In spite of the annual Presque Isle deer hunt held every year, the park’s deer population continues to increase. “The peninsula is a fragile ecosystem.’ says park ranger Rick Waschbar.

“The park can really only handle a deer herd of about 15 to 20 head, and right now there are over 100 deer out there.”  Waschbar said that the annual winter hunt has failed to significantly reduce the deer herd to a sustainable number. “The problem is that we are not getting enough hunters applying for the deer hunt here.” he told us. “On one hand they love the easy close range shot at a deer that’s very accustomed to people. On the other hand there is the very real concern that their fellow hunting bros will call them sissies for shooting tame deer.”

To solve this problem Waschbar approached Scott Mitchell of the Erie Zoo. “We brainstormed,” said Waschbar  “And Scott suggested putting a natural predator into the environment.”

Gooferie reached out to Scott Mitchell for a comment. “Yes, it’s true.” he confirmed. “We are releasing lions onto the peninsula. It’s win – win. We are saving a lot of money by not feeding the lions. Do you know how much it costs to feed a big cat?”

When asked how long the lions will be roaming Presque Isle, Mitchell was unable to give us a definitive answer. “It could be weeks.” he said. “Lions sleep for a long time after a big meal.”

Should park visitors be concerned about African lions free ranging on the peninsula? Mitchell addressed this question. “Not at all.” he said. “Well, maybe a little. Just, um, just don’t approach them, ok?”

Kyle Foust, four term member of Erie County Council, has apparently won the County Controller position by what some would call “nefarious means.” As of 10 am today the County Controller race was still too close too call. Mr. Foust, desperate to remain in county government after losing his seat on County Council was overheard talking to one “Mr. Mephistopheles” in an apparent conversation about the election results.

Gooferie contacted Mr. Foust about these allegations. He was reluctant to speak at first but finally admitted that the conversation did indeed take place. “We made a deal.” said Foust. “A kind of a bargain really. I forget what it’s called. Basically we made an exchange.” Foust went on to say that the exchange will not impact his efficacy as County Controller. “You don’t really need a soul to work for the government.” He said. More details as they become available.