Twenty years ago – 1999

Fifteen-year-old Brandon Shepker of Bucktown, Pa., recently completed a 377-mile journey from his hometown to raise money for the American Diabetes Foundation. Diagnosed with leukemia six years ago, he drove a large John Deere farm tractor from his Pennsylvania hometown to Collins. He chose Collins because his grandparents, Ken and Ellie Luther, reside in the town. Residents and supporters have contributed around $3,000 toward Brandon’s efforts to find a cure.

Thirty years ago — 1989

The local branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints recently broke ground for an addition to the building on Chestnut Avenue Extension, Fredonia. The addition will include a large chapel and additional classrooms necessitated by the steady growth of the area church. The local branch of the church began on April 16, 1967. The first formal church meeting was held in the Richard Layton home with seven members present. Currently, 95 members attend the church.

Forty years ago – 1979

Helwig’s Fish Market, whose building at the city pier collapsed during a rain and wind storm Aug. 7, now is operating temporarily in the former Gloff’s Fish Market at 21 Park Ave., Dunkirk. Helwig’s, a Dunkirk landmark for 25 years as a specialist in smoked whitefish, is operated by Fred Helwig, nephew of founder Frank Helwig. Since its inception, the business was located in the city-owned building at the pier entrance at the end of Central Avenue. There are no plans to rebuild the demolished building.

Fifty years ago — 1969

Dedication ceremonies for the new Salvation Army citadel on Central Avenue in Dunkirk are planned for Sept. 28. Col. Charles T. McKenzie, field secretary for the 11-state eastern territory, will be the featured speaker. In 1966, on the eve of its 72nd anniversary of service in the Dunkirk-Fredonia area, the Salvation Army announced plans for a new citadel building to cost $224,000.