Twenty years ago — 1999

Accused of failing to do enough to help endangered American steelworkers, President Clinton warned Japan to curb its steel shipments or face stiff trade penalties. Clinton said he would not hesitate to bring forceful action unless Japan voluntarily curbs an import surge that has seen Japanese steel shipments rise by more than 400 percent in the last year. The president’s previous action plan was roundly panned by the steel industry, its unions and members of Congress from steel-producing states for offering too little help in a crisis that has resulted in thousands of layoffs and pushed some companies to the brink of bankruptcy.

Thirty years ago — 1989

After practicing in Fredonia for more than three and a half decades, Dr. Anthony R. Leone has decided it is time to retire and hang up his drill. Taking over the practice will be Dr. Charles Hannum, who became an associate with Dr. Leone five years ago. Gert Kupiec of Dunkirk was his final patient. Dr. Leone is a former mayor of Fredonia and has 31 years of perfect attendance as a past president and member of the Fredonia Rotary Club.

Forty years ago — 1979

The Aqua Shop team from Red Dot Lanes in Fredonia ranked ninth nationally in the Senior Girls Division (15-21) of the American Junior Bowling Congress’ final 1978 season standings. The team’s 1,135 handicap game won the high ranking in the program that attracted 850,000 junior bowlers last year. The team includes Cindy Dillon, Mary Cerrie, Mary Jo Cerrie, Captain Debbie Ducar, Jeanette Nichols and coaches Bob Frame and Sam Abbatta. The girls received colorful Stars of the Lanes emblems and special certificates from the AJBC.

Fifty years ago — 1969

Thomas P. Nowicki, who has been acting postmaster in the city of Dunkirk since April 12, 1968 has been nominated by President Johnson for permanent appointment to the post, according to a recent White House announcement. Mr. Nowak, who succeeded Ignatius Fafinski upon his death, has had to relinquish his position as chairman of the Democratic City Committee. The postmaster receives a salary of $10,264.