It appears the Buffalo region might be the rudest place in the United States of America.
Some Queen City residents were cursing a study by a Ukrainian Web company earlier this week that did a Twitter search and found more swearing and profanity by users in Western New York than elsewhere, thus earning the city the top spot for rudeness.
And while it may not be true, it does provide for some self reflection - not only when we use social media, but when we are out and about.
When we are motorists, do we yield the right of way to pedestrians? Do we honk our horn if we think the motorist ahead of us is not moving quickly enough when the light turns green? Are we tailgaters?
When out for a walk, do we say "Hello" to someone we may not know personally if they are walking toward us? Do you budge ahead of others in line? Most importantly, are we welcoming of tourists and visitors to our region?
Whether we like it or not, we are all ambassadors of this region. This study - no matter how false it may be - has branded this area as a rude one. Actions by us all, especially by those dropping off students for the start of a new year of college, will be under the microscope.
Prove that the recent questionable study is wrong - by using courtesy and kindness.
Holding elected officials accountable is not rude, but sometimes it can be laughable.
U.S. Rep. Tom Reed, R-Corning, seems to be under a wave of scrutiny after he admitted he was one of a number of freshman legislators who swam in the Sea of Galilee during a visit last year to Israel. The incident made a major splash earlier this week after U.S. Rep. Kevin Yoder of Kansas said he swam nude in the historic waters.
"I believe Mr. Yoder ... did come out and admit he did do that. Obviously that was not appropriate," Reed explained in an article earlier this week.
Just as comical was the take by Reed's opponent Nate Shinagawa on the situation. "It's disappointing to see our district in the national spotlight for a scandal at a time when the focus must be on job creation and economic growth."
So never mind that Chautauqua County is drowning among the top 10 nationally when talking about the high tax burdens. The swimming scandal may be what is really hurting this region when it comes to our attempt to add private-sector jobs and industry.
Someone grab a life preserver.
John D'Agostino is the OBSERVER publisher. Send comments to jdagostino@observertoday.com or call 366-3000, ext. 401.
