Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Samuel DelPopolo has been honored as Realtor of the Year for 1994 by the Chautauqua Board of Realtors. The board is comprised of 33 real estate companies and more than 300 real estate sellers. Mr. DelPopolo, the broker and owner of Century 21, The Realty Group with offices in Jamestown and Dunkirk, has served as president, vice president and treasurer of the Chautauqua Board of Realtors.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Student of the Week is Timothy Gentner, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Gentner, 20 Second St., Westfield. A senior at Westfield Academy and Central School, Timothy is a member of the National Honor Society, played trumpet in the school production of “The Music Man,” and is a member of the varsity football, basketball and tennis teams. Following graduation, Timothy plans to attend Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, for pre-medical studies.
Forty years ago – 1975
Fredonia attorney James Sommer was honored by the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce at its annual banquet for his many contributions to the community in past years.
Fifty years ago – 1965
For the second time in less than 10 days, Dunkirk police are investigating a break-in at the Rangelite restaurant.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
After the Bum’s Bargains first year of business proved to be so successful, the owner found it necessary to relocate due to the overwhelming amount of merchandise on hand. It is now located at 323 Central Ave. in Dunkirk. Pat Bumpus is the owner and operator of the store which features personal and household goods, toys, clothing and other bargains.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Cease’s Commissary, a subsidiary of Interstate United Management Services Co., located at 186 Lake Shore Drive West in Dunkirk, will close on Feb. 4. Extensive renovations would have been needed to keep the Dunkirk operation open, so the company decided to move those operations to its recently-renovated Tonawanda facility. The commissary was built in 1925 by William Cease and during the 1940s did extensive research into frozen foods, coming out with the first frozen pies for commercial sale in 1945 and the first frozen meals in 1946.
Forty years ago – 1975
The town of Arkwright is prepared to do battle with Chautauqua County over a proposed landfill to be located across from the town hall and town barns on Center Road.
Fifty years ago – 1965
A Baby Week sale at Kobacker’s is featuring infant party dresses for $1.97 and a dozen diapers for $1.66.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Local school districts can’t count on an increase in state aid this year because New York is “broke,” Gov. George Pataki said. “The state is broke, we can’t give you more money,” Pataki told a statewide radio call-in show. During his successful campaign to unseat three-term Gov. Mario Cuomo last year, Pataki had said he wanted to increase state aid to schools. Since then, the state’s first Republican governor in 20 years learned that the state faces what he has said is a $5 billion potential budget gap for the state fiscal year that begins April 1.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Residents in all areas of Chautauqua County will soon be seeing a dark red van carrying the Mobile Pantry insignia. This is the vehicle that is being used by the Office for the Aging for its weekend meal program, which will deliver weekend meals to some 40 disabled and homebound elderly county citizens. Most persons receiving Mobile Pantry services also receive Meals On Wheels services during the week. The Mobile Pantry is made possible through a grant from the Supplemental Nutrition Insurance Program.
Forty years ago – 1975
The Environmental Protection Agency recently approved plans for a Fredonia sewage treatment facility.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Legislation was introduced in the U.S. Senate which would require manufacturers to place health hazard warnings on cigarette packages.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Major Thomas M. Crea, the son of Mr. and Mrs. Sam Crea of Dunkirk and a 1979 graduate of Cardinal Mindszenty High School, was recently promoted to his current rank. He is an assistant instructor of computer science at the U.S. Army Logistics Management College in Fort Lee, Va. Major Crea graduated from the U.S. Army Command and General Staff Course in August 1993. He was commissioned a second lieutenant after graduating from the University of Dayton in Dayton, Ohio, with a bachelor’s degree in computer science. He completed graduate studies in computer science at the University of Virginia in August 1992.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Murray Hose Co. No. 4 is holding its 79th annual ball at the Kosciuszko Club tonight. Albert F. Wincenciak Sr., 64 W. Doughty St., Dunkirk has been chosen as honorary chairman for the event. A member of Hose 4 since 1935, he is an honored 50-year member. During those years, Mr. Wincenciak served as president for six years, held various other offices and served on numerous committees, including the one marking the 50th anniversary of the founding of the company. He also helped organize the Murraymen Drum and Bugle Corps in 1937 and played bass drum for many years.
Forty years ago – 1975
Reacting to protests from Councilman John Woloszyn, the Dunkirk Urban Renewal Agency is changing its procedure for approving the demolition of buildings in the city’s urban renewal district.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Earl Christy of Dunkirk, who was involved in a truck-train accident at the Lamphere Street crossing, has filed a $250,000 lawsuit against Norfolk and Western Railway.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Stephen P. Smith, MD, has joined the medical staff at Brooks Memorial Hospital, specializing in internal medicine. He will open an office at 614 Central Ave. in Dunkirk on Feb. 6. Dr. Smith, who recently relocated to the Dunkirk-Fredonia area with his wife, received his medical degree from the University of Rome in Rome, Italy, in 1981. He completed his residency in internal medicine at the Bronx-Lebanon Hospital Center, Albert Einstein College of Medicine in 1982 and Mountainside Hospital in New Jersey.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Slawson & Mead Inc., a manufacturing and metal fabricating firm from Forestville, has announced the expansion of their operations into a 26,000 square foot facility at 219 Brigham Road, Dunkirk. The plant manufactures tractor cabs, filters, spray equipment and McAdam Discs and Harrows. Slawson & Mead Inc. was founded in 1973 by Richard Slawson and Lewis Mead.
Forty years ago – 1975
Phil McGan, a six-year veteran of the OBSERVER’s editorial staff, has been selected presentation director for the 1975 New York State Junior Miss Pageant.
Fifty years ago – 1965
The Triangle Shoe Store at 306 Central Ave., Dunkirk will enlarge into an adjacent storage area as part of its current remodeling program.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
At a board meeting in Stow, the West Lake Citizens Council, with members and supporters numbering more than 900 in both the Chautauqua and Mayville school districts, officially endorsed a position on the upcoming merger vote. A resolution was read that the Citizens Council endorses the proposed merger. Citing a number of financial and educational advantages, the board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.
Thirty years ago – 1985
On Jan. 23, the Evans National Bank celebrated 65 years of independent community banking. Organized on Jan. 23, 1920, the bank currently has offices in Angola, Derby and Forestville and employs a staff of 60 people. Carl F. Ulmer, president of Evans National, credits much of the bank’s success over the years to the professionalism of the staff and the support of the Board of Directors.
Forty years ago – 1975
A $35,000 Fredonia school budget deficit has been linked to gas and power rate hikes.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Grave doubt now exists that the new Dunkirk High School will be finished in time for a September opening.
A sign in a Dunkirk store reads, “Do your Christmas shopping early.”
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Danielle Yocum of Forestville was selected to participate in the New Year’s Day Parade in London, England. She was among finalists nationwide in the Universal Cheerleading Association competition. Michelle Odrobina and Dereka Withey were also selected but were unable to attend. Danielle was one of 40 girls from five states along with their chaperones who traveled together from Pittsburgh to London. The routine with her group of 250 girls and male stunt cheerleaders was a dance which was repeated about 18 times along the two-mile parade route.
Thirty years ago – 1985
An OBSERVER photo shows Gov. Mario Cuomo sizing up a sweatshirt bearing the logo of the city of Dunkirk’s Youth Engaged in Service program – a volunteer service program for area teenagers. Presenting the gift is Larisa Aldrich, the program’s coordinator. Ms. Aldrich was in Albany to attend an awards banquet at which the Y.E.S. program was presented with one of the state’s Eleanor Roosevelt Community Service Awards.
Forty years ago – 1975
Virginia Corsi, former communications director at Cassadaga Valley Central School, is now a member of Lt. Gov. Mary Ann Krupsak’s staff.
Fifty years ago – 1965
The Triangle Shoe Store, 308 Central Ave., Dunkirk will enlarge into an adjacent store area as part of its current remodeling program. The shop at 306 Central Ave. was last occupied by Cherre Jane’s clothiers.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The familiar M&M mix of brown, yellow, orange, red, green and tan candies may be about to melt away. Candy lovers across the nation have begun voting for the newest color to be added to the bags of hard-shelled drops. Voters have until March 17 to pick up a ballot at any place that sells candy. The choices are pink, purple, blue or no change. The traditional mix has remained unchanged since 1949 – except for the decade-long absence of the red piece. Red was removed over a scare about food dye and restored in 1987.
Thirty years ago – 1985
State tax officials say their new short form is about as short as can be. Tax Commissioner Roderick Chu called the new tax form “the most innovative revision in New York state income tax returns since their introduction in 1919.” About 7 million New Yorkers will be receiving the “Fast Form” income tax return in the mail this month. Taxpayers using the form simply write in their salaries and other basic information, such as how much tax was withheld from them during the year. Chu said most people would be able to complete the form in about five minutes.
Forty years ago – 1975
A cow owned by Donald and Robert Crowell of South Dayton set a butterfat production record for a New York Registered Holstein.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Norman Krzyzanowicz of Dunkirk entered the best young bird in the ninth annual Dunkirk pigeon show.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Rockefeller Arts Center of Fredonia State University College will feature a children’s program entitled “Red Grammer in Concert,” as part of the spring Kaleidoscope Series. The event is sponsored by Dunkirk Radiator Corp. Grammer is one of the most sought-after children’s performers in the nation. Appearing on radio and television programs, his works have earned him the 1991 and 1993 Parents Choice Awards and Pulse Magazine’s 1991 “Best Children’s Recording Award.” He has performed on the Today show and has starred in his own Disney Channel Concert Special.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Another new pilot from Dunkirk Aviation, Mr. Thomas L. Servatius, received his Private Pilot License recently and “soloed” with his daughter, Jennifer, his first passenger. Mr. Servatius, a science teacher at the Fredonia Middle School and an above average “student” according to his instructors, commenced his pilot training at Dunkirk Aviation early last summer and set a goal for himself – to have his license before the end of the year. Having completed all requirements by the FAA, John J. Nalbone, Fixed Base Operator and Flight Examiner at Dunkirk Aviation, issued him a license just before Christmas.
Forty years ago – 1975
President Gerald Ford asked Congress to ease the national recession by granting a $16 billion one-year rebate for 1974 taxpayers.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Student of the Week is Robert R. Johnson, 16, a member of the senior class at Dunkirk High School. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Seth C. Johnson, 81 West Fourth St., Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Rudolph Halicki was presented with a plaque from Dunkirk Town Supervisor Robert Altwies, during the rededication of the Dunkirk Town Hall. The building was named for Mr. Halicki, the town justice since 1967 and who has publicly served Dunkirk for 33 years.
Thirty years ago – 1985
A Dunkirk woman is the winner of the grand prize vacation for two in the Quick-As-A-Wink Sweepstakes sponsored by M&T Bank’s Dunkirk office. Marie Wallace of Kosciuszko Avenue will travel to Fisherman’s Reef, St. Thomas, in the Virgin Islands compliments of the M&T promotion held in honor of the introduction of M&T’s QuickBank automatic teller machine system in Dunkirk.
Forty years ago – 1975
Fredonia Mayor Charles St. George became the first candidate for the March 10 village elections when he announced he will be seeking his third term as mayor.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Mr. and Mrs. Chester Zachary of East Lake Road, Dunkirk are in Philadelphia, Pa., as guests of the C. Schmidt and Sons Brewery.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Department currently has a drug-sniffing canine member named Jake, who is the assistant of Deputy Sheriff James Carlson. The black lab recently sniffed out drugs in a locker at Dunkirk High School and also uncovered a large quantity of cocaine inside the wall of a Fredonia residence. It took Jake only five minutes to sniff out more than 10 pounds of marijuana worth about $20,000 in the Town of Sherman, for which he received a commendation from the County Legislature. His latest success story is the sniffing out of a quantity of cocaine worth about $10,000. The cocaine was hidden in a fake soda can.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Patricia Drummond, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Clifford Drummond, Brigham Road, Dunkirk, has accepted the position of production coordinator for the St. Cloud, Minn., site of U.S.A. Today. Miss Drummond recently completed her studies for her bachelor of science degree in newspaper production and management at Rochester Institute of Technology.
Forty years ago – 1975
Three Dunkirk women, Patricia Vendette, Clara Donaldson and Susan Nalepa, are among the 25 applicants who have passed a state civil service examination for police officer in Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Local 108, American Federation of Musicians, has re-elected Robert Duino to his 18th term as president.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Peter Zaccari, president of the newly revitalized Cardinal Mindszenty Association, announced that the association has accepted the proposal of architect Thomas J. Quigley for a feasibility study of the vacant Cardinal Mindszenty High School building and the adjacent rectory. The study will be used by the Steering Committee of the Association’s High School Start-Up Committee to assist it in determining whether the former high school building would be an appropriate site for a new Catholic high school.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Peggy Hobin, daughter of Mrs. Margaret Hobin, 12904 Baker Road, Irving, is pictured in the February issue of Teen Magazine as one of 14 finalists in Teen’s Great Model Search. Miss Hobin also was a model at the recent bridal show held at the Buffalo Convention Center.
Forty years ago – 1975
According to the Social Security Administration, 64 percent of persons 65 or older have annual incomes of $2,500 or less.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Howard H. Ferry of McAllister Road, Fredonia, has been named “Outstanding Young Farmer” in the Dunkirk-Fredonia area. The honor came from the Fredonia Junior Chamber of Commerce. He will represent the area at the state competition in Binghamton (Jan. 22-23) and, if successful there, will go on to the national competition at Fort Collins, Colo.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Caroline Kolassa celebrated her 105th birthday on Jan. 13. A resident of the Chautauqua County Home for the past year, she formerly lived in her own home in Dunkirk. Born in Poland, she came to the United States in 1910 and married Andrew Kolassa in 1912. He died in 1950. They raised three children: Rose Gibson and Martha Kaymore, both of Dunkirk, and the late John Kolassa. A homemaker throughout her life, Mrs. Kolassa also worked on farms until she was about 80 years old.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Darrell Waag, 17, son of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Waag, Main Street, Cherry Creek, has been named Student of the Week at Pine Valley Central School. A senior, Darrell is president of the student council and vice president of the school’s chapter of the National Honor Society. He is also a member of the school’s basketball team and also was on the baseball team. Currently ranked first in his class, Darrell was the recipient of the Junior Science Award in June. Following graduation, he plans to attend Fredonia State University College to study engineering.
Forty years ago – 1975
State Transportation Commissioner Raymond T. Schuler said the new traffic regulation permitting right turns on a red signal at intersections where signs are posted is proving successful.
Fifty years ago – 1965
The drive for a Medicare program, backed by President Lyndon Johnson, rolled on today in the new Congress, with indications that the bill has now picked up enough momentum to become a reality.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Dunkirk Board of Education made its first major decision on the future of the district’s facilities, agreeing to move the district’s administrative offices to the high school campus, specifically Marauder Drive in the southwest corner of the high school building. The offices will replace the existing science wing, citing a need to isolate the offices from the high school building so administrative tasks could be handled both privately when need be and in case of any emergency in the main high school buildings. The board agreed a new track and tennis courts should also be part of the comprehensive plan.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Some former football players and coaches at the now-closed Cardinal Mindszenty High School in Dunkirk relived old times recently at the Knights of Columbus in Dunkirk. The group of former Monarchs included Bob Muscato of Dunkirk, a long-time coach at the school; Bob Palcic, a Gowanda native who now serves as assistant football coach at the University of Arizona; Tom Palcic, Bob’s brother who still resides in Gowanda; and Pat Bailey of Dunkirk, former assistant football coach at Mindszenty.
Forty years ago – 1975
The speaker for the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce banquet will be Dunkirk native Alan Constantini, WBEN-TV’s weekend news anchorman.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Fredonia State University College will participate in televised instruction during the upcoming spring semester by offering its first credit course through television entitled, “The Tragic Dramas of Greece and Rome.”
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Sarah Parker of Forestville has been accepted for membership in the United States Collegiate Wind Band, a highly-selective national honors band which will make a three-week concert tour of Europe and England next July. Acceptance for membership in this highly-talented symphonic band of young musicians is considered an important musical honor of national significance. Sarah’s parents are Mr. and Mrs. Lance Parker. She is a member of the Forestville Central High School Band directed by Jeff Geblein.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Featured in a People in Profile, Marie Mullaney Harrington boasts of having 19 nurses in her family, of which she was the first. Her son, James E. Harrington of Dunkirk is a pharmacist and a nephew, Gerald “Bud” Cheatle is an RN and an anesthetist. For a brief time in her career, Mrs. Harrington worked at Our Lady of Infants Home in Lackawanna. She still remembers shaking hands with Father Baker, founder of the home. Together with Blanche Shuler, she founded the Dunkirk Nurses Association, drawing members from Dunkirk, Fredonia, Silver Creek and Brocton.
Forty years ago – 1975
The U.S. Naval Reserve of Dunkirk plans to erect a monument at its Point Gratiot hall in memory of Dr. Harry B. Lyon, who organized the naval militia in the city in 1911.
Fifty years ago – 1965
On Jan. 4, the first patients were admitted to the new Lake Shore Inter-Community Hospital in Irving.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Dr. Irene D. Strychalski was reappointed secretary of the Northeastern Society of Orthodontists during the organization’s annual meeting in New York City. The Dunkirk resident received both her dental degree and her orthodontic certificate from the State University of New York at Buffalo. She received the Alpha Omega fraternity award for attaining the highest scholastic standing for her dental studies in 1975. Since 1977, she has been a clinical assistant professor in oral medicine and orthodontics at the State University of New York at Buffalo.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Tim Conti, grandson of Mr. and Mrs. Anthony H. Conti Sr. of Dunkirk, played saxophone with the 355-member Lakeland (Fla.) High School Band which represented Florida in the Rose Bowl Parade held New Year’s Day in Pasadena, Calif. His was the 70th unit and his proud grandparents watched the televised event and saw their grandson among the marchers. Tim was a member of the Dunkirk Middle School Band from 1980 to 1982.
Forty years ago – 1975
The Chautauqua Recreation Commission Inc. is ready to break ground March 1 for a $1.2 million ice skating rink to be built on Lake Shore Drive East.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Dunkirk’s “market of distinction,” otherwise known as “The Pantry” and located at 39 West Sixth St., has gone the way of many neighborhood markets and officially closed its doors after 32 years of operation, according to owner Anthony Mancuso.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Dunkirk Rotary Club has created an endowment fund of $95,000, one of the largest donations made to the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation. By selling its Christmas tree farm, the Rotary Club used the sale proceeds to fund the endowment. The 100-acre site was purchased by the Rotary Club more than 40 years ago for $3,000. It was developed into a Christmas tree farm with more than 60,000 trees planted by Rotarians. The farm, located off the Stockton-Hartfield Road, was known as Ro-Tree Acres and trees were sold from 1958 to 1965.
Thirty years ago – 1985
From “City Shorts,” City Court Clerk Esther Dolce earlier this week learned that the five winning numbers she had on her Dec. 22 state Lotto ticket will pay her $1,387. Was she upset at missing a million by just one number? No. She’s content with what she will get. Besides, she added, she had the sixth number, but it was on the other line on the ticket.
Forty years ago – 1975
A minimum bid of $30,000 has been set for the auction of the historic 100,000 square foot Old Main building slated for the end of February.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Mrs. Pasquale Lupone of East Seventh Street, Dunkirk has had as her houseguest her brother, Vincent Petrella of Rome, Italy, whom she had not seen in 56 years.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Dunkirk Rotary Club has created an endowment fund of $95,000, one of the largest donations made to the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation. By selling its Christmas tree farm, the Rotary Club used the sale proceeds to fund the endowment. The 100-acre site was purchased by the Rotary Club more than 40 years ago for $3,000. It was developed into a Christmas tree farm with more than 60,000 trees planted by Rotarians. The farm, located off the Stockton-Hartfield Road, was known as Ro-Tree Acres and trees were sold from 1958 to 1965.
Thirty years ago – 1985
From “City Shorts,” City Court Clerk Esther Dolce earlier this week learned that the five winning numbers she had on her Dec. 22 state Lotto ticket will pay her $1,387. Was she upset at missing a million by just one number? No. She’s content with what she will get. Besides, she added, she had the sixth number, but it was on the other line on the ticket.
Forty years ago – 1975
A minimum bid of $30,000 has been set for the auction of the historic 100,000 square foot Old Main building slated for the end of February.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Mrs. Pasquale Lupone of East Seventh Street, Dunkirk has had as her houseguest her brother, Vincent Petrella of Rome, Italy, whom she had not seen in 56 years.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Former Dunkirk resident Michael P. Davis was a participant in the recent World Line Dancing Competition at the Disneyland Hotel in Anaheim, Calif. Mr. Davis and his partner placed 10th out of 53 couples in the first day of competition. When he returned for the finals competition, he placed fourth in the Two-Step and third in the West Coast Swing. He is a member of the “Blazing Boots” team, which placed third overall among 13 teams in the competition. Mr. Davis is a Dunkirk High School graduate and the son of Joseph and Rita Davis of Dunkirk.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Several units at the Herbert Star Apartments on Central Avenue in Brocton are still waiting to be rented. The 42-apartment building, designated mainly for low-income senior citizens and the physically handicapped, opened in late October. Currently, there are about 22 units rented, leaving seven efficiencies, and 13 one-bedroom units. The yearly income limit for one person is $8,000 and $9,100 for two persons. The facility also offers a community room with service kitchen, coin-operated laundry and two lounges with televisions.
Forty years ago – 1975
The long-awaited Brocton-Portland Health Care Center, located in the basement of the First Portland Baptist Church on Main Street, Brocton, is now open.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Susan Guziec, 17, a senior at Cardinal Mindszenty High School, has been chosen Student of the Week. She is the daughter of Mr. and Mrs. John Guziec of Perrysburg.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Ward and Dickinson Dining Car, a piece of Silver Creek history, is closer to full restoration. Once completed, the dining car will not be used as a restaurant, but as a meeting place. Louis F. Pelletter, the project’s coordinator, said most people don’t realize that the dining cars have nothing to do with the railroads. They evolved from the old “owl” lunch carts, which were moved in at night and out during the day.
Thirty years ago – 1985
The Assembly of Christian Church in Dunkirk recently celebrated its 25th anniversary in the church located on Eagle Street. Guest speaker was Eliezer Negron of New York City, evangelist of the Assembly of Christian Churches Inc. The Assembly of Christian Church was begun on Dec. 28, 1959 by Alicia Galarza, a missionary, in a little space at 43 Third St., Dunkirk. Mrs. Galarza, the first pastor of the church, still resides in Dunkirk. In 1966, the Rev. Benjamin Vazquez took over as pastor. It was during his pastorate that the building at 316 Eagle St. was purchased. The current pastor, the Rev. Luis A. Lopez, has increased the Sunday school attendance from 43 in 1979 to 457 in the last Sunday school concentration.
Forty years ago – 1975
The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 3-2 held its annual banquet at the White Inn, during which its first woman commander, Lillian Napieralski, was installed.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Plans were revealed for a spacious great lodge to be constructed at the new Cockaigne. The year-round recreation complex is under development in central Chautauqua County near Sinclairville.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Dolores De Tolla, District Clerk at Silver Creek Central School, has just had an original piece of poetry entitled “Changes,” a poem about weather and nature, published in The Edge of Twilight, a treasury of today’s poetry compiled by the National Library of Poetry. This is Dolores’ first publication.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Questions about whether the Fred Koch Brewery in Dunkirk will remain in operation under new ownership remain unanswered in the wake of the recent announcement that the brewery will be taken over by the Genesee Brewing Co. of Rochester. Until a decision is made, there is no way to know how many of the brewery’s 42 full-time employees will keep their jobs. Genesee stated it was planning to continue marketing Koch’s Golden Anniversary Beer and Koch’s Black Horse Ale. Koch’s Brewery, which was founded in 1888, currently brews about 55,000 barrels of beer and ale annually, with about 90 percent of its sales within 60 miles of Dunkirk.
Forty years ago – 1975
Two full shifts are in operation at the Red Wing Co. in Fredonia as the four-week-old strike has officially ended.
Fifty years ago – 1965
The “Pet of the Week” is Chopper, a 3-month-old Pug which was a Christmas gift for Kelly Susan Przybycien, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Przybycien, 77 West Fifth St., Dunkirk.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Stacey Mahaney of Dunkirk has been selected to attend the National Young Leaders Conference from Jan. 24-29 in Washington, D.C. The conference is a unique leadership development program for high school students who have demonstrated leadership potential and scholastic merit. Stacey, a Dunkirk High School junior, will be among 350 outstanding National Scholars attending the conference from across America. The daughter of John and Linda Mahaney of Dunkirk, Stacy recently completed an internship with the County Legislature.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Dayton native Nicole Wilder, music supervisor at the Collins Correctional Facility, recently received an award of appreciation from the state Department of Correctional Services. Making the presentation was Ray Perez, recreation supervisor at the medium-security prison. Mrs. Wilder, who lives in Gowanda, conducts classes in both the afternoon and evening, and coordinates instrumental and vocal groups for staff and inmate productions. The possibility of opening concerts by the inmates to the public looms in the future.
Forty years ago – 1975
The Dunkirk Common Council has slashed $300,000 from Mayor Leon Damian’s proposed 1975 city budget, in an attempt to avert a major tax hike.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Harland Gonya of Dove Street, Dunkirk has completed two weeks of special training at the Kelvinator factory in Detroit. Mr. Gonya, a recent employee of Alco Products, now is associated with the Latimer Appliance Center.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
On Jan. 5, the U.S. Postal Service unveiled a 32-cent postage stamp commemorating actress Marilyn Monroe at the Planet Hollywood in New York City. The Monroe stamp is the first image to be unveiled honoring the legends of Hollywood.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Two Dunkirk High wrestlers won individual championships at the St. Francis High School Invitational Wrestling Tournament. Jose Pagan captured the title in the 126-pound weight class and pinned all four of his opponents in the tourney. David Swift won the over 252-pound title and had three pins. Dunkirk placed fourth in the 12-team tournament. The Marauders are coached by Jim Leamon and have a 2-1 record in dual matches this year.
Forty years ago – 1975
Although economic strife was prevalent throughout much of the nation, most Dunkirk-Fredonia merchants showed increases in sales during 1974.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Officers of the Student Council at Fredonia High School are: president, Gregory Ludwig; vice president, John Kluge; secretary, Geraldine Koba; and treasurer, Richard Albertine.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
A farewell service will be held at Bible Christian Fellowship, 45 Lakeview Ave., Fredonia to honor Pastor and Mrs. David Alessi and their son, Nathan. Pastor Alessi founded Bible Christian Fellowship in 1977, starting with Home Bible studies. The groups grew into an established congregation that now owns a debt-free facility and has programs for the entire family. Pastor Alessi also appeared on the weekly TV program, “Ask the Pastor” on Channel 49 for four years. He and his wife will be leaving the area to establish a traveling evangelist ministry with Bryant, Ark., as their home base.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Congressman Stan Lundine recently announced that Philip S. Mintun of Fredonia has completed his internship in the Congressman’s Washington office. Mr. Mintun will return to his studies at Dartmouth College in Hanover, N.H., for the spring semester. He is majoring in economics and English and plans on a career in business management upon receiving his B.A. degree in June 1986. The son of Mr. and Mrs. James Mintun, 31 University Parkway, Fredonia, he is a member of Psi Upsilon Fraternity at Dartmouth.
Forty years ago – 1975
Ms. Lynn Heinemann of Dunkirk, a junior at Syracuse University, has been inducted into Omicron Nu Sorority. She is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Alfred D. Heinemann of East Fourth Street.
Fifty years ago – 1965
An investigation is continuing into the pre-dawn New Year’s Day fire which destroyed five mercantile buildings and damaged at least two others in the heart of Ripley’s business section.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Dunkirk Common Council has extended a helping hand to one of the city’s major industries. The council has been communicating with officials of Dunkirk Ice Cream Co. to determine what assistance the city can provide. Located on Ice Cream Drive, the manufacturer has been rumored to be closing or being sold in recent months. About 200 people are employed by the company.
Thirty years ago – 1985
The Golden Eagles, 1961 Dunkirk-Fredonia Midget Football League champions, were reunited at a banquet at Joseph Anthony’s Restaurant organized by their head coach, Hank Jarvis. One of four teams in the first Dunkirk-Fredonia Midget League football season, the Eagles capped an undefeated season that year by beating the Midget League All-Stars, 7-0. Members of the team are Bob Hennessey, Leo Bamonto, Frank Polichetti, Jim Kubera, Dave Criscione, John Scott, Rick Bamonto, Dave Notaro, David Thering, Bill Desmond, John LaMattina and Bill Bamonto. Bamonto was the quarterback and MVP. Also remembered was the late Bobby Polvino, a standout halfback for the team.
Forty years ago – 1975
James A. Sommer, attorney in the law firm of Collesano and Sommer, will be honored at the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce annual banquet.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Russell Polisoto, scoutmaster of Forestville’s Troop 18, has received the Eagle Scout award, the highest award in Boy Scouting.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Joseph A. Gerace Jr. was sworn in as the new Chautauqua County Sheriff on New Year’s Day in the county courthouse in Mayville. His father, State Supreme Court Justice Joseph A. Gerace Sr., performed the ceremony which was attended by more than 200 people. Sheriff Gerace defeated John Bentley II in the November county election for the four-year term as sheriff. The late John Bentley held the position for 20 years before his death in 1994. Gerace will oversee the jail expansion in Mayville.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Several area persons, including Jane E. Love, 49 Maple Ave., Fredonia, a candidate for Dunkirk city attorney, have been certified for admission to the New York State Bar. Others include Sue Montgomery Evans, 40 Norton Place, Fredonia; Denny Menshel, 24 Caroline Road, Gowanda; and Michael J. Sullivan, 295 W. Main St., Fredonia. Of the 6,446 candidates examined on July 24-25, 4,336 passed the examination. Of the 5,463 applicants taking the examination for the first time, 4,038 passed.
Forty years ago – 1975
A 500-pound safe stolen from Ludlum’s Variety Store in Dunkirk has been recovered from Canadaway Creek with its contents missing.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Harry A. Centner of Dunkirk, son of Mr. and Mrs. Harry E. Centner, Chestnut Road, Dunkirk, has been named the national winner at the National Junior Horticultural Association annual convention held in New Orleans, La. A member of the Canadaway 4-H Club for seven years, he won the honor in the fresh-market section of the 25th annual production and marketing projects.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
The Diocese of Buffalo recently announced the following assignments for Dunkirk: Father Richard Jedrzejewski has received his first pastorate at St. Hyacinth’s Parish in Dunkirk. He succeeds Msgr. Casimir Zak, who recently retired from active administrative duties. Father Sebastian C. “Sibby” Pierro has received his first pastorate at Holy Trinity Parish. He succeeds Father Richard A. DiGiulio, who was recently named pastor at St. Aloysius Parish in Cheektowaga.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Dunkirk city officials welcomed one of two buses that were recently sold to the city by the state’s Department of Transportation for $1. The 1970 Flexible bus seats 45 passengers and has standing room for another 34 passengers. Behind the wheel of the bus will be city bus driver Gene Tilley. The bus, which was previously used by the city of Albany, is being used on the city’s crosstown route.
Forty years ago – 1975
The Hillcrest Diner, Fredonia’s only 24-hour-a-day restaurant, closed its doors during Christmas week with the owner, John F. Nolan, deciding it was financially unfeasible to continue the operation.
Fifty years ago – 1965
In an article by Daniel Roblin Jr., president of Roblin Steel Corp., it was noted that small steel companies can now remain competitive with the giants of the industry because of the continuous casting method of steel production.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Gasoline will join the groceries at Dunkirk’s Country Fair Store despite the wishes of the city zoning board. State Supreme Court Justice Joseph Gerace has overturned a Dunkirk Zoning Board of Appeals decision that had denied the conversion of the store on Lake Shore Drive, claiming that the installation of gas pumps for the purpose of providing gasoline was not a permitted use in the harborfront district. Judge Gerace’s ruling found that the city’s zoning code was ambiguous and did in fact allow for this use in the harborfront area.
Thirty years ago – 1985
William Donohue, Chrysler Corp. Syracuse Zone Manager, recently presented the “Award of Excellence” to Ron Raynor of Raynor, Chrysler, Plymouth of Westfield, NY. The award is given in recognition of superior achievement in sales performance, customer satisfaction, quality facilities, factory and community relations as a Chrysler-Plymouth Division automotive dealership for the year 1983-1984.
Forty years ago – 1975
The 1975 “First Baby Contest” winner arrived at 2:01 a.m. today. Weighing in at 8 lbs. 11 oz. was Shawn Oscar Gnadzinski, the fifth child of Edward and Kay Honaker Gnadzinski of Lincoln Avenue, Dunkirk.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Malcolm C. Reed, president of Progress Park Inc., will be honored as the “Man of the Year in Dunkirk” by the Kosciuszko Club.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Robert S. Briggs, an officer with the Chautauqua Brick Co. Inc., and Great Valley Builders Supply, was recently elected president of the Western New York Lumber Dealers Association at the group’s annual meeting in Batavia. The WNYLDA represents 145 members in western New York, including Buffalo and Rochester. Founded in 1948, Chautauqua Brick Co. Inc. (located locally at 67 Orchard St., Fredonia) is a complete building materials and home improvement center that services both professional contractors and consumers.
Thirty years ago – 1985
Mrs. C.C. (Marge) Krauza of Dunkirk will lead a fight to keep St. Joseph’s School for Exceptional Children open. The Krauzas have a son who has been at the school for nine years. Mrs. Krauza stated that she realizes once a school is designated closed, there is little hope. “I went through this with Mindszenty. But, this is different. This is political,” she said. She is certain that if the parents had been informed of the problems, things could have been different.
Forty years ago – 1975
Hugh Carey became the state’s 51st governor today, ending nearly four decades in public service for Gov. Malcolm Wilson.
Fifty years ago – 1965
Frank Kopec of Monroe Street, Dunkirk, who underwent open heart surgery in October, is organizing a Mended Hearts Club for former heart patients.
Retrospective
Twenty years ago – 1995
Village of Sinclairville Mayor W. Earl Minckler was recently awarded a certificate from the New York Conference of Mayors for his 50 years of service to Sinclairville. Now 78 years old, Sinclairville has been his place of residence, and in one form or another, the base for his employment, all of his life. He was born and raised in a home on Railroad Avenue (now Sinclair Drive) and began his career as a public servant in 1942 when he took on the appointed task of park groundsman. His other positions through the years include village justice, village clerk-treasurer and since 1988, the mayor.
Thirty years ago – 1985
A new phenomenon in overnight lodging that’s become popular all across the USA and is beginning to spring up locally is the bed and breakfast. Max and Phyllis Lay of Gowanda have recently entered the bed and breakfast business after several years of research. Locally, they join other bed and breakfast hosts in Mayville and Franklinville and there may be others soon. The Lays say their Gowanda business, The Teepee, is a much cheaper, friendlier and better alternative when traveling.
Forty years ago – 1975
Joseph Gerace made history in Chautauqua County on New Year’s Day when he was sworn in as the first county executive.
Fifty years ago – 1965
The Fredonia Board of Trustees has unanimously adopted a dog leash ordinance for the village of Fredonia.