Twenty years ago — 1999

Carol Shrontz of Fredonia has been named the new Executive Director of the United Way of Northern Chautauqua County. Ms. Shrontz has been adnministrative assistant at United Way for the past 10 years. She replaces Dr. Mary Kay Szwejbka, who left to take a job in the private sector. Ms. Shrontz, who moved to Fredonia with her family 20 years ago, holds a BS degree in business administration from Fredonia State University College.

Thirty years ago — 1989

The OBSERVER Student of the Week is Jennifer Foley, a senior at Dunkirk High School. She is the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. James Foley of 11 Taft Place, Dunkirk. Jennifer currently serves as vice president of the senior class and is a member of the National Honor Society. She also served as president of the French Club and held memberships in the Key Club and Marauder 3R. Following graduation, Jennifer plans to study biology at Canisius College or Texas A&M at Galveston.

Forty years ago — 1979

Rehearsals are under way for the 25th annual musical at Cardinal Mindszenty High School in Dunkirk, whose doors will close at the end of the school year. “Rock-N’-Roll,” this year’s musical, reflects on the 1950s, the days of Elvis Presley and rock-n-roll hits. Directed by Anthony DiRusso, the production will be presented May 4, 5 and 6 in the school hall. Roy Boorady and Mary Burns are student directors.

Fifty years ago — 1969

The last of the Dunkirk firehouse mascots is gone. “Dutch,” the Dalmation resident of Hose Co. No. 1 fire hall, has died. An official member of the company since 1955, he would be one of the first to reach the truck when a call came in over the fire radio for Engine One. In 1957, Dutch was injured in the line of duty as he attempted to jump on the back of Engine One. He hit a crossbar and was knocked unconscious but was soon back on the job. His collar and dog tags will be placed in the trophy case at Hose 1 fire hall.