School News Web Page
2024
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Made in America Day – July 2nd - June 2024
Made in the USA Day is celebrated on July 2 by consumers and manufacturers as a way of boosting sales for locally made products. The day is observed just before Independence Day when patriotic feelings are at an all-time high, which makes it an event of great splendor. Made in the USA Day encourages the manufacturing of goods in America and customers to choose these goods instead of those that are imported from elsewhere.It Helps the Economy - Buying American made products means you are contributing to the growth of the local and American economy. It Supports Local and Small Businesses. When you buy local, you support small businesses that are involved in the community.
Be An Educated Boater - June 2024
ERIE COUNTY, NY — Erie County Clerk Kearns reminds you to be an educated boater – know and follow the "Rules of the Water". Do not to leave safety at the dock this summer.Summer is here and nothing signals summer in Erie County like boating. Whether you are visiting the Erie Basin Marina, fishing in the Niagara River, cruising through Canalside or motoring to the Point Abino Lighthouse, Western New York offers an abundance of waterways providing outstanding recreational opportunities for boating enthusiasts.
Just as there are "rules of the road" that govern the safe flow of traffic for vehicles, there are "rules of the waterways" that govern the safe maneuvering of boats. I encourage all recreational boaters and jet skiers to know the risks, learn the rules and be prepared before taking the helm this boating season.
New York State requires all persons are at least 10 years of age to operate a motorboat, as well as all personal watercraft operators, born on or after May 1, 1996, successfully complete a state-approved 8-hour boater education classroom course and proctored exam. According to research conducted by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) in 70 percent of all boating fatalities the operator had not taken a boating safety class. A list of an approved Boater Safety Course near you can be found at nysparks.com/recreation/boating.
State law also requires that any motor-driven watercraft must be registered with the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (NYS DMV). If you use a motor (electric or fuel-driven), regardless of the size of your boat or the motor, you must register your boat. I encourage you to take this opportunity to “Renew Local” and help keep a portion of your registration fees local by registering your boat in person at any one of our Erie County Auto Bureau branches. A completed Boater Registration/Title Application (MV-82B), proof of identity, date of birth and proof of ownership are all required to register a boat. For additional information, please contact the Erie County Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864 or visit erie.gov/clerk.
Under New York law no one may operate a vessel on the waters of NYS while impaired or intoxicated through the consumption of either alcohol or drugs. Alcohol impairs one’s ability to function properly and is a factor in 30 percent of all boating related fatalities. In an effort to send a clear message to our young boaters, New York State has enacted legislation, for those under 21 years of age, providing for the suspension or revocation of operating privileges if caught drinking while operating a vessel.
One last safety tip, and possibly the most important, is to always wear a life jacket and make sure your passengers do as well. Seventy-nine percent of all recreational boat drownings occurred when boaters did not wear a life jacket. Wear It! A life jacket will help ensure you and everyone on board returns home safely. Everyone should do their part to make sure the waters are safe. Your time on the water should be enjoyable for you, your family, friends and your fellow boaters. I hope you enjoy the summer season by boating smart and boating safe!
80th Anniversary of D-Day Photos - June 2024
Guest Speaker David Conboy
Mary Stewart Photos
A special 80th Anniversary of D-Day and tribute to Charles N. DeGlopper was held on Sunday, June 9th at the DeGlopper Memorial. It was hosted by the American Legion and VFW Post 9249.
Citizen Coalition for Wildlife and Environment Native Plant Sale - June 2024
Mary Stewart Photos
The Citizen Coalition for Wildlife and Environment Native Plant Sale was Saturday, June 8th at the Alt Nature Center, 2489 Whitehaven Road. Visitors got a chance to tour the newly renovated barn and schoolhouse.
Road Milling on Baseline Starts June 12th - June 2024
Road Milling on Baseline Starts Wednesday, June 12th and is projected to be completed by Saturday, June 15.
Expext delays and use caution.
Single lane work will begin on Baseline at Whitehaven and go south to Bush, then return from Bush to Whitehaven with work on the other lane.
18th Annual Paddles Up Niagara 2024! - June 2024
18th Annual Paddles Up Niagara will occur on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Beaver Island State Park. The events will start at 7am and run throughout the day. Registration opens on Monday June 10, 2024, at 8am. Information about the event can be found at: https://www.niagararivergreenway.com/paddles-up. Registration for the event: https://grandislandny.myrec.com
Accounts are FREE! If you do not have an account set up with us, you will need to do so (household).
If you have issues setting up a new account, please call our office M-F 8am to 4pm. 716-773-9680.
If you created an account last year and forgot your Login USERNAME, please contact us.
**Once the account is set up you can begin to register! Please note: You must complete the process through the checkout payment screen $0 (free event).
If you do not complete the checkout process, or receive a receipt for your registration, you are not registered.
Paddles Up Notifications will be sent via e-blast and text blast. Be sure to Opt IN for general & cancelation notifications as well as text notifications. Be sure to check your spam/Junk folder in case information is filtered there.
Staley Road Bridge Closure – Maintenance Repairs - June 2024
The New York State Thruway will be doing maintenance/repair work on the Staley Rd bridge over I-190. Thruway maintenance will be performing above deck repair work, and we will be closing the bridge to traffic to facilitate the repairs. The planned work includes:
Removing the steel armor angle bridge joints and concrete headers at each end of the bridge
Installing new joint header concrete and joint seal
Repairing isolated deck spalls and seal the entire concrete bridge deck surface
Removing and replacing the adjacent asphalt approach transition
The bridge closure is anticipated to begin on July 8th and will last for 2 weeks. (2) Portable Variable Message Signs will be installed on Staley Rd near the bridge one week prior for early notification of the closure.
Memorial Day Ceremony - May 2024
Mary Stewart Photos.
The Town of Grand Island Memorial Day Ceremony took place on Monday, May 27th at the VFW Post 9249, moved due to weather. Supervisor Peter Marston gave the introduction, followed by the recognition of Gold Star families, including Shirley Luther and family, Mary Ann Crowe and family and Fran Davis and family. Invocation was given by Chaplin Joe Mesmer followed by guest speaker, LT Damon Wright. Music was provided by the Grand Island High School wind ensemble.
Correctional Facility Flowers Beautify GI - May 2024
Shown left to right in the greenhouse: Jim Linenfelser, GI Town Hall Caretaker; Deputy Matt Dils and ECCF Industrial Training Supervisor John Fisher.
For the 11th consecutive year, the Town of Grand Island has been the recipient of hundreds of plants from the Horticulture Program at the Erie County Correctional Facility (ECCF) in Alden. The many flowers and a few vegetables have been planted on town properties throughout the Island. At the main entrance to Town Hall you will see the large variety of flowers grown for 2024. Both red and yellow cherry tomatoes have been planted at the Golden Age Center for use in meals served there. The plants are started in three greenhouses by inmates at the ECCF under the direction of John Fisher and Sheriff Matt Dils. They are distributed to municipalities throughout Erie County and to various county facilities.
Alt Homestead Wins Preservation Leadership Award - May 2024
The Alt Homestead, located at 2489 Whitehaven Road, has been awarded the Preservation Leadership Award by Preservation Buffalo Niagara. Owners of the property are Nicole Gerber and Dave Reilly. See Press Release. You can see for yourself at the Citizen Coalition for Wildlife and Environment Native Plant Sale on Saturday, June 8th fom 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. It will be at the Alt Nature Center, 2489 Whitehaven Road. The nature center is located in a newly renovated Grand Island schoolhouse from the 1870's. See FLYER.
Native Plant Sale - May 2024
Citizen Coalition for Wildlife and Environment is hosting a Native Plant Sale on Saturday, June 8th fom 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. It will be at the Alt Nature Center, 2489 Whitehaven Road. The nature center is located in a newly renovated Grand Island schoolhouse from the 1870's. See FLYER.
Do Not Flush Needles/Syringes - May 2024
Town Of Grand Island's team at the Wastewater Plant has asked for a reminder concerning the disposal of Hypodermic needles. Please do not flush needles or throw them in the garbage.
It is very important that these needles/syringes not go into the wastewater collection system as that presents special and possibly deadly problems for wastewater collection and wastewater treatment employees.
There are Drop-off Boxes located inside the main door of Town Hall for both needles and medication. If you need containers for syringes please see the Town Clerks office which is to the left of the lobby area. Town Hall is open Monday-Friday, 8:30am - 4:30pm.
Thank you for your assistance.
Grand Island School District Election Results - May 2024
Proposed budget: $77,932,254, up 5.70%. Yes, 772; No, 445.Proposition 2: To spend $675,000 to buy three buses and two 4-by-4 vehicles. Yes, 763; No, 453.
Candidates (Elect 3:) Jennifer Chin, 511; Roger Broeker, 917; Joy LaMarca (i), 820; Danielle Bruno (i), 804.
American Red Cross Blood Drive - May 2024
American Red Cross Blood Drive is Saturday, June 8th from 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Grand Island Community Center, 3278. Whitehaven Road. See FLYER.
GI School & Business Alliance Cruise Night - May 2024
GI School & Business Alliance hosts their first Cruise Night on Wednesday, June 26th. See FLYER.
Pride of the Island Selections - May 2024
Each year the teacher's of Grand Island select a student to receive the PRIDE of the Island award. This award is presented each year to recognize those students who make a positive contribution to the atmosphere of their classroom, their school and their community. Students who receive this award are consistently found to be: Positive, Responsible, Interested, Determined & Enterprising. Congratulations to all of the recipients of the PRIDE of the Island.
Memorial Day Ceremony - May 2024
The Town of Grand Island, VFW Post 9249 Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post, American
Legion NY Post 1346 and Grand Island High School Wind Ensemble will honor the men and
women who made the supreme sacrifice for our country while in military service. They are
remembered each and every day and will be honored on Memorial Day.Veterans, family members and the community are cordially invited to attend the program on Monday, May 27, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Park. There will be a reception following the ceremony at VFW Post 9249 Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial Post located at 2121 Grand Island Boulevard. For questions on the ceremony please email recreation@grand-island.ny.us or call at 716-773- 9680. Location: Charles N. DeGlopper Memorial. Located at the intersection of Grand Island Boulevard and Baseline Road Nearest Address – Walgreens - 2320 Grand Island Boulevard, Grand Island, NY 14072.
East River Road Lane Restriction - May 2024
The portion of East River Road (CR 11) between East Park Road and Winkler Drive will have a single-lane road restriction. Work will be centralized under the bridge approximately 200 feet from East Park Road. This restriction will begin on May 21 with an estimated completion of May 22 or until complete. The restriction will be
daily from 7am to 5pm. This restriction is for the purpose of structural steel repairs and light pole replacements.
Erie County & Tool Library Borrowing Progam - May 2024
Erie County Department of Public Health is partnering with the Tool Libary in a Lead Safe Tool Borrowing Program . It is to help residents complete home repairs and renovations. See FLYER.
Huth Road Lane Restriction - May 2024
Message from Erie County Department of Public Works: The portion of Huth Road (CR-309) from Sandy Beach Road to Pellamwood Court at the address of 1840 Huth Road will have a single lane road restriction. This restriction will begin on May 21 through May 23 or until complete. The restriction will be daily from 8am to 4pm. This restriction is for the purpose of water main and storm sewer installation. Anastasi Trucking will be performing the work.
Blood Drive at Fire Hall - May 2024
An American Red Cross Blood Drive will take place at the Grand Island Fire Hall, 2275 Baseline Road on Tuesday, May 14th from 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. See FLYER.
Meet the BOE Candidates Video - May 2024
On May 21st, four candidates are on the ballot for three open seats on the Grand Island CSD Board of Education beginning the start of the 2024-25 school year. Meet The Candidates Night sponsored by the GI PTA Council is the chance to hear from the four people trying for those trustee positions during this public event, which took place in the Professional Development Room of Grand Island High School on Wednesday May 8, 2024.
Please cue up to the 28:50 mark to catch the event from the beginning.
Letter Carriers Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive - May 2024
Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive takes place on Saturday, May 11th on Grand Island. To donate, leave a sturdy bag containing unexpired non-perishable food next to your mailbox. See letter for complete details. Donations benefit the GI Neighbors Foundation.May is Motorcycle Safety & Awareness Month - May 2024
ERIE COUNTY, NY — Erie County Clerk Kearns reminds motorists and motorcyclists to safely share the roadways.The warmer weather has arrived, daylight hours are longer, it is finally spring and time to remind all vehicle drivers and motorcyclists that Motorcycle Safety is Everyone’s Safety as we recognize May as Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month. Motorcycle riders across Erie County are tuning up their bikes and getting ready for the riding season on the open road. Motorcycles are inexpensive to purchase, fuel efficient, fun to ride and easy to park. In Erie County alone, there are more than 21,000 registered riders who use their motorcycles for commuting, touring and other recreational activities.
According to the National Highway Traffic Administration (NHTSA), although motorcycles make up only 3% of all registered vehicles and research shows that motorcyclists have the highest proportion of traffic crashes and fatalities each year. In 2021, there were 5,932 motorcyclists killed, accounting for 14 percent of all traffic deaths. This is the highest number of motorcyclists killed since national data collection began in 1975.
I ask all vehicle drivers, especially new motorists, to be alert to the presence of motorcycles and to share the road safely. Motorcyclists often ride to one side of the lane and at times the rider can hide in your vehicle’s blind spot. Always look twice before turning or changing lanes to be sure your path is clear. Allow more following distance for motorcycles -- two or three car lengths is recommended, more if the roads are wet or visibility is poor.
Riders should follow motorcycle safety protocols: wear protective gear at all times, including a helmet that meets or exceeds the U.S. Department of Transportation standard, ride within your skill limits, avoid riding in poor weather conditions, use turn signals, and never ride impaired or distracted. Riders can also benefit from any motorcycle safety programs offered to learn the critical skills needed to ride safely, including seasoned riders who want to reinforce safe driving practices. Course graduates may also qualify for insurance premium discounts with some insurers. Class locations and fees can be found at nysmsp.org.
Before hitting the road this driving season, I remind motorcyclists that their motorcycle registration expires annually on April 30th, so take time to visit the Erie County Auto Bureau to ‘Renew Local’. In addition, those who drive a motorcycle need to be properly licensed, as 36% of fatal bike accidents involve an unlicensed driver. Take the time to get properly licensed – not only because it’s the law, but because doing so may save a life.
Ultimately, safe driving and riding practices and cooperation from all road users will help reduce the number of fatalities and injuries on our local roadways. I urge everyone to use caution when sharing the road this summer. When we share the road, we share the responsibility of keeping each other safe. Together, the more we raise awareness and follow the rules of the road, the safer everyone is. Let’s ride smart, ride safe, and enjoy the season. For more information on motorcycle licensing and registration visit erie.gov/clerk or call the Clerk’s Outreach Center at 716-858-8864.
Support for Revised M1 Law - May 2024
On Monday, May 6th, the Town Board is planning to schedule a vote on Local Law #6 of 2023. This law would change our current M1/M2 zoning law to limit the total size of all buildings on a “business campus” to 150,000 square feet and would remove distribution center as a permitted use. If you agree with this law, show your support by signing a petition HERE. You can also show your support by attending the Town Board meeting at 8:00 p.m. on Monday, May 6th.Whitehaven Road Restriction - May 2024
Message from Erie County Dept. of Public Works: The portion of Whitehaven Road (CR-75) from East River Road to Stony Point Road will have a single lane road restriction. This restriction will begin May 8, with an estimated completion date of May 9 or until complete. This restriction will be between the hours of 8am-4:30pm daily. This restriction is for the purpose of the installation of 8" water main.Grand Island Central School District UPK Lottery - May 2024
The deadline for the 2024-25 Grand Island Central School District UPK lottery is approaching. Applications will be accepted until May 10 at 2 p.m. All are invited to attend the live lottery, which will be held on Wednesday, May 15, in the Professional Development Room 137 of Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road, at 1 p.m. For questions, call Jill Morrish at 716-773-8818.Meet the Candidates Night - April 2024
The Grand Island PTA Council will host Meet the Candidates Night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday, May 8. Come and meet the candidates for the Grand Island School Board in the Professional Development Room of Grand Island High School, 1100 Ransom Road.There are four candidates for three open seats on the Grand Island Board of Education this year: Jennifer Chin; Roger Broeker; Joy LaMarca (i); Danielle Bruno (i) Presentations will be recorded. The event will be streamed live for viewing purposes only; there will be no live chat available. On the day of the event, visit the link: HERE or search GITV AVTech YouTube channel.Community Education Summer Session - April 2024
Online registration for the summer session of Community Education is now open. Register early to secure your spot for classes like Sports Camp, Friends and Family Band, and SAT Preparation. Brochures will be coming home with elementary and middle school students soon. Go to https://www.grandislandschools.org/domain/34 to see the online brochure and to register for classes online.Public Notice from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers - April 2024
CRED4GI NoticeMeeting on Tuesday, April 23 at 5:00 p.m. at the Visitors Center Community Room. Grand Island residents that directly surround the proposed Long Rd Warehouse Project received a package in the mail recently. This package contained a public notice sent by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, dated April 8, 2024. The deadline for responses is May 8, 2024. The full text (and diagrams) of the Public Notice are available online: https://usace.contentdm.oclc.org/utils/getfile/collection/p16021coll15/id/5336
The Public Notice is asking for local input on the request of the applicant (Acquest) to destroy (fill) 1.36 acres of wetland in exchange for 1.36 credits from the Ducks Unlimited In-Lieu Fee Program.
There are a few things that you can do: 1. Join us for an in-person meeting to be held on Tuesday, April 23, 2024 @5pm at the Visitors Center Community Room. We will be having a discussion on how best to respond to this Notice. 2. Send an email to Shannon.N.Azzarelli@usace.army.mil requesting a public hearing on this issue. This would allow residents to attend a public hearing and speak out against this request. 3. Send an email to Shannon.N.Azzarelli@usace.army.mil stating that you are opposed to granting this exchange due to the already excessive flooding that occurs in and around this property that negatively affects surrounding residents. 4. Send an email to Shannon.N.Azzarelli@usace.army.mil stating that an in-depth inspection of these wetlands should be performed to ensure that there are no endangered species living within the affected wetland area (i.e. northern long-eared bat and salamander mussel) and study how this exchange could jeopardize their critical habitat. Please help us by making your voices heard! We need as many of you to respond to this public notice as possible so that we can continue to fight this development!
April is National Donate Life Month - April 2024
ERIE COUNTY, NY — Erie County Clerk Kearns Urges Motorists to Register as organ donors. Check the box YES, save a life and be someone’s hero!Each year during the month of April, my office is pleased to join Donate Life New York State (NYS) in celebrating National Donate Life Month, in an effort to raise awareness of the lifesaving impact of organ, eye and tissue donation and honoring those who have saved lives through the gift of donation. By providing the opportunity for our customers to enroll in the NYS Donate Life Registry, our local Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) offices are they key to saving and healing the lives of thousands of New Yorkers in need of a transplant. The Gift of Life comes in many different forms through many different stories, personalities, lives and backgrounds.
Just one person who donates organs (hearts, lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas and intestines) can save up to eight lives, while a tissue or eye donor (corneas, bone, skin, heart valves, tendons, veins, etc.) can improve more than 75 lives by restoring eyesight, helping fight infections in burn patients and preventing the loss of mobility and disability. As you read this, over 8,100 New Yorkers are waiting for a life-saving transplant, including close to 800 people here in Western New York. The need is overwhelming, as thousands more are waiting for life-enhancing tissue and eye donations. We are very proud that our Erie County Auto Bureau plays a significant role in saving lives through the NYS Donate Life Registry. I am pleased to report since 2017, over 200,000 Erie County motorists enrolled in the Donate Life Registry at their local Auto Bureau. Erie County has also surpassed the state-wide statistic by registering 61.2% of eligible customers who have checked the box “YES” to this life-saving cause compared to 48.8% state-wide. These unprecedented enrollment numbers are something the staff of the Erie County Auto Bureau is very proud of.
I want to thank the staff of the Erie County Auto Bureau for their efforts in raising awareness and providing motorists with valuable information on the importance of organ, tissue and eye donation. Together with our community partners at Connect Life we have made substantial strides in the number of enrollments in Erie County, but we still have much work to do. I encourage all motorists, 16 and older, to come to any Erie County Auto Bureau office to enroll and add the “Organ Donor” designation to your driver license or non-driver ID. Simply check “YES” and sign the New York State Organ Donation consent on the driver license application or upon registering your vehicle in-person for the first time. When you do, a symbol of a heart and the words "Organ Donor" will be printed on the front of your new driver license or non-driver identification card at no extra cost.
So, when someone asks you: “Do you have a heart?” you can proudly answer: “YES!” According to Connect Life, 83% of current registrants have done so through their local DMV when applying for or renewing their driver’s license, learner’s permit, or non-driver ID. To learn more about saving lives through organ, eye, tissue and blood donation or enroll, please contact Connect Life Blood and Organ Donor Network at (716) 529-4300 or go to the Donate Life Registry website at donatelife.ny.gov.
Rabies Vaccine Clinics - April 2024
ERIE COUNTY, NY — The Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) has opened registration for two free rabies vaccine clinics on Saturday, May 11 at the Town of Tonawanda Highway Garage and Saturday, May 18 at Buffalo Public School 84 near ECMC. Each event will run from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. The sites will be set up as drive-thru clinics; pet owners will not need to leave their vehicles. Registration is available at erie.gov/rabiesvaccine and appointments are required. Up to three pets will be accepted per appointment. Individuals who are unable to access online registration may call (716) 961-6800 during business hours to schedule an appointment.Dogs, cats and ferrets three months of age and older are eligible for a vaccination. Pet owners are asked to bring proof of their pet’s vaccination with them to the event in order to receive a three-year vaccination certificate; otherwise, a one-year certificate will be given. Dogs must be secured with a collar & leash or restrained in a carrier; cats and ferrets must be restrained in a secure carrier. Please do not use retractable or extended leashes.
ECDOH expresses sincere thanks to the Niagara Frontier Veterinary Society, the SPCA Serving Erie County and the Erie County Medical Reserve Corps for providing volunteers and support in coordinating free rabies vaccination clinics for our community. Additional clinics will be announced for fall 2024.
Kara Kane | Public Information Officer (Health) Erie County | Health 95 Franklin Street, Buffalo, NY 14202 P: (716) 858-4941 | F: (716) 858-8701 Kara.Kane@erie.gov | erie.gov/health
Forgotten Felines of Western New York Fundraiser - April 2024
A dock raffle to benefit the cats rescued by Forgotten Felines of Western New York. Mid River Marina has donated a dock for the 2024 boating season. The dock has a value of $850 and will be available to the winner for the season, which runs from May 1 through Oct. 15 at Mid River Marina, 3670 River Road, Tonawanda. The slip includes water and shared electric. Cost is $30 for one chance, $75 for three chances, and $100 for four chances, and the drawing will be held on April 20. To buy raffle tickets, you could go to either Venmo @meoconnor2022-rescueFFWNY https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLQE8TPZ5A10V/checkout/TXNXWEBJ4EJWC7KGHTOYABCL?fbclid=IwAR3Ffo_pQeWDNJaib2V6eqqj352PBTvh3GYPnIAM1V5pmSCJvTynqUSvaxk_aem_ATUSR7v9gvJzQTpgNWkRpE3JZcdUqQi8dGQ69pbMZl6LruJ-kcU5I_xMqdBvH-V50bt7h-wCHAxoZbbnLTPR6wX3. Please include your name and telephone number in memo with marina raffle.$39 Million Federal Grant for South Bridges - April 2024
A Buffalo News story by Jerry Zremski announces a federal grant to strengthen South GI Bridges. See story.Historic Cupola Will Find Home Base - April 2024
If you drive by the Baseline Road side of Grand Island Town Hall, you will notice a pad and walkway is being created out front. This will be the home of the 1918 Town Hall cupola, which resided in that area until 1968, when the present Town Hall was built. Kelly's Country Store saved the cupola at that time, and donated it to the town in the fall of 2021. Over the winter/spring of 2022, GI Highway Department employees Mike Carlson, Matt Braun & Steve Dickenson, worked on rebuilding it. See Cupola Story.
Grand Island High School senior and Eagle Scout candidate Luke Gworek is working on creating a metal base as his final project. It will sit on the pad in front of town hall to display the cupola and tell its story. The Grand Island Engineering Department is helping with the project.
Sierra Club Endorses Timothy Kennedy - April 2024
Nation’s Largest Grassroots Environmental Group Praises Work to Protect New York’s Environment.Buffalo, New York Today, the Sierra Club announced its endorsement of State Senator Timothy Kennedy in the April 30th, Special Election to fill the seat vacated by Brian Higgins (NY-26). "We are pleased to announce today that the Sierra Club officially endorses Tim Kennedy for election," said Chapter Political Chair, Steve Redler. "We are confident that he will continue to work to protect New York families' health, air and water, and build a clean energy economy that works for all New Yorkers."
We are at a critical moment. As the Inflation Reduction Act – the largest investment in clean energy and climate action ever – continues to be implemented, it is critical to elect champions like Tim Kennedy who will prioritize our communities and our future. "We are deeply grateful to Tim Kennedy for his votes in favor of key legislation such as the NY HEAT Act, Lead Pipe Right to Know Act, and the Just energy Transition Act. We also appreciate the fact that he is sponsoring legislation that will help to improve the safety of our rail system in New York and decrease asthma causing emissions from fossil fuel powered busses", said Janet Lenichek, Chairperson, Sierra Club Niagara. "He is a true environmental champion who will fight to protect New York’s clean air, clean water, our climate and natural resources."
Along with the endorsement, the Sierra Club will lend its volunteer strength to Tim Kennedy’s campaign. "We pledge to do all we can to help ensure Tim Kennedy is elected," said Sara Schultz, Vice Chair, Sierra Club Niagara. "Sierra Club volunteers will contact voters on his behalf and we will speak to the public as often as possible about his exemplary environmental record. We look forward to a victory for Tim Kennedy on election night and to Tim fighting for the environment and environmental justice as a U.S. Representative."
Clean UP Grand Island 2024 - April 2024
Volunteers needed as solo, groups and clubs to come out to clear trash and debris all over Grand Island. We are returning to centrally hand out bags and collect trash at the Town Hall Parking lot, 2255 Baseline Rd, Grand Island, NY 14072 is where it begins and ends.
WHEN: Saturday, April 20th. 8am -9 am: Pick Up Bags & Assignment Location Maps, as well as free coffee, hot cocoa and donuts. 8am - 12pm: Clean up your assigned area and return trash to the dumpster at Town Hall, or have it picked up from your location if it’s too big/heavy.
Clean UP Grand Island is an event organized by the Town of Grand Island, Grand Island Chamber of Commerce, Grand Island Rotary, Niagara River Greenway & Grand Island Lions Club to encourage the local community to come together and spruce up our beautiful Island. With the snow melted away and the foliage not yet in bloom, it's easy to identify areas where trash & debris have accumulated over winter and are in need of removal. All that's needed is a few hours of your time, a little passion to keep nature clean and a heart of service. You can put a team together or attend as an individual. Either way, please join us and help Clean UP Grand Island! Check Out These Important Links:
Event Day Contact Info: Eric Fiebelkorn 716-319-7292 (mobile) or Dick Crawford 716-818-6992 (mobile) Underage volunteers must be accompanied by an adult. Participants are encouraged to stay hydrated and to wear proper attire (gloves, work/rain boots) and insect repellent. Additionally, groups wishing to work along heavily trafficked roads should speak with Dick Crawford to be aware of regulations and safety practices required.
Share your cleanup photos on social media and to cleanup@gichamber.org if you are ok with your photos being shared to showcase this wonderful community event. If you would like to do even more to support the environment, we are requesting people to download the Ocean Conservancy's Clean Swell app and track the litter they collect. Use Grand Island.yourname as the group name. This data is tracked on the Tides Marine database and is useful in supporting new environmentally friendly laws. For more information about CleanSwell go to https://oceanconservancy.org/trash-free-seas/international-coastal-cleanup/clean-swell-app/ If you or your group would be interested in adopting a Grand Island trail or road on an ongoing basis please contact: For adopt a road information email Dick Crawfor at dcrawford@grand-island.ny.us For adopt a trail information email Niagara Greenway at https://www.niagararivergreenway.com/adopt-a-trail.
QR Code to Register
Recognize This Old Photo? - March 2024
Do you recognize this woman? An old building on Baseline Road near Webb Road was being cleaned out recently, and this photo was found. If you have any information please contact jodi@giecom.net. Thank you.
National Poison Prevention Week is March 17-23 - March 2024
ERIE COUNTY, NY - Pause your scrolling for a moment and save this number to your phone’s contact list: 1-800-222-1222.Calling 1-800-222-1222 will connect you with your nearest Poison Center. Erie County residents’ calls go directly to the Upstate New York Poison Center, which serves 54 counties in New York State and manages more than 50,000 calls each year. They are staffed with experts trained in preventing poisoning and limiting injury from poisonings and are open 24/7, 365 days a year.
When unintentional poisonings happen with chemicals or medicine, call the Poison Helpline at 1-800-222-1222. Get help right away from a nurse, pharmacist, or other poison experts. If someone has trouble breathing, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency ambulance number right away. “If you are in a situation where you know or suspect that a person or pet in your home has ingested or touched something poisonous, do not delay in making that call. Upstate New York Poison Center experts will be able to direct you on any immediate actions to take, from watching and waiting, to seeking medical care, or calling 9-1-1,” said Erie County Health Commissioner Dr. Gale Burstein.
National Poison Prevention Week takes place every year on the third week of March. Its purpose is to draw attention to the dangers of poisoning from everyday household items. Just take a quick look under your kitchen sink, in your laundry room, or in your medicine cabinet; you will find bottles, boxes and cans that contain items that could be poisonous. Cleaning products, prescription drugs, pesticides, chemicals and certain hair and beauty products can pose a health risk to adults, children, and pets. This week is about raising awareness and being mindful about the commonplace risks that lurk in our homes.
"By educating local residents about preventive steps in the home and in their lives, we can make common poison injuries less common," said Dr. Burstein. "It is vital that people arm themselves with basic information on poison prevention in the home, such as keeping chemicals out of the reach of children and carefully reading the labels and dosages on all products. I strongly urge all parents and caregivers to take an extra moment to ensure that products are stored properly and out of reach of children."
In the U.S. more than 2 million cases of potential poisonings are reported every year. Over 90% of these happen at home, and most involve young children. Every day over 300 children are treated in emergency departments because of poisoning. On average, two children die each day because of these events. Most of these incidents are caused by highly toxic everyday household items such as cleaning products and medicine.
The Upstate New York Poison Center provides a variety of resources tailored for different needs, including childcare centers, in-home safety, seasonal poisoning risks, how to dispose of medications safely, tips for medication safety, and specialized advice for older adults. They also offer guidance on food and mushroom safety, handling bites and stings, and keeping pets safe from poisons. Additionally, the Center has created an online guide for teachers, offering training materials for those interested in teaching poison prevention. More information can be found on their website at https://www.upstate.edu/poison/community/teachingtools.php.
Here is what YOU can DO to prevent poisonings from happening: Keep medicines and household products up high and out of reach of children.; Use child-resistant packaging but remember nothing is child-proof.; Read the label and follow the directions on medicines and products.; Store poisons in the original containers.; Take your medicines where children can’t watch. ; Teach children to ask an adult before eating or drinking anything.
Correctional Facility Provides Xmas Wreaths - March 2024
Pictured in the photo taken at the Correctional Facility greenhouse left to right are Jim Linenfelser, GI Town Hall Caretaker; John Fisher, Supervisor of the Horticulture Program and Officer in Charge Sheriff Matt Dils.
Once again, for the 2023 holiday season, the Erie County Correctional Facility’s Inmate Horticulture Program provided wreaths for the Town of Grand Island. They were displayed at Town Hall shown in the photo, the Highway Garage and the Golden Age Center on Whitehaven Road and the Library on Bedell Road. Grand Island is on the list to receive flowers from the horticulture program in May. The Horticulture Program allows inmates to learn valuable and useful skills while providing very much appreciated wreaths and plants for use on the grounds of municipalities around Erie County.GI Recreation Dept. Youth Program Information - March 2024
A few tips and tricks for making summer registration easier.Make sure your child's age, grade & medical information is up to date and correct.
Plan out what programs you are registering for beforehand.
Log into your account before 8am.
You can add your child to as many waitlists as you'd like at no cost.
Please read all disclaimers before signing and read up on our policies and procedures.
Read the program description and view the schedules to make sure you have the correct dates and items needed for that program.
Reminder: Opening registration date is Monday March 25th at 8am for residents and Monday April 22nd at 8am for non-residents.
KidBiz is BACK - March 2024
KidBiz is BACK, for the 26th time! Mark you calendars for Saturday, June 15th from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at the Town Commons outside Town Hall. Come support 2nd-8th grade Island kids by shopping at their pop-up stores. It’s a great program that teaches young entrepreneurs how to start and run a business.The Grand Island Chamber of Commerce has planned and organized the KidBiz Young Entrepreneur Program for the last 25 years. Annually, we have anywhere from 100-150 students who have a blast participating in the program. The KidBiz program shows students in 2nd through 8th grade just what it takes to run a business. The kids come up with their own ideas for a product to develop, market and then sell. Some students even sign a loan agreement with their parents to cover start-up costs. This is a wonderful opportunity for business leaders in our community to set a great example for our future business owners and provide some guidance & support to these budding entrepreneurs.
When: Saturday, June 15th, 2024 from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.; Where: The Town Commons (2255 Baseline Road); Cost: FREE! *But bring plenty of $ to buy some of the great items the KidBizers have created and will have for sale!
Maple Grove Cemetery Annual Meeting - March 2024
Maple Grove Cemetery Annual Meeting will take place at the GI Memorial Library on Thursday, April 4, 2024 at 6:00 p.m. Contact Karen Webb at 716-773-7351 with questions. Refreshments will be served.Veterans Park Improvements - February 2024
NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation Environmental Protection Fund is providig $500,000 to upgrade the accessibility of Veterans Park with a broad array of athletic and social facilities, as well as a comprehensive new drainage system around its primary athletic facilities. From Town Engineer Lynn Dingey: "The Veterans Park Improvement grant is for drainage and walking paths between the little league fields. It’s a $1.49 Million project, the Town has a NYSPRHP grant for $500,000. The Town Board has not authorized the $649,000 match. The Town also has a grant ($1.1 Million) for Miracle Leage Improvements that include a new scoreboard, a safety net system, vandalism repairs to the field & playground, resurfacing the field and a small splash pad (basically whatever approx $500,000 can get us for a splash pad)."Patrol and School Resource Officer Applicants Wanted - February 2024
The Town of Grand Island is seeking qualified applicants for both Patrol and School Resource Officer positions. Applicants for Patrol Officer and School Resource Officer must currently be a NYS/DCJS certified police officer with a minimum three years’ experience working as a police officer with a federal, state, county, or municipal police department.Interested applicants should submit a resume and cover letter by Monday, February 26, 2024, to: Thomas Franz, Officer In Charge Town of Grand Island 2255 Baseline Road Grand Island, NY 14072 tfranz@grand-island.ny.us.
Read and Feed Book Club - February 2024
Written by Jan Yardley.The Read and Feed Book Club meets Fridays at 10:00 a.m. at the Golden Age Center.
By its name you might think it’s a group of people just sitting around reading cookbooks and trying out recipes on each other. No, that is not what we do. Well, once in a while we will go on a picnic, or have a tea party, or even a crock-pot party.
The Read and Feed Book Club is a group of friends that meet weekly and share their friendship and love of reading. At the beginning of the month we get a book which you can choose to read all of it, some of it, or none at all of it. Successive Fridays are spent learning about the author, the time period, or the topic. Sometimes we have guest speakers or carpool for a field trip to a site that is related to our reading. Sometimes we just have a field trip because we are a social group. We have lots of discussions and share titles that later we vote on to make our group reading list. We work with the librarian, Bridgette Heinz, who searches and gathers copies of our selections throughout the year. Here are some of our favorite reads:
The Orphan Collector... Ellen Marie Wiseman; The Dressmakers of Khair Khana... Gayle Tzemach Lemmon
The Henna Artist... Alka Joshi; Horse... Geraldine Brooks
Remarkably Bright Creatures.... Shelby Van Pelt; Joy Luck Club... Amy Tan
Wonder Boy of the Whistle Stop... Fannie Flagg; Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane... Lisa See
The Spy and the Traitor... Ben Macintyre; The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks...Rebecca Skloot
Ordinary Grace... William Kent Krueger; Notorious RBG the life and times of Ruth Bader Ginsberg
The First Ladies... Marie Benedict and Victoria Murray; Hawaii's Story by Hawaii's Queen... Liliuokalani; The Uncommon Reader... Alan Bennet
County Road Closure - January 2024
Erie County Department of Public Works Notice of Road Closure: The portion of East River Road (CR 11) at the intersection of Winkler Drive and East Park Road will have a single-lane road restriction. This closure will be on January 31 or until complete. (This is expected to be a one day job, depending on weather conditions). The restriction will be daily from 9am to 3pm. This closure is for the purpose of installing an access over East River Road. Piasecki Steel Corp. will be performing the work.Seniors Stuff Tax Bills - January 2024
From left, back row: Pattie Frentzel-Town Clerk, Kathy Lechner, Lorraine Magin, Jean Schlegal, Evelyn Lewis.
Front row: Liz Wilbert, Linda Clark, Suzanne Muller, Ann Dlugokinski
This is the start of the 21st year a group of seniors from the Golden Age Center have stuffed tax bills for Town Clerk Pattie Frentzel. It used to be called the "Hank and Nonny Crew" after the husband and wife team of the late Hank & Nonny Carroll, who started the tradition. The seniors spend the day stuffing envelopes and get treated for lunch. They also come back in the fall to take care of the school tax bills.ECDOH - Cervical Health Awareness Month - January 2024
ERIE COUNTY, NY - The idea of a vaccine that can prevent cancer sounds like science fiction, but a cancer vaccine is an established scientific fact when talking about cervical cancer. During National Cervical Health Awareness Month in January, the Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) is sharing information about vaccination and screening as tools to reduce the risks of cervical cancer.There is good news from the American Cancer Society (ACS) about cervical cancer. In the past thirty years, the largest decrease in cancer rates occurred for cervical cancer. The human papilloma virus (HPV) causes nearly all cervical cancer and several other cancers. The decrease in cervical cancer cases is largely attributed to the availability of the HPV vaccine. The vaccine became available in 2006 and cervical cancer rates have decreased rapidly since. ACS, the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention routinely recommend HPV vaccination for both females and males between the ages of 9 and 12. It is also recommended for everyone through age 26, if they are not yet vaccinated. Individuals over the age of 26 should talk to their doctor about HPV vaccination.
Cervical cancer screening with a Pap test or a combination of a Pap test and high-risk human papilloma virus (hrHPV) test are routine procedures done in a standard ob/gyn or primary care office visit. Routine screening can detect pre-cancerous changes or early cancer in the cervix that are easier to treat. Pap tests are recommended for most women through age 65 as a routine part of health care. When diagnosed in its early stages, cervical cancer is highly treatable, and screening is the first step to a diagnosis.
ECDOH is reminding uninsured and uninsured residents about the Erie County Cancer Services Program, which pays for cervical cancer screenings (Pap smears) and hrHPV tests for eligible women age 40 and over. "For more than 25 years our Cancer Services Program has focused on connecting people with cancer screenings," said Program Manager Michelle Wysocki. "Early detection of breast cancer, cervical cancer and colorectal cancer - before there are visible or painful symptoms - gives patients better chances of recovery and survival." Erie County residents with little or no health insurance can call (716) 858-7376 for more information, or visit www.erie.gov/cancerservices.
Erie County residents under age 40 may access cervical cancer screening and HPV vaccine directly through the Erie County Family Planning Center at 608 William Street in Buffalo. Appointments are encouraged and walk-ins welcomed. The Family Planning Center accepts most insurances, and people who are uninsured or underinsured will be screened for a NYS program eligibility to help pay for services. For any questions or to schedule an appointment, call (716) 858-2779.
2024 Town/County Tax Bills Mailed - January 2024
Town Clerk Patricia Frentzel announced that the 2024 Town/County Tax Bills have been mailed. If you have changed banks, have paid off your mortgage or do not have an escrow account and did not receive a tax bill, please contact the Town Clerk’s office at 773-9600 ext. 620 or 600. The office will be open extras hours: Saturday, February 10 – 9:00am – 12:00pm; Wednesday, February 14 – 8:30am – 6:00pm; Thursday, February 15 – 8:30am – 6:00pm.Checks should be made payable to Town Clerk. The last day to pay without penalty is February 15. Envelopes must show a legible postmark of February 15 to be accepted on time. Taxpayers should call the office for correct amounts for payments made February 16 and later. Payments can be made until June 30, 2024. After this date, payments must be sent to the County. ONLINE TAX RECEIPTS AND PAYMENTS - SERVICE FEES APPLY www.grandislandny.us. DEBIT AND CREDIT CARDS ACCEPTED AT COUNTER, SERVICE FEES APPLY
Emergency Blood Shortage - January 2024
Donate: Grand Island Fire Company, Tuesday, January 23rdBUFFALO, Jan. 8, 2024 — The American Red Cross is experiencing an emergency blood shortage as the nation faces the lowest number of people giving blood in 20 years. The Red Cross blood supply has fallen to critically low levels across the country, and blood and platelet donors are urged to make a donation appointment to help alleviate the shortage and help ensure lifesaving medical procedures are not put on hold.
Over the last 20 years, the number of people donating blood to the Red Cross has fallen by about 40%. When fewer people donate blood, even small disruptions to blood donations – such as the nearly 7,000-unit shortfall in blood donations the Red Cross experienced between Christmas and New Year’s Day alone – can have a huge impact on the availability of blood products and dramatic consequences for those in need of emergency blood transfusion. Blood products are currently going to hospitals faster than blood donations are coming in, and in recent weeks, the Red Cross has had to limit distributions of type O blood products – among the most transfused blood types – to hospitals.
"Small changes in blood donor turnout can have a huge impact on the availability of blood products and dramatic consequences for those in need of an emergency blood transfusion," said Dr. Eric Gehrie, executive physician director for the Red Cross. "More challenges may lie ahead as the potential for severe winter weather and seasonal illness may compound the dire blood supply situation. Donors of all types – especially those with type O blood and those giving platelets – are urged to give now." Blood donations made within the Western New York region help supply all our local hospitals and the patients they serve. For a Horseheads, NY resident, Dr. Kristina Workman, blood donations saved her life after what should have been the joyous birth of her second daughter, Eva, turned into complications that nearly cost Kristina her life. It took 33 units of blood to save Kristina's life and ensure that she would be there to raise her daughters with her husband, Jason Harris.
"One thing that really strikes me about blood donation is that you think about saving one person or helping one person to be healthier, but really, I would have been gone," Kristina said. "I'm very glad that I'm here. I would have been gone and everybody else would have been left with a hole and grief. I don’t know what life would have been like for my husband and my daughters."
This National Blood Donor month especially, Kristina encourages donors to make and keep appointments in the days and weeks to come to help alleviate the shortage and ensure lifesaving medical care for patients in need. "It is just not about the life that you are saving, it is about all of the other people that care about that person, and I hope that is a strong motivation for people to donate. It is touching a lot of lives. Every single donation has that power." Don’t wait – to make an appointment, download the Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).
The Red Cross and the National Football League (NFL) are partnering this January, during National Blood Donor Month, to urge individuals to give blood or platelets and help tackle the emergency blood shortage. Those who come to give blood, platelets or plasma in January will automatically be entered for a chance to win a trip for two to Super Bowl LVIII in Las Vegas. See FLYER.
NYS Parks to Provide Seasonal Dock Permits Along West River Shoreline - January 2024
The Niagara Region of the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation has announced that they will be issuing seasonal dock permits along the West River Shoreline Trail - on a first come first serve basis for the 2024 season.Permit applications will be distributed on Thursday, February 1st, 2024, at 8:00am inside the Park Office. We will extend business hours until 7:00pm that day. Participants will enter the Park Office and be given a sequential permit application on a first come first served basis. A waitlist will be started after all applications are handed out. If applications are still available after 7:00pm, interested parties can call the office anytime, to leave a voicemail or speak with a staffer. All inquiries will be handled in order until gone.
As a reminder the Park opens for patrons at dawn and there is no overnight parking. Additionally, participants may apply for a permit or serve as a proxy, not both. Please plan accordingly. Further information is available online at www.parks.ny.gov/parks/56/details.aspx, by calling the Beaver Island State Park Office at 716-773-3271 or emailing beaverisland@parks.ny.gov.
