Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A festive afternoon was had when The Salvation Army celebrated not only its 100th year in the community, but the 25th anniversary of the Corps Community Center at Seventh and Central avenues. Honored at the event were Major James Sproul, commanding officer; Bettie Pryll, 60 years of service; Dr. Mary Kay Urbanik, executive director of the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County; Dunkirk Mayor Margaret Wuerstle and Fredonia Mayor Louis Mancuso. A certificate of appreciation was presented to Key Bank for providing 10 volunteers to repaint the chapel of The Salvation Army Center.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Work is nearing completion on a new 200,000 gallon water tank that is being built by the city of Dunkirk to provide added water pressure for the True Temper Co. and Great Lakes Color Printing Corp. on Stegelske Avenue. A $195,000 federal Department of Housing and Urban Development Small Cities grant will pay for the bulk of the $346,000 project, with the city paying the rest. The county’s Industrial Development Agency sold the land for the tank to the city for $1.
Forty years ago 1974
The sixth pay increase of the year boosted the hourly wage of workers for the General Motors Corporation to $6 per hour, the highest earnings for blue collar workers anywhere.
Fifty years ago – 1964
It costs just $2 to have an eight-pound load of clothing dry-cleaned at West Sheridan Dry Cleaning Village on Route 20 at Roberts Road.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Visitors to the 1994 Collins Pumpkin Festival will have an opportunity to meet Howard Butcher, author of “The Dancing Pumpkin,” at an autograph party Oct. 1 at Waterman’s Restaurant. When the World Pumpkin Confederation Club gets its results at the 2 p.m. hookup that day, pumpkins weighing a minimum of 500 pounds will be categorized as Thunderbellies, members of the Royal Pumpkin Family as described in Butcher’s fable. Books will be available for purchase.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Dunkirk Democratic Women’s Club unanimously endorsed Joseph Porpiglia of Dunkirk for the position of Election Commissioner during its regular monthly meeting at the Columbus Club. Mr. Porpiglia will be vying for committee votes in a three-way race involving incumbent Commissioner Dan Larson of Lakewood and newcomer James J. Tumminia, Jamestown city councilman. Mr. Porpiglia, son of County Legislator Charles Porpiglia, is a Dunkirk native.
Forty years ago 1974
A recent Sunday Mass celebrated the 75th anniversary of St. Joseph’s Church in Fredonia. The Most Rev. Edward D. Head, D.D., Bishop of Buffalo, was in attendance.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Thomas Mott, associate professor of mathematics at Fredonia State University College, is the author of an article which appeared in “Mathematics Magazine.”
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Dunkirk School Board of Education President Adelino “Andy” Gonzalez received a citation from Gov. Mario Cuomo honoring him for his “outstanding community service.” The ceremony took place at the New York Public Library. Mr. Gonzalez was chosen from 30 finalists who were selected by members of the governor’s Office for Hispanic Affairs. In addition to running his own appliance sales business, Mr. Gonzalez has been a member of the school board for three years and is also a member of the Dunkirk Local Development Corporation.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Rev. Dennis W. Mende, a former deacon at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church in Dunkirk, will return here as associate pastor to the Hispanic Community of Dunkirk and Roman Catholic chaplain at Brooks Hospital and the Chautauqua County Home. Father Mende, who most recently was associate pastor of St. Mark’s Church in Buffalo, will reside at the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish rectory.
Forty years ago – 1974
A Fredonia State University College faculty member, Dr. Walter Hartley, won for the 13th consecutive year the Serious Music Standard Award from the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A double Bat Mitzvah was celebrated at Temple Beth El with Sue Swartz of Fredonia and Jill Levy of Dunkirk being honored.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Cliffstar Corporation, manufacturer of fruit juices and drinks, recently held its first open house. With the plant open for the day, visitors toured the new expanded warehouse where 650,000 cases of juice are stored before shipment. Visitors also were able to observe orange juice being bottled and packaged. At the new seventh factory line, the open house participants saw juice go from the batching area into production, where bottles are filled. More than 500 people attended the event.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A total of 88 people attended the John W. Dill American Legion Post 434’s 66th Birthday Party. Three area residents were honored during the event. George A. Woleben is the only living founding member of the post, which was granted its charter in 1919. Alfred LaVoice and Raymond Delcamp are both 65-year members. All three men were presented with sweaters featuring the American Legion logo and a years-of-membership logo. Following the dinner, a memorial service was held in honor of the late Everett Higgs, another of the post’s founding members, who died recently.
Forty years ago – 1974
With the gasoline supply in good shape, there were indications of “gas wars” impending in Fredonia and Dunkirk. Nearly all stations had lowered or were going to lower prices.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Miss Esther C. Griewisch, cashier of the Silver Creek National Bank, was honored for 25 years of service with the bank at a dinner at the Colony House Restaurant.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Although he is running unopposed, Dunkirk Clerk of Assessors Bill Dill said he still plans to wage an active campaign in the coming weeks before the November election. Mr. Dill, who has been endorsed by the Democratic party, stated the job of assessor seldom wins anyone a popularity contest. He said that was particularly true in his case, because he has inherited a job where a lot of changes are needed. Mr. Dill was appointed by the common council to the post of clerk of the board of assessment after the death earlier this year of Stan Palka.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Three Taylor Hollow residents asked the Collins Town Board to speak to prison officials about the loud music coming from amplifiers at the Collins Correctional Facility. Complaints indicate that the inmates have radios and sound systems that disturb the tranquil neighborhood by amplification of hard rock music that is heard as far away as Richardson Road. In one incident, after a complaint the music was curtailed, but resulted in loud clapping and shouting by inmates as a reaction to the move to turn down the amplifiers. Residents warned that if these issues are not dealt with, a petition would be circulated.
Forty years ago – 1974
A new twist was added to the demonstrations of local grape growers when a group of sympathetic college students armed with signs and guitars joined the picketing farmers on Water Street in Fredonia.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A new shoe store, Phillip’s Shoes, has opened at 11 East Main St., Fredonia.
Charles Polisoto, 9 Eagle St., Forestville rolled a 298 game in the B League at Forest Lanes.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Colony House opened in Silver Creek on Dec. 19, 1953. Forty-one years later, now named The Colony Restaurant, it is owned and operated by brothers Vito “Duke” and Jeff La Barbera, serving as manager and chef. The first “Colony House” was built and operated by Russell Dolce of Silver Creek. In the ensuing years, the restaurant has been owned and operated by Anthony Gervaise, Salvatore Barone, Santo Zoda and Lois Muscato, doing business as Colony House, Spaghetti Junction and Hanover Harbor House, respectively. Today, The Colony Restaurant seats 170 and serves a wide variety of foods.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The New York Cherry Growers Association has elected three new members to its Board of Directors, including Ross Orton of Ripley, a longtime fruit farmer. The 1984 cherry crop has been harvested and processed. Most of the cherry crop in New York State is made into pie filling or frozen for later use by the nation’s large bakeries and food service companies. One of the new developments that is of great benefit to the cherry industry is the production of “lite” cherry pie filling which complements the cooking needs of the weight-conscious persons.
Forty years ago – 1974
New teachers were named at Fredonia High School. They include Kathleen Dailey, Elizabeth DeBonzo, Mary Biacree, Patricia Christina, Marlene Brooks, Karen Davis, Joan Higgs, Marty Marsh, Pamela Hughes and Edith Strauss.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Dunkirk ranks second from the bottom in a comparison of full value real estate tax rates in 60 upstate New York cities just completed by the Citizens Public Expenditure Survey, a private tax research organization.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A unique store has recently opened which caters to fans of science fiction, fantasy, horror and the like. Q-Box is located at 355 Central Avenue in Fredonia (the old YMCA building). While one of their specialties is unusual figure and “garage” kits depicting such comic book characters as Wolverine and Superman or others from Star Wars to Indiana Jones, they also carry a wide selection of T-shirts, tools, pins, posters, miniatures, adventure games, Magic Cards, magazines, toys and collectibles. Few stores in the state, not to mention the country, carry this assortment of merchandise and models, and at discounted prices.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Edmund R. “Zit” Zatorski of Dunkirk has reached 10 gallons in his donations of blood to the American Red Cross. That represents 80 blood donations. He started donating blood in 1950 and now gives about four times a year. “The blood was there when my wife needed it, and I wanted to replace it and help others too,” Mr. Zatorski said. He is employed at the OBSERVER where he operates a Compugraphic machine in the composing room for the setting of ads.
Forty years ago – 1974
A shrine will be constructed in Dunkirk for a bell that was salvaged from a large locomotive of the New York Central Railroad, it was announced by Louis Van Wey, president of the Historical Society of Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Fredonia State University College officials said that 965 freshman students, including some transfer and readmitted students, have registered for classes.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Victor Kugler of Dunkirk was the grand prize winner of a Mountain Bike in KFC’s (Tops Plaza) grand opening. Bill Hammond of Silver Creek and Richard Sprague of Cassadaga were winners of KFC Football Packs. The new restaurant is the second KFC location owned and operated by the Heenan family. Jim Heenan is store manager. Their other location is at 57 Lake Shore Drive East, Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Robert Maytum Sr. was honored at an open house recently for 50 years of dedicated service to the Dunkirk and Fredonia Telephone Company. The company currently serves about 7,700 subscribers. Since he succeeded his father, Arthur Maytum, the company has constructed two additions to its present building, purchased three pieces of property for further expansion, purchased one-half interest in Cassadaga Telephone, and provided toll-free service to several adjoining exchanges. The firm also invested $300,000 in a new Centrex telephone system at Fredonia State University College. “If I had to do it all over again, I wouldn’t change a thing,” Mr. Maytum told the OBSERVER.
Forty years ago – 1974
Through the cooperation of Fredonia businessmen, the village of Fredonia and the town of Pomfret, the Fredonia Jaycees moved 1,400 yards of gravel to the new Howard Street Park and are expected to begin paving operations for the basketball and tennis courts next week.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Mrs. Stephen Kalfas of Central Avenue, Dunkirk has returned from Chicago, where she spent 10 days attending the Veterans of World War I national convention. She is legislative director for the Department of New York WWI Auxiliary.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Michaela Albach, a 17-year-old Dunkirk High School junior, will get the chance of her young life later this month when she sings on Star Search. A singer since she was 5, Michaela auditioned in Manhattan in May (where she sang Mariah Carey’s “If It’s Over”) and was selected to compete on the program hosted by Ed McMahon. She will sing one of two songs – “Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin or “Where Does My Heart Beat Now” by Celine Dion. Michaela began singing at church at the age of 7 and has performed at many functions around Chautauqua County. She is the daughter of Michael and Rody Albach of West Fourth Street, Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Joseph Tampio of Central Avenue, Silver Creek, poses with a giant muskmelon grown in his garden. The melon weighed over 20 pounds and grew to 21 inches in length and was over 33 inches around. Despite its size, the melon was sweet and very tasty to eat. The seeds were a gift from his grandson, Joseph, over three years ago. Since then, Mr. Tampio has been drying the seed from the largest melons and re-planting them.
Forty years ago – 1974
Fredonia State University College professor Dr. Elbert Bowden’s textbook, “Economics: The Science of Common Sense,” has been published.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The first Mass in the newly-constructed Newman Center for Fredonia College students was celebrated on Sept. 20 by the Rev. Andrew Fuller, the Newman apostolate chaplain.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Ripley Board of Education, during its meeting, honored Ralph Chiesi for his efforts to keep the school yearbook afloat. Mr. Chiesi, a concerned parent, was given the Board of Education Award for his work in raising $8,000 for the 1994 yearbook. The money also was used to help defray past debts incurred by the district for publishing the yearbooks. At every meeting, the board honors a student or adult for a good deed performed in the best interest of the school district.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Dunkirk Loyal Order of Moose Lodge 89 has planned a weekend celebration to honor its newest Pilgrim Brother Raymond Abramowicz. Raymond is the recipient of the Fourth Degree, the highest LOOM award and one awarded for dedicated service to the lodge and mankind. He is only the second member to receive the award in the 75 years the local lodge has been organized. The first recipient was Fred Boast of Dunkirk in 1964.
Forty years ago – 1974
Anthony St. George of Fredonia has been named head of the Off Track Betting Parlor in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A horse running along Central Avenue near Green Street in Dunkirk around 3:30 a.m. was captured by police and temporarily put in the city barn. The owner, a Bennett Road resident, claimed the horse and told police it had broken through a fence.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
An OBSERVER photo shows Justin Strawser, 10, of Silver Creek as he spits a grape into a bucket during the annual grape spitting contest at the Silver Creek Festival of Grapes. Justin was named “Grand Champion” after managing to land more grapes in a bucket than any other contestant.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Julie A. Richter of Forestville and Laura C. Deiulio of Fredonia have been named as two of 15,000 semifinalists in the 30th National Merit Program, which is conducted by the National Merit Scholarship Corp. Julie is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Richter of Bradigan Road, Forestville. A senior, she is ranked first in her class. Laura is the daughter of Anthony and Judith Deiulio of 30 University Park, Fredonia. She is also ranked first in her senior class at Fredonia High School.
Forty years ago – 1974
Members of the Women’s Christian Temperance Union opened its 100th annual convention at the Fredonia Baptist Church.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A new business course, distributive education, will be offered at Dunkirk High School this fall. Anthony Conti will be the coordinator for the course.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Two Angola girls garnered Festival of Grapes Pageant titles in Silver Creek. Catherine Marie Buckley was crowned the 1994 Miss Festival of Grapes while Brittany Lawrence was named 1994 Little Miss Festival of Grapes. In all, 13 young women and 12 girls competed for the two titles. Catherine is the daughter of Donald and Angela Buckley and a senior at Lake Shore Central School. Brittany, a student at the W.T. Hoag Elementary School, is the daughter of Blaine and Guylene Ludlow.
Thirty years ago – 1984
On Sunday, Sept. 16, the 85th anniversary of the founding of St. Joseph Church in Fredonia was celebrated with a Mass by Auxiliary Bishop Bernard J. McLaughlin, the receipt of the sacrament of Confirmation by 22 young adults, and a dinner in the parish hall. While the parish has existed since 1899, the church was sufficiently completed for use on Dec. 9, 1900 when Father Thomas Clark celebrated the first low Mass. The church was dedicated on May 12, 1901 by Bishop Quigley. Gifts to the church were many, the most prominent being the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary donated on May 5, 1901 by the Rev. Nelson H. Baker (Father Baker).
Forty years ago – 1974
Three stainless steel sculptures by William King, entitled “Words,” are ready to be dedicated at Fredonia State University College.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Arson was suspected in a small fire on a fishing tug “Lady Isabel II,” that was moored in the Dunkirk Harbor.
At the Aldrich Dairy stores, milk is 20 cents a quart.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The 25th anniversary season of the Michael C. Rockefeller Arts Center on the Fredonia State University Campus opened recently with a gala dinner and concert. The pre-concert buffet was held on the stage of the Robert W. Marvel Theatre. Brass and trumpet fanfares greeted the concert-goers outside the Harry A. King Concert Hall and a Hollywood-style carbon arc searchlight scanned the sky outside the hall. Governor Nelson A. Rockefeller visited the Fredonia State campus in 1969 to dedicate the new buildings which became the Michael C. Rockefeller Arts Center. The center was named for the governor’s son, Michael, who had been lost and presumed drowned during an anthropological expedition to New Guinea in 1961.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Representatives of the Murraymen of Murray Hose Co. No. 4 in Dunkirk presented awards from this year’s competition to the fire company recently. Mayor Edwin Gregoreski issued a proclamation making Sunday “Murraymen Appreciation Day.” The group won the New York State and Southwestern Firemen’s Association Championship and were the champions of the NY-Penn Association Senior Drum Corps.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Pinafore, a reconstruction of a 17th-century two-masted ship, stopped for a visit to Dunkirk Harbor and is en route to Florida.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A University of Wisconsin student left his glasses in the vehicle of a Fredonia resident who had picked him up while he was hitchhiking. His glasses were returned following an OBSERVER story on the incident. The two had previously not known each other’s names.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Northern Chautauqua Catholic School began its 1994-95 year in its new location on Washington Avenue in Dunkirk. There are 198 students registered this year. Michael Goth was named the principal of the school this summer. New staff members include: Cathy Wojcinski, kindergarten; Katie Pucci, first grade; JoLeen Kolasa, second grade; Jodie Walters, art; and Claire Michele Piliero, music.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Six hundred persons have petitioned the Dunkirk Board of Education to eliminate the position of assistant superintendent from the district payroll as a way of saving money. When presenting the petition to the board, East Green Street resident Edna DeGolier told the board she believes an assistant superintendent is no longer needed due to a drop in enrollment since the position was created in 1970 to take advantage of federal grant programs. “Our enrollment in 1970 was 3,400 and our enrollment now is 2,500,” she said.
Forty years ago – 1974
Sue Wood and Betty Shuster are the instructors for the new Figure ‘N Fitness programs at the YMCA in Fredonia.
Fifty years ago – 1964
An ambitious and comprehensive plan calling for the development of a concentrated, efficient and attractive central business district in downtown Dunkirk was placed before members of the Dunkirk-Fredonia Regional Planning Board.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Paula Pichon, 21, of Forestville is the youngest woman on the local race car circuit. She has been driving at Stateline and Eriez speedways for three seasons and has consistently been among the top drivers in the trophy class. This season she was among the top five female drivers in the trophy class. Paula recalled the first race she drove in when she was just 19 years of age. “I finished dead last … but I finished,” she said. The Stateline track in Chautauqua County draws the largest spectator crowd of any sporting event in the county, with about 5,000 fans at every event. The oval dirt track is one-third mile long. Women drivers are the first to challenge the turf on Saturday nights.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Mrs. Claudia Riley of Fredonia attended the American Legion Auxiliary’s 64th annual convention in Salt Lake City, Utah. She represented the Department of New York at the convention, attended by women from every state. A highlight of the convention was the address of President Reagan on Sept. 4 and entertainment at the dinner by comedian Bob Hope. Mrs. Riley, a member of Fredonia Memorial Unit 59, has belonged to the American Legion Auxiliary for 19 years.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Old Main building in Fredonia was the main topic of discussion at a village hall meeting which drew a packed house.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Around $2,500 in damages occurred when the brakes on a car let loose and it rolled down a driveway and into a plate glass showroom window at Dengler Chevrolet, East Main Street, Fredonia. No one was injured.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Dunkirk Patriots Drum and Bugle Corps recently purchased a new travel bus. Donations from local organizations and fund-raising efforts by members of the corps allowed the group to purchase the 1983 International bus. The bus is shown in an OBSERVER photo along with Bob Teclaw, drum corps director; Donna Szach, secretary of the corps; Joe David, business manager; Julie Banach, fund-raising coordinator; and Mike Szach.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Sister Mary Maxine, CSSF, has been appointed as the new principal of St. Hyacinth’s School. A native of Erie, Pa., she entered the Felician Order of Sisters and received her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in education from Medaille College. Sister Maxine previously served as principal at St. Stanislaus Kostka in Niagara Falls where she opened a pre-kindergarten program. In her three-year term as principal, the school enrollment doubled.
Forty years ago – 1974
Area grape growers set up a picket line in front of the Fredonia Products plants in Dunkirk and Fredonia, in protest of what they are calling unrealistic grape prices for the year.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Brooks Hospital in Dunkirk received an anonymous donation of $200 in cash which was in an envelope. A note accompanying the contribution stated, “Please accept this donation for services rendered.” It was signed “John Doe.”
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A large crowd attended a Mass at Holy Trinity Church recently along with a meeting in support of reopening Cardinal Mindszenty High School in Dunkirk. Local parents have been organizing to reopen the school closed in 1979. The Mass was celebrated by the Rev. Joseph Gatto. Offering of gifts and Mindszenty memorabilia were made by Joey and Angela Pucciarelli, Sarah and Emily Rich, Katie Stegle and Beth Michaels. Talks on the school will continue.
Thirty years ago – 1984
When the Dunkirk Common Council lifted the long-time ban on glass beverage containers in the city’s parks earlier this year, they did so cautiously vowing to reimpose it if broken glass problems developed. It appears their concerns were unwarranted, however, since there were no major problems with broken glass in the parks this summer. And one of the main reasons for the lack of a problem is the state’s bottle deposit law, which requires a deposit to be paid on all beverage containers, including non-reusable glass bottles.
Forty years ago – 1974
A set of special, air-filled floats was purchased for the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department helicopter, which can now float on water as well.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Red Barn, a chain of drive-in restaurants across the country, is opening its first operation in New York State in Dunkirk. It will be located on the southeast corner of Dove Street and Lake Shore Drive West.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Featured in the OBSERVER Sports Scrapbook is Betty (Burke) Bartkowiak, who spends her summers on Genet Street in Dunkirk and her winters in Barefoot Bay, Fla. She played basketball, softball and volleyball for Dunkirk High School, graduating in 1949. She was the recipient of the Girls’ D Club Athletic Award. While at college at SUNY Brockport to earn a physical education degree, she played virtually every sport. Betty was the star pitcher on the Koch’s Annies softball team that won the Mid-Atlantic Championship in 1953. She taught at SUNY Oswego for 25 years during which time she coached practically every sport. Her 1975 team won a state title in bowling. Betty was inducted into the WNY Softball Hall of Fame in 1988 and the SUNY Brockport Sports Hall of Fame in 1990.
Thirty years ago – 1984
For the first time that any of the present employees can remember, work at the OBSERVER offices stopped briefly this morning as the men and women gathered in The Common to congratulate longtime photographer Lamar Schnur on his 70th birthday and share a specially decorated cake. It’s been 49 years of togetherness for Lamar, the OBSERVER and its readers.
Forty years ago – 1974
Dr. Neil Donohue and Dr. Zsolt Szekely were hired as new radiologists at Brooks Hospital in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Van Raalte Co. Inc., manufacturers of intimate apparel, announced today that between now and Spring 1965, it will terminate its manufacturing operations at Dunkirk and Silver Creek, due to their “relative inefficiency.” The operations of the two plants will be consolidated with its other 11 plants.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The third annual Share-A-Dream caravan of 18-wheel rigs will be traveling a 30-mile round trip between Fredonia and Westfield today. Each trailer cab will be carrying a child in need and his or her parent or guardian as passengers. A riderless tractor-trailer will serve as the lead rig as a symbol of children who have died. This year, the semis will be led by a band of bikers – 50 to 75 Harley Davidson motorcycles. All funds raised from this event benefit Children’s Hospital in Buffalo and Shriners Hospital in Erie.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Effective with the end of the school day today, all schools in the Fredonia Central School District were closed for the time being so that portions of the East Main Street campus could be tested over the weekend for asbestos levels in the air. According to Dr. James M. Merrins, superintendent of Fredonia schools, “the problem is one of confirmed test results showing asbestos in parts of the (new) elementary and middle schools, and a small portion of the high school. The question remains whether this is a serious problem or not. Asbestos is not a serious health hazard itself.” He explained that the Fredonia Board of Education decided to take a “highly conservative approach” by closing all the schools for an indefinite period.
Forty years ago – 1974
Timothy Whitesel, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry Whitesel of Fredonia, is pictured with his beagle and her six 5-week-old puppies in the OBSERVER Pet of the Week column.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Beatles’ movie, “It’s A Hard Day’s Night,” id playing at the Capitol Theater in Dunkirk, while “It’s a Mad, Mad Mad World” is appearing at the Regent in Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The time has finally arrived at Dunkirk High. After 11 straight non-winning seasons, the Marauders count themselves among the Division 6 contenders. That, at least, is the estimation of Coach Mike Sarratori, who states he is very optimistic after being rehired for his fifth season following much debate among board of education members. The Marauders were 2-6-1 last season, the best in Sarratori’s previous four seasons (two 1-7s and one 0-8). But the outlook is brighter. This, Sarratori said, is his most talented team so far.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Scientists at Scripps Institution have issued a warning about a popular low-calorie sweetener marketed as NutraSweet and Equal. The sweetener undergoes a potentially harmful chemical change when heated and should not be used in cooking or hot drinks. When heated, two harmless components of the sweetener, technically known as aspartame, change into a form that could have a harmful effect on people. There is no direct evidence that heated aspartame is hazardous, but the chemical changes were of such a nature that the possibility exists for danger.
Forty years ago – 1974
A total of $4,380.85 was raised for the Jerry Lewis Telethon for Muscular Dystrophy in the Dunkirk-Fredonia area.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Brothers John and Mike Guziec, both avid fishermen, had big catches today while on Lake Chautauqua. Mike caught a 48 1/2-inch, 24 1/2-pound muskie while John got a 40-inch muskie.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Two family-owned companies in Pomfret are now carrying the Penske name. The DeCeilio Truck Leasing Corp. and DTL Carriers Inc. have been bought by the Penske Truck Leasing Co. DeCeilio Truck Leasing Corp. was founded in 1950 by the late Herbert DeCeilio. The fleet began with one truck leased to the Red Wing Co. of Fredonia and grew to become a major player serving the Dunkirk-Fredonia market. The DeCeilio-owned DTL Carriers Inc., begun in 1974, had Red Wing and Better Baked Goods of North East, Pa., as its major customers.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Postal Rate Commission is expected to recommend that the cost of a first-class stamp be raised from 20 cents to 22 cents at its meeting today. The increase could become effective as early as next February. The Postal Service has been seeking to increase the cost of first-class stamps and other classes of mail by $3.1 billion over a year. The rate-making decision comes at a time when the Postal Service is embroiled in labor negotiations with four unions representing 600,000 workers. The cost of mailing a letter last went up in November 1981 when it went from 18 to 20 cents.
Forty years ago – 1974
During a five-hour battle, 13 Chautauqua County fire departments poured more than a million gallons of water on a stubborn natural gas well fire in Stockton.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A group of women employees of Dunkirk Ice Cream Company recently met for a picnic at Point Gratiot in honor of Miss Alberta Nowak, who is leaving for Southern Seminary Junior College in Virginia.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
An investigation is ongoing to determine the cause of a Sept. 1 early morning fire that damaged the building at 27 Water St. in Fredonia which currently houses Lena’s Pizza Parlor. No damage estimates have been announced. The building is owned by Thomas J. Phelka and formerly housed Pontillo’s, a pizza parlor in the mid-1960s. Before that, Barker-Higbee ran an electronics store there. The building dates back to the turn of the century. According to Fredonia Mayor Louis Mancuso, the building is the last of the “old, old buildings” on Water Street and is one of the oldest wooden structures in the village.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The four Dunkirk parochial grade schools enrolled 641 students this year, an increase of 26 students compared to first-day enrollment in 1983. St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, the largest of the four schools, counted 232 students, including 45 preschoolers, a decrease of three students compared to the first day of school last year. Holy Trinity School reported an increase of 38 students, the only increase among the four schools, and overtook St. Hyacinth’s as the second largest parochial school in the city. The Holy Trinity first-day figure of 188 includes 80 preschoolers. St. Hyacinth’s enrolled 182 students, 12 fewer than last year. Central Christian Academy reported an enrollment of 39 in grades K through four.
Forty years ago – 1974
An AP article reported that the ice cream cone, created in 1904 at the St. Louis World’s Fair, is celebrating its 70th birthday.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Dunkirk Junior High School will operate in double sessions this year – the eighth graders in the morning and the seventh graders in the afternoon.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A two-person yellow submarine known as “Sea Probe I” and built by Bill Vacanti in his Dunkirk garage, is on its way to the West Coast to become a deep-sea research vessel. Mr. Vacanti’s company, “In-Search-Of Associates” is a limited partnership with about 30 investors who are interested in underwater salvage. Their sole purpose is to locate and salvage three wrecks in the Great Lakes. Total worth of the three wrecks is estimated in excess of $400 million. Sea Probe I was designed on a computer and built of steel. It is 14-and-a-half feet long and weighs two tons. The one-of-a-kind submarine was constructed over a four- year period. “The hardest part was trying to figure out how to build it in a one-car garage,” Mr. Vacanti said.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Gowanda Village Board approved a building permit that will allow construction of a Rite Aid drugstore on the Glazier property next to the post office on West Main Street. The building permit was granted based on stipulations which had been recommended by the village planning board. Certain restrictions concern the plot plan in regard to parking areas, landscaping, sign display and drainage systems.
Forty years ago – 1974
Plans are under way for the Dunkirk Midget League Football Day in Dunkirk and Fredonia, with the league’s 150 players and five cheerleading squads set to hold a fund drive to defray expenses for new equipment, ground maintenance and other operating costs.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Nearly 900 fashion-minded women filled the Capitol Theater in Dunkirk to watch the Town and Country fall fashion show. The fashions were worn by 60 models ranging in age from 10 to 18, who were from the Town and Country Charm and Modeling School.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
One of the oldest maple trees still standing in Cassadaga will soon be no more. A large limb of the tree, which stands an estimated 60 feet high and carries a girth of 11 feet, fell across Maple Avenue on Aug. 28 during the storm which damaged a number of other trees across the county. The limb was removed from the road by the Cassadaga Volunteer Fire Department. The maple stands in the corner of the property owned by Florabelle Helwig who expressed her emotional attachment to the tree, which had been used to attach rope swings and tapped for maple syrup every year.
Thirty years ago – 1984
An OBSERVER front page photo shows six-year-old Matthew Glowniak receiving some support from his mother, Mrs. Norman Glowniak, as he heads for first grade at St. Hyacinth School in Dunkirk. The new school year opened for thousands of local and area students today. Seeing big brother off is Peter James Glowniak, age 2.
Forty years ago – 1974
After more than six years in Southeast Asia as regional legal advisor for the U.S. Agency for International Development (AID), Dunkirk native Edna Boorady has returned to the United States to assume another assignment with AID at its Washington, D.C., headquarters.
Fifty years ago – 1964
About 2,000 students were expected to enroll at Fredonia State University College, the biggest enrollment in the college’s history.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held recently for the dedication of the Portland Little League Field as the Arthur “Bud” Miller Memorial Complex to honor the memory of the man who served as a charter member and organizer of the Brocton-Portland Little League Association. What he organized 40 years ago with only one team of 12 members has escalated to this day of 19 teams with more than 200 boys and girls participating. Mr. Miller also helped start the Brocton Central School Sports Booster Club in 1962. His efforts proved successful, in that within one year, a new football field with lighting was erected.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The team of Allan Paglia and Fred Gugino captured their second H.K. Williams Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament at Shorewood Country Club, winning the 30th annual Labor Day Weekend event by six shots. The three-day, 54-hole event attracted a field of 40 two-man teams. The championship trophy was presented by Mrs. H.K. Williams. The winners also received the traditional green jackets and carriage clocks.
Forty years ago – 1974
Frank Kuznicki, animal control officer for the city of Dunkirk, reported that he found about 18 pigeons which had been poisoned.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The First Ward Falcon Club held its Labor Day dance in the clubrooms. Music for dancing was provided by the David Gorski Orchestra of Buffalo.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A little over a year ago, the late Lewis Mead of Cassadaga went to Brookline, Maine, to learn how to build a cedar strip canoe. In turn, he taught this art to others at Buffalo State University College. Mr. Mead was building his fifth canoe when he was stricken with a brain tumor. The half-finished canoe sat in his workshop at the Lake’s End Marina on Maple Avenue where he and his wife, Carol, moved after living in Forestville. Mr. Mead’s son, Phil, completed the canoe as a tribute to his father. He hauled the craft to his home in Delaware where he spent countless hours finishing up what his father had started. This past week the end product was brought back to Cassadaga Lakes and launched off the Lake’s End dock into the water. The canoe bears a brass plate with the inscription: “Handmade by Lew and Phil Mead, 94-95.”
Thirty years ago – 1984
Jennifer Gallant, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. James Gallant of Brocton and a sophomore at Brocton Central School, has been elected president of the State of New York Junior Girls Unit to the Ladies Auxiliary of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. Miss Gallant is a charter member and past president of the Junior Girls Unit of John T. Murray VFW Post 1017. She is the first Junior Girl Unit member from Western New York to become a state president. She will preside over 21 Junior Girl Units across the state with about 500 members.
Forty years ago – 1974
A colorful mural featuring a train was painted on the side of the George Graf Co. at 319 Central Ave., Dunkirk as part of the summer arts program.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Giant mushrooms that were cropping up in the area are pictured in the OBSERVER. Harry Moser of Van Buren Road reported having an 11 1/2 inch mushroom at his residence, while Shelly Lynne Carlson of Dunkirk displayed a 1 1/2 pound specimen.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Barrett Christina, a Fredonia native, spent the summer in Washington, D.C. as a college intern. While there, the Oswego State University senior learned first hand how government works on a national scale. Through the internship, he met President Bill Clinton and his wife, Hillary. He also received an invitation to the Fourth of July fireworks which took place on the White House south lawn. Barrett noted that power- and ego-trips pervade “from interns to high ranking staff members.”
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Puerto Rican Social Club, corner of Central Avenue and East Second Street, hosted its first annual block party on Sunday afternoon and evening with more than 500 persons attending. Featured was dancing to music by Los Sublimes, a popular group led by Eddie Rosas of Fredonia and La Nueva Congregacion of Buffalo. Two roasted pigs, traditional to such celebrations, were served. The party was arranged by Mr. and Mrs. Sergio DeJesus, co-chairmen and officers of the club. Mrs. DeJesus declared it “a great success.”
Forty years ago – 1974
A specialist in criminology, Peter Sinden, who is nearing completion of his doctoral work, joined the sociology department at Fredonia State University College.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A new booklet, “This is Fredonia,” prepared by the League of Women Voters, was presented to Fredonia Mayor Russell Joy by League President Mrs. Ivan Putnam.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Crossroads Business Association has announced that James “Turk” Murphy has been named as the “Special Person for 1994.” Any time an emergency arises in Dunkirk, Turk is one of the first on the scene. He has been a member of the city’s volunteer fire department for almost 50 years. In 1956, he organized an emergency rescue squad and as captain, commanded a 23-man operation. Turk will always be remembered for his heroic service without regard for personal safety on Jan. 26, 1978 when he helped save five men who would have perished in the icy waters of Lake Erie when their boat became trapped in ice.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A School of Music has been established by Fredonia State University College. The century-old nationally-accredited music program enrolls nearly 400 students and ranks among the largest in the country. Acting President J. Carter Rowland cited the growing complexity of the music department as a main reason for naming it a School of Music. Rowland said the history of the music program at Fredonia is a long and illustrious one, dating back to the 1800s, when it was started by the Fredonia Academy. In the early 1900s, the quality of the program led the state to set it aside as one of only three in the Normal School system which would provide courses in music.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Community Council of Cassadaga Schools met to discuss plans for the upcoming year, which included setting up a phone survey network.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Four Van Buren families purchased a 20-by-8 foot pontoon boat “just for fun.” They are Mr. and Mrs. Albert Lidell, Mr. and Mrs. Harley Johnston, Mr. and Mrs. Murray Armentrout and Dr. and Mrs. David Sharp.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Well over 1,000 customers were served opening day at the new McDonald’s restaurant located on Sandhill Road and Buffalo Street in Gowanda. The restaurant opened at 6 a.m. to crowds of people standing in line to be among the first through the doors. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at 9:30 a.m. with some of the local firemen holding the ribbon for owner Mike Beatty. The ribbon was a little special in that it had 100 $1 bills attached, which were donated to the fire department. The restaurant, decorated in peach and teal, offers seating for 50. It employs 68, including one restaurant manager and four assistant managers.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Donald Anderson Jr. of Stockton and Michael Peterson of Frewsburg won a number of outstanding awards at the New York State Fair 4-H Swine Show in Syracuse. A total of 85 4-Hers were entered in the show and the state’s First Place Senior Showmanship Award was won by Don Anderson. Mike Peterson was named the Second Best Senior Showman. In the live judging of the animals, Don Anderson had the first place heavyweight market hog, a 243-pound Duroc.
Forty years ago – 1974
Fredonia State University College reported having its fourth consecutive year of growth in funds to support research, special training and innovation.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Fred Boast of Dunkirk received the Pilgrim of Merit Award in robing ceremonies held at the Dunkirk Moose Lodge.