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Peoples column

Republicans nearly extinct

Editor, OBSERVER: There is more to the sixth anniversary of the passing — Oct. 18, 2014 — of Buffalo’s former Republican State Comptroller Edward V. Regan. He was also a member of the Buffalo Common Council and served as Erie County Executive in the 1970s. It was a time when Republicans could successfully compete with Democrats in Buffalo and statewide including local races within both Erie and Niagara Counties for political office at all levels of government. Fast forward to today. Democrats currently hold all statewide offices. The last Republican senator was Alfonse ...

People’s column

Biden will help retirees Editor, OBSERVER: This is a message to senior voters. Election Day is almost here, and everyone needs to turn out to vote. That’s especially true for older New Yorkers. The candidates for president could not be any different and the retirement security for millions of Americans is on the line. Vice President Joe Biden has laid out a detailed plan to protect and expand our earned Social Security benefits. He will strengthen the system by making the wealthier Americans pay their fair share into the system, and increase benefits for those who need it ...

People’s column

Proposals needed in COVID fight Editor, OBSERVER: More than 200,000 people in our country have died from COVID-19, and the financial consequences of the pandemic reach far beyond that. The emergency relief package “HEROES 2.0” was released by the House of Representatives on Sept. 29. This funding is a start, but not a cure-all, to address this pandemic. Our members of Congress must do more. The Make Medications Affordable by Preventing Pandemic Pricegouging Act and Taxpayer Research and Coronavirus Knowledge Act are two crucial, pragmatic pieces of legislation that would help ...

People’s column

Remembering a ‘tenacious leader’ Editor, OBSERVER: Sadly missed along life’s way, quietly remembered every day ... No longer in our life to share, but in our hearts, you’re always there. We, the Democratic Committee of the city of Dunkirk, wish to express our saddened hearts regarding the passing of Charles Porpiglia. He was a forthright and tenacious leader who always found the time to connect with and help the citizens of Dunkirk. Chuck, until we meet again to talk about all of the wonderful memories and justice we tried to impart, and did, at times. One of my ...

People’s column

Nursing homes are doing their best Editor, OBSERVER My mom is a resident at the Chautauqua Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. Like many other residents’ families, I have not seen her since February. A recent protest at this facility doesn’t seem to be very constructive, as the visitation policy comes from the state. The staff have been working throughout this pandemic and should be supported, not protested. Even if the people are protesting the policies set by the state, to me it sends negative feelings toward those who are caring for our loved ones. No matter how I ...

People’s column

Service after attacks took toll on many Editor, OBSERVER: As the 19th anniversary of the 9-11 terrorist attacks on America passes, it is with a somber heart I remember that day and the days and months following. As a member of the New York State Police, like so many of my brothers and sisters, I was detailed as first responder to Ground Zero to help with the massive effort to protect and restore a sense of recovery to New York City. The sights and smells along with the stories of human tragedy will forever be etched in my mind. As a result of my time spent there, I have twice ...