Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Chants of “We’re No. 1” aren’t likely to reverberate from Buffalo to Long Island now that a national magazine has ranked New York the most-taxed state in the nation for the third year in a row. A two-income family of four in New York pays $11,020 in taxes a year on earnings of $80,542, according to the cover story of Money magazine. Alaska was the least taxed, coming in at $1,694.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Joseph “Joe” Zelnik, the 78-year-old proprietor of Zelnik’s Grocery Store on Beech Street in Gowanda, says that running a small neighborhood grocery store is no way to get rich in terms of money, but it is a lifestyle that provides a wealth of meaningful contact with one’s community. His store is similar to the traditional, almost extinct, corner grocery and delicatessan stores of yesteryear. During his 40 years of business in the “Hidi” section of the village, the Yugoslavian-born Zelnik has been a charitable and considerate grocer. Shut-ins can rely on his delivery of items to their homes. In some cases, credit is extended to customers depending on the circumstances.
Forty years ago – 1973
Brian G. Morrison and Jacquelyn A. Bazely, both of Westfield Academy and Central School, and Thomas A. Putnam of Forestville Central School were among the top five Regents Scholarship winners in Chautauqua County.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Harry A. Centner, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Centner of Chestnut Road, Dunkirk, won the National Junior Vegetable Growers Association’s fresh market division for the Northwestern region.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The announced consolidation of two Fleet Bank branch offices into one office on Route 60, near the new Kmart store, prompted the village of Fredonia trustees to take action against the plan. A resolution was approved authorizing Mayor Louis C. Mancuso to send a letter to Fleet Bank protesting the decision while also calling for all village bank accounts to be pulled from the bank. The village claimed it would be very difficult to do business with the bank in any area other than downtown and the new location would also be a major inconvenience to the residents and downtown businesses who utilize the bank’s services.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Five Amish men from St. Lawrence County, N.Y., who opted for a jail sentence after refusing to hang reflectors from their horse-drawn buggies, have been freed pending appeal. The defendants were charged with traffic violations for failing to adorn their buggies with reflectors and a bright orange triangular emblem sugnifying a slow moving vehicle. The Amish men claim that affixing the required reflectors to their buggies would violate an Amish ban against displaying flashy colors.
Forty years ago – 1973
A retirement dinner was held at the Shorewood Country Club in Dunkirk to honor Margaret N. Watt of Westfield, who has been employed by the Southern Tier Building Trades Welfare Plan since June 1959.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Cheerleaders at Dunkirk High School this year are Betty Bienko, JoAnne Bagola, Sara Messina, Sharon Smith, Janet Proper and Jeannie Goulding.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Winners in the recent grand opening of the new P&G Foods Hometown Market, located at 411 Central Ave., Dunkirk are Agnes Cecala – Murray 26-inch 15-speed bicycle; Ron Majecki and son Adam – Shurfine wagon full of Shurfine groceries; and a Stell Oliver train set. The prize drawings concluded a weeklong celebration of the new grocery store owned by Gary Damico.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Earlier this month, Danuta Walesa met with Norwegian King Olav II, a few hours before receiving the 1983 Nobel peace prize on behalf of her husband, Solidarity leader Lech Walesa. Walesa stayed behind in Poland for fear of not being allowed back into his homeland if he attended the ceremony himself.
Forty years ago – 1973
Robert J. Briggs, exalted ruler of Dunkirk Elks Lodge 922, announced Joseph Raczek of Dunkirk and Roberta Burgstrom of Fredonia as first place winners of the annual Elks Leadership Contest.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The Capitol Theater in Dunkirk will present two afternoons filled with free movie-length cartoons to the children of Dunkirk, Fredonia and surrounding communities. Seven different cartoons will be shown each day.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Student of the Week is Allison Olczak, a senior at Westfield Academy and Central School. She is president of the National Honor Society and treasurer of her class. Active in chorus, Allison played the lead role in the school musical “Oklahoma.” She also participates in varsity basketball, softball and volleyball and varsity football cheerleading. The daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Robert Olczak of Westfield, she plans to pursue a degree in political science and language.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Dale Hartlieb, a Gowanda school teacher, has adapted computers to meet the specific needs of physically handicapped persons. He has a personal interest in his work because his son, Lee, has a severe physical handicap as the result of a freak accident in 1980. One of the first adaptations Mr. Hartlieb developed was made with a part of a large plastic syringe, which he modified for use as a push button device to allow responses to messages flashed on a computer screen.
Forty years ago – 1973
Mr. and Mrs. Robert E. Graham recently entertained 20 guests at an “old-fashioned Christmas party” at their home on Main Street, Silver Creek. Andy Hawke, C.E. Kaufman and Mrs. James Willett won prizes for a game called “Old Stuff.”
Fifty years ago – 1963
Members of Junior Girl Scout Troop 240 sponsored by Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Silver Creek, have been scheduled to appear on the Uncle Jerry Show on Channel 4. Leaders Mrs. Frank Flitt and Mrs. George Dattilo will chaperone.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Program participants at The Resource Center in Dunkirk are creating a 50-foot-long processional kite to be carried at the Dunkirk Community Challenge New Year’s Eve community celebration, “First Night Dunkirk.” For the cost of a button, anyone can attend this alcohol-free celebration of the arts and culture, featuring over 20 different musical, dramatic and visual performances and exhibits. The parade kite is being made in the tradition of the Chinese New Year’s processional dragon kites.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The Town of Dunkirk recently purchased a new salt truck that is ready for use during the wintry weather. The town purchased a used Mobil Oil Co. truck in September using Federal Revenue Sharing Funds. The truck is a diesel-powered 1975 Ford and was converted to a salt truck by town highway employees. Shown with the truck are Tony Bifaro, councilman; Ron Stuczynski, supervisor; William Narraway, highway superintendent; and David Rusch, councilman.
Forty years ago – 1973
Richard A. Zaepfel of Westfield and Donald V. Crowell of South Dayton were among the 106 people given the Goodyear Conservation Award and tour/fishing trip to an artificial reef off Marco Island, Fla.
Fifty years ago – 1963
A request has been made by the Silver Creek BPW Club that the name of Lake Shore Inter-Community Hospital be changed to the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital or preferably the John F. Kennedy Inter-Community Hospital.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The Rev. John A. Suplicki, 85, former pastor of St. Hyacinth’s Church in Dunkirk, died on Christmas Day at St. Joseph Hospital in Cheektowaga. Father Suplicki served as pastor of St. Hyacinth’s from 1958-1967 and was instrumental in the church’s 1959 remodeling project and in the 1961 construction of the new church and lyceum.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Two Brocton Central School students have been named as Round 1 winners in the third annual Student Energy Research Competition, won for the second consecutive year. Matthew Dorogi and Kelly S. Callahan, under the direction of science advisor teacher Steven Johnston, have proposed a project in which Stirling Engines are used as heat pump refrigerators. The competition is sponsored by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.
Forty years ago – 1973
Rose Centner, 658 Brigham Road, Dunkirk was recently honored for collecting and repairing a variety of dolls that were distributed to the Lake Shore detachment of “Toys for Tots” and at the Head Start program in Dunkirk led by Nola A. Klocek.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Robert T. McElligott, executive director of the Northern Chautauqua Red Cross and teacher at Fredonia High School, left today for New York City with the Fredonia State University College Choir.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Brennan Farms on Route 20, east of Fredonia, supplies more than the ingredients for homemade wines at this time of year. Ever since the family-owned produce market first opened its doors about six years ago, co-owners Paul Brennan and his father Charles have donated Christmas trees to needy families in the local area with the assistance of store manager, Jan Ebling.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Mrs. Cornelia Kniese of Forestville was pleasantly surprised recently when the Abbey Ladies Aid, a group she has belonged to for more than 60 years, threw a surprise birthday party for her at her Pearl Street home. The celebration, spearheaded by member Helen Mazur, was in honor of Mrs. Kniese’s 98th birthday. Her great-great- granddaughter, 2-week-old Tessa Nichole Fancher of Forestville, was a special guest.
Forty years ago – 1973
Debbie Robinson, a student at Kent State University in Ohio, is spending the winter break with her parents, Dr. and Mrs. Arthur Robinson of Holmes Place, Fredonia.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Marjorie Collins, who teaches fourth grade at Westfield Academy and Central School, was recently named “Teacher of the Day” by a Buffalo radio station. Mrs. Collins received a fruit basket and a surprise party thrown by her students.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The mortgage of the Villenova Grange 604 was burned on Dec. 9, its 104th anniversary. Worthy State Grange Master William S. Benson Jr. honored the following longtime members; 70 years – Frances VanBraak and Gerald Mathewson; 65 years – Persis Ivett, Robert Woolley and Herbert Benson; 60 years – Lois McNamara; 55 years – Norris Woolley and Gordon Brookman; and 50 years – Lynn and Virginia Ivett.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Duane Clement Jr., a Dunkirk High School senior, captured first place honors in the Region IX Outstanding Young New Yorker contest sponsored by the area Jaycees and Jaycee Women at the American Legion Post 59 in Fredonia. Duane will represent Region IX at the Jaycee State Convention in Oneonta where he will compete against 10 other top student leaders across the state for a $1,000 scholarship. Duane and Elizabeth Blanchard, regional runnerup representing Cassadaga, were both presented with personalized dictionaries from the Fredonia JayNcees.
Forty years ago – 1973
Twin Fair Inc. has announced that Leo J. Dorn of North Collins, manager of the Dunkirk store on Vineyard Drive, is one of three grand prize winners of a 19-inch color TV in the sales contest held throughout the 24-store chain.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Mrs. Neva R. Agnew, 8 Oak St., Silver Creek, the owner and operator of Silver Creek Hospital, recently entertained the hospital staff of nurses and doctors at a Christmas party at Foit’s Restaurant in Silver Creek.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
As part of a statewide initiative to recognize contributions made by older senior citizens in the community, the Fredonia Kiwanis Club has selected Jack Miller and Lois Harp as its December honorees. In announcing the choices, club president Todd Huber cited Mr. Miller’s “dream of Christmas joy for every child” and his 27-year commitment to the Trooper Toys for Tots Program and accomplished pianist Mrs. Harp’s continued entertainment for residents in nursing homes and adult homes.
Thirty years ago – 1983
A wood and wire fence on a South Carolina sand dune caught the artistic eye of Cynthia A. Kalfas, a former Dunkirk resident, who captured a prize-winning photo on film. The black and white photo won first prize in a monthly contest sponsored by Photographic Magazine and is featured in the magazine’s November issue. Cynthia is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Stephen S. Kalfas Jr. of Roosevelt Avenue, Dunkirk.
Forty years ago – 1973
In appreciation for his work on behalf of the parish, the Holy Name Society of Holy Trinity Church, Dunkirk, presented a profiled plaque to the pastor, the Rev. Msgr. Valerio Bernardo, to whom the school’s new auditorium was dedicated.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Westfield’s new community ice skating rink on the property of the Welch Grape Juice Co. will be officially dedicated at a public ceremony. Skating is expected to start immediately afterward.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
One county scoring record wasn’t enough for Mike Heary. The Navy-bound high school senior established two marks in Fredonia’s recent 110-106 overtime loss to Buffalo Traditional. Heary had 62 points – also a school record – to break the single-game record of 56 set by Paul Bretz of Ripley in 1991. Heary also surpassed Forestville’s Larry Erick on the county’s all-time career scoring list. Erick scored 1,456 points from 1968 to 1972. A four-year starter, Heary now has 1,476 points.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Featured in this week’s People in Profile is Fredonia resident Peter Criscione, who also lived in Dunkirk for 36 years. Mr. Criscione has a keen lifelong interest in the sport of baseball and two of his sons were involved with baseball beyond their college years. Michael was a part of the Los Angeles Dodgers organization and David played professional ball with the Baltimore Orioles. While living in Dunkirk, Mr. Criscione, along with the late Ernest “Red” Wollert, started the Dunkirk Sports Booster Club. He also had a baseball scoreboard made at AL Tech, where he was working. The board is still in use today.
Forty years ago – 1973
George Conklin of Irving was named winner of the annual Bausch & Lomb Science Award at Silver Creek Central School. The presentation was made by Alvin M. Crowe, principal.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, working swiftly and secretly, broke the Frank Sinatra Jr. kidnapping case early today. Three men were arrested and most of the $240,000 ransom was recovered.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Audra Renswick was honored with the “Special Person” award by the Crossroads Association Inc. Among the more than 80 persons attending the event was Attorney David Civilette, who surprised the honoree by serving as master of ceremonies. Mrs. Renswick and family were driven to the event by limousine and she was presented with a corsage by her grandchildren. The honoree, who received an engraved clock and gifts, has devoted many hours to the association as well as to the new Share and Care Senior Center and to local senior citizens.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Retired SUNY Fredonia History Professor William Chazanof and his wife Helen have established a scholarship for students pursuing local history studies while earning degrees at SUNY Fredonia. He is the author of two books on local history: “Joseph Ellicott and the Holland Land Company” and “Welch’s Grape Juice: From Corporation to Cooperative.”
Forty years ago – 1973
Terry Michael Bigler, son of Mr. and Mrs. Charles F. Bigler of Cassadaga and a graduate of Silver Creek High School, was promoted from private first class to specialist 4 at the Armed Forces Institute of Pathology in Washington, D.C.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Voters in the Dunkirk school district have approved a new $2.5 million senior high school building. Supt. of Schools Franklin H. Hazard said, “This was the best possible Christmas present we could give to the students.”
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Public officials are to be commended for their persistent efforts to bring the construction of the Zoar-Otto Bridge to fruition and completion in a ribbon-cutting ceremony held recently. The bridge, which crosses Cattaraugus Creek in North Otto and is shared between Cattaraugus and Erie counties, was opened Nov. 27. It is now a 190-foot twin span steel and concrete structure. Its predecessor, a 184-foot span, was built around the turn of the century and closed May 12, 1988 due to structural difficulties. At the time, it was the only structure to cross the creek and provide access for the rural residents to Springville and Gowanda services.
Thirty years ago – 1983
A professional appraisal firm hired by the city of Dunkirk has determined that the total appraisal price for all property in the harborfront area north of Lake Shore Drive East has been set at about $1 million. The property extends from Central Avenue to Main Street. The Dunkirk Common Council will now consider a resolution to adopt those appraisal figures and to authorize its consulting attorney to make offers to the property owners based on those appraisal figures.
Forty years ago – 1973
A farewell dinner for Rabbi and Mrs. A.D. Silver was held at Temple Beth El, Dunkirk. Rabbi Silver, spiritual leader of the temple since 1967, is leaving Dunkirk to assume administrative responsibilities in New York City.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The “If and When” Club met for a noon dinner at Roof’s Restaurant, 6 Main St., Silver Creek. A Christmas party followed at the home of Mrs. Leland Eddy of Hanover Road, Silver Creek.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Village of Brocton Trustee Dan King reported that about 652 signatures have been placed on a petition requesting home delivery. Mr. King currently is in the process of getting census figures for the village because 80 percent of the population must sign the petition before home delivery will be considered by the U.S. Postal Service.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Troopers Toys for Tots recently traveled to Washington, D.C., with a tractor trailer load of toys valued at over $60,000. The load of toys, destined for underprivileged children in that city, was accompanied by two mobile campers carrying Zone Sgt. A.F. Purol, Troopers J.A. Miller, H.B. Kowal and K.A. Olkowski, along with several civilian helpers. In June of this year, the toy project received a Presidential Award for Community Service. Trooper Miller felt that it would be a small token of appreciation to supply a truckload of toys in the President’s backyard.
Forty years ago – 1973
Robert Militello of Forestville and Philip J. Taylor of Lawtons were elected to three-year terms as directors of the National Grape Cooperative Association Inc.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The Fredonia Village Board appointed John J. Sullivan, 179 Seymour St., as bingo inspector for the village at a rate of $5 per night of inspection. Bingo is played at St. Anthony’s and St. Joseph Church in Fredonia.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Denise Pierce, 19, a resident of the Cattaraugus Indian Reservation, was crowned Miss Teen Buffalo at the Cities of America Pageant at Cardinal O’Hara High School. She won an all-expense paid trip to Orlando, Fla., to compete in the National Cities of America Pageant in January against contestants from 57 cities across the nation. Denise is the daughter of Lorrie Pierce and is a 1992 graduate of Gowanda Central School.
Thirty years ago – 1983
A senior at Brocton Central School, Melissa Rondenell was recently named Calendar Girl for the month of December. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Rondenell of East Main Road, Brocton. Melissa is an active participant in high school band, chorus, yearbook, student council, school musical and cheerleading. Following graduation, she plans to attend Alfred University to major in business administration.
Forty years ago – 1973
The former Niagara Permanent Savings & Loan Association building in Dunkirk, at East Fourth Street and Park Avenue, was purchased by McMachan’s Wallpaper & Paint Inc. of Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Zenon Panfil of Dunkirk was elected to his third term as president of the First Ward Falcon Club. Leonard Kozlowski will serve as the club’s vice president.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Allison Etzel, daughter of Allen and Carol Etzel of Dunkirk, is currently residing in Argentina as part of the Dunkirk Rotary Exchange Student Program. Allison will remain in Argentina until May 1994.
Thirty years ago – 1983
A decision by the Springville Board of Education to close the Collins Center Elementary School last June has been upheld by Commissioner Gordon M. Ambach of the New York State Education Department. When school resumed in September, the 87 kindergarten through fifth grade students from Collins Center were incorporated into classes held at the Springville Elementary School.
Forty years ago – 1973
The meeting of the Slippery Rock 4-H Club was presided over by Ann Carr, president, with Marcie Peting leading the salute to the flag. Bruce Neal led the club pledge to close the meeting.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The Sheridan Methodist Church was the scene of a mortgage burning ceremony. Taking part in the event were Lucile Schifferli, Sunday school superintendent, and Leon Scott, first president of the Methodist Men’s Club.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Student of the Week is Stephanie Chiesi, a senior at Ripley Central School. The daughter of Ralph and Marilyn Chiesi of 42 Burton St., Ripley, she is ranked first in her class and was elected president this year of both the senior class and the National Honor Society. Active in sports, she lettered in softball, basketball, soccer and volleyball. This year, Stephanie is poised to become Ripley Central School’s all-time leading scorer in girls’ basketball. Following graduation, she plans to attend either SUNY Fredonia or Canisius College.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The Lake Shore Savings and Loan Association in Dunkirk, the only locally-owned savings and loan, has set a record for its home mortgage loans this year. The lending institution issued $5 million in mortgages by the end of October. That total exceeds the firm’s previous record by $2 million with two months to go. The present interest rates are between 9.75 percent and 14 percent. Not long ago, rates had been as high as 20 percent.
Forty years ago – 1973
Laura Stonefoot entertained members of the West Sheridan Community Club at a dinner in her East Main Road home with Leah Hubbard conducting the business session. Members later tied a quilt.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Sue Forster, a senior at Fredonia High School, was chosen to represent the school at the State School of Music Teachers Conference and All-State Band in Rochester. She has played the French horn for seven years.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The newest, and arguably most unique senior facility in Chautauqua County opened recently with ringing success as more than 300 people attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony and luncheon at the Share and Care Senior Citizen Center in Fredonia. Located in the former Eagle Street School, the center is open to all Chautauqua County residents 55 and over. The town and village joint Office for the Aging has already moved into the facility and will provide programs, along with county projects, which used to be held in several different facilities in the village.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Mark A. Fahnestock and Deborah A. Steese, both Fredonians and both seniors at the University of Rochester, have been included in the 1984 edition of “Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges.” Mark is the son of Mrs. Ann M. Fahnestock, 21 Maple Ave., and the late Dr. Robert Fahnestock and Deborah is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Peter B. Steese, 6 Castile Drive.
Forty years ago – 1973
The Very Rev. Godfrey Kasper, CP, rector of the Holy Cross Passionist Fathers Apostolic Center on West Lake Road in Dunkirk, announced the center will donate a 12-acre portion of the 72 acres of land it owns for use by the village of Fredonia to build a new sewage treatment plant in the west town of Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The 129-year-old Sinclairville Baptist Church, among the first of that denomination in the county and the oldest church in Sinclairville, was recently destroyed by fire following a furnace explosion.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
It will likely be spring before the wooden Indian sculpture is returned to its permanent location in front of the water filtration plant on Lake Shore Drive West in Dunkirk. Removed for repairs in August, the statue is in worse shape than originally believed. It has been infected with ants and insects at its base which was so soft, it was like butter. Solid wood was not felt until two feet up from the base. By the time all the rot was cut off, the base of the statue was just below the braids running down the back. The statue has now been injected with insecticides and city workers have cleaned it up, filled in all the cracks and put a new preservative coating on the outside. A new concrete base will be poured in the spring.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Student of the Week is Marianne Pagano, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Marion Pagano of Alfred Drive, Silver Creek. A senior at Silver Creek Central School, she ranks with the top of her senior class academically. An active student, Marianne was a French horn soloist who participated in the Chautauqua All-County Band for five years; an athlete who earned varsity letters in softball and volleyball; and class president for three years. She plans to pursue a career in the field of electrical engineering.
Forty years ago – 1973
A 75-pound doe, cleaned and hanging from a backyard tree, was stolen early this morning from a home on South Roberts Road in Dunkirk. Police are investigating.
Fifty years ago – 1963
New York City Mayor Robert F. Wagner said he will ask the city council to rename Idlewild International Airport the John F. Kennedy International Airport in honor of the late President Kennedy.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Westminster College senior Karen Grace has been selected to play this summer with the NAIA USA All-Star Team, which will compete in Australia in June. A graduate of Dunkirk High School, where she also starred in basketball, Grace is currently the captain of the Westminster softball team. She is batting .364 after three seasons and splits her time between first base and catcher. The 20-member squad selected to go to Australia was based on nominations from coaches at all NAIA schools.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The quest for Cabbage Patch dolls is causing uprisings in stores throughout the nation. Yesterday in Miami, hundreds of shoppers were kicked, scratched and pummeled – all while trying to get their hands on one of the Christmas season’s hottest items – a 16-inch Cabbage Patch doll which sells for around $22. The popular dolls are a mass-produced version of Georgia’s Little People, the handmade dolls created by mountain artisan Xavier Roberts. Each one of his creations sells for as much as $1,000.
Forty years ago – 1973
Singer/songwriter Harry Chapin, who has two albums out and a third to be released soon, recently appeared in concert at Fredonia State University college.
Fifty years ago – 1963
The Dunkirk-Fredonia Council for Exceptional Children presented a check for $2,300 to St. Joseph’s School for Exceptional Children on Bennett Road, Dunkirk. Sister M. Boniface accepted the donation on behalf of the school.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The Chautauqua & Erie Telephone Corporation has announced the recent name change of its subsidiary. The company, formerly Chautauqua & Erie Technologies, will now be known as Chautauqua & Erie Communications, according to Peter Nixon, vice president. Nixon said the change was made because “we felt the word technologies did not accurately describe our core business – cellular service, Key & PBX system sales, 800 number service and long distance service.”
Thirty years ago – 1983
Dr. Ernest G. Homokay of Silver Creek has visited a lot of homes in his 50 years as a physician. He is one of a very few doctors who still makes house calls. Recently honored by the Medical Society of New York State for his half-century of service as a physician, Dr. Homokay, 76, is now semi retired. But he still has office hours four afternoons a week and has a regular list of patients, most of whom have been with him for several years. He has had a medical practice in Silver Creek for the past 47 years.
Forty years ago – 1973
Mary Colvin, daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Charles R. Colvin of Birchwood Drive, Fredonia was crowned the 1974 Fredonia Junior Miss. Miss Colvin also won awards in the physical fitness and poise and appearance categories.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Members of the Mary Martha Circle of the First Christian Church in Dunkirk will meet for a Christmas dinner party and gift exchange at Kraiger’s tea room, 732 Eagle St., Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The Big Dipper on Central Avenue, Dunkirk, is getting bigger, according to owner Carmen Oliver. He is in the process of expanding the existing Big Dipper shop by 2,400 square feet before it opens again on April 1 for the spring and summer season. The location has been used for an ice cream parlor for well over 30 years, with Oliver purchasing the business from the Booth family 22 years ago. The owner noted there will be more seating and a bigger product line with the entire facility being completely remodeled inside and out.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Dunkirk Mayor Edwin Gregoreski recently welcomed Quality Care Inc., the nation’s largest independent home health care company in the city. Home health care is the second-fastest growing industry, creating jobs for many. Ann Marie Fitzer, staff supervisor, expressed the tremendous need for home care services in the area. Quality Care is located in the Wright Building, 422 Central Ave.
Forty years ago – 1973
Ronald Piskorski of Van Buren, who recently returned from a two-year stay in Morocco as a Peace Corps worker, spoke on his experiences at the regular meeting of Fredonia Grange No. 1.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Jimmy Hatlo, creator of the popular “Little Iodine” and “They’ll Do It Every Time” comic strip, has died of a heart attack. His comics are a longtime OBSERVER favorite and will continue to be printed until all advance cartoons are exhausted.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The Native American Young People Dancers entertained Dunkirk School 6 and Head Start students this morning. The children are all members of the Seneca Nation and each performance included a fashion show of Native American dress, dances of the Iroquois and Western pow-wow and audience participation. The program is designed to help students better understand differences and similarities between the culture and traditions of others.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Duane Clement Jr., a senior at Dunkirk High School, captured first place in this year’s Outstanding Young New Yorker contest sponsored by the Fredonia JayNcees at Post 59 in Fredonia. He is the son of Marjorie Clement and Duane Clement. Kelly Hollander, also a senior at Dunkirk High, won second place honors in the competition. She is the daughter of Allen and Judy Hollander. Both students received a personalized Thesaurus and a scholarship award.
Forty years ago – 1973
Rep. Gerald R. Ford took office on Dec. 6 as the nation’s 40th vice president following the resignation eight weeks ago of Spiro T. Agnew who pleaded no contest to a charge of tax evasion. The 60-year-old congressman under six administrations became the first vice president to be confirmed by Congress under the 25th amendment.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Edna Marshall was hostess to the King’s Daughters Missionary Society at her home in Brocton. Esther Noel presided and roll call was responded to with a Scripture verse.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Alice Parr celebrated her 106th birthday at the Chautauqua County Home on Dec. 3. She was born Dec. 3, 1887 in the town of Pomfret to John and Maggie (Kinner) Bull. She married Morris Parr, who died in 1940. Mrs. Parr has been a member of the Fredonia Methodist Church since 1907 and had been employed as a cleaner for area dentists and offices. She is still a volunteer at the Home where she folds and distributes bibs in the dining room. When questioned about her longevity she said, “I didn’t expect to live this long, but if the Lord wants me to, it’s up to Him.”
Thirty years ago – 1983
Student of the Week at the Fredonia BOCES LoGuidice Center is Julie DeLand, 17, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cameron DeLand of East Lake Road, Dunkirk. She is a second year student in the data processing program and a senior at Dunkirk High School. Julie has been a member of the high school’s volleyball, basketball and softball teams. She also works five evenings a week at the Dunkirk High School pool.
Forty years ago – 1973
The city of Dunkirk will take steps to shut down the new Country Fair store at 905 Central Ave., formerly Booth’s Dairy. The store opened yesterday after the Zoning Board of Appeals denied them permission to operate.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Mrs. Norman Johnson of Westfield was elected president of the Chautauqua County Weaver’s Guild. In addition, Ella Dean and Hazel Dean, both of Brocton, were elected to the publicity committee.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The Friends of the Sea Lion, a group attempting to return the 16th Century replica sailing vessel to Chautauqua Lake, apparently has come to the end of the legal line. The Court of Appeals, the state’s highest court, announced in Albany that it will not review the case. The action upholds a decision by State Supreme Court Justice Joseph Gerace that the ship was legally sold to the Buffalo Maritime Society two years ago by the board of directors of the Chautauqua Lake Historic Vessels. The Friends of the Sea Lion have vehemently protested the sale.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The local rock group “Jade” was named runner-up for Best New Group in Buffalo at the Buffalo Backstage Music Awards held at the 2001 VIP Club. Band members include: Jeff Axelson of Jamestown, vocals; Keith Medley of Dunkirk, guitar; Jim Costello of Fredonia, drums; Kirk Lombardo of Dunkirk, keyboards; and Eli Tederous of Dunkirk, bass. Together for about a year, the band has been appearing throughout western New York for the past six months. The members hope to have their first album released in the near future.
Forty years ago – 1973
Fred Gutekunst, spokesman for the newly organized PTA at Silver Creek Central School, asked the school board to consider construction of a school/community swimming pool. He was told the replacement of the 50-year-old Main Street elementary school was more pressing.
Fifty years ago – 1963
“Americans Abroad” candidates have been selected at Cassadaga Valley Central School. They are Gregory Brunson, Catherine Deuink, Kathleen Kulwicki and Edwin Lawrence.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Cliffstar Corporation’s $7 million expansion project got another boost from recent action by the Chautauqua County Industrial Development Agency. The expansion of the Dunkirk firm will mean another 100 full-time and 100 part-time jobs for the region. The IDA has approved a tax lease agreement with Cliffstar under which the company will get an extended tax break.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Fred Koch, master brewer of the Fred Koch Brewery of Dunkirk, recently announced that his brewery’s famous Holiday Beer is available for the holiday season. Mr. Koch noted that the market for this beer is growing and, for the first time, Holiday Beer is being sold outside the Western New York area. The custom of a holiday beer has been maintained since 1888 when the brewery’s founder, Fred Koch, first brewed a holiday beer for family, friends and employees. The Fred Koch Brewery is one of only 40 surviving brewing companies in the entire United States and is the sole remaining brewery in Western New York.
Forty years ago – 1973
Alfred Saletta has graduated from the American Motel School in Roanoke, Va., where he completed a course in hotel/motel management. Mr. Saletta resides at 129 Maple Ave., Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1963
A meeting to organize a Hi-Y Club in Dunkirk will be held at Westminster Hall on Eagle Street. This is a YMCA sponsored club for high school boys in the city.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
Robert W. Johnson Jr., son of Robert and Patricia Johnson of Dunkirk, has received his doctor of philosophy degree in chemistry from the State University of New York at Buffalo. A graduate of Dunkirk High School, Class of 1977, he earned a BS and MS in chemistry from SUNY Fredonia. Upon completion of his Ph.D. studies, Dr. Johnson accepted a position as a research chemist at Abbott Laboratories in Abbott Park, Ill. He currently resides in Chicago.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The Fredonia Fire Department Rescue Squad honored John McCraith of Lambert Avenue, Fredonia at its annual banquet held at the Fireside Manor. Mr. McCraith was presented with a plaque in recognition of more than 45 years of dedicated service. In October, he was one of 11 persons honored by the New York State Emergency Medical Services.
Forty years ago – 1973
Caroline Hewitt, a Seneca Indian some 80-years-young and former music teacher at the old Thomas Indian School, Gowanda, was named the “Woman of the Year” for 1973 by the Gowanda Business and Professional Women’s Club.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Dr. Oscar E. Lanford, president of Fredonia State University College, received word the college has been included on the American Association of University Women’s approved list of colleges and universities.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
In an OBSERVER photo, young Andrew Fancher of Dunkirk holds a huge “Jurassic Park” potato grown by Dawn Ubaney, 8 Seymour St., Fredonia, and bearing a remarkable resemblance to a dinosaur. Mrs. Ubaney called it uncanny, saying she couldn’t believe that as she washed the potato, the dinosaur’s head became obvious – the shape of the head, the eye and the mouth.
Thirty years ago – 1983
The Mar-Val Unisex Beauty Salon and Merle Norman Cosmetic Studio, owned by Russell and Margaret Valone, has an attractive new home at 22 West Main St. in Fredonia. Formerly located at 24 W. Main, the recent move has allowed the salon to be designed exactly to the Valones’ specifications, including a very relaxing expanded area for private manicures, pedicures and facials.
Forty years ago – 1973
Dave Bauschka, Monte Zielinski, James R. Wasson Jr., Vincent J. Castellana, James P. Bell, Kenneth E. Walker and Keith Francis were all inducted as new members of the Fredonia American Legion Post 59.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Merchants participating in the annual Santa-Rama holiday promotion in Dunkirk will offer shoppers tickets for 13 nightly drawings. A total of $1,300 in gift certificates will be awarded.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The Dunkirk Common Council has decided to create a new position of juvenile officer within the police department next year. Third Ward councilman Mark Speziale made the suggestion for the $40,000 per year post, stating the city has changed over the years and an officer is needed to work on a full-time basis with the community’s youth.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Dawn Warren was crowned the 1983-84 Dunkirk-Fredonia Junior Miss, beating out 10 other senior girls from Dunkirk and Fredonia who vied for the title. The new Junior Miss was also one of three recipients of the Spirit of Junior Miss award. For her talent, Dawn played the piano composition “Fur Elise” by Beethoven. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. David Warren of Dunkirk. First runnerup was Eva Marie Forbes. Her parents are Dr. and Mrs. John R. Forbes of Dunkirk.
Forty years ago – 1973
Thomas J. Piede of Dunkirk was chairman of the “Roarin’ 20s” party held at Dunkirk Elks Lodge 922. Dance music was provided by the Woodcliffe Orchestra and those in attendance dressed in costumes of the era.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Forestville Central School Advisory Board members Robert Woolley, Cecil Brown and Orren Hall attended the fall County Board of Education meeting with Ray Hall, agriculture instructor, at Falconer Central School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1993
The near-vacant J.N. Adam Developmental Center in Perrysburg is being proposed as a site for a federal Job Corps center. Federal labor department officials have visited J.N. Adam and “were very impressed,” according to Perrysburg Town Supervisor Cindy Lauer. The J.N. Adam center offers a campus style setting on 675 acres in a rural community within one hour’s drive of Buffalo. It has its own power, water and sewer treatment plants.
Thirty years ago – 1983
Joan Caruso was recently named Teacher of the Year by Fredonia High School faculty and the senior class. Mrs. Caruso, the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Mascaro of Westfield, graduated from Westfield Academy in 1963 and served as president of her senior class. She continued her leadership role as president of the student body at Nazareth College in 1966. A 17-year member of the Fredonia High School English department, she served two years as president of the Fredonia Teachers Association.
Forty years ago – 1973
Frank Lauricella, proprietor of Fredonia’s White Inn, has been elected president of the Chautauqua County Vacationlands Association.
Fifty years ago – 1963
Among the eighth-grade students at Dunkirk Junior High School who produced the “Gobbler,” a special Thanksgiving newspaper, were Steven Lis, John Scott, Flora Zielinski, Joan Cutler, Karen Smakowski, Barbara Love and David Orcutt.