchase will be automatically entered in our raffle and all proceeds will go towards the Youth Ambassador Scholarship program. Winning tickets will be drawn at the end of the day. You do not have to be present to win. All proceeds will go towards the Chamber of Commerce Youth Ambassador Scholarship program. Pre-sale tickets are currently being sold at the Chamber Office at 2257 Grand Island Boulevard or may be purchased from any Chamber director. For more information, contact the Chamber at 773-3651.
100+ Booths To Be Set Up At KidBiz Sidewalk Sale July 1st - 2006
The 10th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 1, 2006 along the sidewalks at town hall as part of the many activities planned for the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce “Island Happenings.”
KidBiz 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 100 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 Fuccillo Auto Park and is an excellent opportunity for children to engage in a real-life business experience.
For more information about KidBiz call Sue Hillock at 773-6723 or the Chamber office at 773-3651.
Chamber Names Sponsors Of July 1st Island Happenings - 2006
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that Grand Island Moose Lodge WOTM, Designs by Bryans, Carol Ann’s Hair Salon, Java Shop Café, and Niagara Frontier Publications will be sponsors of Island Happenings on Saturday, July 1 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Town Commons.
The event is a great way for businesses to showcase their product, organizations and service groups to raise funds or solicit membership, and artisans to sell their arts and crafts. Participating in this year’s event are Grand Island Moose Lodge WOTM, Designs by Bryans, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, Java Shop Café, Niagara Frontier Publications, Biothi Haus, Mary Kay Cosmetics (Dawn Bonora), Grinders Skate Park, Classic Fence Company, Grand Island Youth Ambassadors' Hot Dog Sale, U.S. Coast Guard, Citizens Corp Council (C.E.R.T.S.), Traffic Safety Promotions, the M.O.G., Bleich Inc. (Miracle Ear), Michael Anthony Rossi, Esq., Fuccillo Auto Park, K.R. Communications, Avon (Lynn Quarantello), Fabric Wreaths, Discount Health Benefits, Cookie Lee Jewelry, and Dream Chasers Stained Glass.
To reserve your spot today, call the chamber office at 773-3651.
GIHS's Marketing Class Is Recipient of Chamber's Creativity Award - 2006
Award recipients Corey Dudish and Colleen George are shown with Chamber President Beverly Kinney - Click photo for larger view.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce presented Creativity Awards to several Grand Island High School students from Ms. Bobbi Frisoni’s Marketing/Yearbook Class at the Board of Directors meeting held on Tuesday, May 16th at the Grand Island Holiday Inn. The following students took part in this year’s logo contest for the 40th Annual Citizen of the Year Awards Banquet; Corey Dudish, Colleen George, Steve Beatty, Ryan Gratton, Mary Caitlin Hayes, Chad Moran, Jessica Kuehne and Kate Dlugosz.
Chamber Installs New Director - 2006
AJ Beyer with Chamber President Beverly Kinney.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce installed new Director Andy Beyer of AJ Beyer Mechanical at the Chamber Board of Directors meeting held on Tuesday, May 16th at the Grand Island Holiday Inn Resort and Conference Center.
Chamber's
Island Happenings Set For July 1st - 2006
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced its Island Happenings as taking place from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 1, 2006 in the Town Commons, between Baseline Road and Grand Island Boulevard in conjunction with KidBiz. All businesses, clubs and organizations are welcome to participate and showcase their products and services. Cost for a 15’ space for Chamber members is $5 and for non-members, $25. Community businesses and residents may become a sponsor of Island Happenings for only $100.00. Contact Event Chair, Angelo Grande at (716) 773-5282 or the Chamber office at (716) 773-3651 or visit the Chamber website at www.gichamber.org for more information. Call Sue Hillock, Chairperson for more information on KidBiz (716) 773-6723.
Chamber's 10th Annual KidBiz Sale
Training - 2006
The 10th annual KidBiz Sidewalk Sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, July 1, 2006 as part of the many activities planned for the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce “Island Happenings”. Training for KidBiz will be held from 6-7 p.m. Monday, June 5 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 on Grand Island 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 particularly 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 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.
The Chamber's 2005 award recipients pictured with Channel 2 News Anchor and the evening's MC, Erika Brason, are from left Jayne Playfair, Judy and Skip Mazenauer, Maria Burns, (Ms Brason), Becky Cacciatore, Debi Ruppel for Carol Volk, Rick Halas (Moose Lodge #180), and Dr. James Dempsey.
The Grand Island High School Boys Choir, Dominate Force, directed by Carolyn Lokken, provided music before the dinner.
The Chamber of Commerce 40th Citizen of the Year Awards dinner in the Holiday Inn on Thursday, April 27, 2006 was attended by over 300 people including 35 past recipients. Dr. Norman G. Courey, first Citizen of the Year for 1965, was among the guests. Lifetime Achievement Award winner, Dr. James Dempsey, received a loud and long round of applause. Dr. Dempsey will retire from his post as Grand Island High School principal at the end of the school year.
Program started off with the Charles N. DeGlopper color guard leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The Grand Island High School's boys choir, Dominate Force, directed by Carolyn Lokken, sang the Star Spangled Banner and America the Beautiful.
Rev. Kevin Backus of Bible Presbyterian Church gave the invocation.
The following were honored for 2005 and introduced by Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason, serving as Master of Ceremonies:
• Carol Volk, - Business Person of the Year
• Grand Island Moose Family Center #180 - Organization of the Year
• Jayne Playfair - Service to Youth
• Rebecca Cacciatore - Educator of the Year
• Maria Burns - Civic
• Dr. James R. Dempsey - Special Lifetime Achievement Award
For photos and information on each recipient, scroll down. Beverly Sharpe and Susan Hillock co-chaired this year's annual Chamber event just as they have for several years.
Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Awards Dinner - April 27, 2006
The 40th annual Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Award Banquet is being held Thursday, April 27 at the Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center. The community is invited to attend.
Dinner tickets are available at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd. or by calling 773-3651. Scroll down for those being honored.
Jayne Playfair - Chamber's Service to Youth Award - 2006
Chamber Celebrates 40 years of Honoring Grand Island’s Finest
Jayne Playfair
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that Jayne Playfair will receive the Service to Youth Award at the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, at 6:00 p.m. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Jayne Playfair is the epitome of a Grand Island volunteer. Her efforts have cut across numerous areas, included both formal organizations and individual, personal efforts, and ranged from highly visible roles to low profile, behind the scenes work.
Jayne is a member of St. Stephen School Advisory Board. Since 1998, she has run the school’s Theme Tray Raffle, an event that has been instrumental in drawing together parents and teachers at the onset of the school year. This year, she co-founded, developed, and implemented a Character Development Program at school. Utilizing her endless creativity, this program has reinforced the positive character traits of our youth and subsequently improved the overall spirit of the school. As the School’s Athletic Director, she is responsible for coordinating the uniforms and equipment, coaches, league membership, officials, playing field and gym arrangements, rosters, and finances for all the teams in seven different extramural sports. Beyond these administrative roles she consistently monitors coaches and events insuring the spirit of practices and games provide a fair, competitive and positive experience for the kids.
While her husband, Larry, is well known as the president of the Buffalo Sabres Alumni Association, Jayne does much of the less glamorous, but essential behind-the-scenes work. She spends many hours in connection with the Association’s annual Golf Tournament that helps to fund the Association’s Scholarship Program. And when breast cancer touched the Sabres’ family, Jayne was a prime organizer, along with other Sabres alumni wives, of the Buffalo Sabres Alumni Wine Festival held at HSBC Arena this year to benefit the Roswell Breast Care Center.
Jayne and Larry have been married 24 years and have four children, Jena, Michael, Dennis, and Anna. She is employed by Comprehensive Occupational Medical Services in North Tonawanda.
Other winners of the 2005 Citizen of the Year Award include Niagara Frontier Publications - Business of the Year; Carol Volk - Business Person of the Year; Grand Island Moose Family Center #180 - Organization of the Year; Rebecca Cacciatore - Educator of the Year; Maria Burns - Civic Award and Dr. James R. Dempsey - Lifetime Achievement.
Supporting this year’s event are Platinum Sponsors: Astellas Pharma Manufacturing Inc., Fuccillo Auto Park of Grand Island, and Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center: Gold Sponsors: A.J.‘s Heating & Air Conditioning, HSBC Bank USA, Invitrogen Corporation, and Niagara Frontier Publications; Silver Sponsors: Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, Emerson Control Techniques, Keller Insurance Group, MJ Welch Enterprise, and Tops Friendly Markets; and Bronze Sponsors: AIG Advisor Group, American Pharmaceutical Partners, First Niagara Bank, Grand Lady Cruises, Mary Kay Cosmetics, Realty USA, Rockwood Brothers Collision Inc., Rose Liquor Store, Scheid Architectural, and Technology Camp of America.
The Chamber invites all to honor these outstanding citizens and extends a special invitation to past recipients of this award to celebrate its 40th anniversary. Dinner tickets are available at the chamber office or by calling 773-3651.
Dr. James R. Dempsey - Chamber's Special Lifetime Achievement Award - 2006
Dr. James R. Dempsey
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces that Dr. James R. Dempsey will receive the Special Lifetime Achievement Award and will be honored at
the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, at 6:00 p.m. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Dr. James R. Dempsey has been the principal of Grand Island High School since November of 1996. His career in education spans 36 years as a teacher, coach, supervisor and administrator. His teaching experience includes seven years total at Gateway Youth Center (now Gateway Longview) and concurrently two years of middle school at St. John’s School in Alden.
His administrative career includes 29 years, four as a supervisor with Catholic Charities, 7 ½ as an assistant principal with Erie 1 BOCES and Kenmore West High School. He has been a principal for almost 18 years at Erie 2 BOCES, Cleveland Hill High School and Grand Island High School.
The eldest of seven children, he grew up in the Village of Williamsville (when it was a village). Athletics, church activities and being around many other children were the things that kept him busy. His mother, Harriet, still resides in Williamsville, where as his dad, Robert, passed away in 1981.
Dr. Dempsey is a graduate of Bishop Neumann High School, Gannon University in Erie, PA, Canisius College and he received a Doctorate in Curriculum Planning from the University of Buffalo in 1983. He has also coached football at Williamsville East High School, basketball at Cardinal Dougherty and a variety of other sports at Gateway Longview.
An old athlete who still tries to bowl, play golf and compete in racquetball, he has been married to his wife, Mary, for over 32 years and has four children. Three daughters live in the Virginia area (Washington DC, Fredericksburg and Charlottesville) and a son, who after serving in Iraq, now resides in Brooklyn.
Dr. Dempsey will be leaving Grand Island High School in July 2006 to pursue other interests. After 10 graduating classes and over 2200 graduates he feels it is time to do something different.
Other honorees to be recognized this year are Niagara Frontier Publications-Business; Carol Volk-Business Person; Maria C. Burns-Civic; Grand Island Moose Lodge Family Center #180-Organization; Rebecca Cacciatore-Education Award; and Jayne Playfair-Service to Youth.
Join the Chamber in honoring these businesses and individuals. To purchase dinner tickets call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Rebecca Cacciatore - Chamber's Education Award - 2006
Rebecca Cacciatore
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces that Rebecca Cacciatore will receive the Education Award and will be honored at
the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, at 6:00 p.m. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Rebecca Cacciatore has served as the Pre-Kindergarten teacher at St. Stephen School for over 15 years, during which time she has touched the lives of hundreds of local children, playing a strong role in their academic success. As an early childhood educator, she has helped many children to develop a love of learning by making the learning process fun, and has created a warm, inviting classroom environment, which enables and enriches early childhood minds.
Miss Cacciatore attended Medaille College where she received her Masters of Science in Early Childhood Education. While at Medaille she received the Outstanding Educator Award and was a Nominee for the Medaille Collegiate Award.
As a teacher at St. Stephen School she is involved in many activities outside the classroom setting. Miss Cacciatore is the Student Council Advisor, coordinates the St. Joseph Day Celebration, organizes a Mothers Day Tea with the children, and has helped make the “Peaceful Playground” a reality for the children to use outside during recess.
She has developed a summer school program for incoming Pre K children, is a Daisy Troop Leader, a Middle States Evaluator for Accreditation of NYS schools, and was a nominee for the Walt Disney Teacher Hand Award in 2004.
Miss Cacciatore enjoys spending time with her mother, Barbara, and two brothers and their wives, John and Pamela, David and Annemarie, along with their children, Melinda, Victoria, Roman Anthony, and Alexis. She also has special godchildren Jenna and Michael. She enjoys traveling, cooking, gardening, going to concerts and the outdoors.
Other honorees to be recognized this year are Maria Burns-Civic Person of the Year ; Grand Island Moose Lodge Family Center #180-Organization of the Year; Jayne Playfair-Service to Youth; Carol Volk-Business Person of the Year; NFP-Chamber's Business of the Year and Dr. James Dempsey-Special Lifetime Achievement.
The community is invited to attend and honor these outstanding citizens, and also extends a special invitation to past recipients of this award to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Dinner tickets are available at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd., or by calling 773-3651.
Chamber Announces Citizen Of The Year 2006 Bronze Sponsors - April 2006
Ann Fahning, Realty USA and Angelo Grande, Technology Camp of America
Rich Nassar of American Pharmaceutical Partners, Inc.
Rick Deegan of Grand Lady Cruises, Inc.
John Bonora of AIG Advirsor Group & Debbie Mann of First Niagara Bank
Doug Scheid of Scheid Architectural
Dawn Bonora Mary Kay Independent Sales Consultant
Bob & Tim Rockwood, Rockwood Brothers Collision, Inc.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that AIG-Advisor Group, American Pharmaceutical Partners, First Niagara Bank, Grand Lady Cruises, Inc., Mary Kay, Realty USA, Rockwood Brothers Collision, Rose Liquor Store, Scheid Architectural and Technology Camp of America are Bronze Sponsors for the 40th 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 27th and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made our town a better place. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Platinum Sponsors include Astellas Pharma Manufacturing, Inc., Fuccillo Automotive Group, and Grand Island Holiday Inn Resort and Conference Center. Gold Sponsors to date include HSBC Bank USA, A. J.’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Invitrogen Corporation, and Niagara Frontier Publications. Silver Sponsors are Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions, Emerson/Control Techniques, Keller Group Insurance, MJ Welch Enterprises, and Tops Market.
For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Carol Volk - Chamber's Business Person of the Year - 2006
Carol Volk - (right) Carol with Debi Ruppel and customer
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces that Carol Volk has been named Business Person of the Year and will be honored at
the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, at 6:00 p.m. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Carol Volk, owner and operator of Hairitage Hair Salon at 1871 Whitehaven Road, is quick to credit friends, family and the Grand Island community for helping her survive as a small business entrepreneur.
But her own determination and hard work figure largely too. She first came to the island as a hairdresser in 1980, soon after her graduation from the Niagara Cosmetology School of Beauty. She was hired by Lori Bellio to work at Cutter’s Image. As a single mother of two young sons she also worked part-time at the Beautiful People Salon in Niagara Falls to support her family.
After three years she accepted an offer from Nancy Job, the Island’s first female barber, to work in her beauty parlor, Scissors Palace, in the Grand Island Plaza. At the time, the idea of a woman barber was cause for much dismay and consternation in the town. Nancy taught Carol the ins and outs and Carol added it to her skills. She’s been doing that, along with the normal full range of beautician services, ever since.
Then, in 1988, after Nancy abruptly decided she wanted out of the business, Carol had a chance to rent the shop. She took it, on the advice of her parents who encouraged her and offered their help. That’s where the name “Hairitage” came from. Overnight she went from employee to boss and quickly acquired the knowledge she needed to navigate the paperwork involved in business ownership.
It wasn’t easy. Since she couldn’t afford to fill the whole space with equipment she closed off part of it but eventually was able to expand by installing three tanning booths and passive exercise equipment.
Eventually Carol decided to cut back on her work-load, especially after being diagnosed with breast cancer in 1999, the same year she moved to the Whitehaven Road location.
She says succeeding in her health and business battles wouldn’t be possible without her husband, church, family and her clients whom she regards as friends and the unwavering help of the community. Her own warm personality is probably most responsible for the outpouring of affection she received through her breast cancer ordeal. She has the kindest regard for her co-worker, Debi Ruppel, who has helped her through many tough times, including keeping the business going while Carol underwent cancer treatment.
In over 20 years in the cosmetology business Carol has taken seminars and classes to keep up with every latest trend and is still enthusiastic about learning what’s new and showing it to her clients.
She’s been a member of the Business and Professional Women’s organization since 1987, serving as secretary and treasurer. She’s a member of Trinity United Methodist Church, serving on the coffee hour, membership and missions committees.
She supports Locks of Love, an organization that supplies hair for ill children; the Susan G. Kromen Breast Cancer Foundation; St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital; and several veterans’ organizations.
Carol met her husband, Thom., in 1990. They married in 1996 and live in Niagara Falls where he is a police officer and crime scene investigator (CSI) for the Niagara Falls Police Department. Between them they have three sons, David, Kevin and Eric and five grandchildren. Carol’s mother still lives in Niagara Falls but her father passed away nine years ago. She still misses him. “He’s the one who said I could do it all,” she says.
Other honorees to be recognized this year are Maria Burns-Civic Person of the Year ; Grand Island Moose Lodge Family Center #180-Organization of the Year; Jayne Playfair-Service to Youth; Rebecca Cacciatore-Education; Grand Island Moose Lodge and Family Center #180-Organization of the Year Dr. James Dempsey-Special Lifetime Achievement.
The community is invited to attend and honor these outstanding citizens, and also extends a special invitation to past recipients of this award to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Dinner tickets are available at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd., or by calling 773-3651.
NFP - Chamber's Business of the Year - 2006
Judy and Skip Mazenauer of Niagara Frontier Publications
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces that Niagara Frontier Publications has been named Business of the Year and will be honored at
the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, at 6:00 p.m. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
NFP, owned and operated by Skip and Judy Mazenauer,
publishes four weekly newspapers and has 21 full- and part-time employees at its longstanding Grand Island office. The company also employs many free-lance
writers and photographers, as well as 40-plus independent newspaper carriers. Its offices are at 1859 Whitehaven Road.
The Dispatch is the official paper of Grand Island. In addition to the Dispatch and PennySaver, NFP also publishes the Niagara-Wheatfield Tribune and the
Lewiston-Porter Sentinel and maintains a Web site, www.wnypapers.com. Combined, these reach more than 100,000 readers weekly. Year after year, local families turn to NFP's papers for complete hometown news. From breaking news, to town, school and sports events, to the personal milestones that make people proud, the communities
served by NFP know they can count on their local paper for the news that touches their lives.
NFP is actively involved in supporting various community organizations and events, not only with strong editorial content, but also with discounted and donated advertising to ensure the utmost success. In addition, NFP has always made an effort to hire Grand Islanders to support the community that has supported their local papers through the years. The company's offices are maintained on Grand Island in
order to support the Island's economy and remain accessible to residents.
Over the years, NFP, itself, has been the proud recipient of awards and honors for editorial content, including several from the New York Press Association.
Ever community-minded, NFP has been publishing for more than 50 years. The Dispatch was founded in 1944 by Ollie Howard; the PennySaver was launched in 1950 by Art and Dorothy Mazenauer, the first such paper in Western New York. The Dispatch had various owners, until 1978, when it was purchased by NFP so that Grand Island would not be without a local paper. Skip Mazenauer, a member of the Grand Island Chamber for more than 40 years, has served as its president, vice president, secretary and treasurer. He assisted the Grand Island Chamber of Commerce in publishing early editions of the Island telephone book and tourist maps. NFP was instrumental in assisting the Chamber in creating the Grand Island Citizen of the Year and Property Improvement awards. The company also helped establish the Neighbors Foundation and early trade fairs of Grand Island businesses. Mazenauer has been a member of the Grand Island Rotary for more than 40 years. He served as secretary and vice president, as well as being one of the youngest Rotarian presidents in North America. He also was honored by his nomination as a Paul Harris Fellow. NFP helped establish the Grand Island Builders Association, which promoted the construction of new homes and the quality of life on Grand Island.
Mazenauer recently was re-elected to the State Board of Directors for the NCBA, for which he is serving for his sixth year. He was honored twice by the NCBA as Man of the Year. NFP assists in the administration of the annual Festival of Homes home show and is solely responsible for all publicity and advertising for this highly successful event. Mazenauer is a member of the Niagara USA Chamber and the Lower Niagara River Region Chamber of Commerce, for which he currently is serving as vice chairman. Judy Mazenauer has worked with her husband, Skip, for more than 20 years in various capacities, including duties as comptroller and human resources manager. Before working at NFP, she was an elementary school teacher for more than 17 years. Over the years, under Judy's guidance, many of NFP's departments have been reorganized and updated. When the move was made to NFP's current location, the former Grand Island Post Office, she helped clean up, redesign and expand the building. Through her supervision and guidance, the circulation, general accounting, production and editorial departments were upgraded, along with state-of-the-art computer hardware and software.
Other honorees to be recognized this year are Maria Burns-Civic Person of the Year ; Grand Island Moose Lodge Family Center #180-Organization of the Year; Jayne Playfair-Service to Youth; Rebecca Cacciatore-Education; Grand Island Moose Lodge and Family Center #180-Organization of the Year Dr. James Dempsey-Special Lifetime Achievement.
The community is invited to attend and honor these outstanding citizens, and also extends a special invitation to past recipients of this award to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Dinner tickets are available at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd., or by calling 773-3651.
Maria Burns - Chamber's Civic Person of the Year - 2006
Chief Court Clerk Maria C. Burns will receive the Civic Award at the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces that Maria C. Burns has been named Civic Person of the Year and will be honored at
the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, at 6:00 p.m. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Maria C. Burns is Chief Clerk of the Court for the Town of Grand Island and has been a Court Clerk for nineteen years. For the last six years she has held the position of Chief Clerk of the Court and serves as Court Clerk for Town Justices Sybil E. Kennedy and Mark J. Frentzel. Maria also worked for retired Town Justices Francis B. Pritchard, Eric L. Reimann and Randall D. White. She is a member of the New York State Magistrates Court Clerks Association and is vice president of the Erie County Court Clerks Association. Maria has also served as director for the Association.
She is the current president of Zonta Club of Grand Island, an International Women’s Organization, and previously served a term as director. Maria has served as chairman for different fundraisers with Zonta Club of Grand Island. She has organized fundraising events for Zonta, which awards scholarships to Grand Island High School senior girls, and has also worked on the committee for the Zonta District Fundraiser with proceeds benefiting Roswell Park Hospital.
Maria is the Marriage Officer for the Town of Grand Island. She is responsible for creating the Judge’s Wall in the Upper Lobby of Town Hall.
A member of St. Stephen's Church, she is married to Bruce and has a son, Bruce. Her hobbies include knitting, crocheting, embroidery and arts and crafts.
Other honorees to be recognized this year are Niagara Frontier Publications-Business of the Year; Carol Volk-Business Person of the Year; Jayne Playfair-Service to Youth; Rebecca Cacciatore-Education; Grand Island Moose Lodge and Family Center #180-Organization of the Year Dr. James Dempsey-Special Lifetime Achievement.
The community is invited to attend and honor these outstanding citizens, and also extends a special invitation to past recipients of this award to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Dinner tickets are available at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd., or by calling 773-3651.
Grand Island Moose Lodge Family Center #180 - Chamber's Organization of the Year - 2006
Pictured are some of the members of Moose Lodge #180 joined by the Board of Directors (front left) Joe Foresta-Administrator, Mike DiVita-Trustee, Rick Halas-Governor, Dennis Lesika-Treasurer, Kevin Lipp-Trustee, Don Hoover-Trustee, and Steve Jones-Past Governor - Click photo for larger view.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that the Grand Island Moose Lodge and Family Center #180 has been named Organization of the Year and will be honored at
the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, at 6:00 p.m. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Grand Island Moose Lodge and Family Center #180 is committed to helping those less fortunate. Their generosity and dedication to the community is overwhelming with over $10,000 being raised last year and donated to local charities.
The Grand Island chapter opened in the basement of the Mallwitz’s Island Lanes. Currently the Lodge is located in a newly renovated building at 2524 Grand Island Blvd.
The membership holds many fundraising events each year including spaghetti dinners, chili cook-offs, corn beef and cabbage dinners, along with raffles.
Among the organizations benefitting from their fundraising efforts are the Niagara Cerebral Palsy Association, Grand Island High School Band, Chamber of Commerce Youth Ambassador Program, Special Olympics of WNY, Niagara Falls Memorial Center, Mercy Flight, Grand Island Fire Company, American Red Cross, Salvation Army, Grand Island Little League, Disabled American Vets, Erie County Sheriff P.B.A., Niagara Falls Food Kitchen, and the US Air Force Unit.
In addition, the group funds two scholarships each year in memory of Laverne "Bunny" Luther and hosts a Thanksgiving dinner at the Grand Island Retirement Residence. They also held a welcome home party for Air Force troops SSGT James Balcom and SSGT Patrick Buell when they returned to Grand Island after serving in Iraq.
Moose International is a fraternal and service organization of 1.5 million men and women in four nations, dedicated to bettering the lives of children and elderly in need, to helping our communities on both the national and local level, and to provide family recreation at a modest cost.
Other honorees to be recognized this year are Niagara Frontier Publications-Business of the Year; Carol Volk-Business Person of the Year; Jayne Playfair-Service to Youth; Rebecca Cacciatore-Education; Maria Burns-Civic; and Dr. James Dempsey-Special Lifetime Achievement.
The community is invited to attend and honor these outstanding citizens, and also extends a special invitation to past recipients of this award to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Dinner tickets are available at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd., or by calling 773-3651.
2005-06 Youth Ambassadors Receive County Legislative Proclamations - 2006
Chamber 1st Vice President and Youth Program Chair Joanne Kud, Erie County Legislator Michelle Iannello, 2005-2006 Youth Ambassadors, Karalyn Rossi and Carissa Bailey receiving County Legislative Proclamations.
Click photo for larger view
Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Youth Ambassadors, Carissa Bailey and Karalyn Rossi, received proclamations from Erie Legislator Michelle Iannello at the Legislative session Thursday, March 16, 2006. Legislator Iannello recognized the Island Chamber on its success of the Youth Ambassador program, and the students on their achievements. Joanne Kud, Chamber 1st Vice President and Youth Program Chair, was in attendance for the presentation. After the session, held at the Legislative Chamber on the 4th floor of County Hall, Mrs. Kud and the Youth Ambassadors were invited to attend a luncheon and were given a guided tour throughout County Hall.
Chamber Announces Citizen Of The Year 2006 Silver Sponsors - March 2006
Chamber President and Citizen of the Year Chair Beverly Kinney is shown with Sam Qureshi of Tops Friendly Market
Diane Thompson of Emerson/Control Techniques is a Silver sponsor
Tony Brindisi and Bob Fahning of the Keller Group are pictured with Chamber President Beverly Kinney.
(left)
Silver sponsor, Beverly Kinney of Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions in photo with Pat Hamilton, Cathy Sheppler, Angie Fantini, and Maria Liaros.
Michael Welch of MJ Welch Enterprises
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that Tops Friendly Market, Keller Group Insurance, Emerson/Control Techniques, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions and MJ Welch Enterprise, have signed on as Silver Sponsors for the 40th annual Citizen of the Year Award presentation.
This year’s event is being held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27th and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made our town a better place. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Platinum Sponsors include Astellas Pharma Manufacturing, Inc., Fuccillo Automotive Group, and Grand Island Holiday Inn Resort and Conference Center. Gold Sponsors to date include HSBC Bank USA, A. J.’s Heating & Air Conditioning, Invitrogen Corporation, and Niagara Frontier Publications. Bronze Sponsors are AIG-Advisor Group, American Pharmaceutical Partners, First Niagara Bank, Grand Lady Cruises, Inc., Mary Kay, Realty USA, Rockwood Brothers Collision, Rose Liquor Store, Scheid Architectural and Technology Camp of America.
For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Citizens of the Year Announced By Chamber - 2006
The announce of the winners of the 2005 Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Awards was made Tuesday, March 14, 2006. The award for the 2005 Business of the Year will be given to Niagara Frontier Publications, publisher of the Island Dispatch and Grand Island Penny Saver. Others to be recognized for their contributions to the Town of Grand Island are:
• Carol Volk, owner of Hairitage Hair Salon - Business Person of the Year Award
• Grand Island Moose Family Center #180 - Organization of the Year Award.
• Jayne Playfair - for her contribution to children - Service to Youth Award
• Rebecca Cacciatore, a teacher at St. Stephen School - Educator of the Year
• Grand Island Court Clerk Maria Burns - Civic Award
• Dr. James R. Dempsey, Principal of Grand Island High School - Special Lifetime Achievement Award
The 40th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet will be held on Thursday, April 27 at the Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies to honor businesses and individuals who have made Grand Island a better place.
The community is invited to attend and honor these outstanding citizens, and alsoextends a special invitation to past recipients of this award to celebrate its 40th anniversary.
Dinner tickets are now available at the chamber office or by calling 773-3651.
Chamber Announces 2006 Gold Sponsors - 2006
(left) Chamber President and Chair for Citizen of the Year, Beverly Kinney with Andy Beyer of AJ’s Heating & Air Conditioning; President Beverly Kinney with Mike Samland, Branch Manager at Grand Island HSBC Bank; Chamber 1st Vice President Joanne Kud receives Gold sponsorship check from Monette Greenway of Invitrogen; (right) Citizen of the Year Co-Chair Sue Hillock (far right) with Skip and Judy Mazenauer of Niagara Frontier Publications (Island Dispatch/Pennysaver)
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announced this week that AJ’s Heating and Air Conditioning, HSBC Bank, Invitrogen and Niagara Frontier Publications have signed on as Gold Sponsors for the 40th 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 27th and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made our town a better place. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies.
Platinum Sponsors to date include Astellas Pharma Manufacturing, Fuccillo Automotive Group and Grand Island Holiday Inn Resort and Conference Center. Silver sponsors include Tops Friendly Market, Keller Group, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions and Emerson/Control Techniques. Bronze Sponsors are AIG – Advisor Group, American Pharmaceutical Partners, First Niagara Bank, Grand Lady Cruises, Mary Kay, Realty USA, Rockwood Brothers Collision, Rose Liquor Store, Scheid Architectural and Technology Camp of America.
For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Chamber Platinum Sponsors - 40th annual Citizen of the Year Awards - 2006
(left) Chamber President and Citizen of the Year Chair Beverly Kinney with Deanna Arraiz, General Manager of Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center; (center Chamber President Beverly Kinney with Christopher Granholm, Fuccillo Toyota and Tom Kanaley of Fuccillo Auto Park; (right) Charles Burngasser of Astellas Pharma Manufacturing, Inc. with Chamber President, Beverly Kinney.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce announces that Fuccillo Auto Park, Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center, and Astellas Pharma Manufacturing, Inc. have signed on as Platinum Sponsors for the 40th 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 27th and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made our town a better place. Channel 2 News 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, Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions and Emerson/Control Techniques. Bronze Sponsors are AIG – Advisor Group, American Pharmaceutical Partners, First Niagara Bank, Grand Lady Cruises, Mary Kay, Realty USA, Rose Liquor Store, and Technology Camp of America.
For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Java Shop Cafe Grand Opening - 2006
Java Shop Cafe employees (left) Lisa Koziol and Sarah Fulcher with owners Kevin and Dawn Doring.
Click photo for larger view of the Shop
Dawn and Kevin Doring, owners and operators of The Java Shop Cafe, a new Chamber of Commerce member, will hold a Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting at 11 a.m. Saturday, February 25th in front of their new Cafe at 2271 Grand Island Boulevard.
Chamber Announces 2006 GI Phone Directory Delivery - 2006
Shown from left are Telephone Book Committee Chairman Skip Mazenauer, with Town Supervisor Peter McMahon; Chamber President Beverly Kinney and Telephone Book Committee Co-Chairman Steve Morgan.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has announced that its 2006 Grand Island Telephone Directories have been delivered to all residents and businesses this past week. The Chamber of Commerce Telephone Book Committee would like to thank all of this year's advertisers for their commitment to the Grand Island Telephone Book. Those who did not receive a 2006 Directory are asked to stop by the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd., to pick up a copy.
Citizen Of The Year Event Celebrates 40 Years - 2006 Chamber Seeks Past Recipients
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce 40th annual Citizen of the Year Award Banquet will be held on Thursday, April 27 at the Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center. Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies to honor businesses and individuals who have made Grand Island a better place.
The Chamber is extending a special invitation to past recipients of this award and plans a group photo along with recognition during the evening for those who have been honored for their service to Grand Island over the past 40 years.
To reserve your seat at the Past Recipient table, call the chamber office at 773-3651. Dinner tickets are now available at $42 per person.
Click for "Citizens Of The Year 1965-2004."
Chamber Members To Network At The New Java Shop - 2006
Chamber of Commerce members are invited to network with fellow members while enjoying specialty espressos, teas, Italian sodas and lite fares in the Java Shop, Coffee Beanery & Cafe, at 2271 Grand Island Blvd., Grand Island, NY, from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, February 22, 2006. Those interested in attending are asked to call the Chamber Office, 773-3651 to R.S.V.P.
Chamber Seeking Nominations For Citizen Of The Year - 2006 Committee members seated from left are Judy Schmidt, Victor Gagliardi, Kathy Graves and Laura Anderson; (back) Joanne Kud, Co-Chairperson Sue Hillock, Chairperson Beverly Kinney and Jim Sharpe. Not pictured are committee members Phil Buchanan, Dolly D'Orazio, Fran Davis, Dr. Sherry Bradford and Jennifer Peresie.
Click photo for full view.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is currently accepting nominations for the 40th annual Citizen of the Year award. Suggested categories for nomination include business, businessperson, corporation, civic, education, community service, and senior citizen. Award winners will be honored at a dinner on Thursday, April 27, 2006 at the Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center.
Nomination forms can be found in the 2006 Chamber of Commerce phonebook, on the Chamber website www.gichamber.org or at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd. Deadline for nominations is March 3rd. For more information call the chamber office at 773-3651.
Chamber Installation of Officers - 2006
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce held an Installation Dinner on January 17, 2006 at the Grand Island Holiday Inn, where the Honorable Sybil Kennedy did the swearing in of newly elected officers and directors. After the installation, Erie County Legislator Michele Iannello spoke to the Board on upcoming issues the County is facing and opened the floor to any questions. Shown are directors (left) Michael Welch, MJ Welch Enterprise; Fran Davis, Wilson Farms; Diane Thompson, Emerson/Control Techniques and Sam Qureshi, Tops Market, sworn in by the Honorable Sybil Kennedy. Not pictured are newly elected Directors Michael Anthony Rossi, Esq and Skip Mazenauer, Niagara Frontier Publications. Executive Officers Judy Schmidt as Treasurer; Victor Gagilardi of Bouvier Partnership, LLP as Secretary; John Bonora of AIG Advisor Group as 2nd Vice President and Joanne Kud of University Inn & Conference Center as 1st Vice President were sworn in by the Honorable Sybil Kennedy. Not pictured were newly appointed President, Beverly Kinney of Carol Ann’s Hair Fashions and Past President, Jim Sharpe of Sharpe Associates. Newly appointed Chamber President, Beverly Kinney with newly elected Erie County Legislator, Michele Iannello.
Chamber of Commerce Health Insurance Open Enrollment Meeting - 2005
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has set a Health Insurance Open Enrollment Meeting from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, January 26, 2006 at the Grand Island Holiday Inn, 100 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island. This meeting is open to all Chamber members and interested parties.
Representatives from Community Blue, Independent Health, and Univera, and the Dental Shop will be present to discuss plans and answer questions. RSVP at 773-3651.
Grand Island Chamber To Host Citizen Of The Year Award Banquet - 2006
Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will serve as Master of Ceremonies for the 40th Annual Citizen of the Year Awards Banquet.
The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that WGRZ-TV Channel 2 News Anchor Erika Brason will return as Master of Ceremonies for the 40th Annual Citizen of the Year Awards Banquet. This year’s event will be held at Holiday Inn Grand Island Resort and Conference Center on Thursday, April 27, 2006 and will honor businesses and individuals whose contributions have made our town a better place.
Ms. Brason graduated from Syracuse University and soon after went to work for WIVB-TV, where she spent several years in the Sales & Research Department before turning to a career on air as anchor for “Weekend Wake-up” on Saturday and Sunday mornings. Erika started working for WGRZ-TV in September 2005 as the anchor of “Daybreak Saturday Morning.” She also does a weekly “Good Neighbors” segment in addition to general assignment reporting.
The Chamber is currently accepting nominations for this year’s award. Suggested categories for nomination include business, business person, corporation, civic, education, community service, and senior citizen. Nomination forms may be found in the 2006 Chamber of Commerce phone book, on the Chamber website www.gichamber.org or at the Chamber office, 2257 Grand Island Blvd. Deadline for nominations is March 3. 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.
