This coming Saturday, October 3, animal rights proponents are invited to attend a free fundraising party at Handlebar gastropub, located at 129 Swan Street in Downtown Buffalo. The idea to create a fundraiser for anti-poaching efforts came about when animal rights advocate Scott O’Connor learned about a global rally/march for elephants and rhinos. At the time, a number of other local animal rights activists came together to formulate plans for a Buffalo-centric event that would coincide with the global effort. It was also decided to add “lions” to the list of animals to rally behind.
“Having been to Africa (via Elephants Without Borders), I’ve wanted to do something here to support and inform,” said wildlife activist Scott O’Connor. “With the international outcry from the killing of Cecil, a number of us felt that it was time to do something. Africa could be at a tipping point with its wildlife, we should be concerned and do as much as possible to help.”
According to organizers (me included), the funds raised at the party, through raffles and donations, will go directly to the conservation organization Elephants without Borders (EwB), which has been mobilizing “on the ground” to combat widespread poaching. Incredibly, while EwB’s main office base is in Botswana, its US affiliate office is based in Buffalo (on Linwood Avenue). Buffalo’s direct link with EwB is an empowering tool that positions this city right smack in the middle of the fight against poaching and trafficking. By helping to fund the anti-poaching efforts, we can directly influence future outcomes as they relate to free-roaming wild animals on this planet.
“Kelly Landon, an old friend from Buffalo State College was working for EwB and I went to Botswana to visit-help,” continued O’Connor. “Dr. Mike Chase, a native of Botswana, started EwB which is based in Kasane, Botswana – he was awarded the Presidential Order of Meritorious Service just last month for his unparalleled work with elephants. The EwB effort helps with the census and tracking of elephant populations, by researching travel patterns. During my stay, we camped most of the time as researchers flew out to conduct aerial surveys. Once they deciphered the routines of the animals, they could then best help to protect them from poaching and trafficking. I was basically a camp boy during my stint, helping to set up camp and keep it running – the experience was empowering and I never forgot about these animals that need our help desperately.”
These are the types of efforts that we need to support. Up until now we have taken these animals for granted. Now their future in not only uncertain, it’s downright scary.
Buffalo Roars 4 Tusks & Horns | Inaugural Anti-Poaching Fundraising Event | Saturday October 3, 2015 | 6pm – 10pm | Handlebar | 129 Swan Street | Buffalo, NY | Pub, covered patio, and gorgeous rooftop (weather dependant) overlooking Downtown Buffalo | Live music, cash bar, food, and 50/50 | Limited supply of t-shirts will be available
Entertainment includes performances by Half Animal, Den of Lions and an acoustic set by Handlebar co-owner Evan Thompson.
Sponsors include Buffalo Rising, Madd Grafix, Sunbelt Business Brokers, Bootleg Bucha and Merge.
Donations will be accepted at the door- cash/check. If you would like to make a donation ahead of time please send checks to: Elephants without Borders, Inc. 500 Linwood Ave., Buffalo, NY, 14209. Please include check memo: Buffalo Roars.
For more information please visit: Buffalo Roars 4 Tusks & Horns on Facebook