Greetings,
I hope everyone is enjoying the summer. The weather fluctuates from low 70’s with lots of rain to the 90’s with high humidity. Please remember that the Seneca Nation has cooling stations at both Allegany and Cattaraugus Community Centers along with the AOA Centers that are open for Elders.
COMPACT UPDATE
We will hold public meetings with our Seneca Members when we have determined the exact position of New York State regarding our gaming compact. As had been previously reported, the proposed bill we had formerly agreed to in principle, was not passed by the NYS Assembly resulting in a stalemate. Our negotiating team met with New York State representatives on August 8 with the goal of finding out their position since the former bill has failed. It is still unclear and there has been no resolve on any issues. We will move forward and continue to meet with New York State until we can reach an agreement that is acceptable
BACK TO SCHOOL
With Fall fast approaching, keep an eye out for back-to-school community events. For some it will be the first time to enter school from the young kindergarteners to the new freshman students going to college. We are proud of all you and for the families and friends who provide you with support and encouragement. For Thomas Indian School Alumni & Guests there will be a Reunion on September 16th. Many of us have memories of what school was like when we were young.
I attended Red House Indian School which was demolished due to the flooding from the Kinzua Damn and only the concrete steps remain. We continue to strive for educational success and the Seneca Nation has many supportive services. For information on the Reunion, upcoming back to school events and a listing of local Schools – supply lists, see the Seneca Media & Communications Center/Facebook.
STATE OF EMERGENCY
On July 21st, I declared a State of Emergency for our territories due to poor air quality caused by the Canadian wildfires. When this happens, the advice we have been given to share is : Stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed and avoid strenuous outdoor physical activity. Also, to have a plan if you are using a medical device. Use fans, air conditioning whenever possible. Our Health System is working with the National Indian Health Board to bring HEPA-certified air purifiers to our territories and the Medical staff will be assisting in identifying those that are most in need.
BUILDING PROJECT UPDATES
Construction of the new Cattaraugus Health Center began on April 17th. The foundation has been poured and structural steel will begin going up the week of August 21. Expansion at the Lionel R. John Health Center is in the feasibility stage. The KillBuck housing project began on June 21st. Work on the Allegany
Community Center’s roof will begin in September. On April 8, 2023, the Seneca Nation Council authorized the construction of the final phase of the Bush Road Housing Development on the Cattaraugus Territory. There will be seven new homes available for purchase and the applications are being finalized.
LACROSSE
The community cheered on youth teams from Newtown, Allegany, Tonawanda and Onondaga at the North American Minor Lacrosse Association’s Tournament held at the CCC on July 29th. An upcoming event is the 1st Annual Lacrosse Tournament in Honor of Darryl John will be held on the weekend of September 29th. He was previously honored as the founding father of the Allegany Arrows Minors Lacrosse Association and in 2001, as he was instrumental in the development of the North American Minor Lacrosse Association. He will always be remembered for his commitment and dedication to the development and growth of our lacrosse associations. (see sports section for contact information)
I wish everyone a great summer and to enjoy each day.
Sincerely,
President Rickey Armstrong
