Preservation efforts failed in county

Editor, OBSERVER:

I commend WNED public television and everyone who had a part in making “Reimagining A Buffalo Landmark,” the new Richardson Olmsted Campus documentary. It clearly and convincingly illustrates why this is a model preservation project, one most deserving of its 2018 Richard H. Driehaus National Trust for Historic Preservation Award. It also demonstrates what can be achieved when local leaders engage with their stakeholders in an honest, transparent and inclusive manner.

At the same time, the film also serves as a reminder of the failure of the Chautauqua Institution to explore its options when it came to preserving and updating its own national historic landmark, the Amphitheater — the most significant structure on its grounds and perhaps in the entire region. The dishonesty, secrecy and exclusivity of the Institution’s leaders led directly to the Amp’s needless demolition and replacement with a replica.

Their actions are a case study of what not to do in terms of historic preservation and community planning. Sadly, it’s a story that needs to be told to make sure nothing like it ever happens again.

BRIAN J. BERG,

Chautauqua

Persia appreciates VFW flag donation

Editor, OBSERVER:

This is an open letter to Mr. Thomas Howard, commander of the James J. Cruden Post 5007 in Gowanda.

On behalf of the people of the town of Persia, I wish to express our heartfelt thanks to VFW Post 5007 for donating an American flag to us so that it can be flown over the Persia Town Hall.

We appreciate the generosity of the membership of James J. Cruden Post 5007 in presenting us with this symbol of our country and of the sacrifices that our service men and women made, who gave their time to defend our country

It is the policy of the town to replace the flag on the town hall every May so that it can be flown to honor all our brave service people for the Memorial Day observance.

Again, thank you for your donation to the people of the town, and to all the people who pass by, that they may see the symbol of our country proudly flying over the town hall.

JOHN T. WALGUS,

supervisor,

town of Persia