Ray Billica - Candidate For Grand Island Town Councilman 11/3/2009

A Career On Grand Island

I have lived on Grand Island for 55 years, growing up and going to school here. I earned my Regents Diploma in the Grand Island School District and graduated with a BS in Secondary Education - Mathematics from SUNY Buffalo.

My wife, Debbie, and I raised 3 boys, Josh, Erik, and Jared here. I taught Mathematics in the Grand Island School district and then went on to teach at Clarence High School. I also worked for the Town of Grand Island, eventually becoming the Parks Crew Chief for 24 years, before retiring in 2007.

Serving In Our Community

I am convinced that one of the major contributors that makes Grand Island such a great place to live is the widespread enthusiasm that so many of our citizens demonstrate in their community involvement. I know that my family has been deeply enriched by our personal involvements in so many community activities here, including my own commitments at the "grass roots" level and also in leadership positions:

• At Grand Island High School I coached soccer for 7 years and track for 3 years
• St Stephen's School Playground Committee and the Sidway School Playground Committee
• Grand Island Little League Board of Directors & Coach
• Grand Island Cub Scout & Boy Scout Troop #254 Volunteer
• I have sold Kids Day Papers for Buffalo Womens & Childrens Hospital for over 20 years!
• 1994 Grand Island Chamber of Commerce Citizen of the Year Recipient
• Trinity United Methodist Church Administrative Board, Pastor of Parish Relations Committee,
  Head Usher
• St. Stephen's Church, family involvements include: CCD, Grandopoly, Clothing Drive, Lawn Fete...
• 1998 Grand Island Soccer Club Field of Dreams Award Recipient, having served as Coach, Age Group Coordinator, House League Coordinator, & President. I have instituted many programs, including the one that I am most proud of - the U6 Instructional Program. I continue to play soccer and to serve the club as Equipment Coordinator and as a Board Director

If You Have Questions, Or Concerns, Or Wish To Express Your Opinion About Any Issues Facing Our Grand Island Community - Please Contact Me