A number of articles in today's edition focus on some of the biggest local stories of the past year. As is our December tradition here, our Newsmaker of the Month reflects on the year that was as well.
Some issues are related to the area, while others focus on the state and nation. Here is a recap:
January - Brocton residents ask its board to move ahead with a merger study with Fredonia.
February - Doubts surround regional possiblities as many municipalities continue business as usual.
March - As economic concerns begin to emerge, public officials seem unwilling to tighten their belts or cut spending.
April - State budget increases spending again.
May - Gas prices hit more than $4 a gallon.
June - Maclain Berhaupt, who helped spur a number of projects for city of Dunkirk, is taking job in Jamestown.
July - Area celebrates as Fredonia's Jennifer Stuczynski qualifies for Olympics.
August - All area eyes are on Beijing's Summer Olympics as Stuczynski wins silver medal in pole vaulting.
September - Economic fears reach new levels as government approves more than $700 billion bailout.
October - Cable viewers shutout as Channel 4, Time Warner contract dispute reached 26 days before a resolution.
November - No matter how much residents clamor for change, there was no major upset in the local elections. On the national front, Barack Obama, in center, takes charge after a landslide victory.
With 2009 nearing, the economy and Obama's first months will definitely be in the spotlight.
