Grand Island Republican Committee Web Page
P.O. Box 104
Grand Island, New York 14072
www.gigop.com
Email - gigopmail@gmail.com

Officers 2010-2011
Chairman - Debbie Michaux
Vice Chairman - Neal Hoffman
Secretary - Liz Wilbert

Councilman
Raymond Billica
Mary Cooke
Dick Crawford

Town Clerk
Pattie Frentzel
Highway Superintendent
Jim Tomkins

Town Justice
Sybil Kennedy
Mark Frentzel

Island Republican Family Picnic –2010
The Annual Grand Island Republican Family Picnic will be held at the Rod and Gun Club Whitehaven Road from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. on August 14, 2010. Tickets are $10.00 per person- $3.00 for children under 3- $25.00 per family. There will be lots of activities for the whole family. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. For more information contact Debbie Michaux.

Republicans St. Pat's Party - April 2010

Left photo front left: Marilyn Gratto; (Back) Bonnie Sciuk, dinner chair, Kevin Hardwick, GI Highway Superintendent James Tomkins, Republican Chairman Debbie Michaux, Town Councilmember Ray Billica, Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel, Tom Clabeaux, Town Councilmembers Dick Crawfored and Mary Cooke
Right photo front left: Sendlbeck Family photo: left to right -(Front) Nick Sendlbeck, Chris Sendlbeck, Colleen Fahrer; (Middle) GI Independence Party Vice Chairman Jerry Ast, Kylie Fahrer, Debbie Michaux, Pattie Frentzel, Dick Crawford, Bonnie Sciuk, Mary Cooke and James Tomkins; (Rear) Andy Sendlbeck, Chaz Fahrer, Tom Clabeaux, Kodie Fahrer, Kevin Hardwick and Ray Billica
Click photos for larger view

The Grand Island Republican Committee held its annual St. Patrick's Day dinner on March 17 at the Knights of Columbus on Whitehaven Road. Erie County District 10 Legislator Kevin Hardwick delivered a spirited speech outlining the importance of political involvement. Marilyn Gratto was recognized for her many years of service to the Republican Party with a tribute delivered by Mary Cooke. Mike Sendlbeck, former chair of the GI Independence Party, was posthumosly honored with a rousing speech delivered by GI Independence Party Chairman Tom Clabeaux. Delicious food, great company, a large selection of raffle baskets and a split club were enjoyed by all.

Grand Island Republican Committee Announces St. Patrick’s Day Celebration –2010
The Grand Island Republican will host its annual St. Patrick’s Day Celebration, to be held at 6 p.m. March 17 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1841 Whitehaven Road. The evening will feature a split club, basket raffle, great home cooked food and lots of Irish enthusiasm. Tickets ($20) are available by calling Jodi Spero, 773-5832. Tickets may be mailed to you or held at the door.
Those being honored are Marilyn Gratto, president of the GI Women’s Republican Club and the late Michael G. Sendlbeck, chairman of the Independence Party who was very dedicated to the Democratic Process.

Grand Island Republican Committee Announces Family Picnic - August 2009
The Grand Island Republican Committee's Annual Family Picnic will be held from 2-6 p.m. Saturday, August 8 at the Rod and Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Road. Food, drink, music, games softball, face painting, and raffles will be just part of the fun. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door. The cost is $10 per person, $3 per child under 12 or $25 per family. Everyone is welcome. For more information contact Debbie Michaux, 832-1681.

Republican Committee Golf Tournament Results - 2009

Photo #1 Winners of the tournament with a 63 score: (left) Ray Billica, Jay Raepple, Buddy Boss, Mark Raepple
Photo #2 Other winners: (left) Longest Drive-Pattie Frentzel, Closest to the Line-Donna Tomkins and Charlie Michaux, Closest to the Pin-Jude Kuehne and Dick Crawford, Longest Drive-Bill Shaw
Photo #3 Putting Contest Winners: (left) Mark Hajnos, Terry McDonnell, Duffy MacGuire, Charlie McDonough
The Grand Island Republican Committee held a very succussful golf tournament on Monday, May 11 at River Oaks Golf Course. Thanks to the many sponsors and congratulations to the winners.

Republican Committee Announces Website - April 2009
Republican Committee Chairman Kent Webb has announced that the Grand Island Republican Committee website, www.gigop.com is up and running. People are encouraged to go there to see more specifics about the endorsed candidates. There is also a calendar of upcoming events and details on such activities as the 11th annual golf tournament at River Oaks on May 11, 2009 and the summer picnic on August 8, 2009 at the G.I. Rod and Gun Club. Background information on the Republican Party’s history is also provided. Comments or suggestions are welcome using the Grand Island Republican Committee e-mail address, gigopmail@gmail.com.

Republican Committee Endorses James Tomkins For Highway Superintendent - March 2009
The following was inadvertently left out of the March 19, 2009 Endorsement article below:
James Tomkins is currently the Deputy Highway Superintendent and has held that position for three years. He has been with the Highway Department for six years. He has been strongly endorsed by the retiring Highway Superintendent, Ray Dlugokinski. Tomkins has had an opportunity to learn the job from the highly regarded and popular incumbent, but he would also bring his own construction industry experience and technological savvy to the position. Mr. Tomkins and his family reside at 80 Bishops Gate Rd. on Grand Island.

Republican Endorsements Announced - March 2009

Standing left to right are Deputy Highway Superintendent James Tomkins, Council Candidate Ray Billica, Councilwoman Mary Cooke, Erie County Executive Chris Collins, Town Justice Mark Frentzel, and Grand Island Republican Committee Chairman Kent Webb.
Donna M. Webb Photo - click for larger view

   The Grand Island Republican Committee, during the annual St. Patrick's Day Celebration, announced its endorsements for public offices on Grand Island.
   Candidate for Town Justice is incumbent Town Justice Mark Frentzel, seeking election to a second term. He resides with his family at 64 Settlers Row on Grand Island.
   Councilwoman Mary Cooke, who has served on the Council since first winning election in 1993, will run for re-election in November. She has been re-elected multiple times. Among many other accomplishments cited in her acceptance speech, Mary noted the frugal budgeting practices she has embraced during her tenure and the recent upgrade of Grand Island's bond rating to A1, which saves substantial amounts of interest on the town's borrowing. She resides with her family at 775 N. Colony Rd. on Grand Island.
   The Republican Committee has also endorsed Ray Billica who has been a resident of Grand Island for 54 years. He is a graduate of Grand Island High School, received his BS in Secondary Education Mathematics from Buffalo State College, and entered the teaching field at Grand Island's Middle School. He changed careers to become an employee of the Town Parks and Recreation Department. He was the Town's Parks Crew Chief for 28 years until his retirement two years ago. A resident of 1803 Fix Road, he is married to the former Debbie Crawford, and they have three sons: Josh, Erik, and Jared. Ray has been involved with the Grand Island Little League and the Grand Island Soccer Club for many years. He has coached at the local high school and has been involved in the community. Ray indicated that he would bring to the position of town councilman the invaluable experience he has gained working with town officials and department heads while he served as the Parks Crew Chief. He also wants to bring a new face, new ideas, and a new commitment to the town board, working with the current board members to tackle the problems the town faces.
   James Tomkins is currently the Deputy Highway Superintendent and has held that position for three years. He has been with the Highway Department for six years. He has been strongly endorsed by the retiring Highway Superintendent, Ray Dlugokinski. Tomkins has had an opportunity to learn the job from the highly regarded and popular incumbent, but he would also bring his own construction industry experience and technological savvy to the position. Mr. Tomkins and his family reside at 80 Bishops Gate Rd. on Grand Island.
    Erie County Executive Chris Collins was the featured speaker at the event and delivered an inspiring view of the many things happening in Erie County and the achievement of a budget surplus in a year of national economic decline. He also directly disagreed with legislation offered by Grand Island's two elected representatives in Albany. He indicated that Senator Antoine Thompson's legislation to give county employees additional paid time off was not needed, since they get 19 weeks of paid time off already. He also addressed Assemblyman Sam Hoyt's proposal to require the payment of the "prevailing wage" on construction work done in the private sector - just as it is in public sector construction work. Collins said this would severely curtail development in New York. His remarks drew an enthusiastic standing ovation.

Grand Island Republican Committee Hosts Chris Collins at St. Patrick's Celebration - March 2009
The Grand Island Republican Committee is announcing that Erie County Executive Chris Collins will be the featured speaker at the Committee’s annual St. Patrick’s Day dinner on March 17, 2009 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1841 Whitehaven Road. The Committee will also be honoring long-time Grand Island municipal employee, Ray Dlugokinski, current Grand Island Highway Superintendent, who has kept our roadways in excellent condition even when other communities have struggled. Also to be announced are the Republican endorsements for candidates in the 2009 local election. There will be a basket raffle as well. Dinner tickets are $20 per person. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Chris Collins will speak at 6:30 p.m. and dinner will follow 7 p.m.
For assurance of a seat at this always popular event, tickets can be mailed by sending a check for the number of tickets needed to: GI GOP, P.O. Box 104, Grand Island, NY 14072 (Be sure to include your return address). Tickets will also be sold on a limited first-come, first-served basis at the door on the night of the event. For further information, e-mail to gigopmail@gmail.com or call Chairman Kent Webb at 773-4636.

Grand Island Republican Committee Solicits Candidates For Public Office - Jan. 2009
   GRAND ISLAND, NY, JANUARY 6, 2009 - Kent Webb, Chairman, today announced that the Grand Island Republican Committee is soliciting applications for candidates interested in receiving an endorsement from the Committee for the four town offices which are up for election this coming November. These are: two Town Council seats, Town Justice, and Highway Superintendent.
   Those interested are requested to submit a letter including a short summary of relevant experience or a resume by mail to GI GOP, P.O.. Box 104, Grand Island, NY 14072 – Application deadline is Friday, February 6, 2009.
   There will also be an election for the County Legislature. The District that includes Grand Island also represents citizens of the Tonawandas. Persons interested in this race may also wish to contact Tim Doolittle, Chairman of the Tonawanda Committee, Christine Pelosi, Chairman of the City of Tonawanda Committee and James Domagalski, Chairman of the Erie County Republican Party.

Republican Chair Steps Down After Nine Years - 2008

(Left) Debbie Michaux, Richard Planavsky, Kent Webb and Elizabeth Wilbert
Click photo for larger view.
The Grand Island Republican Committee salutes outgoing Chairman Richard Planavsky after serving as Committee chairman for nine years, and welcomes in the new officers at its December 2nd meeting. Newly elected officers are Chairman Kent Webb, Vice Chairman Debbie Michaux, and Secretary Elizabeth Wilbert.

Grand Island Republican Committee Annual Family Picnic - Aug. 2008
   A Family Picnic sponsored by the Grand Island Republican Committee will be held from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, August 9 at the Grand Island Rod and Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY 14072.
   The event will be held rain or shine (the club has a large pavilion) and activities include a basket raffle, split club, bounce house and children’s games. Food for the day includes the famous chowder, corn-on-the-cob, hamburgers and hot dogs and lots of great homemade salads and desserts, coffee, beer and soft drinks. Come and enjoy a delicious meal, fun for the kids, camaraderie with friends and conversation with candidates running in 2008. This is a great chance to meet and talk with your district committee person, as well as local, county and state dignitaries. Al Hammonds, new Deputy County executive, will be a special guest.
   All of this for the bargain price of $10 for adults, $3 for children under 12, and a family maximum price of $25. Reserve a spot with any committeeperson, by sending payment to Grand Island GOP, PO Box 104, Grand Island, NY or pay at the door. For more information, call Grand Island Republican Chairman Richard Planavsky at 912-1817.

Republican Committee To Host St. Pat's Dinner Fundraiser - 2008
   Members of the Grand Island Republican Committee announced this week that they will host a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Fundraiser featuring guest speakers Pastor Abram R. Dueck and Jim Hanna. The fundraiser will include a corned beef buffet dinner, a silent basket auction, a split club raffle, and will honor the memory of Bruce Kaiser. The event will take place on Thursday, March 13, 2008 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1841 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY. The cost is $20 per person, with a cash bar at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m.
   Reservations are being taken by Lana Redell at 773-7367 or 297-3083 and must be made by March 6th.

Grand Island Republican Committee Annual Family Picnic - Aug. 2007
The Grand Island Republican Picnic will be held from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, August 25, 2007 at the Charles N. DeGlopper VFW Post #9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd, Grand Island, NY 14072. The picnic will be held rain or shine (the post has a large pavilion) and activities include a basket auction, split club, children’s games and bounce house. This is a great chance to meet and talk with local, county, state and national dignitaries and candidates and visit and have fun with your family and friends. Food for the day includes the famous chowder, corn-on-the-cob, hamburgers and hot dogs and lots of great homemade salads and desserts. All of this for the bargain price of $10 for adults, $3 for children ages 7-17, under age 7 are free and family maximum $25. Send payment to Grand Island GOP, PO Box 104, Grand Island, NY or pay at the door. For more information call Grand Island Republican Chairman Richard Planavsky at 775-0235.

Not Yet Registered To Vote?? - 2007

Republican candidates hosting the voter registration and absentee ballot application event: Dick Crawford, Sybil Kennedy, Pattie Frentzel, Mary Cooke and Gary Roesch.
Click photo for larger view.
Not Yet Registered To Vote?? Out of town on September 18 or November 6? Going to college out of town and still want to vote on Grand Island?? If you answered yes to any of these questions, come to the MOG, 1801 Grand Island Blvd., on Wednesday, August 15 from 6-9 p.m. The Grand Island Republican candidates are hosting a voter registration and absentee ballot application event. Check out the gym and get ready to vote, all in the same place. For more information call Ray Billica, 773-7021, Mary Cooke, 773-7058 or Dick Crawford, 777-4121.

Island GOP Endorses For 2007 - May 2007
   Members of the Grand Island Republican Party endorsed the following candidates for the November 6, 2007 Grand Island Election at their meeting on Wednesday evening, May 16, 2007:
MARY COOKE for Supervisor, RICHARD CRAWFORD and GARY ROESCH for Town Council, PATRICIA FRENTZEL for Town Clerk and SYBIL KENNEDY for Town Justice.
   Mary S. Cooke brings 14 years of Town Board experience to the campaign for Supervisor. She currently serves on the Special Districts Committee and is the Town Board liaison to the Conservation Commission.
   Richard W. Crawford is seeking re-election to a 4th term as Councilman. He is the Deputy Supervisor and the Town Board liaison to the Traffic Safety Advisory Board and the Youth Board.
   Gary G. Roesch is seeking re-election to a 2nd term as Councilman. He serves as Town Board liaison to the Planning Board and the Cable Communications Advisory Board.
   Patricia A. Frentzel is seeking re-election to a 2nd term as Town Clerk. In her first term, Patricia introduced on-line tax payments and receipts and is one of the few town clerks’ offices in NY State that can accept application for US Passports.
   Sybil E. Kennedy is seeking re-election to a 3rd term as Town Justice. For the last 37 years, Justice Kennedy has dedicated her career to working to bring justice to the people of Grand Island.
   The slate of Cooke, Crawford, Roesch, Frentzel and Kennedy has also received endorsement of the Grand Island Conservative Party.
   For more information contact: Grand Island Republican Chairman Richard Planavsky at 912-1817.

Republican Committee To Hold 9th Annual Golf Tournament - 2007

Tournament committee members from left are Councilman Richard Crawford Jr., Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel, Councilwoman Mary S. Cooke and Terry Stiltner, River Oaks PGA Head Golf Professional.
   The Grand Island Republican Committee will hold its ninth annual golf tournament on Monday, May 14, 2007 at the River Oaks Golf Club, 201 Whitehaven Road. Registration and picnic lunch will begin at 11:30 a.m. followed by a shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Once the 18 holes of golf are complete, guests will enjoy dinner. An awards ceremony and basket raffle will wrap up the event.
   Golfers can sign up as foursomes or individually. Fees for golfers are $105 per person. Individuals wishing to attend just the dinner will need to make a separate reservation at a discounted rate.
   The Republican Committee is accepting donations for the basket raffle and sponsorship opportunities are still available at various levels.
   For reservations or more information, including sponsorship opportunities, contact GOP Chairman Dick Planavsky at 775-0235; Golf Chairman Dick Crawford at 773-4121; Pattie Frentzel at 773-8788; or Mary Cooke at 773-7058.

Republican Committee Announces St. Patrick's Day Dinner - 2007
Members of the Grand Island Republican Committee announced this week that they will host a St. Patrick’s Day Dinner Fundraiser featuring guest speaker James Domagalski, Erie County GOP Chairman. The fundraiser will include a corned beef buffet dinner, a silent basket auction, and will honor the memory of John and Betty Trianda. The event will take place on Friday, March 16, 2007 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1841 Whitehaven Rd., Grand Island, NY. The cost is $20 per person, with a cash bar at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m.
Reservations are being taken by Lana Redell at 773-7367 or 297-3083 and must be made by March 8th.

Grand Island Republican Committee Accepting Applicants For November Election - 2007
   The Grand Island Republican Committee is accepting applications from Grand Island citizens interested in running for town office with the Republican endorsement. Grand Island offices on the ballot in November 2007 are town supervisor, town clerk, town justice, and two councilmember seats on the town board. All of these elected positions are for a four-year term.
   Letters of application should be sent to Dick Planavsky, Chair, Grand Island Republican Committee, P.O. Box 104, Grand Island, New York 14072. Applications should be postmarked on or before February 28, 2007.
    After review, the Committee will contact and schedule interviews for applicants in March, 2007.

Grand Island Republican Committee Announces Annual Family Picnic - 2006
   The Grand Island Republican Picnic will be held on from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, August 12, 2006 at the Grand Island Rod and Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Road, Grand Island, NY 14072. The picnic will be held rain or shine (the club has a large pavilion) and activities include a bounce house, split club, children’s games and basket auction.
   This is a great chance to meet and talk with local, county, state and national dignitaries and candidates and visit and have fun with your family and friends.
   Food for the day includes the famous chowder, corn-on-the-cob, hamburgers and hot dogs and lots of great homemade salads and desserts. All of this for the bargain price of $10 for adults, $3 for children ages 7-17, under age 7 are free and family maximum $25. Send payment to Grand Island GOP, PO Box 104, Grand Island, NY or pay at the door. For more information call Grand Island Republican Chairman Richard Planavsky at 775-0235.

Grand Island Republican Golf Tournament Announced - 2006

Finalizing plans for the Republican Committee's 8th annual golf tournament are (left) Pattie Frentzel,
PGA Head Golf Professional at River Oaks Terry Stiltner, Dick Crawford and Mary Cooke.
The Grand Island Republican Committee announces its 8th annual golf tournament on Monday, May 8, 2006 at River Oaks Golf Course. Registration and a picnic lunch begin at 11:30 a.m. with the tournament's shotgun start at 12:30 p.m. Immediately after 18 holes of golf, guests will enjoy dinner, awards and a basket raffle. All of this for just $95 per golfer. "You can sign up as a foursome or sign up individually and be placed in a foursome," a spokesman said this week. "If you would like to join the group for dinner, reservations may be made for $30 per person," she said. Donations for the raffle are being accepted. Several levels of sponsorship for the tournament are also available.
For reservations or more information, contact GOP Chairman Dick Planavsky, 775-0235; Golf Chair Dick Crawford, 773-4121; Pattie Frentzel, 773-1381; or Mary Cooke, 773-7058.

Republican Committee To Host St. Patrick's Day Dinner Fundraiser - 2005
   Members of the Grand Island Republican Committee announced this week that they will host a St. Patrick's Day Dinner Fundraiser featuring guest speaker, Sheriff Timothy Howard, a corned beef buffet dinner, a silent basket auction and a tribute to the late Thomas Gilmore. The event will take place on Wednesday, March 15, 2006 at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 1841 Whitehaven Road with a cash bar at 6 p.m. and dinner at 7 p.m.
   Cost: $20 per person - $35 per couple
   Reservations are being taken by Rosemary Wojick at 773-5137 and must be made by March 7th.

Republican Party's Annual Family Picnic - 2005
   The Grand Island Republican Party's Annual Family Picnic will be held from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, August 27, 2005 at the VFW Post 9249, 2121 Grand Island Blvd. The event will feature food, fun, sun, activities and games for the whole family as well as hot dogs, hamburgs, corn on the cob and salads served all day. A Chinese auction will be held and a bounce house, entertainment and kids games will be provided.
   Meet the candidates! Picnic held rain or shine. Chowder to be served starting at 4 p.m.
   Cost is adult/$10, children (7-17)/$3 and Family Max./$25. Checks should be made out by August 23, 2005, to Grand Island GOP, P.O. Box 104, Grand Island, NY 14072. Picnic tickets will also be available at the door.

Bruce Kaiser, Endorsed Candidate For County Legislature - 2005

Among those attending the endorsement for County Legislature are (left) Town of Tonawanda Republican Chairman Andy Sedita, Bruce Kaiser, City of Tonawanda Republican Chairman Christine Polizzi and Grand Island Republican Chairman Dick Planavsky. Click photo for larger view.
   The Erie County Republican Committee District 10 met Wednesday, June 22, 2005 at the Knights of Columbus on Grand Island and endorsed Island resident Bruce Kaiser for County Legislature. District 10 includes Grand Island and the City and Town of Tonawanda.

Republican Party Announces Candidates For November Election - 2005

November 2005 candidates for town election shown with Republican committee chair Dick Planavsky (left) are Dan Robillard, Mary Cooke, Ray Dlugokinski and Mark Frentzel. Click Photo For Larger View
   Wednesday, April 20, 2005. . . The Grand Island Republican Committee announced today that it has endorsed four candidates for the town offices on the ballot this November. Dick Planavsky, committee chair, said the committee voted unanimously to make the following endorsements: incumbents Mary Cooke and Dan Robillard for seats on the town board, incumbent Ray Dlugokinski for town highway superintendent, and Mark Frentzel for town justice.
   Mrs. Cooke and Mr. Robillard are running for re-election. Mr. Planavsky said they should be proud of their accomplishments on the board, especially in keeping the town budget balanced and property taxes stable without cutting services at a time when many local governments are struggling with budget deficits.
   Mr. Dlugokinski, who is seeking re-election to highway superintendent, said he wants to continue to provide the efficient snow plowing, branch pickup, and other highway services Grand Islanders expect from their highway department.
   Mr. Frentzel is seeking his first term on the town court. He is a former police officer and currently a partner in the Grand Island law firm of Costello and Frentzel. “With his 28 years of successful legal and law enforcement experience, much of it in town courts, Mark Frentzel is uniquely qualified to be Grand Island town justice,” said Mr. Planavsky.

Republican Committee Holding Corned Beef, Cabbage Dinner March 17, 2005
Grand Island Republican Committee will host a St. Patrick's Day party on Thursday, March 17, 2005 at the Niagara Sailing Club from 6-8 p.m. Cost is $10/person or $25/family (3 or more) and will feature a cash bar, Corned Beef & Cabbage and Desserts.

Republican Committee Seeks Citizens For Republican Endorsement for Nov. Election - 2005
   Grand Island Republican Committee Chairman Dick Planavsky invites citizens interested in receiving the Republican endorsement for Town of Grand Island offices on the November 2005 ballot to forward resumes to the committee.
   The offices are Town Council (2 positions), Town Judge and Highway Superintendent.
   Interested citizens are asked to forward their letter and resume to Mr. Planavsky at GOP Candidates Committee, PO Box 104, Grand Island, New York 14072. Deadline for applications is Wednesday, February 16, 2005. Interviews will be set up for late February.

Republicans To Get Together For Election Results - 2004
The Grand Island Republican Committee will gather to collect local polling results and watch the county, state and national results at River Oaks Clubhouse, 201 Whitehaven Road, on Tuesday, November 2, 2004 after the polls close at 9:00 p.m. All who are interested, especially friends of the Republican Party, are welcome. For more information contact Chairman Dick Planavsky at 775-0235.

Newly Elected GI GOP Officers - 2004

Click photo for a larger view.
The Grand Island Republican Committee elected GOP officers during its reorganization meeting of the Grand Island Republican Party on September 28, 2004. Shown (left) are Grand Island GOP Treasurer Tom Gilmore, Secretary Sara Slachciak, Chairman Richard Planavsky, and Vice Chairman Kent Webb.

Republican Candidates Conduct Island Republican Candidates Night - 2004

Click photo for a larger view.
Republican Candidates, who conducted a Candidates Night for the Grand Island Repubican Committee on September 28, 2004, are (left) Erie County District Attorney Frank Clark; Al Coppola, Candidate for State Senate; Family Court Judge Deborah Haendiges; US Congress Candidate Michael Laba; and David Penna, Candidate for NY State Assembly.

Meet The Republican Candidates - 2004
   The Grand Island Republican Committee will hold a Meet The Republican Candidates event from 7:30-9 p.m. Tuesday, September 28, 2004 at the Niagara Sailing Club, 3619 East River Road, Grand Island. Food will be provided and a cash bar and tickets on a split club will be available.
   A reorganization meeting of the Grand Island Republican Committee will begin at 7 p.m. SHARP.
   The following candidates will be in attendance:
• Michael Laba - 28th US Congressional District
• Alfred Coppola - 60th NY Senatorial District
• David Penna - 144th NY Assembly District
• Deborah Haendiges - Erie County Family Court
• Frank Clark - Erie County District Attorney

Grand Island Republican Party Annual Family Picnic
Food, Fun, Sun, Activities, Games For The Whole Family - 2004
   The Grand Island Republican Party's Annual Family Picnic will be held from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, August 14, 2004 at the Niagara Sailing Club, 3619 East River Road. The picnic will be held rain or shine.
   The Committee will provide children's games, an auction, raffles, bounce house, swimming, and live entertainment and an opportunity to meet elected officials. Chowder will be ready at 4 p.m. Hot dogs will also be served and all are welcome to attend.
   Picnic prices:
   Adults - $10
   Children (7-17) - $3
   Family Max - $25
Those attending are asked to RSVP by August 9. Checks for the picnic should be made out to:
Grand Island GOP
P.O. Box 104
Grand Island, NY 14072
   Tickets will also be available at the door. For more information, call Dick Planavsky, 775-0235.

Meet The Republican Candidates - 2003
   The Grand Island Republican Party and River Oaks Golf Club will host a Meet The Republican Candidates event at 3:30 p.m. Sunday, October 12, 2003 at River Oaks Golf Club.
   The Buffalo Bills vs. the Jets game will be televised on the big screen TV at 4:15 p.m. Pizza, wings, draft beer and wine will be served. A $10 donation is asked.
   Candidates Pattie Frentzel, Dick Crawford, Gary Roesch and Sybil Kennedy will be present. Scroll down for candidates' photo. For more information, contact chairman Dick Planavsky at 775-0235.

Candidates Pose During Republican Picnic - 2003

Barbi Lare photo
The endorsed Republican candidates for election in November posed for this photo during the Grand Island Republican Committee Picnic Saturday, August 2, 2003 at the Niagara Sailing Club. They are (left) incumbent Councilman Richard Crawford, Town Clerk Candidate Pattie Frentzel, incumbent Town Justice Sybil Kennedy, and Town Council Candidate Gary Roesch. The weather cooperated by the time the festivities began and the crowd had a fine meal. Prizes were awarded to lucky winners of the Chinese raffle of donated items.

Grand Island Republican Committee Annual Picnic - 2003
   The annual Grand Island Republican Picnic will be held from 4-8 p.m. Saturday, August 2, 2003 at the Niagara Sailing Club, 3619 East River Road.
   The Committee flyer advertises "food, fun, sun, activities and games for the whole family." Features will be an auction, raffles, bounce house, swimming, live entertainment and children’s games. Chowder will be ready at 4 p.m. Cost is $10 for adults, $3 for children ages 7-17, under age 7 are free and family maximum $25. Reservations may be made by sending payment to Grand Island GOP, PO Box 104, Grand Island, NY by July 31, 2003.
   "This is a good opportunity to come out to a social function and meet the Republican candidates Pattie Frentzel for town clerk, Dick Crawford and Gary Roesch for town council and Sybil Kennedy for Town Justice," a spokesman for the event said this week.
   For more information contact picnic chairman Dave Hammond, 773-2569.

GOP Golf Tournament Set For Monday, May 12 - 2003
The Grand Island GOP's annual golf tournament is scheduled for Monday, May 12, 2003 at River Oaks. The cost is $95.00 per player. Singles and foursomes are welcome. A 12:30 p.m. shot gun start is planned with registration and lunch beginning at 11:30 a.m. Green and Tee signs are available at $35.00 or $70.00 for both. Dinner is included with golf and prizes and raffles will be held.
For more information contact Patti Frentzel at 773-1381, Dick Crawford at 773-4121 and Dick Planavsky at 775-0235.

Republican Party Candidates For November Election

Jon Sandino Photo - Click For Larger View
Endorsed Republican Party candidates posed for a photo with Erie County Legislator Chuck Swanick (left) on Monday, May 5, 2003 at Grand Island Town Hall. Shown with Swanick are incumbent Town Justice Hon. Sybil Kennedy, Town Clerk candidate Patricia Frentzel, incumbent Town Councilman Richard W. Crawford Jr., and Town Council candidate Gary Roesch. See also Endorsements 4/10/03.

Gary Roesch, Patricia Frentzel Receive Republican Endorsement
   Gary G. Roesch, 60, has been endorsed by the Grand Island Republican Committee for town councilman in the November 2003 election. Roesch, a Conservative, has served as a member and chairman of the town conservation commission and is currently town planning board chair. The Republican Committee made the announcement Tuesday, April 8, 2003.
   Patricia Frentzel, a Republican who ran for the office of town clerk in 1999, gained the Republican Committee's endorsement to run for the position in November 2003. Patricia works for the Grand Island School District as a teacher's aide.
   Republican incumbent, Councilman Richard W. Crawford Jr. was also endorsed by his party. Crawford, 46, is deputy town supervisor and running for a third term as councilman.
   A Republican running for her second term as town justice and endorsed by the Republican Committee is Sybil E. Kennedy, 68. District coordinator for the town and village judges' advanced training program, she is also a member of the faculty of the Office of Court Administration.
   The Republican Committee chose not to endorse a town supervisor candidate. Town residents who are interested in running for the office are asked to put their interest in writing to Grand Island Republican Committee Richard Planavsky, P.O. Box 104, Grand Island, or call 775-0235.

Republican Picnic Held At Sailing Club

Barbi Lare photo
The comfortable setting of the Niagara Sailing Club on East River Road was the site of the annual GOP Committee Picnic on Saturday, August 3, 2002. David Hammond served as co-chair with help from members and friends, in serving up hot dogs, hamburgers and all the typical picnic food. Shown left are Mark and Karen Bullock and Larry and Colleen Furnia (seated), Council members Richard Crawford Jr., Erie County Clerk candidate Barbara Guido, and Council members Mary Cooke and Dan Robillard. Not shown but in attendance was Grand Island Republican Committee Chair Dick Planavsky.

Grand Island Republican Committee Annual Picnic
The Grand Island Republican Picnic will be held on from 4-9 p.m. Saturday, August 3, 2002 at the Niagara Sailing Club, 3619 East River Road, Grand Island. "This is your chance to meet and talk with local, county, state and national dignitaries and candidates and visit and have fun with your friends," a spokesman for the Committee said this week.
The picnic will be held rain or shine and includes live entertainment, bounce house, swimming, raffles, children’s games, auction, chowder, corn-on-the-cob and lots of great picnic food. Cost is $10 for adults, $3 for children ages 7-17, under age 7 are free and family maximum $25. Reservations may be made by sending payment to Grand Island GOP, PO Box 104, Grand Island, NY by July 31. For more information call GOP Chairman Richard Planavsky at 775-0235.

Republicans Hear Legislator DeBenedetti

Local Republican politicians joined with Mr. DeBenedetti and Mr. Planavsky (left) in a photo. They are Highway Superintendent Ray Dlugokinski and Council members Mary Cooke, Dan Robillard (DeBenedetti) and Richard Crawford.
Barbi Lare Photo
The Grand Island Republican Committee gathered at the Niagara Sailing Club for a social event where all the local republican members heard Al DeBenedetti, the new Erie County Chairman of the Legislature speak. Committee Chairman Dick Planavsky commented in the introduction, that it might be strange to invite a Democrat to a Republican gathering, but that it was hoped to generate non-partisan support for the Legislature Chairman

Republicans Party at BLC

Barbi Lare photo
Republican candidates and supporters recently gathered at the Buffalo Launch Club where they heard and gave short speeches and had a good time. From left are Councilman Dick Crawford, former Justice Bud Pritchard, Sheriff Patrick Gallivan, Justice Candidate Tim Mordaunt, Incumbents Controller Nancy Naples, Highway Superintendent Ray Dlugokinski, Councilman Mary Cooke, Council Candidate Dan Robillard and former Tax Receiver Marlene McCarthy.

Republicans Gather at Rod & Gun Club

Republican candidates from left are Councilman Dick Crawford, Tim Mordaunt (Justice candidate), Highway Superintendent Ray Dlugokinski, Councilman Mary Cooke and County Legislator candidate.
Barbi Lare photo
The annual picnic of the Grand Island Republican Committee was held at the Rod and Gun Club on Whitehaven Road with all sorts of activities for adults and kids. Highlight of the day was a sky divers' landing near by. Adults additionally had the opportunity to enter raffles for many theme baskets and for door prizes. Candidates and families were on hand as well as many supporters for the candidates.

Republicans' Annual Summer Picnic
The Grand Island Republican Committee will hold its annual Summer Family Picnic 4-9 p.m. Saturday, August 18, 2001, at the Grand Island Rod and Gun Club, 1083 Whitehaven Road. There will be food and fun for the entire family! Activities include Bouncetown, Split Club, Hayrides, Children’s Games, Music, and Raffles. There will be Chowder, Corn-on-the-Cob, delicious picnic fare and much more. Tickets are available from any committee person or by contacting Chairman Dick Planavsky at 775-0235. Ticket prices are Adults/$10, Children 7–17/$3, and Family Maximum/$25.

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