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Peoples column

People’s column

Editor, OBSERVER: Why do you publish opinions that contain inaccuracies and untruths? I am referring to the commentary about Social Democrats who the writer claims are Marxist or communists, which is not even close. We should not be confused with Democratic Socialist. We strongly support our system of Capitalism but believe that the citizens should have social benefits like Medicare, Medicaid, universal healthcare, subsidized childcare and more, paid for by taxing the very wealthy. I call myself a FDR Democrat. But besides the distortions and untruths about Social Democrats, my ...

People’s column: Community needs respect in dialogue

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 ...

Village discourse appears ‘unacceptable’

Editor, OBSERVER: Fredonia residents do indeed have the right to be heard by their elected village officials. Unfortunately, because of the actions and behavior of a few people, that right has been changed to sending a letter to the village, and requesting that your letter be read at the meeting. A previous writer to this publication has stated that nothing untoward has happened during the public comment time at the village board meetings, and that there is no reason for the board to consider this change. If you have attended or watched any of the village board meetings, you will ...

People’s column

Proposed law will fuse U.S., Israeli military Editor, OBSERVER: Every year, the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) presents its wish list of monies for the coming year. Lobbyists for the “defense industry” submit a massive document — over a thousand pages — that very few read in its entirety. In general, Congress subsequently enacts the laws granting upwards of $1.5 trillion for the “military industrial complex.” The NDAA for 2027, released May 13, contains a proposal — section 224 in the House bill — that will virtually merge the U.S. military with ...

People’s column

Primary voting begins Saturday Editor, OBSERVER: Primary Elections are upon us. Early Voting starts soon on Saturday and runs until June 21. The times vary. The two polling places are the Chautauqua County Fair Grounds 4-H Building Ag. and Expo Center, 1089 Central Ave., Dunkirk, New York 14048; and the Robert H. Jackson Ctr. On 305 East Fourth Street, Jamestown, New York, 14701. Enter on the Pendergast Ave. entrance. You can go to either polling place for the primary early voting. Important. If you live in Pomfret 1,2,3,4,6 you will vote at Harvest Chapel FMC, 39 Matteson St. ...

People’s column: Wealth inequality grows in U.S.

Editor, OBSERVER: Wealth inequality in the United States has reached levels that should concern every American. While millions of working families struggle to afford housing, healthcare, childcare, and higher education, a small percentage of the population continues to accumulate enormous wealth at a historic pace. Hard work should provide stability and opportunity, yet many full-time workers live paycheck to paycheck. At the same time, large corporations and the wealthiest Americans often benefit from tax loopholes and economic policies that widen the gap between rich and ...