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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 first theater evening. I was seventeen. And thrilled. So sophisticated! The South Shore Music Circus in Cohasset, Mass. was a summer destination for professional touring shows. I think the circular stage within a tent was the reason it was dubbed a “circus.” That first musical was Showboat and ...

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 anymore. But, there is more to it than that. You are also becoming aware that you won’t live forever, and having things more simple in your life is good, not only for you, but for your family, for your friends and for those around you. Some of this is also health driven. Your body and back just ...

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 ones. Following the law is essential to an orderly society. I take great pride knowing that I play a part. Our Constitution and amendments provide assurance that, for the most part, laws will be followed. Without this there will be chaos. The pardoning of those who participated in the assault ...

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 process, we would like to highlight why projects like this matter. COMMUNITY IMPACT The murals in Falconer, Sherman, Westfield, and the upcoming Dunkirk project have already sparked excitement and positive feedback from residents and visitors. Public art invites people to linger, explore, 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 did this happen, why did it happen and how can we prevent it from happening again? It is natural to tune out the deaths we cannot relate to, after all, it would be unbearably heavy to think about death constantly. But make no mistake: there are people who must think about it every day. First ...

Repowering NRG Could Power Region Economically

Ever since NRG started talking about shuttering its coal plant on the Dunkirk waterfront, people have had all sorts of ideas about what should happen to that facility next. For a very long time, a lot of people argued vehemently that NRG, or some other company, had to start processing coal there again. It appears people have finally come to understand that it is not going to happen. With that realization came many dreams about what should next fill the previously gorgeous, prime real estate. A multitude of diverse and exciting ideas emerged. Who wouldn’t love to see that land used ...