Let's Go Back for March 21, 2014

40 Years Ago, March 20, 1974

Democrats endorse Greco, Griffin for slate

The Grand Island Democratic Committee, March 16, 1974, unanimously endorsed incumbent Assemblyman Stephen Greco as its candidate for the 142nd Assembly District. Supervisor Raymond P. Griffin was unanimously endorsed as the candidate for the 36th Congressional seat presently held by Henry P. Smith III.

"Assemblyman Greco and Supervisor Griffin are both men of ability with proven records of accomplishments for the people they represent, stated Mr. Filosofos, Democratic town chairman.

Two years ago, Grand Island was redistricted to be included in the 142nd Assembly District represented by Greco. In that short time, Greco has shown his concern for the problems of the Island.

"Supervisor Griffin's record for the past 12 years has shown him to be the most capable administrator that Grand Island has ever seen. His concern and his accomplishments for Grand Island and the awareness of Island residents of his abilities make him a forerunner as the candidate for Congressman Smith's seat," Mr. Filosofos said.

30 Years Ago, March 16, 1984

Town park, Thruway plans aired

Supervisor Laverne C. Luther disclosed plans for establishing a town park opposite River Oaks at a meeting with Assemblyman William B. Hoyt Thursday in the Town Hall. Changes in bike path repairs and a similar facility across the North Bridge were also brought to Mr. Hoyt's attention ...

Mr. Luther ... explained plans for developing the 10 acres donated to the town by the River Oaks owners and now known as Centennial Park. Obtaining the additional land north of the site for the proposed park would be considered, Mr. Luther said.

Noting that the town has about $125,000 for the estimated $138,000 project, Mr. Luther asked Mr. Hoyt to assist in obtaining state funds for the balance. ...

20 Years Ago, March 18, 1994

All American City planners work on application

Grand Island will be one of two communities in Western New York competing for the All American City award presented annually since 1949 by the National Civic League to 10 cities each June.

The recipients of the 10 coveted awards will be from 30 finalists chosen by the NCL for excellence in problem-solving capacity. Grand Island's All American City committee has met on a regular basis since the first of the year and is in the final stages of preparing the 11-page application. ...

10 Years Ago, March 19, 2004

GI Town Board tables Fuccillo site plan

The Town Board of Grand Island tabled, by a 5-0 vote, site plan approval of the proposed Fuccillo Toyota dealership at Monday's meeting.

Councilman Gary C. Roesch explained that the town is awaiting information from the state Department of Environmental Conservation. The new dealership project, to be located on a five- to 10-acre parcel at 1974 Alvin Road, looks positive, he said, but the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will have to weigh in on wetlands protection. ...

Fuccillo Chevrolet's plans, as detailed in a Planning Board meeting on Jan. 12, call for a Toyota building adjacent to the Chevy store. In all, the investment in the property could total $20 million.