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Local Commentaries

An Old Site Brings Ancient Knowledge To Light

There’s a place in southeastern Turkey that most people have never heard of — a windswept hilltop called Gobekli Tepe. It was built long before the pyramids, long before organized farming. And it’s important for human beings to know its story, because when the site was discovered in the ...

A Lifelong Love Of Golden Smiles

A giant of the film industry died just recently, and his passing brought back a flood of memories. As I explored those moments, I realized that in a small, eye-opening way, Robert Redford changed my life. But first, a little history. Four years before I saw Redford, a date invited me to my ...

The Difficult Decision To Downsize

When you get to be my age, if you haven’t already, you start to think about downsizing the footprint of your life. It makes common sense to do so—the kids are grown and on their own, you are tired of mowing the grass and maintaining the house, and you just don’t need as much room ...

We Must Respect Rule Of Law

As a lawyer admitted to practice 41 years ago, I took an oath to uphold both the United States and New York constitutions. I have tremendous respect for, and remain committed to, the rule of law. We may not agree whether a law is fair, but there are procedures to change the laws, or create new ...

Alliance Responds To Mural Criticism

We appreciate the thoughtful discussion taking place regarding the Paint CHQ Mural Festival and the role of public art in Chautauqua County. Public art has long been recognized as a catalyst for community pride, economic vitality, and cultural vibrancy. While opinions may differ on funding and ...

Love Is Answer To Violence

If you are a student of history, you know that violence has been with humanity since the day Cain slew Abel. Despite its tragic commonality, death always shocks us more when we can relate to the person lost. That shock echoes in our hearts and minds, pushing us to ask the same questions: how ...