Thirty years ago — 1990

John Lennon’s 50th birthday today will be marked with a celebration beyond even the slain rock star’s utopian vision: his peace anthem “Imagine” playing simultaneously for 1 billion people in 130 countries. Lennon’s widow, Yoko Ono, will speak briefly before the song is played at 10 a.m. More than 1,000 radio stations and networks from 50 countries have signed on for the broadcast.

Forty years ago — 1980

The Community Development Council is sponsoring a poster contest as part of its two-year-old campaign to promote Northern Chautauqua County as “Someplace Special.” The poster must identify a site or activity in Northern Chautauqua County and prominently use the phrase “Someplace Special.” The contest has three age groups and the winner from each will receive a $100 savings bond, with a $50 bond going to the runnerup.

Fifty years ago — 1970

Highlighting the lakes area is a new sign in the village of Cassadaga. The sign, which reads “Beautiful Cassadaga Lakes Area,” was made by the Rev. David Foulk. It was commissioned by the Cassadaga Lakes Garden Club as part of its beautification project.