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Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

In an OBSERVER photo, Tim Gibbons, a clerk at the Atlantic A plus mini market in Dunkirk, holds up a sign brought to his store by three local teenagers who are participating in the “No Proof – No Puffs” campaign, which is a county-wide effort to remind store owners that it is illegal to sell tobacco products to anyone under 18. Teens in the photo are Caress Kohlepp, Ann Formanowicz and Carolyn Sobilo.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Construction of the proposed railroad underpass on Lamphere Street in Dunkirk at the Norfolk and Western Railroad crossing is expected to begin in the spring of 1984 as a result of a letter Dunkirk Mayor Edwin Gregoreski plans to send today, authorizing the project to be carried out. Initial design plans, as well as the state and federal money for the project, have been ready since last fall, but the project was waiting on the mayor’s approval.

Forty years ago – 1973

Eugene M. Kaczor, Lake Shore area marketing manager of the Niagara Mohawk Power Corporation, has been appointed as associate chairman of the Corporate Gifts Division of Catholic Charities Appeal for the Dunkirk-Fredonia area this year.

Fifty years ago – 1963

James D. Roberts has been appointed assistant to the general manager, bar products division of Allegheny Ludlum Steel Corp. in Dunkirk. He and his wife Ruby live at 17 Central Ave., Fredonia with their seven children.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

A new college mathematics textbook by Dr. H. Joseph Straight of Fredonia invites students to sample a challenging area of mathematics known as combinatorics. Just published by Brooks/Cole, “Combinatorics: An Invitation” was extensively student tested in classes at Fredonia State University College where Dr. Straight has been teaching since 1977. Dr. Straight is a Fredonia native and alumnus of the college.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Frank Barresi, Silver Creek’s own claim to fame on the silver screen, will be seen again in a new movie entitled “The Sting II.” The budding 73-year-old actor was given the part of a boxing referee in the television movie, “Honey Boy.” He will play a referee again in his next movie, a sequel to the 1973 Academy-award winning movie, “The Sting,” which is currently making the rounds of the theaters.

Forty years ago – 1973

The Newcomers Couples Club enjoyed a roller skating party at the Dunkirk Roll Arena followed by a pizza party at the home of Mr. and Mrs. William Lennox on Shorewood Drive, Dunkirk.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Frank Bomasuto was selected as a candidate for village trustee by Brocton’s Democratic Party. He was chosen during a caucus held in the American Legion hall.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Fredonia Planning Board gave its preliminary approval to David Ryel to renovate the former Agway Service Station into a Texas Hot Dog Stand. The building has been vacant for more than a year, following Agway’s decision to pull out of the East Main Street location. It had been a full service gasoline station at the time. The board will forward its recommendations to the board of trustees for its approval.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Martin Fox, 18, son of Thomas and Cleone Fox of Conewango Valley, has been named Student of the Week at Pine Valley Central School. A senior, he is vice president of the National Honor Society, and serves as senior representative to the Student Association. He also plays varsity football, basketball, baseball and volleyball. Martin plans to continue his education and is considering a major in engineering at Utah State University.

Forty years ago – 1973

Members from Fredonia Girl Scout Troop 33 who received their 10-year pins were Eva Dawn Bashaw, Ida Benson, Gwen Blackham, Diane Militello, Mary Jo Siragusa and Wendy Waxham.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Under the direction of Mrs. Edith Ames, the first-grade class of the Stockton Elementary School presented a Lincoln-Washington program with recitations and songs. Music for the program was provided by Mrs. Lucille Meyers.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

For the first time in the history of Fredonia State University College, a full-tuition scholarship has been created to place the brightest high school students in its freshman class. With a grant from the Fredonia College Foundation, 25 freshmen with high school averages of 92 or higher combined with an SAT score of 1,150 or higher will be admitted to Fredonia this fall with a financial award equal to full New York State tuition. The scholarships are called Foundation Freshman Awards.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Buffalo Mayor James D. Griffin will be the special guest of honor at a fundraiser for the Fredonia Democratic Committee at the White Inn. Also expected to be in attendance are Chautauqua County Executive Joseph Gerace and State Assemblyman William Parment. The event is to raise funds to offset campaign costs for the Democratic candidates running for trustee seats on the Fredonia Village Board.

Forty years ago – 1973

At the meeting of the Dunkirk Marauders Sports Boosters, Elvin Dutton and head basketball coach Mike Tramuta were named co-chairmen of the basketball awards committee.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Joseph Gullo, a director and charter member of the Kiwanis Club of Dunkirk, spoke on “What Kiwanis Means to Me” at the luncheon meeting held at Rusch’s Restaurant in Dunkirk.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Chautauqua County has one of the lowest rates of tax increase among the 57 upstate New York counties over the past decade according to The Public Policy Institute, a research arm of the state Business Council. A recent report says that the county ranks 40th out of 57 upstate counties in terms of having the lowest tax rate increase of the decade. County Executive Andrew Goodell gave credit to previous executives John A. Glenzer and Joseph Gerace for keeping county taxes as low as possible.

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Lake Shore Board of Education has authorized the Angola Park and Gazebo Committee to use the high school auditorium on Feb. 28 for a homecoming concert featuring noted singer Clint Holmes. A Lake Shore Central graduate from Farnham, Mr. Holmes sold 2.5 million records with his recording of “Playground In My Mind.”

Twenty years ago – 1993

In addition to being manager of the football, basketball and baseball teams, and a state Regents scholarship winner, Robert Howard, son of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Howard of Forestville has been named Forestville Central’s 1973 Betty Crocker Homemaker of Tomorrow. He is now qualified to compete for the state title, for which the recipient receives a $1,500 college scholarship.

Fifty years ago – 1963

William B. Aular of Shore Acres, Dunkirk was hired as the new attorney for the Dunkirk Board of Education. He succeeds Robert N. Palmer, who resigned to devote his time to being the new Chautauqua County family court judge.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Los Sublimes 77, a seven-member band from Dunkirk, will perform its brand of merengue, salsa, polka and mambo music at the Katharine Jackson Carnahan Forum Theater at Jamestown Community College. The concert is part of the “Understanding Each Other” series of informational events being held on campus during February.

Thirty years ago – 1983

A decision by the Fredonia Board of Education to close the Eagle Street School this fall will save the district enough money, without raising school taxes, to demolish the old high school building and locker facilities and build new lockers, a running track and a vehicle storage building at the East Main Street site.

Forty years ago – 1973

Cross-country ski competition, dog sled races, snowmobile runs, dancing and barbecued chicken will highlight the first annual “Ski Tournival” to be held in Cassadaga.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Gordon W. Scott VFW Post 1395 of Fredonia won top honors this year in Chautauqua County for the annual membership drive, edging out Silver Creek, the nearest competitor, by 2 percent.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Elementary school teacher Linda K. Bradigan shared her experiences from a recent trip to Japan at a recent Silver Creek Board of Education meeting. Ms. Bradigan said that she and her husband lived with a Japanese family for two weeks while in Japan. While there, the couple had a very up-close and personal look at the stress and pressure heaped upon a 15-year-old Japanese student to get into a good high school, the routine of a 17-year-old high school student along with the pressure to get into a public college or university.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Donald L. Rust, manager of the GM forge plant in Tonawanda, gave a plug to AL Tech as he was quoted in a newspaper article saying, “The (forge) plant’s alloy tool steel is supplied by Dunkirk-based AL Tech Specialty Steel Corp. The plant’s tool steel previously was imported from Austria. AL Tech improved its product and is now superior to Austrian technology.”

Forty years ago – 1973

Mayor Clem Lutz has announced that areas for bird study will be designated at Point Gratiot in Dunkirk. The areas were proposed by Jan Clifford, 30 Bradley Ave., Dunkirk.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The Fredonia Village Board approved an expenditure of $750 to assist in the cost of printing a brochure advertising the attractions of the village.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The search for a new Dunkirk police chief took an unexpected twist when Lt. Sam Campese – the officer named just five days ago by Mayor Margaret Wuerstle to succeed Chief Andrew Balzer – told the common council he was withdrawing his name for consideration. Charging that he felt he’d been placed in the middle of a political battle “like sandwich meat,” Lt. Campese said he was not going to allow his nomination to split the police department.

Thirty years ago – 1983

The historic Dayton railroad bridge on Railroad Avenue between Main and Allen streets in Dayton has been recommended for abandonment by state bridge inspectors. Unless the town agrees to accept the responsibility and liability for the bridge, it is likely to be closed to all traffic in the near future. The century-old bridge spans the New York & Lake Erie Railroad.

Forty years ago – 1973

John Walker II was elected chairman for the 1973 Fredonia Farm Festival. Also elected were Leonard Aldrich, first vice president; and William Ludwig, second vice president.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Fredonia Boy Scout Troop 80 received three new members in the Tenderfoot investiture ceremony conducted by Scoutmaster Edward Waxham. They are David Coon, Loren Labarbara and Peter Miccoli.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Area farmers who sell produce at the farmers’ market in Dunkirk have banded together to organize an informal group calling itself the Dunkirk Farmers’ Market Association. Eight farmers who have leased space at the market in the past met recently to review new rules and regulations that have been established for the upcoming season. The farmers’ market is held in a pavilion on East Third Street that was donated to the city by Bells Market.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Accountant Donald R. Thering has served three generations of individuals in the Dunkirk-Fredonia area, as well as businesses, and recently moved his office to Dunkirk. With 33 years of accounting experience, Mr. Thering currently works out of an office at 744 Central Ave., Dunkirk, above the Northern Chautauqua Dental Group in which his son Bruce is a partner. Mr. Thering began his practice many years ago at his former home on Eagle Street, later moving it to his home on Chestnut Street in Fredonia.

Forty years ago – 1973

Walter J. Stasiewicz, plant manager at Kraft Foods, Dunkirk, announced that James A. Grupa, area native, has been promoted from senior clerk to control center supervisor in the Dunkirk traffic department.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The Fred Koch Brewery of Dunkirk was announced as the first-place winner in its class in the United States Brewers Association’s industry-wide “Fleet Safety Contest.”

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Work crews installed a four-way flashing red light at the intersection of Webster and Porter roads in the hamlet of Laona earlier this week. The placement of the light is the final step in the overall traffic enhancement program at the intersection, which has been the scene of many accidents over the years.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Fredonia State University College stands to lose a total of about 56 positions this year under Gov. Mario Cuomo’s proposed 1983-84 budget for the State University of New York. That was the grim news for FSUC President Dr. Dallas K. Beal who explained that the staff cuts at the college have to total $870,000. He pointed out that 21 currently filled instructional positions will have to be vacant by Aug. 31, if Cuomo’s budget passes.

Forty years ago – 1973

Dunkirk resident and talented local artist Ivan Korytko is having a showing of his works this month at the Dunkirk branch of the M & T Bank on Main Street.

Fifty years ago – 1963

A dinner party was held at the White Inn, Fredonia, in honor of Clarence Potter, who has retired as a Prudential Insurance Agent. Mr. Potter resides at 39 Parkway, Silver Creek, and has worked out of the Dunkirk office for the past 20 years.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Lincoln-Bedell Statue Committee of Westfield is inviting all artists and sculptors to submit concepts for a bronze statue depicting the meeting of President Abraham Lincoln and Grace Bedell. Ms. Bedell was an 11-year-old Westfield resident when she wrote a letter to Lincoln during his presidential campaign suggesting that he grow a beard. As president, while passing through Westfield by train, Lincoln supposedly stepped down from the train, placed his hand on Grace’s head and kissed her.

Thirty years ago – 1983

“Timba,” the 75-pound German shepherd owned and trained by Paul Wyskstra of Fredonia, more than pulled his weight in the recent competition held in Cockaigne. In two days of competition, Timba was judged the best – first pulling 800 pounds, then 1,000 pounds.

Forty years ago – 1973

Earl Town, Forestville’s bowling mailman, rolled the fifth 700 series in his long and storied career in the AA Classic League. The site was the Lakeview Bowling Center in Silver Creek.

Fifty years ago – 1963

“The mere fact that you represent others makes you more aware of your community and the things that are going on,” said 19-year-old Helen C. Fuery, Miss Dunkirk-Fredonia 1962 to the prospective candidates in the 1963 contest.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The culprit who changed report card grades for two students at Dunkirk High School may never be caught, according to Dunkirk Police Lt. Sam Campese, who has spent several weeks investigating the baffling case. With so many people having access to the grades and no hard clues pointing to any of them, Campese doubts the mystery will ever be solved unless the guilty party comes forward and confesses.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Although federal-level efforts are continuing to find sales orders for the Plymouth Tube Co. plant in Dunkirk, production at the plant has been shut down as planned. The poor state of the nation’s economy was cited as the chief reason for the shutdown by a company spokesman last month who explained that the slump in business resulted in the company, which has 11 plants nationwide, having excess production capability that necessitated the closing of the Dunkirk plant.

Forty years ago – 1973

Judy Travis was crowned Valentine Queen of the Brocton Chapter of Eta Tau at its annual Valentine’s Day dinner and dance. The social was held at the White Inn in Fredonia.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Dunkirk Boy Scouts have taken the reins of city government from Dunkirk city officials as part of Scout Government Day. Jerome Callis, John Hall, John Meister, Giff Keller and Richard Hill became councilmen while Carl Kaufman was mayor.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Canada goose that spent several weeks on lower Cassadaga Lake, behaving as if it were hurt and being cared for by compassionate community residents, is gone. Clarence Merow of Dale Drive contacted the SPCA to ask if the agency would help rescue the goose, but their attempts failed when the bird flew away. The feathered freeloader returned for a day to the site where it had been receiving free snacks from the area residents. It then left and has not been spotted since.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Calendar Girl for the month of February is Elizabeth Anne “Betsy” Penhollow, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ralph Penhollow of South Stockton. A senior at Cassadaga Valley Junior Senior High School, she is a four-year football and wrestling cheerleader and a two-year member of the girls’ varsity track team. Betsy plans on pursuing a career in education of the deaf and will continue her education at Jamestown Community College in the fall.

Forty years ago – 1973

Merle Campaign of Ripley, recently retired Chautauqua County sheriff, has been elected as the new president of the Coachmen Caravan, Chapter 66.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Mrs. Douglas Gormly of Fredonia, who attended the state Congress of Parents and Teachers Board of Managers meeting in Syracuse, said, “There is more support than ever before for legislation to raise the legal drinking age from 18 to 21.”

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Two months of hard thinking led Dunkirk School Board President Robert Barlette to a decision he feels is best for the entire school district. He introduced and the board of education passed a resolution rescinding an earlier decision to terminate the contract of Superintendent Terry Wolfenden. The 5-3 vote, with one member absent, to rescind a Dec. 29 measure, was greeted with cheers from many of the over 100 residents attending the meeting. Others appeared shocked into silence.

Thirty years ago – 1983

For many years, hospitals in New York state have been faced with a heavy backlog of elderly patients awaiting discharge to skilled nursing homes. Four area hospitals – Brooks in Dunkirk, Lake Shore near Silver Creek, Westfield Hospital and Tri-County in Gowanda, are among those facing the problem. Because of a shortage of skilled nursing facilities, many area senior citizens are forced to remain unnecessarily hospitalized for months at a time. Area nursing homes are not rejecting patients because of their condition or lack of funding – there simply are no beds available.

Forty years ago – 1973

Today marks the start of the week-long grand opening of Presto Car Wash, 950 Central Ave., Dunkirk, an automatic car washing business with newly-installed equipment.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Daniel A. Putnam, president of the Kiwanis Club of Dunkirk, announced the Kiwanis-sponsored Pancake Day at Philip Murray Union Hall was a “tremendous success.” It was estimated that 7,500 pancakes and 6,500 sausages were served.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

A “Do You Remember?” photo features the team from Dunkirk that participated in the American Bowling Congress tournament in Atlantic City, N.J., in 1949. Members of the team were Toby Pakulski, Len Lutz, Gus Peterson, Louis Sarek, Mark Elfman and Earl Bremer. The photo was submitted by Sally Donato of Dunkirk.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Another 600 prisoners will be added at the new Collins Correctional Facility under a budget proposal revealed by Gov. Mario Cuomo. If approved, the plan would increase the inmate population at the medium security prison from its current level of 250 to 850. Under the plan, more buildings at the Gowanda Psychiatric Center would be converted into prison facilities. The prison opened last December.

Forty years ago – 1973

A response to a call for square dancing resulted in 200 persons present at the Acquavia Post on Lake Shore Drive West in Dunkirk. Howard L. Shaffer, YMCA program director, helped plan the couples event as part of an adult special interest program.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Master Albert Colvenback presented William Lesch of Dunkirk with a Golden Sheaf Certificate from the National Grange for 50 continuous years of membership in the Fredonia Grange No. 1.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Portland Congregational church recently celebrated its 175th anniversary at the Sunday service. The church was organized by the Rev. John Spencer, a missionary, at a meeting held Jan. 31, 1818. This was the first organized church in Portland with 18 charter members. In 1841, at a cost of $1,600, the present church structure was erected on land purchased from John Quigley. The church bell was a gift from B.F. Pecor at a cost of $10 in 1910. Since its founding, the church has had 45 pastors. Average attendance at Sunday services is 60 people. The longest membership belongs to Alice Munson Lilley, who joined the church in 1921.

Thirty years ago – 1983

The Gowanda Lions Club has named Theodore “Ted” Palcic as Lion of the Year. Mr. Palcic, a charter member, was recognized for his continued and faithful participation in club programs. Also noted was his perfect membership attendance. He is also credited with the American Flag Display Program, which since 1964 has provided the flag displays in Gowanda’s business district on national holidays and during special village events.

Forty years ago – 1973

Today is the 20th anniversary of the installation of Msgr. Celestine Joseph Damiano, son of Stella Damiano of Dunkirk and the late Vito Damiano, as archbishop of Nicopolis in Epirus, Greece, and apostolic delegate to South Africa.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Mrs. George O. Skinner and Mr. and Mrs. Max Smith, all of Portland, are attending the Association of Towns meeting today in New York City.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Dunkirk Land Surveyor Randy J. Woodbury, M.S., L.S., is serving as the 1993 president of the Niagara Frontier Land Surveyors Association, the professional society of 80 licensed surveyors in the Buffalo and western New York region. Mr. Woodbury also serves on the 1993 board of directors of the New York State Society of Professional Land Surveyors, the statewide professional association of 700 licensed land surveyors.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Student of the Week is Marci Weaver, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jack Weaver of Allegany Road, town of Hanover. A senior at Forestville Central School, she serves as class treasurer and previously served two years as class vice president. She is also president of the National Honor Society and a member of the It’s Academic team and Varsity Club. Marci plans to continue her education at Fredonia State University College in the field of medical technology.

Forty years ago – 1973

“Y Teen Queen” Rosemary Logano was crowned during part of a continuing membership drive for the Central Avenue YMCA facility in Dunkirk. Her royal court includes runners-up Brenda Cherry, first; and Jan Schrecongost, second.

Fifty years ago – 1963

An executive board meeting of the Welcome Wagon Newcomers Club was held recently at the home of Mrs. William Penfold, 60 Lambert Ave., Fredonia.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Chautauqua County Legislator Chet Tarnowski (D-Dunkirk) wants the record set straight. He said his answer to the OBSERVER survey of how many lawmakers shop in Pennsylvania was incorrectly reported. Chet said he personally does not shop in Erie, but his wife Joyce does. He added, “The trouble is, she pays for it (the shopping) with my Discover card; that means I have to discover how to pay for it.” With this confession, there is only one legislator left who doesn’t shop in Pennsylvania – Chairman Lance Spice (R-Falconer).

Thirty years ago – 1983

Sheryl Westling DelPrincipe of Dunkirk is one of nine students from Texas College of Osteopathic Medicine named to “Who’s Who Among Students” in America colleges and universities. Sheryl expects to graduate from the Fort Worth medical school in May 1984. The daughter of Mrs. Joyce Westling of Dunkirk and Richard Westling of Denton, Texas, she is a graduate of Cardinal Mindszenty High School and SUNY Fredonia.

Forty years ago – 1973

Mrs. Virginia Snow, representing the Good Shepherd Church in Irving, was among those who attended the organizational meeting of the Episcopal Charities of Western New York at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Dunkirk.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The “Pet of the Week” is Shalimar, 1-year-old pet cat of Ronald Bialaszewski, 8, of 333 Lord St., Dunkirk.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The village of Westfield now has the title and deed for the Grand Theater building and plans are under way for its demolition. Mayor Joseph Pagano said the possibility of holding an auction first is being explored. There are stacks of old tickets, about 100 new bricks in the theater basement, seats and other items that people may want as memorabilia. The mayor thought an auction would be a fun thing to do, particularly this time of year when there isn’t much going on.

Thirty years ago – 1983

From Just Between Us … Bird of Paradise plants don’t bloom too often in northern climates, but one bloomed recently after almost eight years of care by Mrs. Natalie Zatorski of Dunkirk. The horticulture enthusiast received her plant from a friend who brought it back from a Florida vacation. Happily, her patience and care were rewarded when the plant produced its orange and purple blossoms …

Forty years ago – 1973

Bethany Lynne Carlson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Lloyd Carlson of 271 Lincoln Ave., Dunkirk, recently departed for Valencia, Spain. She will study for the spring semester at the University of Valencia.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Mrs. Fred Bolling, 118 Prospect St., Fredonia submitted a charade to the “Stump The Stars” television program which stumped the panel. She will be awarded prizes.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Dunkirk resident Lillian Halasinski, 79, held a press conference in Cheektowaga today to announce that she will be in Rome, Italy from April 13-22 and on April 18, she and her daughter Geraldine will be in St. Peter’s Basilica for the beatification of Mother Mary Angela Truszkowska, foundress of the Felician Sisters. The title of “Blessed” will be bestowed on Mother Angela due to Mrs. Halasinski’s testimony along with intensive investigation by medical experts who concluded that the miraculous healing of her leg was through the intercession of the Polish nun.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Becky Towne of Forestville received a long distance message, but it wasn’t on the telephone. The 17-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Towne of Hopper Road noticed a helium balloon in a tree. After retrieving it, she discovered that it contained a message from a fourth grader in Dillwyn, Va. The note said the balloon represents the launching of a reading contest. Becky will be answering the note and hopes to receive a response soon.

Forty years ago – 1973

Ronald J. Rusch of Fredonia was installed as president of the Chautauqua County Chapter, New York State Restaurant Association. His brother, Daniel A. Rusch Jr., past state president and current director, was the installing officer.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The Clipper Club is scheduled to meet at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Paul Loessi on Spring Street in Fredonia.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Despite a local healthy sales climate, a 30-year staple of the local business community will begin to close its doors in less than 90 days. The Sears Catalog Store, located at 35 Water St. in the village of Fredonia, found itself in the middle of a nationwide restructuring of the company that will lead to massive changes in the nation’s third largest retail chain. “It was a total surprise,” store owner Thomas Murphy said.

Thirty years ago – 1983

The New York State Education Department has just approved an undergraduate degree for recombinant gene technology at Fredonia State University College. State officials noted Fredonia’s program is the state’s first at the baccalaureate level to be specifically aimed at genetic engineering.

Forty years ago – 1973

All of the Chautauqua County Grape Belt has been certified as a protected agricultural district, Commissioner of Environmental Conservation Henry L. Diamond said today.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Six area girls were chosen to represent the James Madison Division of the Catholic Young Adults Club’s fifth annual excursion to Lake Placid. The girls, who leave this evening, are Maxine Kwiej, Marsha Leja, Gail Makuch, Rose Niedzwiecki and Susan Rosing, all of Dunkirk, and Sandra Baker of Fredonia.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Dunkirk Cadette/Senior Troop 31, under the leadership of Mrs. Donna Brisky, recently toured Ellman’s Garage in Dunkirk. The tour was led by Jim Ellman Jr. and his associate, Jim Davis Jr. The girls, who are currently working on their auto maintenance badge, learned about the various parts of a car.

Thirty years ago – 1983

A new softball stadium for the city of Dunkirk is a possibility that is being looked at closely by the city’s Recreation Commission. Recreation Department Director Robert Patterson said the city could use another softball field, especially in light of the problems that were encountered last summer at the Pangolin Street field, where neighbors complained about the players chasing balls onto their property. Ideally, the stadium would be located within the boundaries of Wright Park near the city’s other softball field.

Forty years ago – 1973

According to a bill introduced last week by State Assemblyman John W. Beckman and Sen. Jess Present, motor vehicles operated by members of the working press will be permitted the use of an amber flashing light identical to that used by hazard vehicles.

Fifty years ago – 1963

It was announced today that the annual Chautauqua County Grape School will be held this year at Eason Hall, Westfield. Growers are advised to reserve this date in advance.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Edward Gnadzinski, 80 Cleveland Ave., Fredonia, rolled the first 700 series of his four-year bowling career, a 236-266-277-779 on alleys 11 and 12 at Lucky Lanes. The score topped the previous house record of 777 set by Dale Kozlowski. Gnadzinski, who carries a 180 average, was bowling for the Jack of All Trades team in the Rich Kaczor League. His previous high series, a 660, was bowled a week earlier.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Connie Williams, daughter of Mrs. Helen Williams of Monroe Street, Silver Creek has been named Student of the Week at Silver Creek Central School. She is one of the top-ranking students in her senior class and was named a Commended Student in the National Achievement Program for Outstanding Negro Students. She is also a member of the National Honor Society. Connie was also an MVP and All-Star in both basketball and volleyball. She plans to attend the General Motors Engineering and Management Institute to become an electrical engineer.

Forty years ago – 1973

Fredonia Chapter 430, Order of the Eastern Star, has made a $1,000 contribution to the building fund for the new temple.

Fifty years ago – 1963

At a meeting of the Business Men’s Improvement Party of Fredonia, Mayor Russell R. Joy was unanimously endorsed as a candidate for re-election in the upcoming mayoral race.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Residents of One Temple Square in Fredonia recently formed a Kazoo Band under the direction of Pauline Galofaro and since then they’ve entertained at various nursing and retirement homes. Their next appearance will be at St. Vincent’s Home in Dunkirk.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Roxanne Pulitzer will give her first network interview next week on ABC’s “Good Morning America.” She and her lawyer, Marvin Mitchelson, will be interviewed live from New York about her recent divorce from publishing heir Peter Pulitzer. The former Roxanne Ulrich of Cassadaga and her lawyer will be asked about her recent divorce trial, her hopes to regain custody of her twin sons, Mack and Zack, from their father, and her future legal plans.

Forty years ago – 1973

The Fredonia Catholic Home School Association voted down the proposal of uniforms for students at St. Anthony’s and St. Joseph’s Schools in Fredonia.

Fifty years ago – 1963

At the annual meeting of the Dunkirk Club Inc., Frank W. Steger and Richard A. Fitzer were elected to the group’s board of directors for a term of four years. Also elected was Vincent C. Walsh, for a term of three years.

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