Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Michael Goetz, one of 800 students who will receive degrees at the Fredonia State University College commencement on May 14, is getting ready for a big lecture from “Dad.” Hollywood and Broadway actor Peter Michael Goetz, father of Michael and alumnus of Fredonia’ Class of 1965, is the 1994 commencement speaker. A native of Hamburg, NY he is a former recipient of Fredonia’s Outstanding Achievement Award. The Goetz family now lives in Malibu, Calif.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Jillian Allessi, 6, has been selected as Miss Poppy for 1984. Sponsored by the Fredonia Memorial American Legion Auxiliary Unit 59, Jill is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Allessi of Seymour Street, Fredonia. She is a junior member of the Legion Auxiliary and will represent the Unit at the annual Poppy Sale, being held in Fredonia May 3-6. The Auxiliary poppy is handmade by the veterans at the Buffalo Veterans Administration Medical Center, purchased by the Auxiliary and sold to the public. All proceeds are used to benefit veterans and their children.
Forty years ago – 1974
Students of the Carol Maloney Dance Studio in Silver Creek were awarded medals during a competition in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Receiving gold medals were Karyl Lyn Maloney, Tracy Eldridge and Darlene Turzillo.
Fifty years ago – 1964
New York State Police have confirmed that railroad carriers passing through the area are now hauling hydrocyanic acid, a Class A poison, in tank cars. Troopers have been trained to take appropriate action to safeguard themselves and other individuals should a railroad car derail or catch fire.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Dunkirk Farmers Market is looking for a new home after the owners of Quality Markets, who also own the Third Street pavilion which housed the market, told the city the pavilion will no longer be available. Since its move to the pavilion site, the market has taken off in its popularity with local residents and farmers. Last year, a total of 11 farmers took part in the market, with some taking multiple plots. The original agreement to use the pavilion was an informal one between the city and the owners of Bells Markets, which was purchased by Quality Markets.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Sandy Bruno, a Dunkirk native and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph C. Bruno of Elm Street, Dunkirk, left a teaching career to pursue her love of horses and horse racing. She became a foreman for renowned trainer Woody Stephens in 1982 and he promoted her to assistant trainer one year later. Currently, Sandy is looking forward to the Kentucky Derby and the performance of Swale, one of the contenders from the Stephens stable.
Forty years ago – 1974
Most of the inaccurate gasoline pumps in Dunkirk favor the customer, it was announced by Andrew Gorka, the city sealer of weights and measures.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Two hundred fifty delegates from three Western New York PTA districts assembled in Fredonia to participate in a leadership training conference under the direction of the National Congress of Parents and Teachers.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Fredonia High School’s Mike Heary was recently selected to the New York State Sportswriters Association’s Class B First Team All-State basketball team. A 6-6 guard/forward, he finished as the all-time leading scorer in Chautauqua County history, third in western New York and 18th in the state with 2,235 points. Heary had 877 points his senior year (32.5 per game) and 62 points in one game against Traditional. Both are county records.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Dunkirk Club will hold its annual “Member of the Year” dinner party May 12 with B. Anthony Gary of Dunkirk as the guest of honor. The program following dinner will include a roast of Mr. Gary, a Dunkirk High School science teacher. George Fitzer will serve as master of ceremonies and “roasters” will be Nelson R. Rider, Edmund Wilder, Henry Draggett, Laurence Crowell, Charles Greene and Ronald Miller.
Forty years ago – 1974
A first-place trophy was awarded to a Brocton baton twirling team, “Lil Abner and the Dogpatch Dollies,” during the National Baton Twirling Association open competition. Team members include Tom Dispenza, Becky Dragon, Sharon Dispenza and Kelly Murphy, all of the Brocton-Portland area.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Mark’s Hot Dog Stand, at Central Avenue and Lake Shore Drive West in Dunkirk, has been remodeled inside and out.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
This month the Westfield YWCA celebrates a century of service, having been founded on April 24, 1894. The YWCA home at 58 South Portage St., Westfield was purchased in 1909 when the Patterson Library vacated the premises to move to its new location. Prior to being a library, the large structure was a residence for doctors and nurses who worked at a private hospital next door. A busy place, the building now holds offices, a gymnasium, music and sitting room, kitchen and other facilities. The rooms upstairs are rented out on a temporary basis for weekends or overnighters.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Forestville Drug Store has taken on a new look and new owners, but will continue to offer all the services which customers are used to receiving. Jim Prendergast of Tonawanda and Nels Arcese of Hamburg purchased the store and will be the pharmacists serving Forestville area residents. Besides prescription service and over-the-counter medicines, the Forestville Drug Store will offer a line of cards and gifts as well as medical supplies.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Fredonia High School boys track team is expected to be a strong competitor. Team members include Vince Fogarty, Mark LoGuidice, Matt DeCeilio, Scott Parker, Doug Schwertfager and Clyde Saletta.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Announcement of the purchase of the Philbrick and Philbrick Funeral Chapel in Forestville has been made by J. Leland Parker, owner of the Hole-Parker Funeral Home in Silver Creek.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Forestville Central School was recently announced as a first place local winner of the third annual “Make a Difference Day” sponsored by USA WEEKEND. The school is one of 15 others in the state and the only one in Chautauqua County to receive this honor and will be included in a special feature of USA WEEKEND in the Saturday OBSERVER. “Make a Difference Day” was observed on Oct. 23, 1993 when Forestville students raked and bagged leaves for senior citizens and also brought them gift baskets of homemade muffins, jellies, teas and mints.
Thirty years ago – 1984
When 12-year-old Raul Figueroa arrived in Dunkirk from Puerto Rico in the spring of 1958, he spoke no English and his main goal was to work hard learning to adjust to a strange neighborhood in an unfamiliar country. He quickly achieved that goal and for the past 26 years has continued to practice his solid belief in hard work and giving everything your best effort. And it has paid off handsomely with his appointment last week as the city of Buffalo’s first Hispanic City Court Judge. The judge’s mother, Maria Rosario, resides at 410 Columbus St., Dunkirk.
Forty years ago – 1974
Jim Fox, OBSERVER Mayville correspondent, has been commissioned to write an outdoor drama for Wilmington, N.C., as part of its bi-centennial celebration.
Fifty years ago – 1964
M. Wile and Company, Inc., an established garment industry in western New York, will erect a new plant at Progress Park in Dunkirk that will employ 250 persons once production is under way.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Gowanda Nursing Home will be expanding with the addition of a 40-bed wing. The project is slated for mid-May construction. The wing will be built off the front of the existing facility into what is now parking space. Gowanda Village Board members unanimously approved the building permit.
Thirty years ago – 1984
From the Reporter’s Notebook: Contrary to popular belief in the community, the wooden flagpole that formerly graced Dunkirk’s Memorial Park was not the largest in the world. The one-piece wooden flagpole measured 132 feet; it was given to the city in 1927 and lasted 44 years until 1971 when its decaying condition made city officials reluctantly raze it. New information tarnishes the record, however. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the tallest flagpole ever erected was outside the Oregon building at the 1915 Panama-Pacific International Expo-sition in San Francisco. Trimmed from a Douglas fir, it stood 299 feet, 7 inches.
Forty years ago – 1974
Chautauqua County Legislature Chairman Joseph Gerace recently expressed disappointment that progress has stopped on the Chautauqua Lake bridge.
Fifty years ago – 1964
King and Queen of the Silver Creek Central Senior Prom were Ronald Bifaro and Norahlene Panzica. Jill Mangano, Marty Keller, Roque de la Rosa and Penny Vacanti comprised the court.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Chautauqua County will not seek federal funding to help make the “Rails to Trails” project a reality as the legislature voted 14-11 against the funding. The vote brought cheers and applause from some 75 opponents of the plan. The number of people on hand to both support and object to the plan may have set a record. More than an hour was spent listening to comments. Nine speakers supported the idea of turning abandoned railroad rights-of-way into multi-use trails and 20 spoke against it.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Fredonia State Health Fair Coordinator Irene Talarico recently presented President Dallas K. Beal with a T-shirt in honor of “Go To Health” Day at the college. More than 30 health agencies in Chautauqua County and western New York set up their displays in the Campus Center for the Health Fair and the public was invited to stop by, pick up literature and participate in demonstrations and testing. The Health Fair was sponsored by the FSUC Employee Assistance Program.
Forty years ago – 1974
Joseph Koshute, art director of the Patterson Library Art Gallery in Westfield, will conduct an eight-week oil painting course for beginners and advanced students.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The 1964 Mark Hellinger Award, established to commemorate the late Broadway columnist and Hollywood producer and given annually to a journalism major at St. Bonaventure University, has been awarded to Anthony R. Cardinale, a 22-year-old senior from Fredonia.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Nicholas Crassi Jr. recently received a plaque recognizing his selection as Fireman of the Year in Gowanda. Taking part in the plaque presentation was Mayor Donald Lazar and Deputy Mayor and Fire Commissioner Carol Sheibley.
Thirty years ago – 1984
From Just Between Us ….. Florence G. Gaken of East Courtney Street, Dunkirk was the guest of honor Saturday night when 10 close friends met for dinner at the Vineyard Restaurant. Afterward the group spent a social evening at the Kosciuszko Club. The reason for celebration was Mrs. Gaken’s recent OBSERVER “Profile.” Said one of the dinner guests, “We thought the ‘Profile’ was so nice and so deserved we just had to honor her.”
Forty years ago – 1974
Fredonia State University College Professor Anthony Deiulio noted that desktop graffiti of students is one way to learn how students feel about their teachers and their education. “Graffiti is, many times, inspired by deep-felt concerns,” the professor said.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Miss Lynne Battaglia, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Battaglia, Bayview Avenue, Silver Creek, has been elected to the Student Senate at American University, Washington, D.C.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Rev. Frank St. Amour III bids goodbye to two congregations, with final services at St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, Dunkirk, and St. Alban’s Episcopal Church, Silver Creek. Father St. Amour had served as pastor for both parishes. During his tenure, St. John’s century-old church was repainted and repaired. Father St. Amour took pride in the fact that the church has remained unlocked and is open for people to use at any time of the day or night.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The entire front of the Pomfret Town Building on Day Street in Fredonia was removed last week to make way for the addition which – along with the remodeled former Hub Teen Center – will house the new town offices and courtroom meeting room. Another addition, being built in conjunction with the $409,951 Darwin R. Barker Library expansion-renovation project, is taking shape on the other side of the building closer to Main Street.
Forty years ago – 1974
A meeting is scheduled at Fredonia State University College regarding the proposed merger of the Dunkirk and Fredonia communities. Speakers will include Dr. Carl Olson Jr. and Dr. Murdoch Dawley.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Zack Mansfield, son of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Mansfield of Cherry Creek, has been named valedictorian for the graduating class at Pine Valley Central School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The first step in approving the sale of the former Ludlum’s Christmas Store on Eagle Street in Dunkirk has been taken by the city’s Planning Board. Board members unanimously voted to approve an exceptional use permit for Donald and Louise Salemi of 10349 Chestnut Road, Dunkirk. The couple is proposing to move its existing business, My Ceramic Store, into the building. The Salemis have operated the ceramic store at 15 Water St., Fredonia, for eight years and stated they are in need of more space.
Thirty years ago – 1984
In observance of Bilingual Education Week, five Outstanding Bilingual Students at Dunkirk High School have been chosen for recognition at an awards banquet. They are: Josephine Pagan, outstanding student in academics; Angel Robles and Diana Ramos, most improved students in academics; Jose Flores, outstanding student in athletics; and Maribel Quiles, outstanding performance in leadership.
Forty years ago – 1974
An OBSERVER poll of area students indicated that 57 percent of them feel that President Richard Nixon should not complete his term. About 24 percent were undecided, and 19 percent said he should remain in office.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Ford Motor Co. recently introduced its newest car, the Mustang, with a suggested retail price of $2,368.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Former Dunkirk resident and fashion designer Amy Kuschel currently works and lives in New York City, one of the fashion capitals of the world. She formerly worked with the well-known 1045 Park clothing line and recently landed a position with a new company called Suspicious Lines. Among her fashion tips, Amy recommends buying a minimal amount of trendy clothes in order to get the maximum wear out of your wardrobe.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Paul LeBarron, an eighth-grade student at St. Hyacinth’s School in Dunkirk, won third place in the 1983 essay contest sponsored by the Western New York Volunteer Fireman’s Association. His prize, a $50 Savings Bond and a trophy, were presented to him at the school. The winning essayist is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Allan F. LeBarron of Middle Road, Sheridan.
Forty years ago – 1974
Rev. Joseph Wroblewski, principal of Cardinal Mindszenty High School in Dunkirk, announced that Josef Cardinal Mindszenty is scheduled to visit the school which was named in honor of the Roman Catholic cardinal, in May.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Roberts “Peanuts” Wisniewski, a Dunkirk High School senior and athlete, was named the “Student of the Week.”
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Welch’s will reintroduce a new collector series of jam and jelly glasses. The firm, which is based in Concord, Mass., and has a local plant in Westfield, will produce jellies and jams in collectible glasses featuring Looney Tunes characters. The products will be on the shelves of area grocery stores soon. The original Welch’s Looney Tunes glasses were sold in 1974 and featured characters such as “Bugs Bunny,” “Daffy Duck” and “Wile E. Coyote.”
Thirty years ago – 1984
There is apparently very little chance of the state this year installing an elevator at Dunkirk’s city hall as part of a court facilities improvement program. According to State Sen. Jess Present (R-Jamestown), court facilities improvements were not included in the recently approved state budget. Consequently, it can be considered a dead issue at this point.
Forty years ago – 1974
Queenie, an English shepherd owned by Mr. and Mrs. Lyle Franklin, King Road, Forestville is the “Pet of the Week.”
Fifty years ago – 1964
Mr. and Mrs. Kemp Keena have sold their home at 194 Central Ave., Fredonia to the state so it may be used as the official college president’s residence for Fredonia State University College and they are getting ready to move to their new home in Westfield.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Robert and Rose Reisman of Fredonia were honored with the Fredonia Kiwanis Club Elder Salute Award for the month of April. Mr. and Mrs. Reisman are the first married couple to receive the award. In making the presentation, program chairman Mac McCoy said the couple applies a “team effort” to community service. The award was presented recently at the Kiwanis meeting held at the White Inn in Fredonia.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A group of local investors is in the process of forming a corporation to purchase Bart’s Marina in Dunkirk and expand its facilities. About 50 persons are involved, with Arthur Lamb of Van Buren as president; Thomas Muldowney, vice president; and Mollie Crane, secretary-treasurer. Plans call for expanding the two docks, extending the north dock at the marina by 105 feet and the southern dock by 175 feet. For the last several years, the marina has been operated under a lease by John Lakas.
Forty years ago – 1974
Public Defender William Arrison wrote a letter to Legislature Chairman Joseph Gerace, requesting that the public defender office be made a full-time position.
Fifty years ago – 1964
At the recent annual pageant, Fredonia State University College freshman Pat Kinney was crowned the fifth Miss Dunkirk-Fredonia. She will now compete for the title of Miss New York State.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Following a heated public hearing, the Sheridan Town Board voted unanimously to deny a special use permit for a compost operation on New Road. The action will keep responsibility for regulating the compost operation within the town. Angry residents spoke out at the public hearing, which was called by the Sheridan Zoning Board of Appeals. The hearing was on a request to modify a special use permit for a composting operation which would include materials that receive approval from the state Department of Environmental Conservation.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Featured in this week’s “Kegler’s Korner” column by Robert Kubera is Dan Mikula, who rolled 226-236-278 for 740 on lanes 25 and 26 at Lucky Lanes. The 194 average bowler rolled a total of 25 strikes. Dan bowls for the Rufus 4 team in the Cherry’s Video League. His previous high was a 686.
Forty years ago – 1974
Franklin Swanson and Raymond “Stub” Szymczak were awarded certificates for completing 25 years of active service with the Sheridan Fire Company.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Four Dunkirk fish boats brought in a total of 2,100 pounds of yellow pike recently, the best daily catch of the season so far.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
David Goodworth of Fredonia, a teacher’s aide at Fredonia Elementary School, composed the song “Dare,” which was recently declared the county DARE theme song, right at home on his electronic keyboard/synthesizer. The recording in audio and video form is one of the latest tools Fredonia DARE Program Coordinator Officer Patrick Ambrose is using in helping motivate youngsters to stay on the right track and avoid drugs and other tempting taboos of growing up.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Great Lakes Color Corp. has begun installation of a new offset press designed to keep the company abreast of the latest technological improvements in the printing industry. The press is capable of producing in excess of 60,000 copies an hour of commercial advertising circulars or Sunday magazines for newspapers. Great Lakes Color was the first facility Greater Buffalo Press opened outside the immediate Buffalo area. From a modest beginning of 13 employees in 1947, the Dunkirk plant is now the largest printing plant in the Greater Buffalo Press family with 400 employees, making it the third-largest employer in northern Chautauqua County.
Forty years ago – 1974
A report claimed that the abrupt closing of the Fredonia Food Specialties plant, a division of W.R. Grace and Co., may have been facilitated by union-organizing activities among former employees. Owners cited a lack of profits as the reason for the closing.
Fifty years ago – 1964
John Sievert and John Wilbur, both of Dunkirk, have enlisted for duty with the U.S. Army Security Agency through the Dunkirk Army recruiting office.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A small but enthusiastic group recently met to discuss plans for the revitalization of Lake Erie State Park along Route 5 in the town of Portland near Brocton. A 1989 feasibility study suggested a possible harbor area at the park, which is the smallest in the Allegany State Park Region. Other suggestions were to increase the present camping area in the park, swimming facilities, expansion of nature trails, a snack bar or areas for cross-country skiing.
Thirty years ago – 1984
State Department of Transportation workers were busy repairing a large hole in the sidewalk of the Route 20 viaduct in Westfield. A village of Westfield street department worker and the sidewalk snow-plowing vehicle he was operating nearly fell through the sidewalk when the decayed wooden planks gave way. A steel rod, located under the wooden sidewalk saved the plow and its operator, David Ward, from plunging about 70 feet down into the Chautauqua Creek. The DOT has scheduled a complete bridge replacement slated to begin in the spring of 1985.
Forty years ago – 1974
A grand opening is being planned for The Tree House, a garden boutique, which will be located in the annex at the rear of Sidey’s in the D&F Plaza.
Fifty years ago – 1964
John Glenzer of Fredonia, a science teacher at Brocton Central High School, is the recipient of a National Science Foundation Scholarship.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
T.J. Maxx, described as the nation’s leading off-price retailer, will open its newest store in Dunkirk on Sunday, April 24. Located on Vineyard Drive in the town of Dunkirk, the store will occupy 20,000 square feet of the former Ames store. The remainder of the former retail outlet was renovated for the Quality Farm and Fleet store which recently opened. Not only will the new T.J. Maxx store provide brand name fashions at affordable prices, it will also bring more than 40 new jobs to the area.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Heather L. Richmond, the 6-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Richard Richmond, 39 East Courtney St., Dunkirk has been selected as a contestant in the 1984 Western New York National Little Miss Pageant to be held at the Sheraton Inn- Buffalo East on July 14. She is sponsored by the Dunkirk Exempt Volunteer Firemen’s Association, Murray Hose Co. No. 4, Pen’s Parts employees and Weiss Hardware Co., all of Dunkirk, and Lake Shore Marines of Silver Creek.
Forty years ago – 1974
Rolland Kidder, a Chautauqua County legislator, recently announced that he will seek the Democratic nomination for the county State Assembly seat.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The guidance department of Dunkirk High School reported that 96 seniors out of a class of 227 students are planning to further their education after graduation.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Ralston Purina Co. announced today the company is proposing to construct a 100,000 square foot warehouse addition at the Middle Road plant in Dunkirk. The proposed addition would allow the company to move its entire warehouse operation back to the Dunkirk facility. It currently leases space in two off-site buildings for storage and shipping of products to a large portion of its northeast market.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Twenty-one-year old David Penharlow of Patterson Lane, Portland was rescued by his neighbor Robert Hennsler of Greencrest, after he fell into shallow water while trying to retrieve two dogs from an ice floe in the Greencrest area. Hennsler came out in a canoe and also dove into the water to save one of the dogs which had slipped beneath the ice. This tale has a happy ending as both dogs were later brought ashore unharmed
Forty years ago – 1974
A South Hackensack, N.J., firm has bought out the Fredonia Food Specialties Co. at 180 East Main St., and will cease operations at the Fredonia plant.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Patricia Gullo of Fredonia is one of the contestants in the Miss Dunkirk-Fredonia Pageant to be held at Dunkirk High School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Elaine Gangi of Silver Creek bowled 708 in the Lakeview Roller League at Lakeview Lanes on March 8 with games of 227, 235 and 246. A veteran of 18 seasons of organized bowling, she carries a current 186 average. She is also active as first vice president of the Dunkirk Women’s Bowling Association and the Lakeview Rollers League secretary. Her biography includes membership in the New York Women’s Bowling Association 600 Club. She is a past winner of the Dunkirk Women’s Bowling Association Queens Tournament and a past member of the DWBA 200 Club.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Calendar Girl for the Month of April is Ann Lewandowski, the 17-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Lewandowski of Dunkirk. She is a second-year student in the Data Processing course at the BOCES LoGuidice Center in Fredonia. A Dunkirk High School senior, Ann enjoys outdoor activities including softball, camping and traveling. She plans to attend Bryant & Stratton Business Institute in Buffalo for computer programming and hopes to pursue a career in data processing.
Forty years ago – 1974
A proposal to have Fredonia’s “Old Main” building preserved as a museum got the unanimous backing of the Chautauqua County Legislature.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Diana Thurston of Silver Creek was named the first-place winner for the Frank M. Totton Essay Award.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Student of the Week is Gregory Myers, the son of Rob and Gina Myers and a senior at Brocton Central School. A Regents diploma candidate, Greg has been active in school activities as a four-year member of Student Council and a member of Drama Club, yearbook staff, newspaper staff and chorus. He was captain of the varsity basketball and volleyball teams. In September, he will attend Fredonia State University College to major in health administration.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The preacher father of singer Marvin Gaye faces murder charges in the April 1 shooting of the Grammy-winning entertainer whose passionate delivery on such hits as “I Heard It Through The Grapevine” and “What’s Going On” topped the record charts for more than 20 years. Gaye, 44, was shot as his mother watched during an altercation with his father, Marvin Gaye Sr., over an unspecified “insurance matter.” His death stunned the MoTown music world.
Forty years ago – 1974
A Brocton man demanded to see his son at the Chautauqua County Jail in Mayville after he had been sentenced to serve 15 days for streaking in Fredonia.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Silver Creek School Board has established $5,000 as the starting salary for teachers.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Oh Nooooooooo! That was the general reaction this morning from winter-weary residents who woke up to find four inches of new snow piled up and waiting to be shoveled. Former Dunkirk Police Chief Edward “Scrappy” Mulville believes the extended bout of wintry weather flies in the face of scientists who claim that a hole in the ozone layer is causing the atmosphere to heat up. For many local residents, this winter will go down as one of the worst in many years.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Fredonia’s Shirley Borowski has been named winner of the Second Annual Dunkirk Fitness Center Achievement Award. Making the presentation were Dunkirk Fitness Center owner Dave Kyser and manager Dave Hastings. A mother and housewife, Mrs. Borowski began lifting weights last summer. She was named this year’s winner due to her dedication to getting her body in shape.
Forty years ago – 1974
Dates are being set for the Dunkirk High School Class of 1954 reunion. Committee members included James Elias, general chairman; and Reginald Corsi, picnic.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Gerald Dengler, president of Dengler Ford, Fredonia, delivered a new car to Dean H. Temple, executive secretary of the Chautauqua County YMCA, and Dean Weaver.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Officials from the Catholic Diocese of Buffalo have approved a proposal to move the Northern Chautauqua Catholic School to a new site by September. The school, currently located at the former Holy Trinity parish school on Central Avenue in Dunkirk, will move to the former St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parish school on Washington Avenue in Dunkirk. The new site is twice as large and is needed to accommodate increased enrollment and the need for more and larger classrooms and other facilities. The current enrollment of 173 pupils is projected to reach 275 by 1996-97 because the demand for Catholic education in the Northern Chautauqua area is growing steadily.
Thirty years ago – 1984
James Wolcott, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. James Wolcott of Highland Avenue, Brocton is Student of the Week. A Brocton Central School senior, he is a member of the National Honor Society, lettered in football, basketball and baseball and served as president of his sophomore class. He also represented the John W. Dill American Legion Post at Boys State. Following graduation, Jim hopes to pursue a career in computer science.
Forty years ago – 1974
A Canadian company has expressed interest in securing four acres in the city of Dunkirk as a site for a $1.5 million artificial ice skating rink.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Gretchen Doerschug of Sheridan, a junior at Hilram College in Hilram, Ohio, is on a concert tour with the capella chorus.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Kim M. Ruska, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John E. Ruska, has been granted a five-year residency in pathology at the Johns Hopkins University Hospital in Baltimore, Md. She will begin her residency upon her May 1994 graduation from Vanderbilt University School of Medicine. Ms. Ruska is a 1985 graduate of Dunkirk High School and a 1989 graduate of Princeton University.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Roseann G. Polisoto of Hull’s Mobile Court, Silver Creek is indeed a “proud American.” She now counts among her treasured keepsakes a letter hand-signed and addressed by former President Jimmy Carter and his wife, Rosalyn. During a recent visit to Georgia, Mrs. Polisoto visited in Plains, where she viewed the Carter home and also stopped to purchase gasoline at Billy Carter’s gas station. On her return home, she dropped a note to the former president telling of her visit and commending him for his time in the White House. The letter from the Carters was postmarked Atlanta, Ga., where President Carter maintains an office.
Forty years ago – 1974
A minimum wage bill, raising the minimum wage to $2, is due to be passed by Congress.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Councilman Robert Maytum called a special meeting of the Pomfret Town Board to discuss repairs to the Risley Street bridge, which was closed for the second time in a month due to collapsing of parts of the retaining wall and the roadway over it. No injuries were reported.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Archie E. Newton Jr. of Dunkirk, a civilian pilot for Pan American Airways during World War II, was recently granted veterans status after receiving an honorable discharge and being decorated with honors. Mr. Newton was assigned to the U.S. Army Air Corps Air Transportation Command with China National Aviation Corporation, a subsidiary of Pan American. He was based in Calcutta, India and piloted C-47 cargo planes over the Assam-China route known as the “Hump.” He made 43 round trips over enemy territory on 86 missions.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The official groundbreaking for the Herbert Star Apartments in Brocton was held the morning of March 30 at the site on Central Avenue. Participating in the ceremony were Portland Town Supervisor Harold Smith, County Legislator G. William Skinner, Brocton Mayor Donald McFadden and County Executive Dr. John Glenzer. The complex, when completed, will have 42 units for senior citizens and the physically handicapped.
Forty years ago – 1974
During a recent Fredonia Village Board meeting, it was agreed that the mayor’s salary would remain at $2,500 for the coming year. The trustees voted their salaries would be left at $1,200.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Three Ripley Central School males were recently sent home to comb out their “Beatle-style” hairdos and correct their attire which included black turtleneck sweaters. It was noted that while it may be acceptable for the Beatles as entertainers to wear their hair over their foreheads, it was not considered proper grooming for the classroom.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Archie E. Newton Jr. of Dunkirk, a civilian pilot for Pan American Airways during World War II, was recently granted veterans status after receiving an honorable discharge and being decorated with honors. Mr. Newton was assigned to the U.S. Army Air Corps Air Transportation Command with China National Aviation Corporation, a subsidiary of Pan American. He was based in Calcutta, India and piloted C-47 cargo planes over the Assam-China route known as the “Hump.” He made 43 round trips over enemy territory on 86 missions.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The official groundbreaking for the Herbert Star Apartments in Brocton was held the morning of March 30 at the site on Central Avenue. Participating in the ceremony were Portland Town Supervisor Harold Smith, County Legislator G. William Skinner, Brocton Mayor Donald McFadden and County Executive Dr. John Glenzer. The complex, when completed, will have 42 units for senior citizens and the physically handicapped.
Forty years ago – 1974
During a recent Fredonia Village Board meeting, it was agreed that the mayor’s salary would remain at $2,500 for the coming year. The trustees voted their salaries would be left at $1,200.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Three Ripley Central School males were recently sent home to comb out their “Beatle-style” hairdos and correct their attire which included black turtleneck sweaters. It was noted that while it may be acceptable for the Beatles as entertainers to wear their hair over their foreheads, it was not considered proper grooming for the classroom.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Three males were spotted running down Eagle Street just after 2 a.m. without a stitch of clothing on. After a short foot chase, Officer Pat Ambrose was able to apprehend one of the men who was charged with public lewdness. The other two men “streaked away,” said Officer Ambrose, who responded to the incident alone. In 10 years as a police officer, including the last five years in Fredonia, the patrolman said he had never handled this kind of case before.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Beginning this summer, groups will be required to pay to use the pavilions in Dunkirk’s Point Gratiot. The cost for city residents will be half the cost for non-residents. The plan is in response to a great demand for the pavilions during the summer picnic season. It has been under consideration for more than a year. The fees would offset some, but not all, of the city’s annual maintenance expense of the pavilions.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Dunkirk Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO, has unanimously voted to support the members of Local 349, IUE, of the Belknap Business Forms of Westfield, who have been on strike since Feb. 28.
Fifty years ago – 1964
An OBSERVER editorial speaks against the growing addiction of glue-sniffing by young Americans. Many municipalities are passing laws to stop or at least discourage the practice, it is noted.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
New York’s beer and soda industry retained $69.2 million in unclaimed bottle and can deposits over a year period. Gov. Mario Cuomo, who is fighting to retrieve those deposits for New York, said the money should instead be going to fund state environmental and parks projects. Cuomo has been trying unsuccessfully to convince the Legislature to direct the unclaimed deposits to the state for a decade.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Bingo is a big business on the Seneca Nation’s Indian Reservation near Irving. Operating five nights a week for the past four years, an occasional “monster bingo” is held, with the high stakes event drawing thousands of people. Employment of Native Americans at the bingo hall has made a slight impact on the general unemployment rate in the area, but the bingo games have also greatly contributed to the area economy, with people traveling from Detroit, Chicago, Toronto and Syracuse, among other places, for monster bingo.
Forty years ago – 1974
The annual Silver Creek Nike Club Talent Show was held recently, attracting about 500 persons. First place winner was Deborah Richir performing, “The Discovery of the Baton.” John Muccigrosso took second place for playing the ukulele and singing “Sweet Sixteen.” Third prize winner was Karyllyn Maloney, performing a modern day modern dance to “Leroy Brown.”
Fifty years ago – 1964
A flock of blue heron have begun making their summer nesting home at the Harold Fancher Farm on County Road 307 in Arkwright. The flock has grown to about 44 nests in the preceding summer and may be one of the largest in Western New York.