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Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Lakeview Shock Incarceration Facility in Brocton passed its test for re-accreditation as an adult correctional facility with flying colors. The facility was in 100 percent compliance for 39 mandatory compliance standards with a 98.4 percent rate of compliance on non-mandatory standards. The facility is at full shock capacity and anticipated to remain high. Community service work crews had logged a total of 17,730 inmate hours on work projects during the month of October.

Thirty years ago – 1983

You can now pay to have your car washed by hand “Over and Under.” The owner of Dunkirk Self-Service Car Wash, 214 Central Ave. since 1965, John Runfola has added a hand-wash service after several years of contemplation. Using high-powered hand directed hoses and top-quality soaps, attendants will wash cars and vans and small trucks.

Forty years ago – 1973

Mayor-Elect Leon Damian initiated his plans to bring more youth into Dunkirk city government by announcing today that his city clerk is 27-year-old Daniel R. Polowy.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Lance Cpl. Vernon Marx, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Albert V. Marx of Dunkirk, is home on a 96-hour pass granted to all members of the U.S. Marine Ceremonial Guard stationed at the White House and Capitol while the late President John F. Kennedy lie in state.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

A plan to lease the former Tops Supermarket on East Main Street in Fredonia involves the site being used for a day service program for up to 70 people. J.N. Adam Developmental Center currently leases the former employment offices in Dunkirk and would be consolidating the program into the one center. Those attending would be drawn from the group homes in the local area. The Tops building would be converted into several rooms.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Donald Patterson, a Perrysburg beef, grape and grain farmer, has been elected chairman of the Southwestern Division of the New York Beef Cattlemen’s Association. He has a commercial cow/calf operation and markets his beef through feeder calf sales or freezer beef. Mr. Patterson owns 250 acres and rents another 100 acres for his farm. He and his wife, Gloria, reside on West Perrysburg Road. They have three children.

Forty years ago – 1973

Henry Ensign Saxton, 6 Lake Ave., Brocton was designated “Knight of the York Cross of Honour,” the highest honor in the York Rite of Freemasonry, conferred on only those who have held the highest office in each of the four bodies of the rite.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Dr. John Vona of Silver Creek, formerly of North Tonawanda, is opening a dental clinic in the village. He is a member of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church and the Junior Chamber of Commerce.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

State Aging Director Jane G. Gould announced today the appointment of Claire Penfold to the New York State Office for the Aging’s Older Americans Act Program Advisory Committee. Mrs. Penfold, a Fredonia resident, will advise the director and staff of the State Office for the Aging on matters of policy and administration of the federal Older Americans Act at the state and local level. Director Gould noted that Mrs. Penfold was selected based upon her “significant contribution and commitment as an effective advocate for older New Yorkers.”

Thirty years ago – 1983

The Dunkirk Zoning Board of Appeals unanimously approved a zoning variance that will make it possible for the Dunkirk Eagles Club to purchase and use the former YMCA building on the Dunkirk-Fredonia municipal line. The board’s approval, coupled with a similar variance by the village of Fredonia recently, clears the way for the sale of the building by its owner, Empire of America Savings Bank, to the Eagles Club.

Forty years ago – 1973

Robin S. Schoener of Westfield was presented with the Ruth Callahan Award by Dr. Dallas Beal, president of Fredonia State University College. The award is presented annually to an outstanding freshman at the college.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Betty Lou Eggert, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Eggert, 8 Riley St., Westfield was featured in the annual Kaufmann’s Thanksgiving Day Parade sponsored by its store in Pittsburgh. The store’s float, “The Wizard of Oz,” featured Miss Eggert as Dorothy. Afterward, she participated in a television interview.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

John Roden and Lori Karlson were the male and female winners of the Salvation Army Turkey Trot held in Dunkirk. Roden was timed in 17:34 and Karlson, of Forestville, in 21:17 for five kilometers. Major James Sproul of the Salvation Army presented the trophies. Seventy-four runners took part in the annual race.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Suzanne Chamberlain, WGRZ-TV general assignment reporter, will be the master of ceremonies for the Dunkirk-Fredonia Junior Miss Pageant, sponsored by the Dunkirk JayNcees. A total of 11 Dunkirk and Fredonia high school seniors will participate in the pageant. Chamberlain joined the staff at WGRZ-TV in February 1982.

Forty years ago – 1973

After 25 heartbreaking years, Steve Krystofik of 260 Lincoln Ave., Dunkirk finally bagged his first deer – a 168-pound doe. Mr. Krystofik has been going out every season since he was 17 years old.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Carol Blodgett of Fredonia placed first in the senior division of the Chautauqua County 4-H apple pie baking contest and will represent the county at the state contest in Buffalo. Nancy Newton of Sinclairville won the junior division.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

J’Neene Ortolano, a senior at Silver Creek Central School, has been chosen Student of the Week. She is the daughter of Nancy and George Ortolano of Silver Creek. An active participant in extracurricular activities, J’Neene is a cheerleader, Student Council representative and a member of Spanish Club, Varsity Club and the AFS. She is also one of the first girls selected for membership in the Kiwanis Key Club, which she has served as secretary for the past three years. She also does volunteer work for the Salvation Army. Following graduation, J’Neene plans to attend college and pursue a career in international finance.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Joselle Robin Bifaro, 11-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Bifaro of Fredonia, returned home from the New York State National Baton Twirling Association Championship, held in Stone Ridge, NY, with two state titles. Joselle was named “Solo Twirl Intermediate Pre-Teen New York Champion” and “Best Appearing Advanced Pre-Teen New York Champion.” She compiled a perfect score of 100 on the latter competition.

Forty years ago – 1973

A plaque was presented to Silver Creek Festival of Grapes President John Balon by the former president, Frederick Seegert, during the festival’s annual recognition banquet held at Schnitzelbank Restaurant, Forestville.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Paul Danahy of Perrysburg attended the dog show in Syracuse where his dog, Longacres Dusty Lad, took the blue ribbon in the novice class for collies.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Westfield resident Walter Falvay is having a party Nov. 24 at Eason Hall to celebrate his 100th birthday and has been planning this occasion since his 99th birthday last year. The Deutschmeister Band, of which he was a member until his retirement in the late 1980s, is playing for the event. Walt is the founder of the John W. Rogers American Legion Post and the only charter member still alive. Overseeing the party will be Westfield Mayor Joseph Pagano who will act as master of ceremonies.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Work continues on the Tops Market store on Vineyard Drive in the town of Dunkirk. The store, touted as one of the largest of its kind in western New York, still needs a roof. According to proprietor Jerry Trindel, “The next six weeks are crucial. If we can get the roof on by Christmas, we could be ready to open by May 1.”

Forty years ago – 1973

Cassadaga Valley Central Middle School, a concept in its second year of existence within the school district, was named one of two demonstration schools in the country for the International Graduate School of Education, according to Middle School Principal Dwight Hulse.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Lyndon Baines Johnson today faced the awesome responsibilities of president of the United States. In a statement, President Johnson said, “It is more essential than ever before that this country be united.”

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Fredonia Lady Hillbillies volleyball team staged an improbable rally in the fifth and deciding game to win the Section 6 Class B Girls Volleyball championship in Alumni Arena on the campus of the University at Buffalo. First-year coach Tammy Rea’s Hillbillies outlasted Lewiston-Porter to earn a berth in the Far West Regionals against unbeaten Section 5 champion Victor (22-0).

Thirty years ago – 1983

The Fredonia Village Board received a memorandum signed by 489 people who reside, own businesses or work in the village, urging the mayor and trustees to explore thoroughly alternatives for the preservation of village hall. The memorandum noted the village hall, with its distinctive Victorian architecture, is an important National Register landmark. It symbolizes the history of Fredonia, serves as a visual focal point for Barker Common and contains ample space for useful purposes.

Forty years ago – 1973

Virginia Corsi will give a speech entitled, “Women in Chautauqua County: A Progress Report,” at the meeting of the Dunkirk-Fredonia Business and Professional Women’s Club at the Dunkirk Club.

Fifty years ago – 1963

President John F. Kennedy is dead, it was announced this afternoon, the victim of an assassin. The president and Texas Gov. John B. Connally were both cut down as they toured Dallas in an open automobile earlier today.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Plans are being made to form an African-American History Club in the Dunkirk-Fredonia area. According to organizers Jesse Thomas and Loretta Torain of Dunkirk, the purpose of the club is “to stimulate interest in African-American History.” The club is open to “all God’s children” regardless of race or color.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Joseph Laurito, 18, son of Justine Polvino and Joseph G. Laurito, both of Fredonia, has been named Student of the Week at Fredonia Central School. A senior, he has been a participant in the auto body repair program at the Chautauqua County Vo-Tech Center since his junior year. Joseph is a member of the varsity football, wrestling and track teams at Fredonia High School. Following graduation, he will enter the U.S. Marine Corps for a four-year tour of duty.

Forty years ago – 1973

Norbert Michalak Jr., a freshman at Alfred Agricultural and Technical College in Wellsville, is home for Thanksgiving with his family at 112 Swan St., Dunkirk. Mr. Michalak is majoring in construction technology.

Fifty years ago – 1963

At the annual meeting in the Hotel William Peacock in Mayville, the Chautauqua County Medical Society elected Dr. Herbert A. Laughlin of Westfield as its new president.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

At the Harvest Dinner held at the Knights of Columbus clubrooms in Dunkirk, Chautauqua County Rural Ministry awarded the Prophet’s Hoe to the Rev. Irwin Reist, former Dunkirk pastor, now pastor of West Seneca United Methodist Church. The award is given annually in recognition of community service and involvement. A volunteer chaplain at WCA Hospital in Jamestown, he served as president of the county American Red Cross board of directors and chairman of the Hunger Task Force, along with undertaking a multitude of charitable endeavors.

Thirty years ago – 1983

The Gowanda motor vehicle office will operate every Tuesday with the grand opening scheduled this Tuesday at the Persia Town Hall. A three-month trial period is expected to determine if the partial service office should become permanent in Gowanda. Although final processing of the vehicle registration application cannot be done at the Gowanda location, it is expected that Gowanda area applicants will benefit from the type of assistance offered.

Forty years ago – 1973

Registration for free baton twirling classes will be held at the Carol Maloney Dance Studio, 262 Central Ave., Silver Creek. The classes, taught by Mrs. Elmer Schwenkel, are sponsored by the village Recreation Commission.

Fifty years ago – 1963

A group of persons met at the Cassadaga Country Club to form a Cribbage Club. Wallace Peterson of Cassadaga was named temporary chairman and presided for the election of Mrs. Daniel Hickling of Silver Creek as president.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

A plan to sell or shut down the Ferranti-Packard Transformers plant in Sheridan is part of a corporate restructuring on the part of its owners, Rolls Royce. That was the word from plant manager Michael O’Donoughe, who insisted Rolls Royce is actively looking for a new buyer. O’Donoughe stated that the operations now done at the Sheridan plant will be moved to another Ferranti-Packard plant in St. Catharine’s only if a new owner is not found for the local plant. He noted that when you sell a business, you sell all of the work as well because a factory without work is useless to anyone.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Pagano Tractor and Implement recently announced the appointment of Hamilton Clothier to the sales staff. “Hammy” is a lifetime resident of the area and owned a 120-acre fruit and vegetable farm for 34 years. He served as Town Supervisor and County Legislator for 10 years and was president of the Chautauqua County Extension.

Forty years ago – 1973

Buffalo Bills offensive tackle Dave Foley, 25, will address the annual Dunkirk Traffic and Transportation Club father-child dinner at the White Inn in Fredonia.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Fredonia High School Principal Rocco Doino announced that the method of grading this year has been changed from a numerical to a letter system due to the difficulty of attaching exact percentage value on student skills.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Dunkirk Local Development Corp. earlier this week struck a new deal with marina owner Lou Stefan over a $50,000 loan for the on-going expansion of his business. While the DLDC had previously approved the loan, the transaction never took place because Mr. Stefan failed to comply with several stipulations attached to the agreement. Among these were granting a formal easement and demonstrating he had available parking for the project. Prior to striking a new deal, Mr. Stefan charged that he was being “set up” by certain city officials who have a “personal negative attitude” toward him.

Thirty years ago – 1983

The 500th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther’s birthday was celebrated recently at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Temple Street, Fredonia. Some of his hymns and brief excerpts from his writings were used in the worship service. Dr. Luther was born in East Germany in 1483. On Oct. 31, 1517, he posted his 95 Theses in protest of the abuse of indulgence selling and became known as the German Reformer. He was excommunicated by Pope Leo X.

Forty years ago – 1973

Marvin L. Smith of Silver Creek was elected president of the New York State Auctioneers Association during the group’s convention which he, his wife and sons attended in Syracuse. The Smiths have an office in Hanover Center.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Judith Pryga of Dunkirk High School will attend the Governor’s Youth Conference in Albany. In addition, Mrs. Charles Carpenter of 6 Holmes Place, Fredonia, will act as chaperone.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

John F. Cenedella, formerly of New York City, has accepted a position as senior products specialist – financial futures and options – with Merrill Lynch, Asia Pacific in Hong Kong. The son of Phil and Gerri Cenedella of Dunkirk, John is a 1988 graduate of Boston University.

Thirty years ago – 1983

A recently published book on beer, which rated and compared more than 500 domestic and imported beers available in the United States, gave the Fred Koch Brewery’s Golden Anniversary beer the highest rating of any North American-style lager beer. The book, by expert Howard Hillman, also listed the Dunkirk brewery’s Black Horse Ale as top rated compared with the imported Canadian ales. Koch’s Golden Anniversary, one of about 140 North American-style lager beers brewed in the U.S. and Canada, was the only one to receive a four star, or “superb” rating.

Forty years ago – 1973

Dorothy Bentley, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Charles E. Bentley of South Dayton, was elected as a student representative to the Faculty Committee on Personnel for the department of chemistry at Ithaca College.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The Gateway Wholesale Co., a division of the J.F. O’Connell Co. in Fredonia, opened its newest business in the village at 24 Water St., formerly owned by the Niagara Mohawk Power Corp.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

A proposal to update the littering regulations in the Dunkirk City Code is on the agenda of the Dunkirk Common Council. The current regulations, which date back to 1922, deal primarily with straw, hay and other horse by-products and need to be updated. The proposed amendment would make it illegal to dump bottles, cans, paper or other substances in any public place or in any place not authorized by the owner.

Thirty years ago – 1983

The grand opening of Sciarrino’s Newsroom at 44 East Main St., Westfield was held recently. The newsroom was purchased by Thomas and Betty Sciarrino of Brocton. Mr. Sciarrino retired July 1 as Brocton Central School superintendent, a post he held since 1969. The Sciarrinos will be running the business by themselves along with a little help from three of their nine children. The business will carry more than 100 different magazines and 10 newspapers, along with books, cigarettes, candy, NYS lottery tickets and more.

Forty years ago – 1973

This month’s county legislature meeting may have been its last official “apple day.” It has become traditional at the November meeting for each legislator to have a shiny red apple on his desk, courtesy of Republican Minority Leader Hamilton H. Clothier, who will not return this January. One lawmaker, however, said Mr. Clothier’s replacement, Delmar Brinkman of Hanover, also is a fruit farmer and might possibly continue this tradition.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Grace Krauth was hostess to the Mary Martha Missionary Society of the First Portland Baptist Church of Brocton. Marie Becker presided at the meeting and devotions were led by Alice Keith.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Westfield resident Connie Thayer presented her plan for a village taxi service to the Westfield Village Board. She noted that it was difficult for persons in wheelchairs to move around the village. She also felt she could transport wheelchair-bound people for less money than was currently being charged by other transport operations in the county. A wheelchair van would cost $12.50 to anywhere in the village. The taxi would have a charge of $3.50. The proposal was turned over to the board for further research.

Thirty years ago – 1983

A “Do You Remember?” photo shows the girls’ basketball team of the Fredonia Normal High School, 1923-24. The Class of 1924 was the last graduating class of the Normal High School. The following sophomores, juniors and seniors were members of the last Normal High School basketball team: Mary Edith Frost, Cerell Hequembourg, Margaret Fisk, Ruth Pelton, Geraldine Gibbs, Dorothy Salhoff, Alice Love, Ruth Love and Winnefred Cummings. George Schaeffer was head coach with Frederick Landers as his assistant.

Forty years ago – 1973

The Friendship Club of Pomfret, organized in 1912 by the late Mrs. Frank Gibb who invited a group of neighbors to her Fredonia home, continues today with her daughter, Clara Gibb Ehmke of Brocton, the only surviving charter member.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Daniel J. Foley is the new manager of Murphy’s store in Fredonia. Former manager Thomas N. Sampson, who was promoted to a new store in Virginia, had been active in the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce and Boosters Association.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Michael Davis, a Dunkirk High School Class of 1987 graduate currently living in Laguna Hills, Calif., reported that the house he resides in survived the raging California fire “that was right in our backyard.” Mr. Davis, who has lived in California for five years, described it as “quite an experience.” The fires have been labeled the worst of this century. His parents are Joseph and Rita Davis of Dunkirk.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Rehearsals are under way for the Fredonia Junior Miss Pageant to be sponsored by the Fredonia JayNcees – the 12 candidates are rehearsing at the Fredonia High School where the pageant will be presented Nov. 22. Vying for the crown are Marie Lopez, Lisa Corsi, Margaret Boettcher, Lynn Wisniewski, Stephanie Pulvino, Eva Forbes, Mary Kuzdale and Dawn Warren, all of Dunkirk; Linda McMullen, Michelle Pagano, Beth Bray and Kathy Kenney of Fredonia.

Forty years ago – 1973

The Federal Trade Commission ruled that Wonder Bread, the country’s largest selling white bread, has been falsely advertising itself the past decade as an extraordinary food which will cause dramatic growth in children.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Robert Strong, music teacher at Forestville Central School, and some members of the school’s band traveled to Gowanda to hear the U.S. Marine Corps Band in concert.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

The Brooks Hospital Auxiliary is making preparations for a Celebrity Waiter Dinner to be held this month at the Shorewood Country Club. Leading the list of celebrity waiters will be Van Miller, Channel 4 (Buffalo) sports director and Chuck Howard, sports reporter. They will serve select tables. Other tables will be served by men and women from the community, among them doctors, company executives and hospital personnel.

Thirty years ago – 1983

For 40 years, members of the Evening Social Club have met twice monthly for cards and dessert. The club’s 40th anniversary celebration was held recently when the current active members held a dinner party at the Vineyard Restaurant before adjourning to the Eagle Street, Fredonia home of charter member Jennie Leone for dessert and pinochle. Other charter members are Mary Valone and Louise Angelo, who is the current president.

Forty years ago – 1973

David R. Proper, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Proper, 101 West Fourth St., Dunkirk, a senior at Thiel College in Greenville, Pa., won first place in the “humor” category of a photography contest.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Kathy Damiano of Dunkirk was the winner of the four-piece, silver plated tea set given away by Hyman Lippman of Gail Jewelers on Central Avenue in Dunkirk. The presentation culminated the company’s 25th anniversary celebration.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

With over $175,000 raised in a $500,000 capital campaign, Patterson Library in Westfield is moving closer to achieving barrier-free accessibility for the 85-year-old facility. The building project includes a new addition and wheelchair lift, two handicapped accessible restrooms and an elevator. The library has a book collection of 33,884 volumes, a renowned local history/genealogy collection and a series of multicultural and educational programs that attracted over 7,500 people of all ages in 1992.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Currently assigned as a deacon at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Dunkirk, the Rev. Mr. Dennis W. Mende will be ordained to the priesthood on Nov. 19 in St. Joseph’s Church on Church Square, Albion. The Most Rev. Edward D. Head, bishop of Buffalo, will officiate. Father Mende is the son of Margaret Mende of Tonawanda and the late Rudolph Mende.

Forty years ago – 1973

The Forestville Village Board unanimously approved the passage of an ordinance prohibiting the drinking of alcoholic beverages on the streets and highways of the village.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Brocton Central School’s second annual punt, pass and kick contest was won by James Horlacher (8 year olds); Thomas Manzella (10 year olds); and Eugene Bellando (11 year olds).

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Incumbents seemed to prevail as the recent election saw County Executive Andrew Goodell, a Republican, easily re-elected to a second four-year term over Democratic Pomfret Supervisor Roger E. Ruckman. Dunkirk Mayor Margaret Wuerstle, also a Republican, won a second term with a resounding 1,037-vote victory over Democratic challenger Diane Trezenski in the first-ever city of Dunkirk mayoral race consisting of two women. In a major upset, Republican Sandy Sopak, supervisor of the town of Poland east of Falconer, defeated Chautauqua County Clerk Henry Weiler, a Democrat, by almost 3,000 votes.

Thirty years ago – 1983

The Rev. Claude H. Bicheler has been named pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church, Silver Creek. A native of Alden, Fr. Bicheler completed his studies at Christ the King Seminary and St. Bonaventure University. In 1976, he was assigned to his first pastorate at Our Lady of Victory Parish in Frewsburg. He also had served on the faculties of Bishop Turner and the former Father Baker high schools.

Forty years ago – 1973

Frank Crea, son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Crea of 122 Ruggles St., Dunkirk has been named to the 1973-1974 “Who’s Who Among Students in American Colleges and Universities.” He majors in aeronautical engineering at Tri-State College.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The James Madison Division of the Catholic Youth Organization will install Jack Mancuso (Holy Trinity Church, Dunkirk) as its president and Fred Costantini (St. Mary’s Church, Dunkirk) as vice president.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Darcy Sanderson, a senior at Pine Valley Central School, has been named Student of the Week. She is treasurer of the senior class and vice president of both Student Council and National Honor Society. Darcy is also a member of “Raysons,” a Christian youth group and serves as a peer tutor in mathematics. She was twice named recipient of the Pine Valley Teachers Association Math Award. In addition, Darcy plays on the school’s varsity basketball and volleyball teams. The daughter of Rod and Sally Sanderson of Maple Street, South Dayton, she plans to attend college and major in mathematics.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Brothers Sam and Bruno Del Sorbo are the new owners of the newly remodeled S&B Sunset Bay Inn on Routes 5 and 20 in Sunset Bay. The brothers, who are natives of Naples, Italy, and Sam’s wife, Angela, a native of Catanzaro, have combined old family recipes to come up with their menu. Bruno, who served as a cook in the Italian army while stationed in Bologna, adds the expertise in the kitchen, making fresh sauce daily.

Forty years ago – 1973

Marden E. Cobb, 14 Reese Parkway, Fredonia was elected to the New York Planning Federation’s Board of Directors. Mr. Cobb is district manager for Iroquois Gas and a councilman for the town of Pomfret.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Physical education classes at Dunkirk High School will now be listed among the other graded subjects. Marks will be based on class participation as well as tests on skills, physical fitness and written unit exams.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Love for her first horse, “Sunny,” has prompted Kathy Fleming of Fredonia to donate the animal for use by persons who take part in a therapeutic riding program near Westfield. Mrs. Fleming said she could not bear to see Sunny, a 23-year-old sorrel gelding, standing idly at her horse farm, Sunny Acres. She began searching for a way for Sunny to stay active and found it with Centaur Stride, a new therapeutic riding center owned and operated by Harry and Claudia Monroe. The facility is located on Jones Road in Westfield.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Pictured casting ballots on Election Day in the city of Dunkirk are: Democrat incumbent Mayor Edwin Gregoreski and his wife Sophie at Hose Co. No. 3 fire hall; Republican mayoral candidate Gilbert Snyder and his wife Ann at Dunkirk High School; and Right-To-Know party mayoral candidate Thomas Tofil and his wife Helen, who voted this morning at the city barn on Lucas Avenue.

Forty years ago – 1973

William Ridinger, Harold Kilmer, Robert Bates Sr., Robert Bates Jr., and Arcadio Gonzalez were all elected to the West Main Street Baptist Church board of directors.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The Fredonia State University College Choir was honored when members were invited to perform at the first annual New York Christmas Music Festival at the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts in New York City.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

A ribbon-cutting ceremony and dedication of a plaque renaming the Harry E. Wheelock Primary School highlighted a recent open house to show off to the public the newly completed addition to the school. A total of 19 new rooms were constructed at the Wheelock School with nearly 80 percent of the project funded by the state. The renaming of the school consisted of just a slight change by adding the word “primary” to the Wheelock School title.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Homer “Chuck” Bowker Jr., received the nod of the Forestville Village Board to serve as mayor of Forestville until the general elections in March. The board met one week later than its usual meeting date because of the unexpected death of Mayor Walter Meadows. Deputy Mayor Nancy Stock was nominated to the mayoral post first by Mr. Bowker, but declined citing prior commitments. Earl Town was appointed to fill Mr. Bowker’s vacated seat on the board until the March elections.

Forty years ago – 1973

Henry O. Naetzker, retired Dunkirk newsstand/smoke shop owner, celebrated his 85th birthday on Nov. 1 at his home, 933 Swan St., Dunkirk.

Fifty years ago – 1963

The Silver Creek Shoestring Players are holding a dinner and membership meeting at the home of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Joy, Water Street, Fredonia. Membership is open and anyone interested is urged to contact David Hornberg of Silver Creek.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

Construction projects now under way at the Lake Shore Health Care Center campus in Irving include a new 20-bed psychiatric unit and the surgery unit expansion, which will add six recovery beds, an additional operating room and space for waiting rooms and records. Crews also are working hard to add new dining rooms to the second and third floors of the nursing home at the complex.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Robert C. Griese, retired since Sept. 30 from the U.S. Postal Service, was presented with two awards at the Fredonia Post Office. Postmaster Robert F. Kaus made the presentations, one an Achievement Award for his 41 years of service; the second, a plaque recognizing Mr. Griese’s “outstanding service” during his years of employment. He had spent 14 of those years as a postal employee at the Fredonia Post Office.

Forty years ago – 1973

Irene P. Jozwiak will host an open house at her newly-remodeled Coronation Beauty Shop, 129 Hoyt St., Dunkirk. The social event will include refreshments and prizes.

Fifty years ago – 1963

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Szczerbacki of Deer Street, Dunkirk have purchased Stewart’s News at 68 East Fourth St., where the Greyhound bus terminal is located. As of tomorrow, it will be called “Ann’s News,” after Mrs. Szczerbacki.

Retrospective

Twenty years ago – 1993

For over 40 years, Cave’s Variety Store in Stockton has been open every day – including Christmas – to provide area residents with a convenient place to shop. Operated since 1952 by Ronald and Helen Cave of Fredonia, the store has become a landmark in the community. Located in the heart of the hamlet of Stockton, this four-corner facility offered everything from gasoline, work clothes, boots, hunting equipment and imported beer to home grown veggies, penny candy and the daily newspapers. The flavor of a small-town store will soon end as the store will close in the near future. The building itself is currently up for sale.

Thirty years ago – 1983

Staff Sgt. Frankie G. Torain, a seven-year veteran of the U.S. Army, recently assumed his duties as recruiter at the Dunkirk Recruiting Station, 61 East Fourth St. Prior to coming to Dunkirk S/Sgt. Torain, who resides at 627 Park Ave., Dunkirk was stationed for two years at Fort Meade, Md.

Forty years ago – 1973

The Regent Theater on Third Street, Dunkirk will be showing the newly-released motion picture, “Pippi Longstocking,” during the matinee today and tomorrow. All seats are $1.

Fifty years ago – 1963

An open house is being held today at the new Hilltop Rest Home, 44 South Main St., Cassadaga. Formerly the Cassadaga Elementary School, the home is owned and operated by Wesley Sly of Fredonia.

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