• HISTORY LESSON — For those who want to know the deep roots connected to Cardinal O’Hara High School in the Town of Tonawanda, your best bet is to contact Town of Tonawanda Supervisor Anthony Caruana or New York State Assemblyman Robin Schimminger.

During a recent interview with The Bee, both men offered a wealth of knowledge and memories regarding the early happenings at the school. The pair were members of the Catholic high school’s first graduating class.

I had a feeling that this was going to be a lengthy interview and that I would receive more information than I was able to publish in this paper — both of them love to chat — but I didn’t know that they would remember so many of the minute details they shared during our almost two-hour discussion.

I can barely remember what happened when I was in high school a little more than a decade ago, yet Caruana was able to recall events that occurred and speeches that were given the first day he attended O’Hara as a freshman. And Schimminger remembers his locker number and recited lines verbatim from school plays that he was in. These memories are from 50 years ago.

Not only did I learn a lot about the school’s history, but I also got an inside glimpse of the types of people the supervisor and assemblyman were before they became local leaders. To learn more about their experiences, you’ll have to read the article, of course.

The school plans to use their memories and photos from the past, provided by Caruana, as it celebrates the anniversary throughout this school year. O’Hara is fortunate these two individuals care so much about being a Hawk.

• DON’T BE A VICTIM — Town of Tonawanda Chief of Police Anthony Palombo noted during the town council’s Aug. 23 public meeting that there has been rash of vehicle entries and thefts in recent months in both the town and the Village of Kenmore. He says the offenders walk vehicle to vehicle looking for those that are unlocked.

I remind everyone to lock their vehicle doors and remove any valuables. Those offenders who are stealing these items are becoming bolder, getting into vehicles that are parked on roadways, driveways and garages.

I also advise residents to remove any valuables that are in plain view in their homes, meaning those you can see from a front window. If a thief catches sight of something of value in your home, it might entice them to enter your residence.

If you see any suspicious person(s) in your neighborhood, call the Town of Tonawanda Police at 876-5300 or the Village of Kenmore Police at 875-1234.

• WELCOME BACK — I hope that the Kenmore-Town of Tonawanda area’s youth had a fun-filled and relaxing summer because Sept. 7 marks the day they will return to school.

I also hope that the teachers are ready to tackle the challenges that the 2010-11 school year may bring.

I am especially excited for the start of the fall sports season. I wish the best of luck to each sports team.

This week’s sports section features previews that highlight the local football teams.

I’m taking bets now to see who will make it to the Ralph.