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Peoples column

People’s column

Rodeos take toll on the animals Editor, OBSERVER: If people taking part in or attending an event — a rodeo — that glorifies animals being spurred, roped, slammed to the ground, being strapped with bucking straps, or their necks violently twisted is something to be celebrated, I think it is time to give pause. Actually, it is sick and depraved, in my opinion, much like the gladiator events in ancient Rome. Maybe it is time to think about what goes on behind the scenes, too, as if what is happening before the audience’s very own eyes shouldn’t be enough. Veterinarians have ...

People’s column

Generosity coming at a high price Editor, OBSERVER: I am really so very happy for the labor leaders of Chautauqua County who have negotiated a huge payday increase over the next four years for our county rank and file unionized workers. As for County Executive PJ Wendel who continues to freely give away the taxpayer dollars, I just shake my head. I do appreciate that PJ does not come from a history of managing and obviously does yet understand his role to protect the taxpayers. But soon one or more county departments will be fully back on the local tax share, the housing ...

People’s column

‘Caring people’ help in battle Editor, OBSERVER: Thank you to everyone for your prayers and support during my treatments for cancer and for the benefit held for me on June 4. A special thanks to Gary and Beth Dudek and Gene and Jana Tarnowski, chairpersons for the benefit, along with all the committee members, the kitchen and dinner crew, and “team Julie” workers. Thanks to Michael Hund for providing the live music. I am grateful to the First Ward Falcons Club for hosting the event. Thank you to all the individuals, family, friends, neighbors, classmates from SCCS ...

People’s column

New marker adds to region’s history Editor, OBSERVER: It was a pleasure being witness to the unveiling of a marvelous new historical marker commemorating Gen. Lafayette’s visit to our village of Fredonia in 1825. Many thanks to Historian Todd Langworthy, Mayor Doug Essek, town Supervisor Dan Pacos, the Daughters of the American Revolution, and the Pomeroy Foundation for securing the historical plaque. Special thanks to Mayor Essek for his remarks on the importance of preserving history. Our country has much to be proud of and much to repent. It’s important to learn from ...

People’s column

Constituent ‘embarrassed’ by county action Editor, OBSERVER: I am embarrassed and ashamed of the actions of County Executive PJ Wendel and the Legislature. The exception being Legislator Tom Nelson, who apparently paid attention in History class. As a child, I remember listening to uncles and grandfather speak about “NINA” — No Immigrant Need Apply — signs on business! After the war in Europe, I heard my own father complaining about Central European immigrants, taking “our” jobs! Of course then there were Koreans, Vietnamese, Middle eastern immigrants! ...

People’s column

A better engine for transportation Editor, OBSERVER: The Empire State Passengers Association is in agreement with the Editor’s corner “County’s airport dreams discount reality,” (April 28) noting the lost opportunities from Chautauqua County spending $1 million annually on two small airports. While opinions may differ on what public use to reallocate the funds to, our statewide passenger rail advocacy organization supports additional passenger train frequencies in the Lakeshore corridor along with a future passenger stop in Chautauqua County. Our association is working ...