Town Recreation Department

Town Recreation Department Webpage - 2005

Town of Grand Island Website

Linda Tufillaro, director
E-Mail
3278 Whitehaven Road
773-9680

Recreation Department News 2006
Previous Recreation Department News 2000-2004

Bessel Road Race July 4, 2002 Results
Bessel Road Race July 4, 2003 Results
Bessel Road Race July 3, 2004 Results

Recreation Department Standings - December 2005 Update

Recreation Department Standings - November 29, 2005 Update
Recreation Department Standings - August 4, 2005

NOTICE TO RESIDENTS: - December 2005
   As of December 1, 2005; Veterans Park Road will be under “seasonal use only” conditions. Veterans Park Road will not be maintained by the Town from December 1 through April 1, 2006. Anyone who attempts using the road in snow or hazardous conditions will be doing so at their own risk. Damage to grounds or other Town owned properties will be the responsibility of the vehicle owner. Violators will also be responsible for any summons issued by law enforcement officers.
   Veterans Park and all Town properties are off limits to ATVs and motor bikes. Snowmobiles are permitted on marked trails only. Snowmobiles must have proof of license, registration and insurance to use trails.

Santa Came To Town - 2005

Tree and gazebo lighting                                 Clair and Christopher O'Connor waiting for Santa

Memorial Tree
Jodi Robinson Photos - click for larger view
   It was cold, but the children braved the elements to welcome Santa to Grand Island Town Commons on Saturday, December 3, 2005. Santa arrived by fire truck at 4:30 p.m. and quickly set about lighting the town tree and gazebo. A memorial tree in honor of Mrs. MaryLou Lunsford, a Grand Island resident who passed away this year, was dedicated near the gazebo. Mrs. Lunsford, for years was the main proponent of the lighting of the gazebo and holiday tree. Refreshments and crafts were available to the children and their parents inside the town hall following the ceremonies.

Tree Planted In Memory Of MaryLou Lunsford - 2005

Click photos for larger view
   A tree planting close to the gazebo in the Town Commons in memory of MaryLou Lunsford took place Saturday, December 3, 2005. A longtime Island resident, MaryLou passed away in January 2005. The tree dedication ceremony, in conjunction with the Town's lighting of the gazebo and Santa's arrival on Grand Island, was coordinated by MaryLou's many friends from the school district bus garage who enjoyed the fun-filled and memorable social events she frequently organized there while employed as a bus monitor for many years.
   According to MaryLou's daughter, Karen Conboy, "It was a beautiful event. Santa arrived on a fire truck. The tree showcased in the town gazebo was lit. And then, the St. Stephen's choir sang Amazing Grace, as a lovely Australian pine tree was dedicated to my mom."
   Several years ago MaryLou became the driving force in having the town begin to decorate the gazebo and she coordinated the event right up until last year. "Her commitment was so great that even when she was so sick last year, she braved the cold and made sure the tree was trimmed and the lights were hung," Mrs. Conboy said today.

Donate Toys To Neighbors Foundation - December, 2005
   Island residents interested in donating "NEW" toys for babies through teens to the Neighbors Foundation holiday collecton,
may bring the donations to the Recreation Department office, 3278 Whitehaven Road no later than Wednesday, December 14.
For information, call 773-9380 or 773-1245 or click headline above for the "Christmas List Wish."

Winter Recreation Activities - December, 2005

Santa Coming To Island - 2005

The Town of Grand Island Parks and Recreation Department has announced "the arrival of Santa Claus." All are invited to "Welcome Santa" to Grand Island on Saturday, December 3, 2005 at the Town Hall. The program follows:
• 4 p.m. - Town Hall Doors Open
• 4:30 p.m. – Santa Claus is expected to arrive
• 4:45 p.m. – Tree Planting Dedication
• 5:00 p.m. – Lighting of the Gazebo
• 5:15 p.m. – Youth Party and Visit with Santa
• 6:30 p.m. – Say “Good – Bye” to Santa
The program is geared for youths ages toddler to 9 years old and all activities are free. Fun, Games, Crafts Free Refreshments!!

Public Auction of Town Surplus - October 2005
   A Public Auction of Town Surplus (used items) will be conducted by the Town of Grand Island on Saturday, October 15, 2005. The auction, to be conducted at the Nike Base, 3278 Whitehaven Road, will begin with viewing at 9:30 AM, and with bids starting at 10 a.m.
   All bid payments are to be in cash or money orders payable to: Town of Grand Island. Personal or company checks will not be accepted.
   All items - vehicles, equipment and supplies, will be auctioned on an “as–is” basis and are to be paid for and taken the day of the auction. A complete list of items will be available prior to bidding, with some items having a starting bid amount.

Grand Island Independence Day Parade 2005

GI Gallopers                  Grand Island Fire Company          82nd Airborne Assoc.

Clown Band Colors           Sanborn Fire Company Band

Fire Company Rookies          Runner Gerry Robinson
Bob Kopf Photos - Click for larger view

Fire Company Rookies     Caledonian Pipes & Drums

Bessel Road Race                Jim Dunlop, Dick Bessel 2.3-mile road race winner

Golden Age Club Float

Islettes Elite                   Technology Camp Of America Robot
Reg Schopp Photos - Click for larger view

Mary Stewart Photo - Click for larger view

   Sun and 90 degree temperatures prevailed throughout Grand Island's Independence Day Parade down Grand Island Blvd. on Monday, July 4th. True to tradition, a huge and enthusiastic crowd filled the Boulevard sidelines. Parade watchers were estimated at about 3500. The 65-unit parade did not run as smoothly as it has in past years. This was due to units ignoring the parade marshalls' requests to move out. Traditionally, the parade, in its 37th year, has proceeded down Grand Island Blvd. with little or no holdups between units.
   Biggest crowd-pleasers, aside from the Pipe and marching bands, seemed to be Martin's Fantasy Island western shoot-out, the Grand Island Fire Company volunteers hosing down the rookie class, who were prepared to give them a good soaking as well, and the Islettes Elite baton twirlers. The major Island event that brings the community together every 4th of July, is under the direction of Town Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro.
   Results of the judging of the parade units follow:
Color Guard:
1st - VFW
2nd - Civil Air Patrol
3rd - Incognito
Cars:
1st - Dr. Huggs
2nd - DAV
3rd - Snowmobile
Marching Units:
1st - C.E.R.T.
2nd - American School of Karate
3rd - Girl Scouts of Grand Island
Floats:
1st - Cristoforo Columbo Society
2nd - BSA Pack 510
3rd - Golden Age Center
Youth Groups:
1st - McCarthy School of Irish Dance
2nd - BSA Pack 630
3rd - Grinders
Unique:
1st - Gallopers
2nd - Husky Club
3rd - Marston Equipment

Thomas Smith, Kids Race Winner For 2nd Year - 2005

Thomas Smith
Thomas Smith, 9, winner of the first Kids Race in 2004, was the first boy to cross the finish line in the Independence Day Kids Race on Grand Island Blvd. He is the son of Shelley Arcouet Smith, GIHS Class of 1983, now residing in Pennsylvania.
First girl was Molly Meka, 9.

Jessica Brownschidle, Andrew Masiello Are 2.3 Mile Road Race 9&Under Winners - 2005

Jessica Brownschidle
   Jessica Brownschidle of Grand Island, with a time of 18:30, was the first place female in the 9 & under division of the July 4, 2005 Dick Bessel 2.3-mile road race. She was the 198th runner to cross the finish line out of 430 runners.
   Andrew Masiello of Grand Island was the first male in the 9 & under division to cross the finish line with a time of 19:15. He placed 231 out of 430 runners.
   The 30th annual Dick Bessel 2.3 mile race was held at 9:14 a.m. Monday, July 4, 2005.
Teddy Linenfelser Photo - Click for larger view
Photos of other winners will be happily accepted for publication.

Young Arizona Visitor Sets Race Aside For Ill Runner - 2005

Steven Shoemaker
Longtime Island resident MaryLou Lunsford passed away on January 26, 2005 after a long battle with cancer. According to a member of her large and close family, the fourth of July was one of her favorite holidays. In MaryLou's memory her children (two sons and four daughters) came home to join their local siblings in the Independence Day celebration. MaryLou's grandson, Steven Shoemaker, 8, ran in the July 4th kids race on Grand Island Blvd. During the race, a young boy became overheated before reaching the finish line. The boy also became sick while runners raced passed him. Steven stopped to assist the boy and helped him while the last of the runners came by. After he made sure the boy was alright, Steven finished the race in last place. For his "good citizenship," he was given one of the runner medals. The youngest of nine children, Steven is the son of Jacquie (Lunsford) Shoemaker of Mesa, Arizona.

30th Annual Dick Bessel Independence Day Run Results - 2005
For complete results of the 2.3 mile race on Grand Island, NY July 4, 2005 click www.score-this.com.
Winners of the Dick Bessel Independence Day Run 2005 follow:
Men - Overall: Jim Dunlop - 10:55
2nd Men - Overall: Alexander Winstel - 11:14
Racewalk: Allen James - 15:26
Masters: Bob Merritt - 11:53
Juniors: Timothy Szckotowicz - 11:50
Female - Overall: Rebecca Heuer - 13:40
Racewalk: Terri Marshall - 21:50
Masters: Annalea Masiello - 15:52
Juniors: Marybeth Lacki - 15:41
Kids Race Winners
Thomas Smith, 9
Molly Meka, 9

Recreation Dept. Summer Playground Program - 2005

Jodi Robinson Photo - Click For Larger View
A six-week summer recreation program will offer a variety of activities for youth ages 6-12 years. Activities include group games, arts & crafts, special events and a field trip. Supervised playgrounds will open on Wednesday, July 6, 2005 and continue through Thursday, August 11. Click Playground Program Registration & Information.

Grand Island Independence Day Parade
To Be Televised On Adelphia Channel 13 - 2005
Adelphia Cable TV Channel 13 will televise Grand Island's Independence Day parade on Saturday, July 9, 2005 at 2:30 p.m. and again on Sunday, July 10th at 2:30 p.m.

Summer Outdoor Band Concerts - 2005
The remaining list of Town sponsored, free, Tuesday evening band concerts being held at the gazebo on the grounds of Town Hall follows:
Tuesday, August 2 - “ORENGUE Quartet” - 7:00 PM – Latin Dance Band
“National Night Out” - Rain Date: Thursday, August 4

Tuesday, August 9 - Barroom Buzzards - 7:00 PM – Dixieland
Rain Date: Thursday, August 11

Tuesday, August 16- Niagara Frontier Community Band - 7:00 PM – Concert Band, Show Tunes
Rain Date: Thursday, August 18

Summer Outdoor Band Concerts - 2005
For the complete list of Town sponsored, free, Tuesday evening band concerts being held at the gazebo on the grounds of Town Hall click "Concerts."

Independence Day Parade Lineup - July 4, 2005
   The Grand Island, NY Independence Day Parade line-up has been announced by Town Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro. Click July 4th Parade Lineup for parade units appearing on Grand Island Blvd. July 4, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - June 2, 2005

Recreation Department Standings - as of June 10, 2005

Independence Day Dick Bessel Road Race And Parade - Monday, July 4, 2005
   The Grand Island Recreation Department reminds Island residents that the 2005 Dick Bessel Road Race and Independence Day Parade will be held on Monday, July 4th, along Grand Island Boulevard. Road race and parade watchers are urged to get there early as roads will be closed at 8:45 a.m.
   A 314-meter race for kids ages 4-9 will be followed by the ever-growing Dick Bessel race, a 2.3-mile road race open to race walkers and runners of all skill levels and all ages.
   The Independence Day parade, themed "patriotism," will immediately follow the races. According to Town Recreation Director Linda Tufillaro, it’s not too late to get in on the fun! Any interested individual or organization is welcome to join the Grand Island Gallopers, Tonawanda Clown Band, Caledonian Pipes and Drums, and many other groups on the parade line-up. Applications are available at the Town Hall, or online at www.gigov.com, or call the Recreation Department at 773-9680.

Memorial Day - 2005

Mary Stewart Photos
    Grand Islanders came out in record numbers for the Town's Memorial Day Services held on Monday at 10 a.m. at DeGlopper Park at Baseline Road and Grand Island Blvd. It is estimated that over 300 were in attendance. Gorgeous, sunny weather provided a fine backdrop for the Grand Island High School Wind Ensemble under the direction of Marty Allen. Supervisor Peter McMahon led the Pledge to the Flag, served as announcer for the program, introduced Gold Star Mother Shirley Luther and gave the closing remarks. Mike Rogan, Chaplain of Charles N. DeGlopper Post 9249, VFW gave the benediction. DAV Commander Paul Kane and American Legion Commander Robert Soluri presented the wreath. Joe Synakowski called the roll as guests placed a flower near the Honor Roll plaque for each of the 16 soldiers from Grand Island who have been killed in action since World War I. (Click Honor Roll for Islanders who gave their lives in defense of their country.)
   Members of the Grand Island Fire Company, and the Grand Island CERT (Citizen Emergency Response Team) attended in uniform. The VFW Honor Guard gave the gun salute. Two members of the Wind Ensemble played Taps. The South Park High School Junior ROTC also took part.
   Guest speaker was Colonel Douglas Routt, US Air Force. Routt stressed the need for all to remember that freedom isn't free and the importance of honoring our military men and women who respond to the call to duty. He reminded us that the very freedom to disagree with a war is protected by soldiers who may also disagree but who serve their country with courage. Letters and attendance at the BRAC hearing in June are essential to this effort. Information is available at NIMAC.org and copies of letters are available at the VFW, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. and the Supervisor's Office, 2255 Baseline Road. Routt asked all in attendance to join in the fight to save the Niagara Falls Air Base. Routt asked all in attendance to join in the fight to save the Niagara Falls Air Base. Colonel Routt, a command pilot, is a combat veteran with over 5,000 hours flying time accumulated in various fighter aircraft, i.e., F-16, F-101, F-100, F102, F-4 and T-33. Colonel Routt served in Vietnam at Danang Air Base from February 1966 through October 1966. During this time, he flew 156 combat missions, 100 of which were over North Vietnam and warranted his early return to the states.

Grand Island Independence Parade - Monday, July 4, 2005
Chamber of Commerce To Judge Parade Units
   Grand Island Independence Parade, themed "Patriotism" and sponsored by the town and the Grand Island Parks and Recreation Department, will be held on Monday, July 4, 2005 immediately following the 30th Annual Dick Bessel Independence Day Run. Click for the following important information:
• Parade Entry Form
• Parade Judging
• Parade Orders
• "American Flag Etiquette"

Memorial Day Ceremonies - Grand Island, N. Y. - 2005
   Memorial Day ceremonies on Grand Island will begin at 10 a.m. May 30, 2005 at Charles N. DeGlopper Park (Baseline/GI Blvd.). Guest speaker will be Colonel Douglas Routt, US Air Force.
   Island residents and friends are encouraged to attend to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.
    Click for "schedule of events" for the program.     Click Honor Roll for Islanders who gave their lives in defense of their country.

Recreation Dept. Looking For Softball Teams - 2005
The Grand Island Recreation Department is looking for teams to play co-ed softball. To sign up or for more information, contact Linda Tufillaro at the Recreation office, 773-9680.

Britannia Soccer Camp Comes To Veterans Park - 2005
Members of the Grand Island Soccer Club and the Grand Island Parks and Recreation Department in Grand Island, NY are delighted to announce that on July 11-15, 2005, they will again host a Britannia Soccer Camp at Veterans Park. Click for the Britannia Soccer Camp for complete information.

Visit With Easter Bunny - Basket Winners Announced - 2005
The Visit With the Easter Bunny event, sponsored by the Town Recreation Department and Tops Market and held Saturday, March 19, was a success. Youths talked to the Easter Bunny and had a chance to win an Easter basket surprise. The REcreation Department extends its appreciation to Tops Market and staff for allowing the Easter Bunny to arrive.
Winners of the baskets were Nicolette Golden, Blake Bieler, Mason Miller, Andrew Jopp, Carmela Bartolomeo, Aaron Cespedes, Jayce Clause, Ray Tafelski, Kyle Schneider, Taylor Zajdowicz, Christopher Swagler, and Amanda Brodie. Candy count winner was Cole Fischer. Coloring contest sheets may be submitted to the Recreation Department through April 1st.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - Mar. 18, 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of March 18, 2005.

Rec. Department, Tops Market Offer A Visit With Easter Bunny - 2005
The Grand Island Recreation Department and Tops Market will provide a “Visit With The Easter Bunny” from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, March 19, 2005 at Tops Market. Boys and girls from toddlers to 10 years old are welcome to visit with the Easter Bunny and participate in some “fun” Easter games and contests. All who sit and talk with the Easter Bunny will have a chance to win one of 12 Easter basket surprises. All activities will take place outside.

Recreation Department Adult Volleyball Playoff Results - 2005
Click Volleyball Playoff Results for the Adult Volleyball Playoff results for March 9-10.

Recreation Department Adult Volleyball Playoffs - 2005
   The Adult Volleyball Playoffs are as follows:

Wednesday, March 9, 2005
Women’s A Division:
6:30 p.m. Match: Six Pack vs Gr Is Physical Therapy
7:00 p.m. Match: Set Return vs ASI Modulex
     Winner vs Winner at 7:30 p.m.

Women’s B Division:
6:30 p.m. Match: Fuccillo Chevrolet vs Fast by Gast
7:00 p.m. Match: MBK & Associates vs Brick Oven
     Winner vs winner at 7:30 p.m.

Thursday, March 10
Men’s Divisions
Blue:
6:30 p.m. Match: Kill Zone vs Village Inn
7:00 p.m. Match: Sound Choice Audio vs Costello & Frentzel
     Winner vs winner at 7:30 p.m.

Gold:
6:15 p.m. Match: The Mutts vs John’s Towing
6:45 p.m. Match: winner of above vs Smackdowns
7:00 p.m. Match: Brick Oven vs First Gear
     Winner vs winner at 7:30 p.m.

White :
Playoffs start April 7, 2005

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - Mar. 4, 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of March 4, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Team records are the same as last week, no games this week - Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of February 17, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of February 17, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of February 11, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of February 4, 2005.

Recreation Department Snow Sculpture Contest - 2005
Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department's Snow Sculpture Contest is an ongoing contest being held all winter, for all ages. Subject matter is up to you. When you complete your snow sculpture entry, call the Recreation Office at 773-9680 and a Recreation Department representative will come out and take a photo of it. Entries will be accepted through March 31, 2005. Sculpture Winners will be announced April 5, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of January 28, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of January 21, 2005.

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of January 10, 2005 will be posted on Friday or Monday (Jan. 14 or 17).

New - Youth Activities Night - Town Rec. Dept. Program - 2005
The Grand Island Recreation Department is offering a new program, Youth Activities Night, open to boys and girls 6 – 10 years old and featuring two hours of vigorous exercise games and activities. Pre-registration and a $20.00 fee is required. The program, held Thursdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in the Kaegebein Gym, begins January 13, 2005. Activities Night leaders are Amy Stewart & Cortney Bota. Registration takes place from 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, January 8, 2005 at the Nike Base, 3278 Whitehaven Road. Youths are asked to dress for activities. (No food allowed)

Recreation Department Standings - Adult Teams - 2005
Click for the Grand Island Recreation and Parks Department Standings as of January 3, 2005.

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