Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Wal-Mart’s newest store on Bennett Road in Fredonia will officially open for business on March 31. Local dignitaries will be on hand to assist Wal-Mart officials and associates in the ribbon-cutting ceremony scheduled for 8 a.m. Fredonia’s new Wal-Mart store joins 18 others currently open in the state of New York and 1,892 stores nationally. The 30-year-old chain, headquartered in Bentonville, Ark., reported sales of $55.5 billion for the fiscal year ended Jan. 31.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The entire area can be proud of the championship Dunkirk High School girls’ basketball team. It is interesting to note that four out of the five starters are former OBSERVER carriers – Molly Wojcinski, Mary Gavin, Mary Bartkowski and Amy Dopler. The fifth, Kris Nopper, also had applied for an OBSERVER route, but there were none open at the time.
Forty years ago – 1973
It was announced today that Fredonia Products Inc., a local manufacturer of grape juice and New York State wines, will erect a new structure on the south side of its Dunkirk facility located on the Wright Street Extension.
Fifty years ago – 1963
A 7-year-old Chinese boy, now living in Hong Kong, will be the foster child of the Silver Creek Central School. Students will make contributions one Friday each month to send to him.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
In a review, SUNY Fredonia professor Daniel W. Berggren states: “Tom Chapin came to town Saturday night and so did hundreds of families. They met at Fredonia State’s King Concert Hall in the Rockefeller Arts Center like old friends and talked, joked, listened and sang. It was a scene that could have happened in a living room or a church fellowship hall, but Tom had too many friends to fit. What’s reassuring, and what makes him such a musical treasure, is that Tom’s warmth and sincerity haven’t outgrown the family ideals those smaller venues represent.” Tom Chapin first performed at Fredonia State in 1979 for Freshman Orientation.
Thirty years ago – 1983
It is likely that Chautauqua County Executive Joseph Gerace will resign within 10 days to accept a cabinet-level post with the administration of Gov. Mario Cuomo in Albany, the OBSERVER has confirmed. It is likely Mr. Gerace, a Democrat, will be offered the post of state commissioner of the Department of Agriculture and Markets.
Forty years ago – 1973
Arthur Anderson, the son of Lois Anderson of 7 Maple Ave., Sinclairville has been named as “Student of the Week.” Arthur, 18, is a student at the LoGuidice Center near Fredonia and Cassadaga Valley High School.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The Village Squire will present an Easter Preview of Fashion featuring local models in fashions by Ricky’s Boutique Inc. of the Dunkirk-Fredonia Plaza.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Student of the Week is Tracey Schultz, a senior at Forestville Central School. The daughter of David Schultz of Fredonia and Marjorie Sulis of Dunkirk, Tracey is an honor roll student, president of the school’s Band Council and vice president of the Chorus Council. She is a four-year cheerleader and a recipient of the Good Citizen Award from the DAR. Tracey intends to major in science at Jamestown Community College and one day enter the nursing profession.
Thirty years ago – 1983
From the Reporter’s Notebook … Then there’s the case of the candidate in the recent Fredonia village election. It seems there was a sign on his behalf that had his name misspelled. In the wee hours of one morning, he went out and corrected the spelling. Who made the sign? He did.
Forty years ago – 1973
Concrete was poured this morning for the first floor, 90 feet below ground level, of the pump house at the new sewage treatment plant in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Newly named officers of the Stockton Youth Recreation Commission are Shirley Thorp, chairman; Ben Galbraith, vice chairman; and Ola Cave, secretary.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The ambitious goal of accumulating a million pennies was set by the Ripley Free Library Board of Trustees at its recent meeting. A receptacle located near the circulation desk has already been receiving donations toward the anticipated goal of $10,000.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Three Dunkirk seniors have been named Girls Basketball All-Stars on the 1983 All-CCIAC Division I squad as chosen by the coaches. Senior forwards Molly Wojcinski (5-10) and Amy Dopler (5-9) along with senior guard Mary Bartkowski (5-4), are the three Lady Marauders on the First Team. Dunkirk, 11-1 in league play, also placed three players among the “Top 10” scorers for 1983: Wojcinski, who finished third; Dopler second and Bartkowski, first.
Forty years ago – 1973
After 26 years of employment at the Fredonia M & T Bank, Mrs. Bertha Yagger of 37 Mill St., Cassadaga was honored with a retirement party at the White Inn in Fredonia. Most recently, Mrs. Yagger was a teller.
Fifty years ago – 1963
James Sauberan was awarded an Eagle Gold Palm and Dwayne Gier and Francis Heath received Eagle badges during a special program of Boy Scout Troop 57 in South Dayton.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Strong objections from several neighbors were heard during a public hearing in Dunkirk on a $500,000 proposal to replace the Country Fair store at 150 Lake Shore Drive West with a new building. The company wants to build a new structure near the back of the existing lot and install gas pumps in the front of the lot. Officials said the company needs to modernize the store and install gas pumps in order to remain competitive. Neighbors’ concerns centered around the installation of gas pumps, with 22 residents signing a petition objecting to that.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The Cassadaga Valley School Board has approved a recommendation made by the CVCS adminstration to close the Gerry Elementary School at the end of the current school year. Prior to the 4-1 vote, Michael Constatino, a spokesman for the Gerry Elementary School Parents, made one more plea to keep the school open.
Forty years ago – 1973
Rusch Realty of Dunkirk and Fredonia is celebrating the grand opening of its new main office at 44 West Main St., Fredonia, site of the former Milady Dress Shop.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Floyd “Stub” Sunday of Brocton was the winner of the second annual blarney contests sponsored by the Altar-Rosary Society of St. Patrick’s Church. Mr. Sunday also won last year’s contest.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The Dunkirk Common Council approved a resolution donating upwards of $5,000 to the Dunkirk Little League for bleachers and scoreboards for new ball fields at Wright Park. Council members noted that the city has already pitched in toward the project, but feels the extra money is warranted due to the excellent job the organization does for the city’s young people.
Thirty years ago – 1983
In the Air Force Tops in Blue Talent contest held recently at Wright Patterson Air Force Base in Dayton, Ohio, Airman SRA Melissa Schoener of Westfield on first place female solo award for her rendition of “Home” from “Whiz” and she and her partner won the first place duet award for “We Got Tonight.” The daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frederic Schoener, Melissa was also given the “Best of Show Award” for her “Home” solo.
Forty years ago – 1973
A meeting, open to all interested persons, will be held tonight at the Dunkirk Free Library to discuss the organization of a Dunkirk Historical Society.
Fifty years ago – 1963
George Brisky, who operates Brisky and Son Market at 325 Main St., Dunkirk has constructed a cardboard, crinoline, plaster of Paris and sawdust steer to emphasize his product and reputation as a seller of quality meats.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
A “Do You Remember?” photo submitted by Peter Russo of Dunkirk was taken at the OBSERVER picnic back in 1951. All in attendance posed for the picture. Only one person shown in the photo, Jerre Mitchell of Fredonia, is still employed at the newspaper.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The Pine Valley Teachers Association recently amended its constitution to include the “David Dunning Memorial Scholarship” award. Scholarships will be given in memory of the late David “Mick” Dunning, a Fredonia native and former social studies teacher at Pine Valley Central School. He taught at Pine Valley from 1954 until his retirement in 1977. He also served as class adviser, department chairman and wrestling coach through the years.
Forty years ago – 1973
President Nixon said today he will ask Congress to restore the death penalty for federal crimes, including murder and treason, and to impose greater penalties for drug traffickers.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Dan DeJoe of Fredonia High School took honors in the Section VI bowling championship finals in Class A competition with the high three-game set score of 525.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Brocton Central High School’s new principal, Richard G. Thom, isn’t a stranger to this area. He was raised in Dunkirk, the son of Gordon and Florence Thom, who live at 780 Park Ave. A 1964 graduate of Cardinal Mindszenty High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in history at Fredonia State and taught social studies at Panama Central School for 22 years.
Thirty years ago – 1983
A student strike has been scheduled for all day at Fredonia State University College to protest the governor’s proposed staff and funding cuts in the SUNY budget for 1983-84. The Student Association announced the strike has received support from FSUC’s faculty, staff, students and administration. The organizers of the protest are urging all Fredonia State students to boycott all of their classes. The daylong event includes workshops and a rally. A letter-writing campaign is also planned.
Forty years ago – 1973
Joanne Goetz of East Main Road, Fredonia is enjoying a short visit with Judi Taylor of Doubleview in Western Australia. The two have been pen pals for the past five years.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Joel C. Millonzi, son of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Millonzi of 82 East Main St., Fredonia won top honors in an original oratory tournament held over the weekend in Monticello.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Various city of Dunkirk officials have been invited to attend a presentation by a California firm interested in converting Cedar Beach into a showcase for the sunken steam ship Atlantic. The steamer Atlantic sank in 1852 off Long Point with more than 250 people aboard. The Mar-Dive Corp. located the wreckage, obtained the salvage rights, and now would like to move the perfectly preserved wreck from its present location under 200 feet of water to a display area at some site along Lake Erie.
Thirty years ago – 1983
President Ronald Reagan said in a speech today that he will send Congress proposed legislation next week that would lower the minimum wage and give employers tax breaks in a bid to encourage more hiring. He will propose a youth opportunity wage of $2.50 per hour, 25 percent below the regular minimum wage of $3.35.
Forty years ago – 1973
Frederick E. Gould of South Dayton has been named by the Travelers Insurance Co. of Hartford, Conn., as one of the company’s top 100 agents in the United States for 1972 in the field of life and health insurance.
Fifty years ago – 1963
As of yesterday, the overcrowded conditions at Brooks Hospital in Dunkirk reached its peak of the winter with 175 patients being housed at the institution.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Student of the Week is Jesse Loomis, son of Mr. and Mrs. Steven Loomis of Westfield, and a senior at Westfield Academy and Central School. A member of the National Honor Society and captain of the High School Bowl team, Jesse also participates in band and the school’s select choral ensemble, the Westwinds. He has lettered in basketball, track, soccer and golf. Following graduation, he plans to attend Allegheny College in Meadville, Pa.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Retired after 17 years at the M. Wile Co. plant in Dunkirk, Mrs. Leo (Helen) Krzyzanowski was honored at a dinner party at the Town and Country Restaurant. She was presented with a corsage and a gold locket by Gloria Borrello and supervisor Mary Wisniewski. Mrs. Krzyzanowski said her immediate plans call for a trip to Mexico and spending more leisure time with her grandchildren.
Forty years ago – 1973
Dunkirk city workers today removed old concrete at the base of the monument to World War I veterans in Memorial Park. The monument, which surrounds what is left of a wooden flagpole, will be rebuilt while an 80-foot aluminum flagpole will replace the original wooden one.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
A state plan to build a $3 million day care center for mentally retarded adults on the campus of the Chautauqua County Home in the west town of Dunkirk wasn’t exactly dead today, but it was definitely on life support. The prognosis for the project became doubtful after bids for the structure – designed to care for 100 mentally disabled adults – came in $1 million over budget. With the apparent collapse of the project, county legislators’ main concern is how to get back title to the plot of land adjoining the county home which they had sold to the state last year for $23,000.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Guest speaker at the Dunkirk-Fredonia Lioness Club dinner meeting was Twylah Nitsch, who along with her mother and three other women, founded the Seneca Indian Historical Society in 1970. A descendant of the Seneca Chief and Orator Red Jacket, she has written on many aspects of Seneca teaching, with the philosophy that praising and being grateful to nature leads to a positive way of life.
Forty years ago – 1973
Sheila Allen, a faculty member at Fredonia State University College since 1969, has returned from Cleveland with the first-place award from the Great Lakes Regional Auditions for New York’s Metropolitan Opera.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Stephen Nelson, National Honor Society president at Silver Creek Central School, opened the candlelight induction ceremony during a high school assembly program.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Midway Amusement Park in Maple Springs recently won a national award for coordinating and sponsoring a number of community service events. The “1992 Newsmaker Award” was presented to park owners Michael and Janis Walsh. The award was sponsored by Tourist Attractions & Parks, the management magazine for the leisure attraction industry.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The McLaren Gallery opened at the Historical Museum of the D.R. Barker Library in Fredonia and one of the first visitors was Mrs. Robert (Doris) McLaren of Fredonia. She is the daughter-in-law of the late M. Russell McLaren, for whom the gallery is named. Mrs. McLaren talked with Donna Carlson, curator of the McLaren Photographic Collection, about changes in Main Street, Fredonia, the theme of the gallery’s first exhibit.
Forty years ago – 1973
Rhonda House, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Ernest F. House of Cassadaga and a sophomore at Westminster College, New Wilmington, Pa., is a member of the “Mermaids,” a synchronized swimming team at the school.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Ice jams in Cattaraugus Creek and what is known as Dead Creek produced the worst flood in recent history in Sunset Bay and Irving yesterday afternoon and today. According to the old timers, for the first time since the 1920s, flood waters reached every one of the 550 homes in the summer colony and 85 persons were evacuated.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Dunkirk School 4 became “An Alice Jonus World” as students, faculty and invited guests gathered to pay tribute to Alice C. Jonus of Fredonia retiring Chapter I reading teacher. Associated with the Dunkirk Public School District for 32 years, Mrs. Jonus taught first grade at Dunkirk School 7 before focusing on reading. Mrs. Jonus spoke of her career and its rewards saying, “My greatest reward is seeing children turned on to reading. Seeing them understanding the value and wanting to read.”
Thirty years ago – 1983
A new addition to the Church Of Jesus Christ Of Latter Day Saints on the Gowanda-Irving Road is nearing completion and will offer a large chapel for services. It is expected to be ready for use within six weeks. The original chapel will be converted into classroom and office space.
Forty years ago – 1973
Women for the Survival of Agriculture met today at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church in Westfield to hear a speech by Frank Walkley, New York State Commissioner of Agriculture and Markets. Penny Deakin, president, presided at the meeting.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Shirley Chimera, tournament chairman, cut the red ribbon to open the Dunkirk City Women’s Bowling Association Tournament at Red Dot Lanes.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Perry’s Ice Cream Co. Inc. of Akron, NY named Nog Inc. of Dunkirk winner of the 1992 first annual “Vendor of the Year” award during a vendor appreciation dinner in Williamsville. A producer of ice cream condiments, Nog was one of 435 vendors from across New York and New Jersey who were evaluated and selected as one of Perry’s top vendors. Nog President Bruce Ritenburg III said, “We were just floored when we were announced as ‘Vendor of the Year.’ It really came as a complete surprise.”
Thirty years ago – 1983
The 45-foot steel storm warning tower in Memorial Park, owned by the National Weather Service and formerly used to warn mariners of bad weather on Lake Erie, has been taken down. Unused for several years, it was decided that the tower would require maintenance or would have to be razed. Since officials indicated the city would not take over its maintenance, the NWS decided to take it down. Instead of flags on towers, mariners are now warned of bad weather via radio frequency.
Forty years ago – 1973
Among those serving as Candy Stripers at Brooks Memorial Hospital are Wende Dutton, Denise Felt, Holly West, Kathy Proctor and Marlene Zacharias.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Forestville Central School began using the facilities of educational TV station WNED-TV on a regular schedule this semester, according to Supervising Principal Stanley C. Ruger.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
A retirement party was held for Sgt. Richard J. Saletta of Silver Creek, who has retired after 20 years of service with the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department. Sgt. Saletta now is a criminal justice instructor at the Vo-Tech Center in Ashville. In 1980, he was named as the Deputy of the Year by the New York State Sheriffs Association.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The Collins Center Elementary School will close in June as the result of action taken by the Springville Board of Education. A heated debate between two board members began prior to the vote and resumed after a 5-2 vote approved a 1983-84 building use plan that included the closing of the branch school in Collins Center. Board member Nicholas Hodak claimed the school had been deprived of renovation funds for 20 years in a deliberate measure to encourage the closing of the neighborhood school.
Forty years ago – 1973
“Woodenship,” a Dunkirk group, was chosen from among 300 others to perform at the Variety Club Telethon to benefit Children’s Rehabilitation Center in Buffalo. Band members include Dave and Don Wlodarek, Peter Chimento, Jim Gloff and Les Sikorski.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Fredonia Fire Chief Richard Butts announced today the installation of 66 new tone-activated radio alarm systems in the homes of volunteer firemen. The system is expected to shorten response time to emergency calls by eliminating the need to first stop at the fire station.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The “Mr. and Mrs. Body Building championships were held in the Campus Center of Fredonia State University College this past week. The men’s winner in the lightweight division was Jamie Lisson, a freshman. Coming in first in the women’s division was Mary Jo Kozlowski of Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Dr. Carmello Patti of Hornell, formerly of Dunkirk, has been inducted into the Hornell “Hall of Fame” after being a physician and surgeon there for the past 50 years.
Forty years ago – 1973
During the recent installation of officers of the Lambert Hook and Ladder Co. of Fredonia, John Borzilleri was awarded a 25-year membership pin.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The Woodcliffe Band was honored by the First Ward Falcon Club in Dunkirk for providing music for area dancers for the past 39 years. Band members include Anthony Strychalski, William Ebert, Henry Ebert and Jack Barnes.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Raymer McQuiston, a former Fredonia resident and now an attorney with a Manhattan law firm, described to Lifestyles Editor Louise Ratkoski what it felt like to be in the firm’s offices on the 52nd floor of the World Trade Center when a bomb rocked the building on Feb. 26. The explosion hit in the underground parking garage and within two minutes smoke reached the 52nd floor. Mr. McQuiston, the son of Dr. and Mrs. Julian McQuiston of Fredonia, managed to escape the building, but only after much difficulty because of the thick smoke.
Thirty years ago – 1983
All Chautauqua County communities, organizations, businesses, schools and citizens have been invited to join in a three-year celebration of the county’s 175th birthday, according to an announcement made by County Executive Joseph Gerace. The celebration will kick off with an anniversary luncheon at the White Inn this month to honor the founding of Pomfret.
Forty years ago – 1973
“Time Brothers” – Richard Lewis, Slow Time; Alvin Crowe, Any Time; Pat Ryan, Fast Time – entertained a capacity crowd at the Silver Creek High School auditorium. The event was the 13th Kiwanis Kapers.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Winners of the Land Mark Rally held by the Northern Chautauqua Sports Car Club were Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Willsey, Dr. and Mrs. Arthur Robinson, DeForest Woods and Helen Haglund.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
David Goerlitz, the former “Winston man”, has appeared at several locations in Chautauqua County this week with a strong anti-smoking message. His stops included the Campus Center at Fredonia State, Dunkirk High and Middle schools, Silver Creek and Cassadaga Valley high schools and Cassadaga Job Corps. He is sponsored by the American Cancer Society. A former 3 1/2 pack per day smoker, Mr. Goerlitz suffered a stroke that left him with partial paralysis of his left side and no taste of food. He said that nicotine is as addictive as heroin and that tobacco kills.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Calendar Girl for the month of March is Julie Lapp, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John R. Boltz of Walker Road, Portland. A senior at Brocton Central School, she is a member of the National Honor Society, co-recipient of the Bausch and Lomb Science Award, and winner of a scholarship from the Pennsylvania Society of Engineers. Julie was also selected as a member of the McDonald’s All-American Band. She hopes to further her education at Cornell University.
Forty years ago – 1973
Judge John T. Curtin of the Federal Court in Buffalo has ordered the Dunkirk Board of Education to make free lunches available to all schools and to students who meet income requirements.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Mrs. James Johnson Jr. of Ripley, Mrs. Bernard C. Robbins and William H. Miller, both of Westfield, were each elected to three-year terms as directors of the Westfield Hospital Association.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
St. Hyacinth’s School recently held its annual teacher recognition dinner at the Quality Inn. Each teacher was presented with a corsage or boutonniere of red and white carnations and baby’s breath in keeping with the school colors. Gifts of personalized framed poems and engraved mugs were also presented to the teachers. Mrs. Sue Soper, a St. Hyacinth School alumna, was the guest speaker. She spoke of the advantages of a religious education and the teachers’ dedication to their students.
Thirty years ago – 1983
In an OBSERVER photo, J. Brien Murphy, Ruth Van Keuren and Albert Newman, all directors of the Fredonia College Foundation, look over a few of the sculptured pieces donated to the Foundation last year. The gold, silver and bronze pieces shown were sculpted by Salvador Dali. Total value of all gifts to the college last year reached an all-time high of $215,000.
Forty years ago – 1973
Dr. John T. Cangelosi, a Dunkirk native, has returned to the city to open a medical practice in urology at 609 Central Ave.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The New York State Department of Education has announced Robert W. Benjamin, Mary Ann Blackmore and Thomas Hebeisen as recipients of New York State Regents Scholarships at Brocton Central School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Alvin N. Kaymore, recently retired Dunkirk postmaster, was honored at a dinner at the Kosciuszko Club. A postal employee since 1948, he was named postmaster in March 1975. His retirement became effective Jan. 2 of this year. Postal clerk and dinner chairman Bohdan Panas presented Mr. Kaymore with a plaque noting his years as a postmaster.
Thirty years ago – 1983
James Schmidt of Dunkirk won the trip to Atlantic City for 2 nights and 3 days, including accommodations, airfare and transportation which was the grand prize in Lena’s Pizza Parlor’s Grand Re-Opening at their 27 Water St. location in Fredonia and their grand opening at the new location at 179 Lake Shore Drive East in Dunkirk. Lena’s owner, Vern Pchelka, presented the prize to Schmidt.
Forty years ago – 1973
The St. Hyacinth Sagettes successfully defended their cheerleading title while cheerleaders from Holy Trinity took second place at the St. James Invitational Basketball Tournament in Jamestown.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Alvin Surma met with his committee recently to complete final arrangements for the annual father and son night sponsored by Dunkirk Industrial High School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Cliffstar of Dunkirk today announced an increased need for Niagara grapes and will encourage grape growers in the area to consider new plantings. Jim Gloss, director of fruit procurement and bulk juice sales, said, “Cliffstar will offer multi-year contracts to growers with existing Niagara, or those wishing to plant new vineyards.” Cliffstar more than doubled its sales of white grape juice from 1991 to 1992.
Thirty years ago – 1983
A “Do You Remember?” photo shows a locomotive, one of 10 built to order by the Brooks Locomotive Works for the Lake Shore & Michigan Southern Railroad. This locomotive, No. 564, coupled to a train called the Vanderbilt Special, traveled from South Chicago to Buffalo, a distance of 510.1 miles on Oct. 24, 1895 to make a speed-test run. Pulling the train 86 miles from Erie to Buffalo in 70.47 minutes, No. 564 reached a maximum speed of 93.3 miles an hour and broke the speed record.
Forty years ago – 1973
Members of the Ark-Sheri Busy Bees gathered at the home of Mrs. William Gorman on Straight Road, Fredonia for a morning get-together and luncheon. Mrs. Wanda Bean of Perrysburg, who will leave soon to vacation in Belgium, was the guest of honor.
Fifty years ago – 1963
DAR Good Citizens Awards have been presented to Grace E. Frazier, 5 Hanover St., Silver Creek, and James A. King of Irving-Gowanda Road, Irving, both seventh-grade students at Silver Creek Central School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The New York Power Authority has approved an allocation of low-cost electricity for the new graphite processing plant in Brocton. Power Authority trustees, meeting in New York City, approved an allocation of up to 800 kilowatts for the graphite processing plant and warehouse being built by Cal Graphite America, a subsidiary of a Canadian company. There will be a 50/50 blend of hydropower from the Niagara Power Project near Niagara Falls and economical electricity from other Power Authority sources.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Dunkirk will soon have an art gallery. Renovations are taking place in the Adams Memorial Gallery in the Chautauqua County Association for the Arts building, 600 Central Ave., Dunkirk and when completed the gallery will house a visual arts center complete with 125 feet of hanging space, a gallery shop, an office, a workshop for mounting and framing, and space for classes. The renovation of the Gallery into usable gallery space has been brought about through the efforts of George W. Mallory of Fredonia.
Forty years ago – 1973
More than 40 families in Chautauqua County participated in an event marking the 10th anniversary of the “Grape Bunch,” the local chapter of the National Campers and Hikers Association.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The annual Mardi Gras, sponsored by the Rosary and Altar Society of St. James Church, Westfield was held recently with those in attendance enjoying dancing, games and refreshments. Chairwoman for the event was Mrs. Michael Nicosia.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
A slide presentation, “Tour of Poland,” will be given by Arthur Parks of Kenmore at the Dunkirk Historical Society meeting at the Kosciuszko Club. In July 1992, Mr. Parks joined 31 other participants from 10 states on a 21-day tour of Poland, sponsored by the Polish American Teachers Association. The son of Mrs. Jenny Pokrzywka of Roberts Road, Dunkirk, he has been a social studies teacher for the past 32 years at McKinley High School in Buffalo.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Brad Joubert, son of Linda Joubert of Gowanda and Noel Joubert of Springville, has been named Student of the Week at Gowanda Central School. A member of the National Honor Society, he has been nominated by Rep. Stanley N. Lundine to the U.S. Air Force Academy. This year, Brad has averaged 13 points per game on the varsity basketball team. He has also received several high rankings in county trombone competition. Brad plans to pursue a career in math and science.
Forty years ago – 1973
It was learned today that a Social Security office has been approved for Dunkirk to serve the Lake Erie shore area. Chautauqua County Legislator Donald E. Reinhoudt (R-Fredonia) made the announcement.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Ann, Nancy and Michael Schrantz, and Maureen, Kathleen and Jeffrey Rich, all Dunkirk children, were guests on the “Uncle Jerry” television show in Buffalo Sunday morning.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
In the Lifestyles section, an aged postcard, now the property of MacLeod Williams of Dunkirk, stirred recollections of the old Columbia Hotel in Fredonia – located where the Russo building stands today. Construction of the hotel was completed at a cost of $50,000 plus the elegant furnishings. The establishment opened for business in February 1893 and was known as the most luxurious and attractive hotel in Chautauqua County.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Seven years ago today, a gigantic ice storm paralyzed the Dunkirk-Fredonia area and other sections of northern Chautauqua County. Downed power lines and trees left electrical power and most heat off for hours in some areas and more than a day in others. Schools were closed and the government declared it a disaster area. Driving was perilous because of the many fallen trees and tree limbs that were everywhere. Clean-up operations took days. Many called it the worst ice storm in their memory.
Forty years ago – 1973
Sister Ellen Marie Kuznicki, CSSF, a native of Dunkirk, has received a doctor of philosophy degree from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kan.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Harold A. Ferrington, vice president of the Citizens Trust office of Manufacturers & Traders Trust in Fredonia, was elected president of the board of trustees of the United Community Fund of Dunkirk and Fredonia.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Dunkirk Development Director Mark Geise points out that the college intern program is working out well. The program involves four interns from various departments at Fredonia State University College who have been assigned to the city for the entire semester. It’s a win-win situation, according to Geise. The students get a first-hand look at the operation of a city government and the municipality gets help with several projects that have been on hold due to lack of manpower.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The free shopping bus for senior citizens that was donated to the city of Dunkirk by the Peter J. Schmitt Co. of Buffalo should be in operation before the end of the month. The Chautauqua County Office for the Aging and the city are sharing the operational expenses of the bus. The bus will operate three days a week and will be used primarily to take senior citizens from their homes to the Bells Plaza and back.
Forty years ago – 1973
Carol Peterson and Darlene Kawski were announced as winners of the cake baking contest sponsored by the Dunkirk School 5 Parents Club and the School 4 Mothers Club.
Fifty years ago – 1963
James Allessie of the sophomore class at the Dunkirk Industrial High School, has been chosen by school faculty as Outstanding Teenager of the Week. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam J. Allessie, 26 Matteson St., Fredonia.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Dunkirk native Dr. James Elias recently joined the Fredonia optometric practice of Dr. Steven Ihrig. A graduate of Dunkirk High School, Dr. Elias is the son of Patricia Elias of Dunkirk and the late Constantine “Gus” Elias. He received his doctor of optometry degree from the University of Houston School of Optometry.
Thirty years ago – 1983
For the second time in four years, Fredonia Mayor Louis Mancuso will be running unopposed in his re-election bid for a third consecutive two-year term in the March 14 village election. Mayor Mancuso was endorsed by the Republican Party and the Independent Concord Party. Members of the Fredonia Democratic Committee, at their party caucus Jan. 22, nominated former trustee Anthony St. George, as their 1983 mayoral candidate, but he later declined.
Forty years ago – 1973
Carolyn Clarkson, daughter of Elaine Clarkson of Forestville, took first place in her equestrian class in the inter-collegiate riding competition held at St. Lawrence University. She is a member of the five-man equestrian team representing Cobleskill Agricultural and Technical College.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Allan C. Stuhlmiller, physical education teacher and basketball coach in the Dunkirk High School system, received his master’s degree in education today from Buffalo State University. Mr. Stuhlmiller resides on King Street, Dunkirk.