Twenty years ago — 1999

NRG Energy Inc., the new owner of the Dunkirk Steam Station, envisions the facility playing a key role in the company’s drive to become one of the top power producers in the Northeast. With other acquisitions pending, NRG anticipates being the number one provider of energy in New York State by the end of the year. The company has experienced double digit growth every year since 1995 and expects to do so this year. A company official stated the Dunkirk Steam Station was purchased with an eye toward making it the lowest cost facility in the New York pool.

Thirty years ago — 1989

A photo in the 1989 OBSERVER Summer Fun Guide and Tourist Edition shows the close to 100 cars currently at Halicki Motors in Dunkirk that will be transformed into police cruisers for the movie, “Gone in 60 Seconds II,” being made by Toby Halicki of Gardena, Calif., formerly of Dunkirk, and his brother, Ron Halicki of Dunkirk. Filming is slated to begin July 19 with scenes possibly being shot in the local area.

Forty years ago — 1979

Kathy Prince, the daughter of John and Lucille Prince of Ellicott Road, Brocton has been selected as Calendar Girl for the Month of July. A member of the Class of 1980 at Brocton Central School, Kathy has been involved in a wide range of activities including Student Council, band and choir. She is president of the National Honor Society and has served as vice president of her class. She hopes to attend Fredonia State University College.

Fifty years ago — 1969

Dr. and Mrs. James A. Augustine, longtime Silver Creek residents, left recently for Camp Hill, Pa., where they will make their home. Dr. Augustine, who had practiced dentistry in the village since 1913, retired from active practice earlier this year. The 83-year-old dentist, who practiced in Silver Creek for 50 years, also was one of the original 10 founders and planners of the Tri-County Country Club.