Twenty years ago — 1998

Ed Van Den Vouver of Dunkirk has retired from the United States Postal Service after nearly 43 years of service to the Dunkirk community. A man who will forever be linked to a smile, a kind word and hospitality at the Central Avenue postal branch window now has the opportunity to use his days completing projects around the house, assisting many of the social clubs and spending more time with his family. He had personally hand delivered mail to every home in Dunkirk at one time or another during the days he traveled the 17 postal routes.

Thirty years ago — 1988

Image Tech, a new business operated by Holly Hewitt, offers a wide range of services — marketing, tourism, promotions, special event planning, desk-top publishing and consulting. Ms. Hewitt, a 1973 graduate of Fredonia State University College, worked for the OBSERVER for six years. She also served as public information coordinator for former Chautauqua County Executive Joseph Gerace. Ms. Hewitt then moved to the Elmira area for several years before returning to the Dunkirk-Fredonia area to start up her business.

Forty years ago — 1978

Superintendent of Dunkirk Schools Joseph Parlato announced there are 26 applicants for the position of high school principal, with seven having been interviewed by the screening committee. Mr. Parlato said there are no leading candidates. The position became open in July, when Mr. Parlato, the former principal, became superintendent. His replacement backed out at the last minute, leaving the position open. John C. Mancuso, then the assistant principal, was named acting principal.

Fifty years ago — 1968

The Chautauqua County YMCA has announced the selection and purchase of a Central Avenue site on which it plans to build a recreation facility serving the individuals and families of northern Chautauqua County. The site which has been selected is located on Central Avenue between the Dunkirk-Fredonia Plaza and Middlesex Drive and was formerly the Foley property. A sign in the shape of a “Y” is expected to be placed on the property soon.