Breaking News
Unsettling ‘transition’

To at least a handful of local families and educators, the future of Northern Chautauqua Catholic School (NCCS) in Dunkirk has been a contentious topic of discussion for several months. Even with the reassurance of…

City planners table BESS proposal

City of Dunkirk Planning Board members appear to have little appetite for approving a proposed Battery Energy Storage System. The…

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Local/Region

Coming up …

Complete weekend listings online at observertoday.com SATURDAY, AUG 29 Dunkirk Flea Market Route 5 (Lake Shore Drive E.), Central Avenue parking lot, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Vendors accepted each week for $20 per spot. Contact Brian Meyers 716 680-0958. Chautauqua Home Rehabilitation & Improvement Corporation (CHRIC) classic golf tournament Chautauqua Golf Club, Lake…

Local Sports

FREDONIA — Bruce Mulkin and John Bongiovanni shot scratch 34s to lead the Gene Andolina League…

Golf leagues

Latest news

This week’s poll question: Do you think a $35 million surplus of funds is too much in Chautauqua County?

The OBSERVER’s View

Finding loose change won’t bolster city finances

It is becoming obvious that those who are addressing the Common Council in Dunkirk are penny wise and pound foolish. As the city navigates through a major financial mess, those stepping forward to complain about $15,000 pay bumps — for a combined position — and out-of-town union officials seeking pay increases, definitely ignore a…

Obituaries

Dennis P. Swingle

Dennis P. Swingle, 75, of Dunkirk, passed away Monday, August 24, 2026 at Millard Fillmore Suburban Hospital in Amherst, NY. Born in Dunkirk on July 16, 1951, he was the son of the late Donald R. Swingle Sr. and Angeline (Paternosh) Swingle. A lifelong resident of Dunkirk, Dennis attended Dunkirk High School. He had…

Commentary

We have power to make great things happen here

Have you ever visited a town that just feels welcoming? Maybe the streets are lively, the parks are inviting, local businesses are thriving, and people seem proud to call it home. Then you wonder, "How did they make that happen?" The truth is, it usually starts with people who care about their community. Communities…

Sunday Lifestyles