Here are some of the best — and worst — of the week:

BEST

TASSEL TURNING — This weekend is a special weekend for senior students in our region. They’re graduating high school and entering a new phase of life. The vast majority will head to college, the Armed Forces or the workforce. Whichever the case is, we wish them the best and hope they become lifelong learners throughout their lives.

FESTIVAL ITALIA — Today from noon to 8 p.m. will be the Fredonia Italian Heritage Festival in Barker Common. The public is invited to come and experience the sounds, smells and taste of the Italian heritage that so many of the residents of Fredonia share. There will be craft vendors, Italian food vendors, raffles, music, dancing and more. Hopefully any rain will be gone by the time the festival begins. It should be a lot of fun.

BLOCK PARTY CELEBRATION — Last weekend’s Washington Park Block Party in Dunkirk was such a hit that the local churches are now holding weekly gatherings for families every Wednesday from 6-8 p.m. There will be plenty of games and activities each week. We think this is a great idea, getting community members together and having fun.

WORST

MUGSHOT BAN — Earlier this week, a 64-year-old Fredonia man was arrested on allegations of creating child pornography. The OBSERVER requested a headshot of the suspect, but we were declined. The reason is because New York State lawmakers earlier this year banned the release of mug shots unless police feel “the release of such photographs will serve a specific law enforcement purpose.” We can understand banning mugshots for low level crimes, but when it comes to felony charges like the creation of child pornography, we think the public has a right to know what the suspect looks like. New York state should modify the law to permit the release of all mugshots when it comes to sexual or violent crimes.