Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A group of volunteers in Silver Creek are doing everything they can to ensure that area residents in need do not go to bed hungry. The Silver Creek Food Pantry was started in 1983 by Anna Gorndt, the Rev. George Campbell of Trinity Lutheran Church and the Rev. Richard Drankwalter of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church. Mrs. Gorndt initiated the idea for the food pantry because she saw a need. The first donation the pantry received was 1,000 pounds of spaghetti. The food pantry is sponsored by the community and is 100 percent staffed by volunteers. It has helped 560 families in 1994 and distributed 200 food baskets for Christmas.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The South Dayton Volunteer Fire Department hopes to be able to erect a new activity and equipment building in the near future. The building will be located at the edge of the Village Square on an eight-acre section of land purchased by the fire department. The firemen have been involved in the planning stages of this project for at least three years. Their goal is to raise the needed money through functions such as dances and bingo.
Forty years ago – 1974
“Frenchie,” a poodle owned by the Falkner family of Dunkirk, has been selected the OBSERVER Pet of the Week.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Three Dunkirk clubs, the Frank Acquavia Post, Lakeside Club and John T. Murray Post 1017 have all been burglarized during the past week.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Rev. Msgr. Thomas Crane, pastor of St. Hedwig’s Church in Dunkirk, has been reassigned. He is now the pastor of St. Joseph’s Church in North Tonawanda. Msgr. Crane came to St. Hedwig’s on Feb. 1, 1985. Before that, he served as a seminary professor of biblical studies at several seminaries, both in the United States and in Australia and as a visiting lecturer in more than a dozen countries. In 1993, he was elevated to the rank of monsignor by Pope John Paul II.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Westfield Memorial Hospital offers unique and personalized services for mothers-to-be. The hospital’s maternity department is considered by those who have used the facility as one of the most progressive units in the area. Many expectant mothers travel to Westfield to have their babies even though they live in a community which has its own hospital. The most extreme case is that of a woman who lived in California and traveled to Westfield to use the hospital’s birthing facilities. One of the biggest attractions offered at the Westfield Hospital is the birthing bed-chair, which is unique in certain aspects.
Forty years ago – 1974
David L. Larson, Ph.D., a sociology professor at Fredonia State University College, has received a $13,870 grant for a study on the recreational use of Lake Erie.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A water sampling program in Dunkirk concluded that Hyde Creek is spewing polluted water into Lake Erie.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Part of the former Fred C. Koch Brewery on West Courtney Street in Dunkirk is slated for demolition. The Koch’s building has been identified as a hazard and is accessible to neighborhood children who have been found playing in it. The building is in very bad shape and is privately owned. Since the owner is difficult to get in touch with and has not been notified yet, the structure will be demolished by the city. The structure marked for demolition was built in the 1940s and 1950s during the greatest expansion years of the Fred C. Koch Brewery.
Thirty years ago – 1984
An elaborate ribbon-cutting ceremony was held recently to celebrate the reopening of the Lakeview Hotel Smorgasboard located between Routes 5 & 20 on Lakeview Road in Lakeview. Lakeview is now under the management of John and Linda Ziccarelli, who also own Shoreline Manor, home of Jay’s Catering.
Forty years ago – 1974
Carol Broad, who attends Fredonia High School, has been selected as the OBSERVER Student of the Week.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Niagara Mohawk will spend $1.7 million for improvements and construction to its service facilities in the Lake Shore area sometime during 1965.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
“You have to be a scientist, a poet and a judge,” is how Joseph Woloszyn sees the printing business. Featured in People in Profile, the Dunkirk resident and his wife, Delphine, own and operate Woloszyn Printing. Their business has completed about 27,000 jobs in the past 38 years including printing church bulletins, stationery envelopes, business forms, booklets, brochures, sports programs and wedding invitations. The Woloszyns also operate a shipping business which many local residents use to send items to relatives in Poland. Now getting ready for retirement Mr. Woloszyn, an accomplished wood carver, plans to eventually use the print shop as a wood-carving workroom and a place for a local wood carving club to meet.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Instituted as St. Joseph’s School for Exceptional Children in 1955, the facility on Bennett Road, in the town of Dunkirk, will close its doors on June 30, 1985. The announcement was made by Sister Mary Augusta Kaiser, SSJ of Buffalo, president of the school’s board of directors. St. Joseph’s Farm and School was an orphanage for boys. The original name was filed Dec. 27, 1929. When foster homes became popular and the building was no longer needed for an orphanage, the new name was established. During the past 25 years, the school has served a variety of mentally retarded persons both on a day and residential basis.
Forty years ago – 1974
Sixteen people spent the night in the Old Main School at Fredonia State and were convinced the building is haunted. Their story attracted national attention.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Twenty-five honor students at Brocton Central School are planning the first college homecoming for BCS alumni presently engaged in further education and training.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
John Antosh was awarded “Toastmaster of the Year” honors at a recent meeting of the Concord Chapter Spellbinders Toastmasters International held at the United Way office in Dunkirk. In announcing the award, President James Rawcliffe reflected on Mr. Antosh’s service to the club over the past 18 months as first vice president. Mr. Antosh was responsible for organizing each meeting. The club’s focus is on improving its members’ verbal abilities.
Thirty years ago – 1984
James M. Johnson, a Fredonia resident and member of the military science department at Fredonia State University College, was recently promoted to the rank of sergeant major, the highest rank attainable in the enlisted armed forces. Sgt. Major Johnson recently came to the college from the Army Reserve Officers Training Corps Unit at UCLA. He is a graduate of the U.S. Army Sergeant Major Academy and has served in the Army for 23 years.
Forty years ago – 1974
Dunkirk City Court Judge August R. Jankowski has received his fourth seeing eye dog, a 2-year-old golden retriever named “Banner.”
Fifty years ago – 1964
Outside a Washington Avenue home in Dunkirk, 409 packs of cigarettes were stolen from a truck.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Each year since 1989, Johnson Adult Homes in Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties, has presented an award to an individual who has provided outstanding services to their residents. This year’s awards went to Nancy Chamberlin of the Dunkirk Social Security Administration and Daryl Krakowiak of the Social Work Department at the Erie County Medical Center. Plaques were presented at a dinner at the Sheraton Harborfront Inn in Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Student of the Week is Deborah Meyer, daughter of Mrs. Charlotte Durrance, North State Street, Ripley. A senior at Ripley Central School, she is majoring in math and science. Deborah is a member of the National Honor Society and an aide in the school office. Other activities include basketball cheerleader, sophomore class president, secretary of student council, volleyball team, band and chorus. She also has a brown belt in karate. Following graduation, she plans to continue her education in the field of physical therapy.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Dunkirk Common Council recently hired Dunkirk architect Nelson Palmer to design shelter houses with toilets and showers for Point Gratiot and Cedar Beach.
Fifty years ago – 1964
WBEN-TV of Buffalo will air a program on deer management, which was partially filmed with the Westfield Fish and Game Club.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Susan Runkle, daughter of John and Cathi Runkle, won’t be home for Christmas this year. This past July, she flew 9,500 miles to Pune, India. A senior at Cassadaga Valley Central School, Susan is taking part in a yearlong student exchange program. She is living in a country where the major religion is Hinduism, not Christianity. Mrs. Runkle has been videotaping various scenes in and around Cassadaga to help her daughter feel more at home for the holidays, including outdoor Christmas decorations, the village tree, and the lights and display at Ames Commons. Susan, who is taking classes at a junior college near her host family’s home, explained that it was very hot in India right now and the residents don’t even know what snow is.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Six to eight hours is required for Mrs. Ronald (Joanne) Hoffman, 106 Otter St., Dunkirk, to set up her ceramic village under the family Christmas tree. The tree and accompanying village decorates the home until sometime after the New Year. Mrs. Hoffman, a pharmacy employee at Brooks Hospital, states that the village is colorful and fun to do and is a treasured keepsake – an important part of Christmas in the Hoffman home.
Forty years ago – 1974
A new parish complex to include a church, school and rectory was proposed by diocesan officials to parishioners of St. Mary’s/Sacred Heart of Jesus churches in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
At a recent outing, a bowling group of handicapped children used the new lightweight bowling balls at Lucky Lanes in Fredonia. The balls were purchased by the Chautauqua County Easter Seal fund.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Facial Expressions, at 21 Water Street, Fredonia, recently had its grand reopening and ins now located in the front of the Invention Room building in Fredonia. Pathways Books and Wellness Center, also recently opened at 21 Water St., at the same location as Facial Expressions. Together, the two businesses offer a full-line of Day Spa services to improve your life. Pathways was formerly known as Chautauqua Healing Arts.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Dunkirk Printing Company’s annual employees’ Christmas party was held at Joseph Anthony’s Restaurant with special recognition given to Ms. Diane Gula, advertising sales representative, who was selected “Outstanding Employee of the Year,” and retiree LaMar Schnur. Ms. Gula is known for her work with the United Way Campaign. Mr. Schnur recently retired after 50 years with the company. A moment of silence was observed for the late Leo Kaleta, a longtime OBSERVER employee.
Forty years ago – 1974
Women employees of the former Alco Products in Dunkirk held at Christmas reunion at the Kosciuszko Club.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Fredonia Village Board has scheduled a dog ordinance hearing, due to numerous complaints about dogs biting persons, tearing clothing and digging up lawns.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Civiletto’s Greenhouse, in continuing its 77-year-old family tradition of quality and service, recently opened their new gift and garden shop, “In a Nutshell.” The grand opening of the shop, located at Routes 60 & 20, Fredonia, was held in early December complete with giveaways and a visit from Santa. The store was filled with everything for Christmas decorating and gift-giving needs. The owners are George and Wendy Civiletto.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Maytum Family and the Dunkirk and Fredonia Telephone Co. have created the Arthur R. Maytum Scholarship at Fredonia State University College with an initial donation of $10,000. The scholarship was endowed through the Fredonia College Foundation in honor of one of the late founders of the local telephone company. It is intended as financial aid for outstanding students majoring in either communications or computer science.
Forty years ago – 1974
Silver Creek area firemen distributed poinsettias to residents of the Lake Shore Nursing Home and patients at Lake Shore Hospital.
Fifty years ago – 1964
An article in today’s paper reminds readers of an event from 10 years ago when Spot, an 8-year-old mixed breed dog, opened a door with his teeth and ran a quarter mile to a neighbor’s home to summon aid for his ailing master, Hartley Farrar of Stockton. Mr. Farrar had suffered a heart attack and was listed in good condition at Brooks Hospital.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Frederick “Fritz” Dillenburg of Sheridan recently left his position as a “do” person to become a “pew” person. He has centered much of his life around St. John Bosco Church, tending to the grounds and the church regularly and was the recipient of the St. Joseph the Worker Award. On Dec. 1, Mr. Dillenburg resigned his longtime position as a parish trustee and now plans to enjoy his church from the pews. In 1962, he took the trip of a lifetime with former St. John Bosco pastor, Rev. Michael Giovino as they toured Europe with trips to the Vatican and Rome.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Three Ripley men have just marketed their invention that they hope will eliminate the grape farmer’s costly and time-consuming task of brush pulling. Brothers Bill and Bob Bentley and neighbor Alan Waters, all of East Main Road, Ripley have invented a hydraulically-powered rotary brush remover. The trio’s invention has been issued a patent pending license. It is being manufactured by Chisholm-Ryder of Niagara Falls, NY, a company known for its grape industry-related machinery. Known as the Chisholm-Ryder Brush Puller, it is a wheel with “teeth” extending from it. The puller attaches with a bumper mounting to the front of the tractor. The teeth pull the loose grape brush off the trellis up to about 50 inches and lays the brush in the center of the vineyard aisle for chopping, which can be done in one step with a chopper hooked behind the tractor.
Forty years ago – 1974
“American Graffiti,” brought back by popular demand, is playing at the Cinema 1 in Fredonia.
The Modern Men are appearing at The White Inn in Fredonia.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A Dunkirk resident sent a telegram of congratulations to Jack Ruby in his Dallas, Texas, cell after he shot Lee Harvey Oswald. “You did what many citizens of Dallas would have done, except you had the courage,” the letter stated.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The varsity cheerleading squad at Westfield Academy and Central School is a repeat qualifier for the National Dance and Cheerleading Championships scheduled for March 9-13, 1995 in Orlando, Fla. The squad recently won the 11th annual Festival of Lights Cheerleading Championship, giving it three major championships for the year and an automatic bid to the nationals. Coach Marci Manfield noted that she has a really great squad that was pumped up about qualifying for nationals for the second straight year.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The conversion of the former beach house at Cedar Beach into the new city dog pound has been completed and the facility is now in use. Animal Control Officer Frank Kuznicki said the building was insulated and cages were built so several animals could be kept at one time. The city abandoned its former pound on the Point Gratiot Lighthouse property after that property was taken over by a local veteran’s group.
Forty years ago – 1974
Robert Theobald, a noted futurist and consultant, will speak on what life may be like in the 21st century during a presentation at Fredonia State University College.
Fifty years ago – 1964
New officers of the Chautauqua County Tuberculosis and Public Health Association were on hand for the unveiling of the 1964 Christmas seal.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
At a special service, the congregation of the First Presbyterian Church of Westfield recognized the Rev. and Mrs. Paul Denise for their long and enduring friendship to the church and its members. Upon the recommendation of the session and by congregational vote, Rev. Denise has been named pastor emeritus of the First Presbyterian Church and Society, Westfield and formally acknowledged during the service. Rev. Denise served the congregation as its pastor from 1946 to 1855. During the period from 1947 to 1953, the membership grew from 448 to 650 persons, with 80 new members received in one service on April 4, 1948.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Mayor Edwin Gregoreski and City Attorney John Kuzdale traveled to Buffalo earlier this week to close the sale of 51 acres of city-owned airport land to Greater Buffalo Press Inc. for $102,000. The land will be used by GBP’s sister company, Chemical Process and Supply Co. for a new ink manufacturing plant.
Forty years ago – 1974
Wrecking crews from Ray Burgun Trucking of Brocton, the contractor for the demolition project in the Dunkirk Urban Renewal District, razed houses at 514 and 522 Main St.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Anthony Gervaise of Fredonia, a sophomore at Jamestown Community College, has been chosen to play the lead in the school play, “Damn Yankees.”
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
An expiring lease and a dropoff in business has forced the McCrory store in the D& F Plaza to go out of business. Located in the plaza since March 1980, the variety retail store has begun its closing sale. In addition to the lease expiration, the drastic increase in variety retail business in the area – Walmart and Kmart have been opened just over a year now – also contributed to a decrease in business. McCrory’s currently has nine full- and part-time employees. The store occupies 15,000 feet, about the same size as the former Odds-N-Ends store which went out of business last year. The plaza site also includes the former Sidey’s building, which has been vacant for more than a year. Plaza officials noted that every time a store in the plaza closes, it becomes more difficult to market the location.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The Westfield Village Board has accepted the donation of an eight-piece wooden Nativity set purchased by the Westfield Women’s Organization for Moore Park on Main Street in Westfield. WWO member Kathy Richmond told the board that the donation is part of the organization’s beautification plan for the village. She noted that the village Board of Public Utilities had previously stated they could provide a spotlight for the display.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Brooks Hospital Board of Trustees has voted to renovate and re-equip the hospital radiology department at an estimated cost of $164,000.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Elaine Burks, a senior at Westfield Academy and Central School, has been selected to be the OBSERVER Student of the Week.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
The Paper Factory, Routes 60 and 20, Fredonia has earned the status of Distinguished Service Retailer for 1995 from the ENESCO Corp. The DSR Program annually rewards those retailers who have exhibited an outstanding level of commitment to the Precious Moments Collection and their collectors. As a DSR, the Paper Factory is entitled to many benefits, including the 1995 Special Event Figurine plus special events to be held within the store in 1995.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Fredonia native Dr. Russell Trusso has found great success in both the medical and fashion fields. His timeless clothes, sold under the label “Trusso & Co.” include fringed evening sweaters made of nubby yarn, broad-shouldered leather jackets with colorful suede appliques and pastel suits made of a new wrinkle-free linen. Prices range from $180 to $550 per item and his clothing designs are sold in 84 stores nationwide. The chief anesthesiologist for St. Luke’s Hospital in Cleveland, Dr. Trusso remembers one patient, when he met her just before surgery, asked more questions about a dress he designed for an opera opening night than her own operation. He is the son of Joseph and Rose Trusso of Eagle Street, Fredonia.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Chautauqua County Easter Seal Society, the Newman Association of Fredonia State University College and the Knights of Columbus Council 929 are joining for the holidays in sponsoring a party for handicapped people.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Show N’ Tell Phone-Viewer, which features full-color pictures timed to words and music, is on sale for $26.88 at Patton Electric in Fredonia.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
An OBSERVER photo shows Fredonia residents Doris and Howard Ferry enjoying a hearty chuckle from the reaction by Jason Plyler at Wendy’s this afternoon. Plyler, from Brocton, was quite surprised when the Ferrys arrived at his drive-in window drawn by a horse and carriage.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Julie Richter, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Eugene Richter, Bradigan Road, Forestville has been named Student of the Week at Forestville Central School. A senior, she is a National Merit Semi-Finalist and has been a member of the National Honor Society since her sophomore year. She has been a member of the It’s Academic Club since her junior year and has served as president of the Choraleers. Julie lives on a dairy farm and has been active in 4-H, winning many prizes for her animals at the Chautauqua County Fair. Following graduation, she hopes to attend Cornell University to study animal sciences leading into a veterinary medicine program.
Forty years ago – 1974
Chautauqua County is in the middle of a natural gas boom which is running close to $69 million a year in revenues for the producers and pumps nearly 55 billion cubic feet of fuel into the utility lines of Western New York.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The music department of Silver Creek Central School has announced the Choralaires of the vocal department have been selected to sing at the State Pavilion’s 1965 special events program.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Members of Dunkirk Hose Co. No. 1 recently gathered to dedicate a plaque to recognize a firefighter who was killed at the age of 23 while returning from a fire 90 years ago. Frank W. Miller died Nov. 26, 1904 as a result of an accident while he was riding in a horse-drawn wagon to the fire hall. He was a passenger on the fire company’s chemical wagon, which was struck by a train on the tracks at the Central Avenue crossing. Mr. Miller had been called to the scene of a fire in the floor of a box car near the Erie Freight House at Front Street and Washington Avenue.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Playboy Enterprises of Chicago has selected a champagne from the Chautauqua County wine region of New York state to give at holiday time this year. Woodbury Vineyards of Dunkirk announced confirmation today of the sale of its 1981 vintage Blanc de Blancs Brut for Playboy’s company gifts in the upcoming holiday season. Blanc de Blancs is a dry Chardonnay champagne produced at Woodbury’s by the traditional methode champenoise (bottle fermented) used by the famous champagne houses of France. It has previously been recognized for its high quality at the International Wine and Spirit Competition in London, England.
Forty years ago – 1974
Fredonia Central Schools Superintendent Rocco Doino has accepted an offer to serve on an education task force being created by Gov.-elect Hugh Carey.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Steel billets being turned out at the Roblin Steel Corp. in Dunkirk were examined by members of an electrical furnace company.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Carla Waclawski was recently honored at the Chautauqua County 50th Anniversary Soil and Water Conservation District joint meeting and banquet held at Vullo’s Restaurant in Jamestown, where she read her first place essay from the Conservation Field Days Essay Contest and accepted her award. Carla is a sixth grader at St. Hyacinth School in Dunkirk. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Carl Waclawski of Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1984
During a recent Cat Fanciers of America show in Buffalo, “Arlo” received the 9-Lives Morris Award for best household pet. He was also awarded four ribbons and two trophies. The mixed-breed cat is owned by Adam Luce, 4, and his sister, Kristin Luce, 2, the children of Mr. and Mrs. Brian Luce, 196 Chestnut St., Fredonia. Arlo has also won several ribbons and trophies in other cat shows. Mrs. Luce noted that Arlo is very good with the children. She also explained that cat shows are not restricted to purebreds; there is a class of household pets in which they are judged on personality and condition.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Washington Bullets beat the Buffalo Braves, 96-93, in NBA basketball action at Memorial Auditorium in Buffalo.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The FBI is asking Dunkirk-Fredonia residents for help in tracking down one of its 10 most-wanted criminals, a kidnapper who agents say had telephone contact with a Dunkirk resident within the past month.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Increased competition from private sector landfill operations is threatening the rosy financial forecast of the Chautauqua County landfill. Unless something is done to offset this financially wounding situation, the county could find itself trying to stem a cash-flow hemorrhage. The waste business is now a buyer’s market and the future for the county operation’s continued ability to break even may not be as good as the past has been. It cannot be assumed that the county landfill will receive the waste generated in Chautauqua County. A facility in Erie competes aggressively, especially for the high-density waste.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The entire month of December will serve as a warning period for New York state motorists who fail to “buckle up.” Wearing a seatbelt became a matter of law rather than choice in the state of New York as of Dec. 1, 1984. Prior to that, about 14 percent of New Yorkers used restraints. State officials, in introducing the nation’s first mandatory seatbelt law for adults, said it will save as many as 400 lives a year if more than half the people obey it.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Dunkirk Youth Bureau, with assistance from area recruiters, published in the OBSERVER a listing of Dunkirk servicemen who will not be able to make it home for the holidays.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The operation of parking meters along Main Street in Fredonia has been suspended for the Christmas shopping season.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Mike Heary, a standout basketball player at Fredonia High School and now a Navy freshman, scored 12 points in the Middies’ season-opening 85-76 loss at Air Force. It was the first college game for Heary, who holds Fredonia and Chautauqua County scoring records. He was Navy’s second leading scorer. Heary played 14 minutes in a reserve role. He was 4 of 7 from the field, including 2 of 5 from the three-point range, and 2 of 2 from the line. He had two rebounds, one assist, one turnover and blocked one shot.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The village of Brocton is home to what is believed to be the only United Lutheran-Methodist Church in the United States. According to the Rev. Frank Scott, the Tri Church Parish in Brocton, of which he is pastor, received its official incorporation papers on Nov. 9. The Tri Church Parish was created by the joining together of three local churches: Salem Lutheran Church of Brocton, Brocton United Methodist Church and the Portland United Methodist Church.
Forty years ago – 1974
Peter Tofil, executive director of the Dunkirk Urban Renewal Agency, stated the agency should follow through with its plan to acquire and demolish the H.C. Ehlers Co. furniture store at 400 Central Ave.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Red Wing Co. in Fredonia is planning to make peanut butter at the beginning of next year.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A public hearing is being held for a proposed community residence on Birchwood Drive in Fredonia. A spokesman for The Resource Center stated that much time has been devoted to the project of possibly purchasing a home at 40 Birchwood Drive to be made into a group home. The village has received a number of letters from area residents objecting to the proposed facility, most of them alluding to the loss in tax revenue. The Birchwood property is one of the highest assessed single-family residences in the village. About $5,400 in combined village, school and county taxes would be removed from the tax rolls and village taxpayers would have to make up the balance.
Thirty years ago – 1984
“Big Ed” has hung up his mail bag after 40 years with the U.S. Postal Service. Edmund A. Aniszewski of 606 Roosevelt Ave., Dunkirk decided to take an early retirement. Ed had several routes, including “Dutch Hill” where he served the people for 17 years and the Dunkirk business district, where he delivered mail for the past 12 years. He estimates he walked on the average of six miles a day to cover his route and enjoyed working outdoors. When asked whether his two retirement parties at the Kosciuszko Club had been good parties, Ed’s booming reply was, “Worth four aspirins the next morning!”
Forty years ago – 1974
The Rev. George W. Adams was honored on the anniversary of his fourth year as pastor of the Good Hope Baptist Church on Eagle Street in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Machinery is being installed by Dunkirk Lingerie Inc. at the former Alco Products main office building at Progress Park and production is expected to begin later this month.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Former Fredonia resident Russell G. Joy has opened a new winery, The Joys Wine Company, in Napa Valley, Calif., a grape-growing area. Joys wines are available in California and are also now in Western New York at various stores and restaurants. The winery is currently producing a chardonnay, cinot blanc and zinfandel. Mr. Joy is following in the footsteps of his great-grandfather, Charles, who started a wine-making business in Fredonia 75 years ago along with his three brothers. At the onset of Prohibition, they discontinued their business. Mr. Joy is a 1981 graduate of Fredonia High School.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Michael A. Kuziora, formerly of Dunkirk, has been awarded the degree of doctor of biochemistry from Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Casimir A. Kuziora, 67 Ounce St., Dunkirk. A graduate of St. Hyacinth School and Dunkirk High School, he received a bachelor’s in biology from SUNY Fredonia and was awarded a biochemistry graduate assistant teaching fellowship at Baylor College. Dr. Kuziora has accepted a position at Baylor College of Medicine Research Department and will continue his post-doctoral work there. He resides in Houston.
Forty years ago – 1974
Melissa and Melanie Rogana of Fredonia, along with several friends, constructed a 10-foot snowman outside their home, which was pictured in the OBSERVER.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held for the opening of the Sears Roebuck store in the D & F Plaza.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Jan Callan of Fredonia has received the Religious Educator of the Year award. Bishop Edward Head presented this award to her at a banquet that concluded the Western New York Conference on Catholic Education held at the Buffalo Convention Center. Jan has been involved as a religious educator for 19 years, beginning at Sacred Heart in Lakewood and continuing at St. Joseph in Fredonia. Her son James was honored as the 1994 Outstanding Catholic Youth from the Diocese of Buffalo.
Thirty years ago – 1984
“Kraft on the label means Quality on the Table,” was the theme of a Quality Awareness Week celebration recently held at the local Kraft plant in Dunkirk. Employees participated in a “Kraft Barbecue Challenge,” a blind taste test with Kraft and competitors’ barbecue sauces flavoring meat. A locally produced video depicting how Quality is built into Kraft products at every step of production was shown. The winners of the Dunkirk Individual Achievement Awards were Mary Jane Strawser and Michael J. Murphy.
Forty years ago – 1974
Cocoa, a 5-year-old pony and her 6-week-old foal, Chocolate, owned by the children of Mr. and Mrs. Lynn Whelan of Fredonia are the OBSERVER Pets of the Week.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Grape crop deliveries to the Welch Grape Juice Co. Inc. are at an all-time high. Sales reached $58,426,949 during the fiscal year, marking an increase of 5.4 percent over last year’s sales for the company.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A former grocery store is in the process of being converted into a factory to produce restaurant ovens. The former Super Duper store at the intersection of Routes 5 and 20 in Silver Creek will be the manufacturing site for the rotary oven division of Cornerstone Inc. Production is expected to begin in about four or five weeks. The rotary oven division will initially employ 12 people and expects to employ between 60 and 70 within six months of operation. CEO Ty Cross of Fredonia had been searching for a suitable location for the plant since the unveiling of the new oven in September 1993.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A flag that has been flown from above the USS Arizona was flown in front of the Dunkirk Historical Museum from 8 a.m. to sunset on Dec. 7 to commemorate the attack on Pearl Harbor that took place on that date back in 1941. This is the only day of the year such a flag is allowed to fly. The flag, the most recent gift to the museum, flew from the flagpole mounted on the ship’s main mast which is above water. The battleship rests in 38 feet of water at the bottom of Pearl Harbor. Accompanying the gift was U.S. Navy documentation of the flag and the bombing of Pearl Harbor.
Forty years ago – 1974
Dunkirk resident and artist Jim Steffan will have his works exhibited at the Prendergast Library in Jamestown during a one-man show.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The O’Malia Liquor Store recently celebrated its grand opening in the D & F Plaza.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A group of volunteers is again organizing First Night Dunkirk, hailed as the “ultimate drug- and alcohol-free New Year’s Eve Party.” Initiated last year, First Night is a night of entertainment and fun for all age groups culminating with the welcoming in of the new year. The night of fun showcases local talent and introduces participants to a wide variety of art forms. Organizers were buoyed by the success of last year’s event and are planning many activities which will continue to keep people coming back year after year. Mayor Margaret Wuerstle serves as honorary chairperson of the First Night event.
Thirty years ago – 1984
From Just Between Us … Some people remain young at heart forever. In point, the recent surprise birthday party given by Robert “Bob” Bird of Fredonia for his wife, Elaine Bird. The party was held at McDonalds Restaurant and included “happy meals,” games and a balloon-decorated birthday cake. Wonder if the guests visited the restaurant’s playground area …
Forty years ago – 1974
A Dunkirk policeman put out a distress call after he ripped his trousers clear up the middle while “frisking” an individual. An urgent telephone call to his wife brought in a new pair of pants and law enforcement continued in the city.
Fifty years ago – 1964
The Dunkirk Council of Church members are taking part in the collection of used clothing and blankets for the Church World Service.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Niagara Mohawk Power Corp. plans to capture the wind off Lake Erie and put it to work. The Syracuse-based utility is searching for two sites for a wind farm in either Chautauqua, Cattaraugus or Wyoming counties. About 20 variable speed turbines will be built on a ridge to capture the wind with 100-foot long blades. Standing 138 feet tall, or the size of a silo, the turbines combined will harness 6 megawatts of power, enough to give 500 homes enough electricity for one year. The turbines will be about 50 miles away from the lake at the higher elevations. They can generate electricity when wind speeds of 8 mph turn the blades.
Thirty years ago – 1984
A Dunkirk grandmother is the first woman to be elected as commander of the Chautauqua County Veterans Council. Beverly Busenlehner of 217 King St., Dunkirk has been involved in veterans work for 27 years. She now heads up the council which is comprised of representatives from the American Legion, Veterans of Foreign Wars and other veterans organizations.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Hanover Town Board agreed to send a favorable letter for the proposed housing project with the Urban Development Corporation, for persons 60 years of age or over.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A common law library for the use of lawyers of the Bar Association of Northern Chautauqua County was recently opened through the cooperation of lawyers in the Dunkirk-Fredonia area.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A daily average of 23 crews of inmates from the Lakeview Shock Correctional Facility assists the communities of Brocton and Portland. Inmates assist in cleaning up highways, clearing brush from power lines and other activities not completed by state work crews. According to the October report of Community Work Crews, the facility “shows 18,840 inmate man hours, at an estimated savings of $94,200, figured at $5 an hour.” The Lakeview facility is currently at full capacity and is double-bunking male and female inmates.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The masonry block foundation and walls are taking shape for the new Monro Muffler and Brake Center which is currently under construction on the east side of Route 60 (Bennett Road) in the town of Pomfret between Perkins Restaurant and the Patton Electric Co. The building, when completed, will have six bays and will employ five to seven full-time employees. Opening date is slated for March 1, 1985.
Forty years ago – 1974
Fredonia State University College students are volunteering at the new day care center in Thompson Hall, which is run by the Chautauqua County Day Care Project, an independent agency.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Progress is continuing on the new Dunkirk High School building on West Sixth Street, which is scheduled to open next September.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Melvin Huff, 66, of South Dayton set three world records in the 65-70 age group at the World Powerlifting Championships last month in Columbus, Ohio. He won the deadlift, squat and bench competitions. “I never expected to reach this level,” said Huff, who claimed gold medals over competitors from Belgium, Italy, France, and South Africa. There were 14 countries represented at the event. Melvin qualified for the world championships after winning state and national competitions in May with near world-best performances. A carpenter by trade, he said a friend introduced him to powerlifting 26 years ago. In past years, Melvin also engaged in 56 professional fights as a boxer, losing just seven.
Thirty years ago – 1984
If construction on the Dunkirk Housing Authority’s 60-unit public housing project is not started by Feb. 3, 1985, the federal government may recapture all funding that has been set aside for the project. Failure to meet the deadline could also result in the DHA being found in violation of the settlement agreement that resolved the housing discrimination lawsuit brought against the city and the DHA by the NAACP.
Forty years ago – 1974
The diocesan-wide strike of 400 lay teachers entered its second day and forced the closing of at least one high school in Buffalo, but all 13 lay teachers at Cardinal Mindszenty High School in Dunkirk remained in their classrooms.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Dunkirk Chapter 294, Women of the Moose, recently celebrated its 20th anniversary.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Krista L. Giambrone, a local dance artist, recently signed a seven-month contract with Royal Theatrical Productions to perform aboard the U.S. Asuka, based in Tokyo. The tour will include many stops throughout Japan, China, Guam, the Philippines, Australia and New Zealand. Krista recently returned to the area after completing a dance contract with Busch Gardens of Tampa Bay. She has also performed in industrials throughout Florida and Louisiana for such companies as Continental Airlines, Travel Agents International and Mastercard. A 1992 dance graduate of Brockport State University College, Krista is the daughter of David and Lynn Giambrone of Fredonia.
Thirty years ago – 1984
Dunkirk and Fredonia Telephone has reopened the area’s most complete phone store in their recently remodeled offices at 40 Temple Street in Fredonia. The specialty store opened in 1979 and has just been completely refurbished and features a full and complete line of both standard and decorator telephones for lease or sale.
Forty years ago – 1974
The Women For Survival of Agriculture in Chautauqua County sponsored a poster contest for elementary school children.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Dr. Donald Wood of Fredonia was elected president of the Western New York Veterinary Medical Association for the 1965 term, during the unit’s 50th anniversary meeting in Buffalo.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
A new pastor at St. Hyacinth’s Church, Father Richard Jedrzejewski, greeted the members of the parish’s Our Lady of Fatima Society at their monthly meeting. He spoke briefly to members about his background and his hopes in working with the parishioners. He said he is open to suggestions for the future success and growth of St. Hyacinth’s.
Thirty years ago – 1984
If you’ve been by Jim’s Dry Cleaners, 159 East Fourth St., Dunkirk lately, no doubt you’ve noticed that new building they have just completed. It will house the firm’s new uniform, business-wear and formal wear sales and rental operation, an alterations shop and the area’s newest bridal shoppe called “Suzanne’s.” Suzanne’s will be operated and managed by Suzanne Elias, wife of James V. “Lou” Elias, who operates the dry cleaning, laundry and sales/rental divisions. So look forward to the opening of these new shops scheduled for spring 1985.
Forty years ago – 1974
A 14-foot diamond shaped outdoor sculpture is being prepared for installation at the Patterson Library in Westfield.
Fifty years ago – 1964
A Dunkirk man and a Brocton man escaped injury and a Salamanca man was admitted to Salamanca District Hospital after a truck they were in was struck and demolished by an Erie Railroad train in Little Valley.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1994
Two members of the Modern Bowlers League at Astro Lanes recently had career bests. Bob Wojcinski of North Roberts Road, Dunkirk bowled a 300 game for the Bobek Transmission team. He also had games of 170 and 235 for a 705 series. His previous high game, in 25 years of bowling, was 279. He carries a 192 average. Alan Saden of Fredonia recorded his first 700 series – a 711 – with games of 228, 237 and 246 while bowling for the First Ward Falcons. His previous high was 699. He has bowled for 18 years and has a current 194 average.
Thirty years ago – 1984
The December issue of McCall’s magazine will carry a story of Christmas 1983 in Ripley, NY and the efforts of the townspeople to make the holiday merrier and more comfortable for about 1,000 Christmas travelers. Holiday travelers inching their way along the Pennsylvania Turnpike during a snowstorm on the afternoon of Christmas Eve, found barricades at the entrance to the New York Thruway. It was then that Fire Chief Dick Winkelman told his men to “take the emergency vehicles and form caravans to lead these people into town.” The “Ripley Miracle” had begun.
Forty years ago – 1974
An explosion in the chemistry lab of Cardinal Mindszenty High School sent 14 students to the emergency room at Brooks Hospital in Dunkirk where they were treated and released.
Fifty years ago – 1964
Pfc. Daniel Sabato realized a dream when he participated in a religious pilgrimage to Rome and had an audience with the pope.