Twenty years ago — 1999

Arianna Melendez, a senior at Brocton Central School, has been chosen as a scholar finalist in the National Hispanic Recognition Program. In addition, Miss Melendez has been named valedictorian of her graduating class. She has won honors as a writer and editor for the award-winning high school newspaper, The Brocton Review, and has been named a nominee for the Congressional Youth Leadership Award. The National Hispanic Recognition Program is a college board program that provides national recognition of the exceptional academic achievements of Hispanic high school seniors.

Thirty years ago — 1989

Dunkirk resident Dorothy Billingsley’s slogan “Discover Dunkirk” was selected as the winner in the Dunkirk Chamber of Commerce slogan contest. Dorothy’s slogan was among 296 that were submitted for consideration. Her slogan will be used along with a logo design created by Robert Harrington and will appear on T-shirts, hats, bumper stickers, brochures and many novelties. Among the prizes Dorothy will receive is a $200 cash award.

Forty years ago — 1979

The Fredonia Fire Department recently moved its operations from its cramped quarters in the old fire hall on Church Street to the newly completed fire station on West Main at Canadaway street. The general contractor for the $1,050,000 fire station was Smith Brothers Construction of Niagara Falls. The new station is about 20,000 square feet as compared to an estimated 13,000 to 15,000 square feet for the old building. The official dedication of the fire station will take place May 5 with the Masonic Lodge of Fredonia placing the cornerstone.

Fifty years ago — 1969

Stephen Sekula, city building inspector, has issued a stop order to halt construction of the “Mister Donut,” franchise building at the D&F Plaza. According to Mr. Sekula, the structure was not being constructed according to the plans and specifications presented by the contractor at the time the building permit was issued by the city engineer’s office. Much of the work that has been completed will have to be undone to effect the necessary changes, including some plumbing, electrical and foundation work.