Island Dispatch, 2007-07-06

              Island Dispatch For Home Delivery of the Island Dispatch Call 773-7676 Niagara Frontier Publications proud publishers of island Dispatch Lewiston-Porter Sentinel Grand Island Penny Saver Niagara-Wheatfield Tribune www.wnypopers.com 773-7676 $1.00 Vol. 63 No. 16 July 6,2007 24 Pages Kids Create Hope page 5 McMahon's Feeds Power 9 page 15 KidBsz, Happenings page 24 Island patriotism shines, despite rain Story and photos by Michael J. Owen U.S. Navy Journalist {Ret.} Despite a gray sky and rainy day, patriotism shined as spectators lined Grand Island Boulevard on Wednesday morning to view the races and the Island's Independence Day parade. The scene was made bright by the various floats, marching units, veterans, fire trucks and lots of smiling children. Parade participants also bravely battled the drizzle, many of whom - the baton twirlers, karate kids and marching bands - were unable to use umbrellas because their arms were engaged in more patriotic activities. "This is a great example of patriotism that so many people came out to celebrate America's 231st birthday, even with the bad weather," said Islander Calvin VanderMey while watching the parade with his family. VanderMey is a descendant of Sen. George Read of Delaware, who was a isipser of the Declaration of Independence. Freedom of Religion The pastor of the Bible Fellowship Center on Baseline Road, VanderMey and other church members .are also celebrating the purchase of their church that took place a little more than a week ago. "Freedom of religion is just one of the freedoms our forefathers fought for," he said, referencing the addition of the new church that will help serve the spiritual needs of the community. His descendant was also one of the first to sign the U.S. Constitution in later years, being that Delaware was the first state to ratify. "Learning about the A float Ml of enthusiastic youngsters wave, amid the red, white and blue trappings of American's Independence Day celebration. Below, members of the American School of Karate on Grand Island demonstrate their moves. Left, twirling in the rain are these majorettes - pretty in pink. At right, rookie members of the Grand Island Fire Company clown around for the crowd. SEE WHAT'S, continued on page 2 ECutzbach HffiM| 628-1719 E>''jJj 773-2573 %jjgs^ Qj Do you need to buy or sell a home? Call Linda  she knows how and would love to help you! owned & operated NOfth iSSf Call Joan lor a lipSPm fREE No ob|i9a,i°n lIMBiwB Market Analysis Ion your home joaiKHugofcinski@centiiry2l.com