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Opinion

Dunkirk: Timid council lacks power with pacts

The OBSERVER’s View

What happened earlier this month at a Dunkirk Finance Committee gathering is one more example of why a Control Board is desperately needed to rein in what’s wrong in the fiscally strapped municipality. During the meeting, Assessor Erica Munson criticized city officials for creating a toxic, politicized atmosphere amid the financial troubles. Munson brought up the insurance issue, stating that it is part of the duty of city officials, in taking care of all residents, to care for their employees. On Tuesday, there will be a public hearing regarding a local law that would stop ...

Wants of the left do not bring freedom

Commentary

It’s 1984 again. Government servitude is freedom. Violence is a peaceful protest. George Orwell’s masterpiece explores the historical reality of Socialism, and how “newspeak” and “doublespeak” have been used to manipulate naive people. Men can bear children. Healthcare can be free. DEI-based racism is anti-racist. A Jan. 24 commentary headlined “Freedoms being lost right before our eyes” typifies Leftist doublespeak, but could be anybody parroting the Left’s Neo-Marxist nonsense machine. It begins by proclaiming a membership in ANTIFA, the “non-existent” ...

Residency trajectory still going south

Editor's corner

Latest U.S. Census projections should not have New Yorkers in the doldrums, but they are far from a beacon of hope. According to the estimates released in late January, the Empire State saw a smidgeon of growth in 2025 when compared to the previous year with a gain of more than 1,000 ...

Legislature gets this one right

Commentary

MAYVILLE — Sometimes the most forward-thinking among us are those first to realize they took a wrong turn, and then reverse course and take the right road. In that light, congratulations go to the Chautauqua County legislature. Let’s set the stage. During its regular meetings, the legislature has two privileges of the floor—times when anyone, including legislators themselves, can publicly address the legislature, subject to time limits and, of course, limits of decorum. Under current rules, the first privilege is at the beginning of the meeting. Then, comments must be ...

DUNKIRK: ‘Celebration’ aids those in need

The OBSERVER’s View

An event this weekend is a trip back in time — while supporting an important cause. On Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Northern Chautauqua Conservation Club in Dunkirk, a “Let’s Glow Crazy” event that is an ‘80s-themed fundraiser begins rocking. According to organizers, the event benefits Chautauqua County Rural Ministry, specifically The Friendly Kitchen and the Emergency Food Pantry. Both programs provide meals, groceries, and support to local residents struggling with food insecurity. “This event is a celebration of community and compassion,” said organizer Lorie Mets. ...

Lake Placid filled with golden moments

Commentary

The tiny village was named after its tranquil little lake. My dictionary defines placid as serene, gentle, calm. Writing last week’s column about the 1980 Olympics brought back memories that were anything but peaceful. The downtown streets were loud, crowded and fun. It doesn’t seem possible that four and a half decades have slid by since easy-going Lake Placid played host. I was reminded of those many years as Scott Hamilton remarked about this year’s figure skating competition in Italy. When we saw his Olympic debut in Lake Placid, he was 21 years old and stood at his tallest ...