Twenty years ago — 1998

The Fredonia Planning Board has approved plans presented by Daniel Johnson to operate a liquor store in the former location of Xtreme Detailing and Bison Auto Glass at 112 East Main St. Mr. Johnson, who also serves as Fredonia police chief, said he plans to completely remodel the now vacant building. It was noted that the conversion may require making the building handicapped accessible. Village board approval for the new business also is required. A public hearing must be held before the plans can move forward. About 15 property owners within 250 feet of the site will be sent notices of the hearing date.

Thirty years ago — 1988

From City Shorts ….. There are two new attractions in the lobby of city hall. One is a pamphlet rack with literature from the Northern Chautauqua Chamber of Commerce and the other is a suggestion box. Both were installed at the direction of Dunkirk Mayor Madylon Kubera. The mayor also has agreed to provide office space in city hall several times a month for representatives from Rep. Amo Houghton’s office to meet with area residents.

Forty years ago — 1978

Mrs. Margaret Lilly of Route 60, Fredonia has returned from Shreveport, La., where she was one of the witnesses subpoenaed to testify in the suit against the estate of the late billionaire H.L. Hunt. Her testimony was to be based on her knowledge of the existence of certain documents. However, the case was settled out of court for $7.5 million before she could be called to the stand.

Fifty years ago — 1968

Congressman Charles E. Goodell of Jamestown will be the guest speaker at the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce annual installation banquet. A member of the Republican Coordinating Council, Rep. Goodell is considered a leading GOP policy-maker. He is co-author of the Manpower Development and Training Act of 1965.