Westfield and other local officials late last week dug in for a special ceremony: the groundbreaking of a tribute for first responders. The site will be at the former Portage Inn at 18 N. Portage St. in the village.

“We’ve had a fantastic committee that’s been working on this project for almost two years,” said Al Holbrook, Westfield Exempt Volunteer Fire Association president. “There are over 30 individuals who have been involved, and it’s been a labor of love. I want to thank all of those individuals who have been a part of it.”

Also at the ceremony was John Hanmann, treasurer of the organization. His donation of $2,500 in memory of his wife, Paula, is a tremendous gesture.

Other donations can be made through the Northern Chautauqua Community Foundation for the site. A dedication ceremony will be at 2 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 7.