Twenty years ago — 1999

An increase in train traffic is expected in northern Chautauqua County as a result of the pending acquisition of Conrail by CSX and Norfolk Southern, and local officials are looking for specifics in order to prepare for the change. Among the crossings in the city of Dunkirk are eight in the residential area of the 4th Ward, one on Main Street and the crossing on Route 60. An early estimate from train officials is between eight and 20 additional trains per day.

Thirty years ago — 1989

The Dunkirk Zoning Board of Appeals approved an appeal that will allow a former plumbing store on West Fifth Street to be used as a retail store. John G. Boice of Collins told the board he has a contract to purchase the former Feser’s Plumbing building at 59 West Fifth St., and would like to open a retail shop in the downstairs shop front. He said the store would sell books, gifts and other items of an inspirational nature as well as light furniture and fine arts.

Forty years ago — 1979

Miss Mary Czysz is Chautauqua County’s 1979 Easter Seal poster child. Mary, the 8-year-old daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Edward Czysz of Westfield, will make numerous appearances throughout the county at various Easter Seal functions, both in connection with the Easter Seal Appeal March 1-April 15 and at other times during the year.

Fifty years ago — 1969

SP-4 David Klancer of Dunkirk has received the Army commendation medal with “V” device for heroism in connection with ground operations against a hostile force in the Republic of Viet Name Nov. 4, 1968. Klancer, who is a member of the First Special Forces, was acting as advisor when contact with the enemy was initiated. He successfully led his forces to a decisive victory. He is the son of Mr. and Mrs. John Klancer, 110 Serval St., Dunkirk.