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Peoples column

People’s column

‘Nasty’ politics continue in village Editor, OBSERVER: When I retired from SUNY Fredonia in December 2015; my wife and I decided to stay in Fredonia. We continue to like that the village is friendly, has relatively low local taxes, and the very good entertainment provided by the Rockefeller Arts Center and the 1891 Opera House. The village of Fredonia political situation has become so nasty that I want to make several comments as a retiree. First, it is obvious that the water controversy and dreams for the future of the village are already doing a pretty good job of ...

People’s column

Is there ‘courage’ in our capital? Editor, OBSERVER: It's time to call upon one of the Stoic virtues to pull us out of this tailspin we find ourselves in. That virtue is courage and we are in desperate need across most segments of our society. Colleges, businesses, law firms, media outlets, press corps and of course politicians have chosen cowardice over courage, and it will most likely cost us our republic. What we want in life, what the world needs, all of it is on the other side of fear. All of it is accessed through courage, should we choose to wield it. And not enough of ...

People’s column

Congress should handle tariffs, not the president Editor, OBSERVER: I am not a lawyer but I can read and understand simple English. The US Constitution says in Article 1, Section 8 : “The Congress shall have power to lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and excises”. It does NOT say that Congress can delegate that power to any other authority or individual. Where are the “Strict Constructionists” who claim to be conservative? There is nothing in the US Constitution that gives the president the authority to raise and lower tariffs up and down at whatever whim strikes ...

People’s Column

Adding clarification to Amphitheater Editor, OBSERVER: It is inaccurate, indeed deceptive, to write or describe performances taking place at the current Amphitheater without distinguishing between the original historic landmarked Amp that was demolished in 2016 and the $42 million imitation built in 2017. The current Amp is a replica of the one designed by its co-founder, Lewis Miller, and needlessly destroyed 124 years later, and so it’s simply wrong to say FDR spoke at the Amp on the eve of WWII or the orchestra is performing there during the 2025 season. The historical integrity ...

White Inn is royalty for village

Editor, OBSERVER: The corner of Route 20 and White Street in Fredonia is no longer quiet. The magnificent “Queen” has returned to her hallowed spot. The White Inn, long vacant, has been restored and remodeled and is ready to welcome overnight guests. An animal bedroom is also available for those people travelling with pets. The bar room, dining room and kitchen have all been painted, papered and brought up to date. Stark white tablecloths adorn tables in the dining room. Menus and prices are available in the latest edition of Bon Appetit magazine. Congratulations go out to ...

People’s column

Loving learning through teachers Editor, OBSERVER: Congratulations to all 2025 graduating seniors, especially Fredonia Central School senior Charles Domenico on receiving the Alissa Mari Cole Memorial Scholarship. Teachers who love teaching teach students to love learning. Thank you for honoring Alissa’s legacy. THE COLE FAMILY, Dunkirk