Twenty years ago — 1999

For the past 50 years, Gernatt Asphalt Products Inc., based in Collins, has been a pillar of the community with expansion to include eight locations throughout Erie, Chautauqua and Cattaraugus counties. Nearly 200 persons are employed with Gernatt, a significant growth considering the company began with one man — Dan Gernatt St., in 1946, when he began marketing gravel items from his dairy farm in Collins. The business currently produces sand and gravel products at eight locations.

Thirty years ago — 1989

Behind the busy counter of the Deli and Bakery at the Quality Markets Store in Silver Creek, Lisa Thurston waits on customers and keeps the whole show running smoothly. Ms. Thurston is the manager of the deli and bakery section of the store. Her job includes supervising employees, ordering foods and trying to satisfy customers. Her typical day starts at 7 a.m. and continues to 4 p.m. Her favorite part of the job is working with people.

Forty years ago — 1979

More than 550 people attended the Fredonia-Pomfret Family Day held recently at Russell Joy Park. The annual picnic was sponsored by the Fredonia Chamber of Commerce. The 1979 “Miss Fredonia Chamber of Commerce” title was won by Catherine Sue Sedota, 18, of 184 Water St., Fredonia. Catherine is a student at Fredonia State University College.

Fifty years ago — 1969

St. Joseph’s School for Exceptional Children on Bennett Road in Dunkirk has resumed classes with a total enrollment of 48 pupils. The children range in age from 7 to 17. Since many of the children come from Buffalo, Niagara Falls, Rochester, Olean and other outlying areas, 30 of them remain at the school for the entire school week.