Animal Health Care

The Buffalo Zoo’s 19-year old Indian Rhinocerous ‘Henry’ was euthanized on July 7 after several weeks of declining health. This marks the third high-profile death of a large mammal at the Zoo in the past year alone. The good news, big sale on Rhino burgers at the Zoo’s concession stand.

Assinine Internet Fads

During the Taste of Buffalo on July 10, a “flash mob”—a coordinated performance organized via the web and social networking—broke out in a choreographed dance to Lady Gaga. Mark my words Interet trendsters, first person I see ‘planking’ around town is going to get a swift kick square in the naughty bits.

Irresponsible Drivers

Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed a bill into law on July 12 that makes texting while driving a primary offense. Previously drivers could only charged with distracted driving if the texts occured during another violation. However, fear not teenagers, we all know how well that existing ban on cell phones is enforced.

Civil Suits

Genesee County police on July 13 ruled out mechanical issues and announced they will not bring criminal charges against Darien Lake for the tragic death of a disabled Iraq War veteran. How to put this delicately... but double amputees probably shouldn’t be riding roller-coasters in the first place.

Attention Addicts

The last months of anonymity must have been excruciating for Carl Paladino. Insistent on thrusting himself back into the spotlight, Paladino filed a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s Office accusing the Buffalo Public Schools of racketeering and alleging that a “black and union cabal” controls the district.

Cost to taxpayers to install a new 86,000-square-foot turf field for the Buffalo Bills at Ralph Wilson Stadium in Orchard Park, which began on July 11. Last installed in 2003, the existing turf will be offered up to local non-profit organizations on a bid basis. Since 1997, the Bills’ lease agreement with Erie County has included $63.2 million in capital improvements to the stadium, including a $3 million annual grant.