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The OBSERVER’s View

New York State: Abuser is bigger problem than weapons

Gov. Kathy Hochul will have a choice to make later this summer when she reviews A.544B/S.1985. It’s hard to argue, given our shared history with domestic abuse cases, that seizing weapons in these instances isn’t a smart thing to do in certain situations. The legislation requires a firearm, rifle, electronic dart gun, electronic stun gun, disguised gun, imitation weapon, shotgun, antique firearm, black powder rifle, black powder shotgun, or muzzle-loading firearm that is found in plain sight or pursuant to a lawful search be seized. Weapons could be seized if the victim responds ...

DUNKIRK: Trucks prove fiscal ride still bumpy

Dunkirk’s incompetence was on full display again at this week’s Finance Committee meeting. This time it involved the purchase of two fire trucks two years ago. Once the decision was made to purchase the vehicles for about $1.75 million, the plan for financing was never seen through in 2023. As usual, this lack of attention to detail does not involve the current administration of Mayor Kate Wdowiasz, but it definitely has the finger-prints of current council members James Stoyle and Nancy Nichols on it. Those in attendance at the meeting were told the trucks are already in ...

Hanover: Small community celebrates artist

A small, but enthusiastic gathering over the weekend in Hanover showed off some excellent pieces of local art while also celebrating a local legend. Thanks in part to Vince Martonis, town historian, about 40 residents came together for 98-year-old Ethelyn “EZ” Lyman. Over the years, the Silver Creek resident has painted hundreds of landscapes with many in attendance bringing in works they felt blessed to have in their possessions. “She is the unofficial historian of the town,” said Martonis. “Through her paintings she has preserved things that are long gone such as the ...

SHELTER: Some big plans for Westfield site

There’s no denying our region’s love for pets — and those looking for homes. Every year, residents donate to animal shelters while others generously take in dogs and cats. Two of our largest north county shelters — Lakeshore Humane Society and Northern Chautauqua Canine Rescue — utilize volunteers to keep costs down. Lakeshore’s new building is outstanding. Northern Chautauqua Canine Rescue at 7540 North Gale St., however, needs more assistance. That’s why the organization, which recently celebrated 25 years, is eyeing a new facility. “Northern Chautauqua Canine ...

CASSADAGA: Village inaction insults residents

There is a responsibility that comes with being a supervisor. It is even greater when you are serving the community. That is why it is so discouraging to see what happened in Cassadaga. Sam Alaimo, who is the village’s Department of Public Works supervisor, was charged with fourth-degree criminal mischief, trespassing and tampering after an incident June 6 at the Valley Outdoors business at Route 60 and Maple Street. “At this point, there’s nothing we can do,” Cassadaga Deputy Mayor Bill Astry said of the situation. “He’s innocent until proven guilty.” That is not ...

DUNKIRK: No council heroics in written words

In March, state Sen. George Borrello proposed legislation for a control board in the city of Dunkirk in an attempt to change the path of the municipality’s beleaguered finances for the future. Last December, Common Council members — including Republicans Abigail Zatorski, James Stoyle and Nancy Nichols — voted to approve an 84% property tax increase. After that decision in late 2024, there was silence from the trio at public Common Council meetings when it came to the deficit for five months. No talk or discussion from them on how to cut spending, what to do about the fiscal ...