By Craig Harvey

OBSERVER Sports Editor

Working for a newspaper you learn by trial and error.

For example, I know if I don't want you, the reader, to continue reading this column, all I have to say is Brett Favre.

Now if I want the reader to continue reading, all I have to say is Jenn Stuczynski.

Let's stick to Jenn Stuczynski.

I have seen great events happen in a community that brought everyone together before. But I don't ever remember an event like Stuczynski going to the Olympics that has drawn so much excitement to a community like this before. The excitement has truly brought the community together.

Some say there is a rift between Dunkirk and Fredonia. I would venture to say Stuczynski has single handedly brought the two communities together.

If you don't believe me, take a ride through Dunkirk and count the number of Stuczynski signs in the front yard.

I have not been able to go to a restaurant or to a shopping center without seeing a Stuczynski sign or overhearing people talk about Stuczynski.

During Tuesday's National Night Out in Fredonia, the event was packed with Stuczynski supporters.

It was truly an exciting day to see the community come together and wish her the best of luck at the Olympics.

During the past week, a colleague said to me the sport's section of the newspaper has never received so much attention before.

He could not be more correct. And with good reason.

I have had a chance to meet Jenn's parents, Mark and Sue. They are the nicest and most genuine people around. Their values and morals have obviously rubbed off on their daughter. Through all accounts, Jenn is obviously an incredible athlete. But more important, she is an incredible person outside of the sports world.

Though we all hope to see her bring home the gold, if she doesn't, we are all still very proud of what she has accomplished.

As the Olympics begin, it usually reminds us how proud we are to be an American. Right now, there has never been a better time to be a resident of Northern Chautauqua County.