Twenty years ago — 1999

The creation of an assisted care facility for senior citizens was the focus of discussion for the Dunkirk Housing Authority at a recent meeting. The board discussed the possibility of a housing unit where seniors live independently while services such as cooking and cleaning are provided. New construction of a 25-unit facility is the preferred option. The goal is to create a facility with rent in the range of $600 a month.

Thirty years ago — 1989

Workers renovating the Coburn Building on Central Avenue in Dunkirk have been spared the laborious task of carting upstairs the many sheets of drywall that are being used for the project. A special crane attached to the delivery truck simply picks up a dozen or so sheets at a time and delivers them to a window near where they are needed. The second and third floors of the building are being converted into apartment units for low-income people.

Forty years ago — 1979

The Historical Society of Dunkirk marked its sixth anniversary at a recent meeting, having been organized in March 1973. The dream and also a necessity of the society is to acquire the Christian Science Church on Washington Avenue in Dunkirk as a museum. Guest speaker at the event was Raymond Bartkowiak, a Dunkirk attorney, who spoke in regard to the “Sacred Heart Church Steeple,” noting that the “Bell Tower,” including the clock and bells, should be preserved.

Fifty years ago — 1969

Students at St. Joseph’s School in Fredonia are participating in the countywide smoking and health contest being sponsored by the American Cancer Society. Grade-wide contests were held to choose the best four-line jingles relating cigarette smoking to cancer or poor health. Final contestants are Mary Ann Frisina, Carol Kaminski, Cheryl Burgstrom and Norman Thomas. This is one in a series of cancer education programs being incorporated into the school’s science curriculum.