Breaking News

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 ...

Water issue part of larger problem

Editor, OBSERVER: Is anyone asking this question: what happened to our water supply? Fredonia in the past enjoyed the best tasting water, year after year. With the absence of the Carriage House, the demand on the water has drastically decreased, so you can’t blame the warm summer. Supply exceeds the current demand on the system. Former Mayor Athanasia Landis procured thousands of dollars to correct the water supply issues in the northern quadrant of the village. I would hope the village’s water supply will not be compromised due to the COVID pandemic that allegedly caused the ...

Portland Town Board puts constituents first

Editor, OBSERVER: This is an open letter to the Portland Town Board. Please be aware of the gratitude you deserve for performing your office for the benefit of all our community. I have witnessed the hours and energy you give to be sure that Brocton and its surrounding area is well governed. Thank you for keeping a moratorium on allowing wind turbines into the area. Considering the huge impact they will make on the lake plain that is a very wise decision. You have already made one step for the area’s environmental integrity and I hope you will make a giant step for the whole ...

People’s column

County working hard regarding COVID-19 Editor, OBSERVER: A few weeks ago as the story about Fieldbrook Foods was breaking, a rather negative article appeared (Aug. 28) blasting the local health department and county government “handling” of the news. The story line was something to the effect that they were “fiddling while Rome burned” and that important issues regarding public safety were slow to emerge in face of mounting evidence in the press that there was a risk to the public. As a longtime member of the Health Department staff, initially as its Commissioner for ...

People’s column

Mental health needs more help Editor, OBSERVER: September is Suicide Prevention Month and it’s important that we are there for each other and take steps to prevent suicide. The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention’s theme for the month is to #KeepGoing, by taking simple actions to safeguard our mental health and save lives. From learning the warning signs for suicide and what to do if you are worried someone is struggling, to bringing education programs to your community, we can all learn new ways to help each other save lives. One action I’m taking is to urge my ...

People’s column

Reed must help our postal service Editor, OBSERVER: Louis DeJoy the current postmaster general is sabotaging our postal service in your 23rd Congressional District of New York. His independent and rogue actions are negatively impacting our constitutional right for a Post Office (Article 1, Section 8). He is not qualified for the position of postmaster master and has conflicts of interest due to his current and past financial investments. As a resident of the 23rd Congressional District, I am calling on Tom Reed to take swift and immediate action in the following ways: ¯ ...