Let it go. It was a joke and said very much tongue and cheek.
BTW, it is "east coast" to those that live here. It might not be considered that in reality, but people not from there would call it the "east coast" unless you have roots there. Just like everyone thinks anyone from Illinois (that does not live in the Midwest) lives close to Chicago or asks that question when you tell them what state you are from. Buffalo is in New York State right? New York State is on the Atlantic Ocean right?
Peace