Twenty years ago — 1998

The Chautauqua County Home held its fifth annual Employee Recognition Dinner at the Sheraton Four Points Hotel. Helen Deszcz, a licensed practical nurse, was presented with the Employee of the Year Award by administration Timothy Hellwig. Mrs. Deszcz lives in Dunkirk and is very active in her church. She was recognized for the outstanding quality of her work, her positive attitude toward fellow staff and the difference she has made in the lives of the residents. The employee of the year is selected by ballot from the employees of the month.

Thirty years ago — 1988

Sam St. George and James McKinley were honored during a reception at the Vineyard Restaurant in Dunkirk for their outstanding contributions to the 1988 Fredonia Farm Festival. The festival celebrated its 20th anniversary this year with Mr. McKinley as general chairman and Mr. St. George as first vice president. Also honored were members of the Farm Festival Committee, including Pauline Galofaro, a 20-year member.

Forty years ago — 1978

There may be renewed efforts to establish an animal shelter in Northern Chautauqua County, especially now that the state is ordering all cities and towns to provide a dog control officer and shelter services. The directive is included in a new state law which goes into effect in 1980. Under the law, cities can either hire a dog control officer and operate their own shelters or contract for the services. The new state dog law, which reportedly drew more debate in this year’s State Legislature than the controversial move to restore the death penalty, also increases the minimum fee for dog licenses.

Fifty years ago –1968

The New York Grange Association Convention began today in Fredonia. The four-day session of the Grange commemorates the 96th annual state convention and marks the third time that the convention has been held in Chautauqua County. It was held twice in Jamestown — in 1938 and again in 1954. Fredonia, celebrating its 100th year as the first subordinate Grange, was selected on the basis of this historical significance in Grange history.