Readers helping preserve area farm, industrial history

September 20, 2026

Since the OBSERVER published the first two parts of this story, something remarkable has happened. Readers, former employees and local families have begun filling in pieces of northern Chautauqua County's agricultural and industrial history that…

Class of 1966 celebrates 60th reunion

Pictured are members of the Dunkirk High School Class of 1966 celebrating their 60th reunion in August. The weekend event was…

Before saddling up, there's work to be done

By the time a rider climbs into the saddle at Centaur Stride, dozens of people, countless hours of work, and…

County measles numbers likely higher than one

Chautauqua County health officials say they are working with under-vaccinated parts of the county, especially now that a measles case…

Chipotle nears completion, Jersey Mike’s is next

Chipotle is nearing completion in the town of Dunkirk, but it is not the only restaurant on the way. Code…

Clerk/treasurer got improper hike, Torain claims

Dunkirk Councilman Frank Torain thinks Mayor Kate Wdowiasz’s administration improperly offered a pay hike to City Clerk/Treasurer Amy Dobek. Dobek…

Local/Region

New Fredonia Crosby’s store celebrated

Crosby’s has cut the ribbon at the grand reopening last week of its storefront…

Ripley hears Eagle U, summer meal updates

Raimondo & Sundquist announce local attorney joins team

The Chautauqua County Chamber of Commerce has welcomed two new members to its team: Ashlan Davis…

CHQ Chamber welcomes two new team members

Local Sports

Game of inches

FREDONIA — Fredonia and Gowanda/Pine Valley exchanged scores all game, but it was the…

Herd edges turnover-prone C/S/P

SALAMANCA — Chautauqua Lake/Westfield/Brocton forced seven turnovers and held Salamanca to just 55 yards of offense…

Eagles blank Warriors 34-0

Brady's aggressive approach validated in Allen's production

Latest news

Patriotism evident as Festival of Grapes begins

Thursday evening, undaunted by the rain, the Silver Creek Festival of Grapes paid tribute…

Allen opens new Highmark Stadium with 5-TD outing in Bills' 41-31 win over Lions

Firefighter hurt, major damage noted in blaze

Crews battle major fire at White Village restaurant

This week’s poll question: Does political affiliation matter in local elections?

The OBSERVER’s View

Accountability matters when commenting

We wholeheartedly agree with Fredonia Trustee Paul Wandel when it comes to reading letters during the public comment portion of a government meeting. If someone wishes to offer an opinion, they need to have their name attached to it. Why would it be any other way? Wandel’s resolution, which was not voted on this…

The OBSERVER’s View: Another Buffalo premiere after 30 years

Water controversies always spill over here

Project transforms Silver Creek

Obituaries

William E. “Bill” Blizzard

William E. “Bill” Blizzard, 90, of Cassadaga, passed away Sept. 17, 2026. Husband of Terry Straight Blizzard; father of Curt (Lisa) and Bradley (Diane) Blizzard. Full obituary will be published in an edition next week. Arrangements by Jordan Funeral Home, Sinclairville.

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