More than $2 billion a month is spent on sports betting in New York state - including a record $2.64 billion in October 2025. Needless to say there was pent-up demand when state legislators approved online sports betting back in 2022. And, let’s be honest, the state was looking for a new ...

Twice in less than two months, area teachers have been accused of inappropriate conduct with students. First came news that the Westfield Academy and Central School Board of Education was aware of claims against a current staff member accused of inappropriate behavior. Then, just a couple of ...

In September 1897, 8-year-old Virginia O’Hanlon asked a now-famous question in a letter to the New York Sun. Is there a Santa Claus? Not only did the letter make young Virginia O’Hanlon a celebrity, but it prompted one of the famous newspaper editorials ever written with an answer to ...

Pomfret Supervisor Dan Pacos, subtly yet accurately, summed up the biggest difference between serving on municipal boards during a December meeting. Though the village of Fredonia is located within the town, it is a much different dynamic when it comes to discussion. Pacos said of the Town ...

Over the past few years, one of the constant issues expressed by both the homeless and by advocates is the lack of street outreach to the homeless. That complaint came up again in November during the county Homeless Coalition meeting. Amanda Straight, Chautauqua Opportunities Inc. housing ...

Fredonia Village Board was far too quiet about the recent contract approved with its Fire Department staff. In a meeting earlier this month, the board — with Mayor Michael Ferguson’s tie-breaking vote — passed the deal. But, unfortunately, no one on the board offered specifics regarding ...