Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A representative of the National Wildlife Association is coming to Ripley to help Robert and Shari Vance, who are raising wolves and coyotes on their property. The Vances returned to Ripley after being away for more than 10 years and brought a mother wolf, her cubs and two coyotes with them. The couple had plans to open a facility to be named the North Shore Educational Facility to educate children and adults about wild and endangered species. Zoning issues, however, have put a damper on those plans at least for the time being.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A crucial need for a soup kitchen in the Dunkirk area is now being filled. The Friendly Kitchen will open its doors on Sept. 4 to those in need. The kitchen is located at 131 Central Ave. in a building that formerly housed The Friendly Tavern. The soup kitchen is being organized by VISTA volunteers Katrien Vervisch of Dunkirk and Sheila Kroon, a former public school music teacher who will work at the kitchen and coordinate volunteers. The Chautauqua County Rural Ministry was instrumental in the development of The Friendly Kitchen.
Forty years ago – 1974
Members of the Yankees, a Fredonia girls’ softball team, won their second straight title. The team consists of Brenda Day, Rena Burkowsky, Georgia Green, Laurie Albano, Melissa Albano, Julie Clark, Susan Edgerton, Hallie Morris, Tina Sevola, Kathy Joy, Tracey Brunecz, Judith Edgerton, Margie Keller, Barb Kinney and Jane Brunecz.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Douglas L. Newman, 47 Cottage St., Fredonia and Peter J. Genovese, 13 Lincoln Ave., Silver Creek, have left for six months active training for the National Guard.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The whirlwind that brought the Fredonia Farm Festival to a screeching halt on Aug. 28 has been officially declared a tornado with an F-1 classification. F-1 tornadoes pack winds ranging from 73 to 112 mph. At times, the twister measured only 30 feet wide. Eyewitness reports from the festival in Barker Common stated that the park “was just pandemonium” with tents and tables flying all over the place. The crafters’ wares were grabbed by the wind along with their tents. A maple tree behind the cotton candy stand was snapped in half by the winds and fell right on the lawn chairs where two little boys had just been sitting before being taken to safety. The most severe tornado in Fredonia struck July 12, 1992.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Work on the “Rebuild the Bandstand” project in Silver Creek will stop for now with the completion of the roof on the structure, at which point funds to re-create the historic Victorian-style bandstand will be exhausted. According to Project Chairman Louis Pelletter, some area groups which promised donations toward the project have not sent any money. Only 42 donations, some as small as $2, have been received for the project. Union carpenters have donated all the labor on the work done so far at the site. It is estimated at about 75 percent complete.
Forty years ago – 1974
A back-to-school sale on desks and bookcases is taking place at Terwilliger & Salzer Furniture Inc., in Fredonia.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel White, 750 Deer St., Dunkirk recently attended the final profession ceremonies for their daughter, Sister Mary Joel, Order of the Sisters of St. Joseph, held at Mt. St. Joseph’s Convent in Buffalo.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The 40th H.K. Williams Jr. Commemorative Golf Tournament at Shorewood Country Club this year honors the namesake’s son, H. Kirk Williams, former publisher of the OBSERVER and an avid golfer. His father, the late H.K. Williams Jr., who was known as “Jack,” also was a low handicap golfer and one of the shareholders of the Shorewood farms property which became the 18-hole country club, located on Route 5, on the shores of Lake Erie in Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held to celebrate the opening of a new ramp at the Chautauqua County Home in Dunkirk. The ramp was built at a cost of about $35,000 paid for through a bond issue authorized by the County Legislature which is 100 percent reimbursable through federal and state funds.
Forty years ago – 1974
Past New York District Kiwanis Gov. Jack Tetamore of Pittsford presented an award to Dr. L. Walter Schultze of the Dunkirk Kiwanis Club as an outstanding lieutenant governor of Kiwanis for 1972-73.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Glenn Gardinier, son of Mr. and Mrs. Reginald Gardiner, 43 W. Fourth St., Dunkirk, has been appointed business and financial editor of the New Bedford (Mass.) Standard-Times.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
At about 1 p.m. today, a powerful wind-packed storm slammed into the area sending tree branches flying in various parts of the village and bringing an abrupt end to the Fredonia Farm Festival in Barker Common. Rescue crews tended to one woman who suffered a minor injury after an airborne tree limb struck her in the leg. Mayor Louis Mancuso stated that three to four homes and several parked cars were damaged by falling limbs in various parts of the village.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The second annual Love Lake Erie Fishing Bonanza took place last weekend. This year’s contest attracted 271 entrants while last year saw 153 fishermen participate. Dr. Jimmy Winter of Fredonia State University College, a noted fish ecologist, served as head judge. First prize in each of the four divisions – salmon, trout, walleye and bass – was $350. Dozens of other prizes, both cash and merchandise, were awarded for second and subsequent places in each category. Sponsors of the event were the OBSERVER, Fred Koch Brewery, Walt’s Sporting Goods, Ben Franklin Store, Liberty National Bank and Loyal Order of the Moose.
Forty years ago – 1974
New Dunkirk City Attorney Daniel Polowy and new City Clerk James Subjack were sworn in by City Court Justice August Jankowski during a brief ceremony at City Hall.
Fifty years ago – 1964
AFS student Pedro Alierta has arrived from Zaragoza, Spain and will be living with the Robert Judell family of Chestnut Street, Fredonia while attending Fredonia High School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Pattie’s Place, a Forestville restaurant, recently celebrated its grand opening. Owner/operator Ms. Pattie Pichon, with the help of her three children – Patrick, Paula and Pam – offer breakfast, lunch and dinner featuring daily specialties. Ms. Pichon has been a resident of Forestville since 1987 and hopes to continually grow and serve the community with convenient friendly service and quality products.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Architects have unveiled a model of Buffalo’s proposed 20,000-seat downtown baseball stadium, a facility that can be expanded to accommodate a major league team. The stadium, designed for minor league Class AAA baseball, could be expanded to 40,000 seats if Buffalo is awarded a future major league baseball franchise. An upper deck and fabric dome could be added to the stadium by removing the grandstand roof.
Forty years ago – 1974
An advertisement in the OBSERVER for Melody Fair in Niagara Falls noted that Gladys Knight & the Pips, along with guest star B.B. King, will be appearing in concert.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Babcock Poultry Farm Inc. received the Presidential E Award for significant contributions to the U.S. export expansion program.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Fredonia Fire Department participated in the Annual Southwestern Volunteer Firemen’s Association Convention and was the recipient of six awards. The Fredonia Fire Department Prevention Committee led the way with a first place finish in the Brochure/Scrapbook Contest for the sixth time in eight years. Other awards included first place honors for Overall Best Appearing Fire Department Color Guard; Overall Grotesque Parade; and Best Appearing Dugout.
Thirty years ago – 1984
John F. Nolan was the master of ceremonies for this year’s Fredonia Farm Festival parade. A 22-year area resident, Mr. Nolan is an insurance agent and broker representing Chautauqua General Group Inc. He has been a Democratic committeeman for the town of Pomfret and a member of the Chautauqua County Small Business Advisory Council. He is also active in numerous civic organizations. Mr. Nolan resides in Fredonia.
Forty years ago – 1974
County Legislator Rolland Kidder of Jamestown, chairman of the transportation committee of the Southern Tier West Regional Planning and Development Board, announced the formation of a temporary task force on railroad reorganization.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Beach Nuts, a teen-aged, four-piece jazz group from Cassadaga, are playing extensively at schools and teen parties in Chautauqua County.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Kiwanis Club of Fredonia held its monthly “Elder Salute” to honor senior citizens who have made a significant contribution to the community. This month, the award goes to Joseph Trusso, who spent many years supervising youths at “The Hub,” a local teen center; and Dora Coykendall, whose volunteer activities include Meals on Wheels, Red Cross Blood Bank, Fredonia State Usher Corps and the Chautauqua County Home and its annual Strawberry Festival.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Dunkirk native Jeff Vogt of Ashville has announced his candidacy as the endorsed Right to Life Party candidate for State Senate in the 56th District in the Nov. 6 general election. Mr. Vogt, 22, stated, “I am running because my two opponents have reprehensible positions on the fundamental life issues of abortion, euthanasia and the death penalty and therefore I am the only candidate who will be consistently and unapologetically pro-life. My platform can be summed up in two words – “Respect Life!”
Forty years ago – 1974
A television set in front of Geo H. Graf Company in Dunkirk is rigged to show videotapes produced by participants in video classes which are part of Dunkirk’s first summer arts program.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Eighty-seven residents of the 400 block on Washington Avenue in Dunkirk held a block party featuring a tureen supper.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Republican gubernatorial candidate George Pataki was grilled by members of the press, Jim Fox of the OBSERVER, and Hap Hazard of Jamestown, this morning at the Holiday Inn in Jamestown. State Sen. Pataki was making his first visit to Chautauqua County and was on a one-day swing through the 31st congressional district. Pataki made it clear that his principal aim if elected governor will be to put the state back on its economic feet.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Pete Rose, whose “Charlie Hustle” playing spirit rocketed the Cincinnati Reds to the top in the 1970s, has come back to Cincinnati to manage his hometown club and try to spark a lackluster team with his gritty dedication. In a sudden move that many Reds fans had hoped would someday happen, the 43-year-old Rose was named Cincinnati’s player-manager. He replaces Vern Rapp.
Forty years ago – 1974
Chautauqua County police forces entered a new era with the establishment of a central dispatching service located at the Sheriff’s Department communications center in Mayville. Toll-free numbers are provided for residents to call for police help.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Ali Al-Rushaid from Khaitan, Kuwait, arrived in Dunkirk for his home-stay portion of the Experiment in International Living Program. He plans to stay in the United States for eight years to earn his doctorate degree.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Dr. John Joy of Fredonia has begun a personal mission to honor the extraordinary life and career of George Abbott, who was born in Forestville. Mr. Abbott recently celebrated his 107th birthday by supervising a new revival of his 1955 Broadway success, “Damn Yankees.” In a career that spans over 80 years, the actor-author-producer-director has been associated with at least 125 productions and he was the recipient of Kennedy Center Honors in 1992. Mr. Abbott’s maternal grandparents, the McLaurys, owned a farm in Forestville.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The “Condome” is the name given the plastic bubble that serves as a recreational facility for more than 400 inmates at Collins Correctional Facility. It’s 200 feet by 100 feet and 40 feet high in the center, and can be used ‘year round. The plastic bubble houses two full-sized basketball courts or eight standard-sized rooms, including a weight room. An honor block has been added to the correctional facility for good behavior. Inmates who have had no disciplinary reports in six months are eligible for the honor block, which allows them certain cooking privileges and televisions in their dorms. The prison population has now reached 940.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Fredonia Boy Scout Troop is ready for its 90-mile, eight-day hike. Participants are: Guy Gregory, Scott Dawes, Kevin Delcamp, Jeff Dillon, David Gens, Scott Tadt, Mike Gorman, Ronald Wood, Timothy Tadt, Jeff Tabasco, Jeff Dawes and Scoutmaster Clarence Wood.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Dr. Richard Gammon of Dunkirk completed his requirements for the doctor of philosophy degree in biology at St. Bonaventure University in Olean.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Chautauqua County still leads all other counties in New York State in number of farms, according to the just published Census of Agriculture. Chautauqua County is one of the most important agricultural counties in the state with annual sales of agricultural products exceeding $88 million. Within the county, 33 percent of agricultural income comes from crop sales and 67 percent comes from livestock and their products. Chautauqua County ranks fourth in dairy farm numbers with 432 and eighth in the total value of milk sold.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Together for 25 years, members of the St. Joseph Pinochle Club held a dinner meeting at the White Inn in Fredonia. Members are Margaret Niedbalski, Beatrice Gotowka, Rita Niedbalski, Betty Rowson, Lorraine Tylock, Beatrice Kuznicki, Ann Burgstrom, Carol Ann O’Sullivan, Barbara Grace, Isabel Nichols and Virginia DeJonghe. When the group first organized, the women were members of the St. Joseph’s School Mothers Club. With their children grown, they continue to meet monthly at each other’s homes and make an annual contribution to the church.
Forty years ago – 1974
Y-Tots, the Chautauqua County YMCA’s pre-school program, will resume in September. Lavon Sheffield will direct the program.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Susan Cave of Fredonia, riding Honey Pon, won the grand champion title at the second annual horse show sponsored by the Lake View Trail Riders 4-H Club at the Chautauqua County Fairgrounds in Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
By the time acorns are ready to fall this autumn, new acorn-style lightposts will be illuminating the nights at Barker Common in Fredonia. The installation process for eight new lightposts has begun in the park. The lightposts mark the latest step of the grand plan for renovating Barker Common with a Victorian charm that will rekindle the historic spirit of the park. Current benches in the park will be replaced by Victorian-style benches.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Deiulio of Fredonia have returned from the 1984 Olympic games held in Los Angeles, Calif., with very positive feelings. The couple stated there was no smog, no traffic jams, and no ripoffs. They reported the people there as being very friendly. The Deiulios attended the opening ceremonies and stayed to witness the gymnastics, swimming, boxing, basketball and volleyball events as guests of the Coca Cola Co., for which Mr. Deiulio does consulting work. They also took part in the very popular activity of “pin trading.”
Forty years ago – 1974
United Steelworkers of America’s Local 2693 at Allegheny Ludlum in Dunkirk is helping senior citizens by allowing them to use the Philip Murray Union Hall in the city for daily luncheons.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Vince Costello and his five-piece orchestra are currently appearing at the Normandy Restaurant in the D & F Plaza.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Robert Dyment, editor and publisher of Superintendent’s Profile and Pocket Equipment Directory announced today that the monthly magazine has been sold to James Cropper, owner of Commercial Graphics Design Group of Lafayette, near Syracuse. The Dunkirk-based magazine is the only exclusive publication circulated to every county, town, city and village highway superintendent and public works director throughout New York state, as well as state DOT officials, from Long Island in the east to Chautauqua County in the west.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The state Office of Advocate for the Disabled recently presented the Chautauqua County Council on the Disabled with a certificate of recognition for the council’s influence in amending the state vehicle and traffic law to permit persons in wheelchairs to use sidewalks and other public paths. The pen used by Gov. Cuomo to sign the bill was included with the certificate of achievement.
Forty years ago – 1974
Town of Hanover Police Chief John Kohler has returned home after attending the State Association of Chiefs of Police convention at The Pines in South Fallsburg.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Officials in Dunkirk were looking for a new playground site, due to their concern that children were crossing the railroad tracks to reach the Gazelle Street playground.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
It took him 25 years, but Dr. Daniel Cracium finally made it to Woodstock. The Fredonia doctor explained he had tickets for the original event 25 years ago, but at age 14, his mother would not let him go. This time, Dr. Cracium and Dunkirk residents Paul and Sue Soper attended the Woodstock music festival as volunteers with its medical team. While there, they were kept busy working 12 to 14 hour shifts, but managed to find time for fun. “I’ve gone to over 110 concerts in my life,” Paul Soper said. “It was great to be a part of the biggest and the best.”
Thirty years ago – 1984
Former President Gerald Ford was greeted by Chautauqua County Executive John Glenzer and his wife Joan upon his arrival in Jamestown. President Ford was the special guest this morning at a Republican reception and breakfast at the Cockaigne Ski Resort in Cherry Creek. He predicted that American voters will turn against Democratic vice presidential nominee Geraldine Ferraro once they get a look at her six-year voting record in Congress.
Forty years ago – 1974
Brocton’s Dennis Dorogi and his son, Mark Dorogi, two of the few people in the nation who make dulcimers, an instrument that sounds like a piano, displayed their work at the Fredonia Farm Festival.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Al’s Discount Shoes is planning its grand opening in Dunkirk.
A free pair of shoelaces, a 10-cent value, is being given at Miller’s Drugs in Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Upper Crust Bake House and Eatery is taking advantage of a new Fredonia Village ordinance allowing outdoor dining. Their new outdoor cafe has an expanded seating capacity and offers a relaxing atmosphere. Upper Crust is located at 21 E. Main St., Fredonia.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Veteran baton twirler Frankie Kye led the Hose Co. No. 4 Murraymen Drum and Bugle Corps in the annual city of Dunkirk fire department inspection parade that took place recently. The Murraymen have won several honors this season in drum corps competitions.
Forty years ago – 1974
Kathy Carlson of Silver Creek and Darlene Elliott of Fredonia were among those who attended a horsemanship school where they received riding tips from instructor Harvey Smith of Ovid.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A fire in Mayville’s business section caused around $100,000 in damages to a three-story Masonic building and the Hotel Holland and Shearer buildings.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The “Green Wall” on Route 20 in the town of Portland will soon be back in court. Howard Green charges that the state Department of Transportation has not rebuilt a section of a wall on their property as agreed to in a court compromise reached three years ago. The wall dates back to the time when Route 20 was little more than a cow path and an inter-urban trolley track. Laura and Howard Green have made the wall a local landmark by planting a flower bed along its top each year with scarlet geraniums.
Thirty years ago – 1984
William H. Wills Sr. and his son, William Jr. of Dunkirk have been honored for 60 years of outstanding service to the Dunkirk-based AL Tech Specialty Steel Corp. In presenting them with engraved plaques of appreciation from the company, James H. Mintun, president and chief operating officer of AL Tech, said: “For 60 years, the two generations of the Bill Wills family have been the experts on tool steel metallurgy at the Dunkirk plant of AL Tech. Their contributions to our success span these 60 years.” The elder Mr. Wills retired in 1957 after 35 years of service and will celebrate his 92nd birthday next month. AL Tech is the second-largest producer of specialty steel bar products in the U.S.
Forty years ago – 1974
Russell Joy of Fredonia captured the “Best of Show” award at the annual trophy meet sponsored by the Primetimers Antique Auto Club, held at Evans Center.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Manufacturers and Traders Trust Co. announced plans to purchase The Boston Store in Dunkirk, raze it, and then construct a new bank on the site.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
John DeTolla II, son of Mr. and Mrs. John DeTolla of Dunkirk, is in Berlin, Germany covering the New York Giants and San Diego Chargers game for NBC Sports. John is a 1979 graduate of Cardinal Mindszenty High School and a 1983 alumnus of Fredonia State University College.
Thirty years ago – 1984
State Attorney General Robert Abrams and Assemblyman William Parment announced that a suit is being filed against “the Tire Man of Sinclairville,” David Hornburg. According to advance information, the suit is aimed at trying to force Mr. Hornburg to remove an estimated 3,000,000 junk tires from his property. Mr. Hornburg told the OBSERVER he has been served with papers in the case and has turned the matter over to his lawyer.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Wright Park Pool Synchronized Swim Club recently performed at the John F. Kennedy Pool located in Dunkirk’s First Ward.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Fredonia JayNcees have erected four colonial signs in the parkside of East and West Main street, Fredonia. The signs depict some of the historic points of interest in the community and add to the colonial decor of the village. Lawrence Urbscheit lettered the signs and village employees helped erect them.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Dr. Jon Redfield, a member of the Northern Chautauqua County Veterinary Medical Society, recently presented an award to Allison Ward, 10. She created the first-place prize-winning poster in the society’s “Rabies Awareness” poster contest. Allison is the daughter of Wallace and Christie Ward of Fluker Hill Road, Forestville.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Fredonia Farm Festival Committee has selected G. William Skinner of Portland as the grand marshal for its 16th annual Farm Festival parade. Mr. Skinner, owner and operator of Skinner Farm, a 60-acre grape and 25-cow dairy business, is a sixth-generation descendant of the brother of Elijah Fay, who planted the first grapes in Chautauqua County and established the first grape vineyard in Western New York.
Forty years ago – 1974
A crew of 22 youths and two supervisors have been working on a beautification project near the Penn Central Railroad embankment along East Third Street between Central and Washington avenues in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
U.S. Naval Reserve Chief Warrant Officer George L. Christy, an English teacher at Fredonia High School and resident of Silver Creek, has been chosen to act as a U.S. Naval Academy information officer for his home area.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
St. Hyacinth’s Church was the setting recently for the 50th anniversary reunion of the St. Hyacinth’s Class of 1944. Thirty class members and guests attended a 4 o’clock Mass celebrated by the Rt. Rev. Msgr. Casimir A. Zak, and dedicated to the memory of late classmates. The altar was decorated with twin bouquets of red and white (the school colors) carnations, gladioli, gold leaves and a “50” emblem. Nine memorial candles representing the deceased classmates were lit. After the Mass, a reception was held at the First Ward Falcon Club.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Mrs. Angela Herrington of Gowanda, an independent home products company leader, was recognized recently for her 1984 sales achievements. She was one of 2,200 top independent dealers and sales management personnel honored in Westfield, Mass., during a recognition celebration hosted by the home products company.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Dunkirk Recreation Commission agreed to pay up to $1,000 for the operation of the Dunkirk-Fredonia Midget Football League.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The OBSERVER Pet of the Week is “Pluto,” a 6-year-old Cocker Spaniel owned by Richard Lewis, 9, of Cassadaga. His parents are Mr. and Mrs. Gerald Lewis of Burnham Road.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A program in the Dunkirk Police Department has been cited by the state for being a valuable community asset worthy of state funding. The city of Dunkirk has been awarded a $10,000 allocation in matching state aid for its new juvenile officer program with the DPD. Dunkirk Mayor Margaret Wuerstle said the city, a few months ago, created a full-time position for juvenile officer, stressing the need was there for the officer to focus attention solely on children. The officer, Stephanie Stanton, directs her time and energy specifically to youth-related matters.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Three men from the Buffalo area camped out Monday night at the M&T Bank office in Dunkirk to make sure they are among the first to apply Wednesday for State of New York Mortgage Agency (SONYMA) applications. The state has made $179 million available in the current mortgage program across the state. The Dunkirk branch of M&T Bank will accept applications for about $300,000 available at the 312 Main St. location. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development is pressuring Dunkirk to do something about its low-income housing shortage. Failure to do so could jeopardize the city’s urban renewal program.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Rev. Chester C. Beebe, pastor of the First Methodist Church of Dunkirk, is much more than a clergyman. An avid sportsman, he’s been a golfer for 30 years and has enjoyed bowling, softball, tennis and basketball. The Beebe home has a large collection of trophies collected by him, Mrs. Beebe (a top golfer) and their five sons.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Marine Cpl. Jonathan Hart, son of John and Ruth Hart, 129 Frazier St., Dunkirk, recently received a letter of recognition. Hart was cited for superior performance of duty while assigned with Combat Service Support Group One, First Force Service Support Group, Twenty-nine Palms, Calif. He consistently performed his demanding duties in an exemplary and highly professional manner. He joined the Marine Corps in November 1990.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Thanks to the heroic efforts of 12-year-old David O’Rourke, a neighbor, the home of Robert and Mary Dunbar at 20 Taft Place, Dunkirk, was saved recently from extensive, if not total, fire damage. The fire occurred the evening of Aug. 2 while members of the Dunbar family were away from home. Young David was in his yard with a friend when he heard the smoke alarm, looked in the window and saw the fire. He entered the house through an unlocked door, found a shirt and beat out the fire. The fire was caused by two vigil lights that had burned so low they shattered the holders. It nearly destroyed a statue of the Infant of Prague that was a keepsake. David, a seventh-grader at Dunkirk Middle School, is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Daniel O’Rourke.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Dunkirk Common Council is attempting to resolve complaints from Canary Street residents concerning 24 lofts of racing pigeons, each of which contained about 50 pigeons.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Dunkirk Mayor Joseph J. Steger turned the first shovelful of dirt this morning at the M. Wile and Co. ground-breaking ceremonies.
A Your Host restaurant will be opening soon in the Dunkirk-Fredonia Plaza.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The owners of the former PJ’s Pet Emporium in Dunkirk will be opening a store in Fredonia this fall. The Fredonia Zoning Board of Appeals has granted a variance to Gary Dolce and Janet Palmer to operate a retail pet sales and service business at 363 W. Main St. The site used to house Dr. Donald Wood’s animal hospital. PJ’s pet shop, formerly of 218 Central Ave., Dunkirk, was one of two stores located in a building which burned down on April 24. All animals perished in the blaze. The new store will be a smaller operation, Dolce said, as they will be starting from scratch.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A variety of demonstrations and displays – both on land and in water – will be featured in the third annual Barcelona Harbor Day Festival to be held at the Daniel Reed Pier at Barcelona. This year’s event coincides with the start of the planned harbor improvement project by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Featured will be demonstrations by the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department, life-saving techniques by Westfield summer recreational staff, Hurst tool and airbag demonstration by the Westfield Fire Department and lighthouse tours by the Zonta Club. Rubber rafts and antique boats will be on display.
Forty years ago – 1974
Three local baseball players, Fredonia’s Mike Moore, Dunkirk’s Rich Hofer and Gowanda’s Kevin Schindler were getting ready for the Eastern Regional All-American Amateur Baseball Tournament in Ann Arbor, Mich.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Brocton Central School Class of 1954 had a reunion recently at the White Inn in Fredonia. Lloyd Corell was elected president; Alan Thomas, vice president; Mrs. Phyllis Delcamp, secretary; and Mrs. Betty Ann Walsh Furman, treasurer. Mrs. Joyce Lilley Haines of Westfield hosted Sunday morning breakfast at her home.
Retrospective
Twenty years
ago – 1994
The First United Methodist Church of Westfield will be offering a “3-D” group – a 12-week course of study which emphasizes Diet, Discipline and Discipleship. The course will offer support for persons struggling with weight loss or gain. Emphasis will be on discipline in areas people may encounter in their day-to-day routine. Discipleship will pull a person’s focus to Christ as a centering point in facing the many issues arising during each day.
Thirty years ago
– 1984
The Rev. Richard J. Dickinson is the new pastor of Harvest Chapel Free Methodist Church in Fredonia. He replaces the Rev. Ray Daugherty. Born in Spokane, Wash., he received his master of divinity degree at Asbury Theological Seminary in Wilmore, Ky. The pastor and his wife, Sheila Lynn, have one daughter, Carrie Lynn. They will be residing at 700 Park Ave., Dunkirk.
Forty years ago – 1974
Brooks Hospital in Dunkirk completed the installation of a radio system that gives emergency room personnel a direct link with emergency units and ambulances.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The nation’s grand old man, Herbert Hoover, turns 90 today. The former U.S. president has been associated with Stanford University for 73 years.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The renovated Fredonia visitor information booth and pavilion are thriving this summer in West Barker Common. The booth is manned by volunteers from the Share and Care Senior Center six days a week. Fredonia Trustee Susanne Marsh, who chairs the Barker Common Renovation Committee, says the project is the latest milestone reached in the group’s plan.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Kim Ruska, a student at Dunkirk High School, has been chosen as Dunkirk Rotary Club’s exchange student to go abroad for one year. Kim’s first choice for placement was in West Germany and she got her wish. She plans to complete her senior year of high school in that country and while there also hopes to continue her study of the violin and the sport of competitive swimming. She is the youngest of three daughters of John and Beverly Ruska.
Forty years ago – 1974
As part of a program sponsored by the Lake Shore Association of the Arts, a mural is being painted on the north side of the George H. Graf Co. building in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Mr. and Mrs. Harold Rupp have returned to their home on Clinton Avenue in Fredonia after touring with several circuses in the New York-New Jersey area.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
This week in “One Woman’s View,” columnist Susan Chiappone talks about the OBSERVER’s recent introduction to “pagination.” She pointed out that the “different look” to the newspaper’s pages is a result of new printers and computers which actually “allow us to pick up and place articles on our computer screens. The end result is one solid page of printing rather than several smaller pieces attached together by hand onto a large sheet.” Lessons are currently being given to OBSERVER employees with the expectation that our readers will enjoy the new look.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Ling-Ling, the giant panda, gave birth to a stillborn male cub at the National Zoo in Washington, D.C., again thwarting scientists in their decade-long quest to produce the nation’s first healthy panda cub, officials said today. Ling-Ling, the star attraction at the zoo along with her mate, Hsing-Hsing, gently held and licked the 5 oz. cub for hours after the birth. The stillbirth came nearly one year after Ling-Ling, a gift from the Chinese government in 1972, lost her first cub to pneumonia.
Forty years ago – 1974
The seventh annual coin show of the Lake Shore Coin Club was held at Eason Hall in Westfield.
A New York State Employment Service office will open in Westfield.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Christine Kinn, a senior at Cardinal Mindszenty High School, is the Calendar Girl for the month of August. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kinn of Urban Road, Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The new Gowanda Correctional Facility’s first inmates are scheduled to arrive Aug. 15. Between 125 and 150 inmates will start arriving on that date with 125 to 150 to arrive every week until they reach a total of 750 inmates. The new facility, located on the former Gowanda Psychiatric Center grounds, is progressing right on schedule, while the Gowanda Training Academy will hold its first graduation on Aug. 19. The corrections officers will be sent to facilities across the state to replace the COs who are being sent to the new Gowanda Correctional Facility.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A local racing pigeon owner had several of his birds killed by a wild animal the night of Aug. 5. Frank Kita, 49 Leming St., Dunkirk, told the OBSERVER that a raccoon broke into the loft in his barn where he housed his racing pigeons and killed 40 of the birds. Mr. Kita estimated the cost of the lost birds at “a couple thousand dollars.”
Forty years ago – 1974
Karen Jankowski of Dunkirk placed third out of 58 contestants in the world solo competition at the American Youth on Parade four-day baton twirling contest at Notre Dame University.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Taravella, owners of the Hanover General Hospital in Silver Creek for the past 15 years, announced the completion of plans for construction of the Margaret-Anthony Convalescent Nursing Home on Lake Shore Drive West in Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Josephine McPhee, 98, cut the ribbon to reopen the Barker Street playground in Fredonia recently. The guest of honor, she is a lifelong resident of the area and a charter member of the Fredonia-Pomfret Youth Council. Mrs. McPhee was instrumental in the acquisition of equipment for area playgrounds during the 1950s.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Richard Burton, one of the most gifted actors of his generation who captured the world’s imagination with his two sensational marriages to Elizabeth Taylor, was mourned today by stage and film stars around the world. Burton, 58, died Aug. 5 of a stroke. Expressions of grief poured in from friends and colleagues of the Welsh actor whose five marriages and drinking problems were as legendary as his stage and movie performances. Former spouse Elizabeth Taylor was “extremely upset and unable to say anything,” according to her spokeswoman.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Historical Society of Dunkirk, formed one year ago, received its provisional charter from the state.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Ronald Kaiser has been named advertising manager of the Fred Koch Brewery in Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
It has become a rite of summer for Buffalo attorney Michael Cafferty and Fredonia’s Red Wing Co. On July 29, Mr. Cafferty kicked off the 11th annual American Red Cross Swim-A-Cross Week by swimming across Lake Erie for the 35th time. During the 12-mile swim, he got his energy from Red Wing peanut butter and jelly. Red Wing is a major sponsor for Mr. Cafferty’s swim. The relationship is a natural one since the veteran swimmer, who is 42, eats a Red Wing peanut butter and jelly sandwich every day for lunch after swimming.
Thirty years ago – 1984
On Aug. 3, Gov. Mario Cuomo signed legislation which makes New York the first state to require used car dealers to provide warranties. Dealers will be required to refund a car’s purchase price or replace the vehicle if it turns out to be a certified “lemon.” New York’s used car lemon law is one of the most forceful pieces of consumer legislation in the country, according to the governor. It goes into effect Nov. 1.
Forty years ago – 1974
The 100th reunion of the Chautauqua County branch of the Blodgett family is being planned by the hosts, Mr. and Mrs. James Blodgett of Westfield.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A feature story in the OBSERVER highlights the career of Frank Abbata of Silver Creek, who has worked as a barber for most of his life.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Twenty-one-year-old Dawn Arnold of Westfield has wanted to be a Buffalo Jill cheerleader for many years. In May of this year, her dream came true. The 1991 graduate of Westfield Academy and Central School will be cheering and performing dance routines before Buffalo Bills fans at the first pre-season game Aug. 8. This will be the first time Dawn has been in Rich Stadium. Dawn is a licensed optician and contact lens fitter for Wal-Mart Vision Center in Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Annabelle Reilly, RN, has received the “Humanitarian of the Year” award at Brooks Hospital. She is now eligible for consideration for national recognition by Hospital Corporation of America, sponsors of the yearly event. Currently the director of discharge and planning and patient education at Brooks, she has been employed there for 29 years, holding various supervisory positions on the nursing staff.
Forty years ago – 1974
The National Guard of Buffalo was slated to move the cement chunks that protect the base of the cliffs at Point Gratiot in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
All beaches in the city of Dunkirk were closed on Aug. 2 due to a record-breaking rainfall.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Additional free clinics and public education are major components of the game plan north county governments want to put into action for fighting the rabies epidemic. Rabies has permeated all towns in the northeast side of the county. More than 50 lab-confirmed cases of the disease have been found so far this year in the county, mostly due to raccoons, but also a skunk and a cat. Eventually, 80 percent of the raccoon population here succumbs to the disease. Stray cats are a big concern because they are six times more likely to get rabies from a raccoon.
Thirty years ago – 1984
More than 45 friends and relatives gathered at the White Inn for a retirement luncheon in honor of Dr. Allen H. Benton, professor of biology at Fredonia State University College. Dr. Benton is an educator, author and lecturer, and distinguished teaching professor at Fredonia State. In 1973, he was recognized as a superior teacher in the SUNY system and was awarded the Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Teaching. He was also named a Kasling Memorial Lecturer at the college.
Forty years ago – 1974
A “snowman,” constructed from white insulating materials, unexpectedly popped up on the Niagara Mohawk property near Main and Newton streets in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The John T. Murray VFW Memorial Post 1017 of Dunkirk recently sponsored the “Lite a Bike” program, which involved putting tape on children’s bicycles.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Dog owners in the village of Forestville became subject to new laws after members of the village board voted 4-1 in favor of establishing a leash law. The action followed a notice received by the board from the Chautauqua County Board of Health Department which stated that Forestville was one of only a very few communities without such a regulation. In addition, the county department warned that it would be forced to take action on the matter if the village did not.
Thirty years ago – 1984
President Ronald Reagan, hoping to reduce traffic deaths, recently signed legislation that could lead to a nationwide drinking age of 21 and save up to 1,000 lives a year, according to aides. The bill, signed at a White House ceremony, restricts highway construction money, with a five percent loss for states that do not adopt a drinking age of 21 within two years. Statistics indicate that people between the ages of 18 and 20 are more than twice as likely as the average driver to be involved in alcohol-related crashes.
Forty years ago – 1974
Twelve-year-old Bob Feinen of Sheridan is pictured in the OBSERVER with a 17-pound catfish that he battled on Lake Erie for 20 minutes before finally reeling it in.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Mrs. Benjamin Cerrie of Fredonia won an expense-free trip to New York City in a contest sponsored by the Fredonia Boosters Association.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Jim Ellman Sr. of Dunkirk “came out of retirement” to win the Chautauqua County Fair Demolition Derby Championship and qualify for the New York State Demolition Championship in Syracuse. He took home the $500 grand prize and a trophy. Ellman’s Garage also walked away with the $1,000 grand prize in jalopy football the night before, scoring a record 18 touchdowns for 1,800 points in a shutout of Bolt Upright.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Forty radio producers and engineers from across the nation came to Fredonia this week to attend a seven-day workshop showing them how to record live classical music so that the best sound can be heard over the air. National Public Radio sponsored the workshop and used Fredonia State’s sound recording and radio facilities for the second time as its site. Fredonia State is one of only three university locations which had the equipment sophisticated enough for NPR’s needs, their officials said.
Forty years ago – 1974
Lawrence Schauffler of Fredonia was awarded first place in photography for a black and white print of a cemetery landscape during a meeting of the Lakeshore Photographic Society at BOCES.
Fifty years ago – 1964
President Oscar E. Lanford announced that Dr. Glenn Fennell, associate professor of education at Fredonia State University College, has been appointed to the newly-created position of director of placement.