Buffalo's farm team fires team dentist after controversial party there's just one problem; he's also the owner
The Rochester Americans, AHL affiliate of the Buffalo Sabres, have fired their team dentist Dr. Nick Nicosia after he was found hosting a party mocking Juneteenth. According to a Rochester firefighter, who was apparently brought to the party by his Captain while on duty, the party had a large cut-out of Donald Trump, large Juneteenth flags with "buckets of Kentucky Fried Chicken prominently displayed" around them. Party-goers also received gift bags which included a small bottle of cognac and a Juneteenth commemorative cup.
The Americans released a statement following their notification of the party saying, "We have chosen to end Dr. Nicosia's relationship with our team upon learning of recent allegations. We do not tolerate racism in any form and it has no place in our world. We urge all individuals to help end racism and choose love in all their interactions with others."
As much as the Americans are attempting to take action, there is just one problem with them "firing" the team dentist - he is also co-owner of the team. At this point, the AHL's Board of Governors needs to step in and either take control of his percentage of ownership in the Amerks while attempting to sell to a new owner or force the other owners of the Amerks to buy him out immediately. Otherwise, him being fired from his role as team dentist does nothing to remove the toxic and racist culture, which he clearly demonstrated, from the team.
