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Opinion

The OBSERVER’s View

Despite the growing number of Farmers’ Markets in Chautauqua County, many who answered our weekly online poll are not utilizing them. Established locations in Fredonia and Westfield bring the main streets of the villages to life weekly. This year, Westfield celebrates its 20th year. Market vendors typically have the option to remain outside through the month of October, weather permitting. Even the newer locations, which include Forestville, have made a difference in the community — and are reaching new customers. According to Linnea Haskin, Nutrition Resource Educator for the ...

No clear-cut answers on village water plans

Commentary

The meeting for the discussion of the proposed Fredonia water system is scheduled for Thursday at the new town of Pomfret building on Chestnut Road. For convenience of the public, it should have been at the Fredonia Opera House as was done for the last citizens meeting with the Village officials and engineers The meeting is important as it will have engineers and others present to explain the purchase of water from the North Chautauqua County Water District and answer questions. The meeting should be broadcast on the public access channel for those that may not be able to ...

People's column: Community needs respect in dialogue

Peoples column

Community needs respect in dialogue Editor, OBSERVER: Our community is working through major items — the Fredonia Village water supply source, and a potential change from Grape Belt status and a natural environment to nuclear power production and data centers. As we work, let each one of us put our best foot forward. This means working together without malice, becoming dutifully informed, and accepting that the perspectives of others may be valid. Intimidation, baiting and taunting have no place in our decision making process. Starting with the Thursday water meeting, let's ...

The OBSERVER’s View: Dunkirk always shines on Fourth

The OBSERVER’s View

Since 2024, Dunkirk has faced criticisms for overspending and failing to balance its annual budget. But come the Fourth of July, many things do go right. Once again, the city shined during festivities — especially with the fireworks finale. Photos shared on social media during the weekend ...

Summer update on the bridge work

Commentary

There has been some recent news relative to the Chautauqua Lake Bridge. There was one announcement by the DOT that related to planning for new detour routes once the eastbound section of the bridge is completed. This will require new routing for traffic on nights when the bridge is closed for construction activities. Another news item was more somber, as a worker fell from the bridge and was injured. The person injured, as I understand it, was an inspector...not a part of the actual construction crew. Nevertheless, it reminded us that there are risks on construction projects of ...

Triumphal arch, or sign of an arch enemy?

Commentary

Architecture always sends a message. So what does President Trump’s desire for a Triumphal Arch say about his authoritarian aspirations? About his regard for process, precedent, and the rule of law? First, we should look to the inspirations for the “Arc de Trump.” The form originated with Ancient Roman arches such as the Arch of Titus which served as “billboards” for military victories and glorified the absolute power of the emperors who erected them. Similarly, Napoleon’s famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris marks his army’s victory at the Battle of Austerlitz, a monument to ...