Retrospective
Twenty years ago — 1999
An OBSERVER editorial addressing the vandalism to the beautiful Mark Fountains in Fredonia’s Barker Common suggests that both fountains should be brilliantly illuminated with spotlights as soon as possible. It notes that vandalism is reaching the proportions that the fountains could be permanently damaged and most Fredonians are outraged. Security cameras also have been mentioned as another deterrent. Most taxpayers are willing to pay more to protect the park and the fountains, both of which are the object of many compliments from visitors.
Thirty years ago — 1989
From Ad News ….. A legislative commendation was given to Quality Markets for their willingness to work with Chautauqua County’s Department of Public Works on solid waste issues. Quality Markets phased out their use of plastic grocery bags and styrofoam egg cartons when they became aware of the environmental degradation caused by the bags and cartons. Quality also has a very successful cardboard recycling program ongoing.
Forty years ago — 1979
The Chautauqua County Legislature has passed an amended version of a resolution deploring the plan to close Cardinal Mindszenty High School. The original resolution met with opposition from some lawmakers who did not want to see the county get involved with a church dispute. The resolution was then amended by Joseph Trusso (D-Jamestown) to read: “The Chautauqua County Legislature recognizes the legitimate desire of county residents who wish to maintain the school as a valuable asset to the Northern Chautauqua County area.”
Fifty years ago — 1969
A graceful gymnast and a shapely redhead go into the finals of the 10th annual Miss Dunkirk-Fredonia pageant with an edge on their competition. The two, the Misses Jan Clifford and Francine Heitman, won talent and swimsuit respectively in a preliminary judging. Miss Clifford’s turn came last in the talent competition and she had everyone in awe with her graceful and agile moves on the parallel bars. Miss Heitman, a 5-6, 120 lb. Fredonia State freshman wore a modest black swimsuit with a low neck and back line.