Feature President

A message from President Matthew B. Pagels

Gagwe:göh sgënö’,

I hope you are all well and enjoying the great weather we’ve had this summer. We also had some much-needed rain to help our gardens and flowers grow.

This week 20 years ago former President Cyrus Schindler signed the gaming Compact. This was a historic moment for the Seneca Nation and all of Western New York. This opened the door to many economic opportunities around the area. We recognized this anniversary at Seneca Niagara on August, 17th. We joined representatives from the Seneca gaming Corporation, members from the construction trades, colleagues and supporters from throughout our region to hear about the important impacts our gaming operations continue to make here. In regard to our current gaming Compact, representatives from the Nation recently held preliminary discussions with New York State representatives focusing on target timelines, meeting schedules, and other logistics. Once this is decided, both teams can begin the negotiation process. We still have a great deal of work to do.

The Seneca Elder Summer Jamboree took place on August 18th at Seneca Allegany Casino. We had approximately 375 elders with one guest attend this fun filled event. Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton were the highlight of the day.

Our COVID update continues to show a stead number of people testing positive for the virus. For the 10-day numbers, 6 for Allegany and 10 for Cattaraugus for those testing at the health centers. Please continue to monitor yourselves and loved ones for signs and symptoms. Please make use of at home monitoring tests, follow up with the clinic and continue to use public health guidelines to help limit the spread.

The late Adrian Stevens

Many large events are happening as we near the end of summer such as the county fairs, football games and the return to school which present an opportunity for potential exposure. Be careful and quarantine at home if you are not feeling well and have tested for the virus. Bluestone testing appointments can be made by calling 716-220-2442.

Again, the Seneca Health System has COVID vaccinations and boosters available or all eligible individuals. Please call Cattaraugus Health at 716-532-5582 and Allegany Health at 716-945-5894 for appointments.

Lastly, I would like to recognize the passing of Adrian Stevens, a dear friend, and community leader. A former Nation Councillor, Treasurer, and longtime Director of the Health Center and Executive Director of the Seneca Nation Housing Authority, Adrian was a strong advocate and forward thinker for the Seneca people. His service as a lacrosse coach, manager for the War Chiefs and overall community leader will be sorely missed. We send condolences to his family during this difficult time.

Stay safe, stay strong,
Dah ne’hoh dih ae’

Matthew B. Pagels