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

BEST

STEEPLE CLOCK — The new clock placed in the Fredonia Family Church Building looks great. Yes, it is different than the original steeple, but this new steeple is actually designed after the first steeple the church ever had, not the one that burned down last year. The previous clock was actually owned by the village of Fredonia and was placed in the church steeple when village officials realized the clock wouldn’t fit in village hall. This time around the church owns the clock, which is probably better in the long run. Maintenance was always an issue when it came to the village clock in the former Baptist Church steeple. We know who owns it and who will keep it looking pristine.

WILD AMERICA RETURNS — Today and Sunday is the Roger Tory Peterson’s “Wild America” Nature Festival at Panama Rocks. There will more 40 nature artists, live wild animals, a local food cook-off, speakers, music, a farmers’ market and more. The weather looks perfect. If you haven’t been to Panama Rocks lately, it’s a great excuse to make the trip, and enjoy not only the beautiful rocks, but also celebrate nature. For more information, visit wildamericafest.com.

WRETCHED GROUP — In 1965, a group of Dunkirk and Fredonia high schoolers formed a rock band called the Wretched Group. Like a lot of high school bands, the group disbanded after members headed off to college. In 1999, the Wretched Group reunited. Twenty years later, the group continues to play in the summers, as band members return to the area to perform. This year the band is playing Aug. 1 and 2 the Clarion Dockside Cafe in Dunkirk. This year’s performances will be in memory of Hank McKee and Jim “Quale” Pasquale, both original members who have passed away. Come out and see a performance if you get the chance.

WORST

RACISM CLAIMS — We want to make two points: Racism still exists; and too often racism becomes a trump card in politics (and that’s a small ‘t’ we are using). A perfect example is the dispute between Rep. Andy Goodell and Assemblyman Charles Barron, D-NYC. During a debate, Goodell questioned legislation that would make it harder for public assistance to be reduced or decreased as a sanction for violating the program’s rules. Barron accused Goodell of being condescending and disrespectful to those receiving assistance, later calling Goodell’s words “racist.” The moment any politician calls another racist, healthy debates disappear. We need politicians to debate legislation in a healthy manner. Disagreeing with one another is fine. But calling one another racist only builds walls.