“Summer Rush”
Heats Up Seneca Casinos
Asian & Italian Experiences at Seneca Niagara
The Inside Scoop at
Cold Stone Creamery
A Conversation with
Larry the Cable Guy SUMMER 2012
SenecaCasinos.com 1
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Table of Contents 10 12 24 27 32 34 38 39 40 44 46 53 54 56 58 60
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Seneca Niagara Fashion a Unique VIP Experience Seneca Casinos Heats Up the Excitement with 2012 ‘Summer Rush’ A Conversation with Larry the Cable Guy Seneca Niagara Casino Gets Social The Inside Scoop at Cold Stone Creamery The Asian Experience at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel Two Hundred New Hotel Rooms Coming to Seneca Allegany Casino Construction Begins This Summer at Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino Relax from Head to Toe with the Tranquility Signature Massage The Italian Experience at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel Taste the Flavors of Far East at Koi Niagara River Region Festivals Sic Bo-The Latest Table Game Craze at Seneca Niagara Casino Pow Wow Season Fierce Lacrosse Berries, Baskets and Beads
Welcome Welcome to Seneca Casinos!
President Dan Pasco vp business developMent & marketing Gary MacGregor Editor Ashley Guay Designer Rob Petrullo Vanessa Furtado contributing writers Tony Astran, Seneca Gaming Corporation Leslie Logan, SNI Foreign Relations Communications Director Advertising Consultants Gail Cerrone Coral Bellisle Catherine Puinno Head Office 2722 St. Paul Ave., Niagara Falls ON L2J 2L4 905-356-7283 for american advertising 877-888-2825 For a selection of our magazines please visit www.revpublishing.com
Summer is upon us at Seneca Casinos. It’s our busiest time of year, and we want to make doubly certain your visit is Excitement Worth Sharing. That’s why we we’ve delivered a world-class lineup of entertainment with our 2012 “Summer Rush” Concert Series. We have quite a few entertainers coming to the region that we think you’ll recognize: Stevie Nicks, Larry the Cable Guy, Michael Bolton, Meat Loaf, Trace Adkins, and much more. And great entertainment needs great venues – so we’ve made the experience at our Events Centers even better with two recent investments: new high-definition video screens, and crystal-clear digital audio sound systems. Great entertainment is just part of a memorable experience at Seneca Casinos – but it’s an important part. So, in this issue of Seneca Today magazine, you’ll find many examples of ways to be entertained this summer. And, you’ll see that one of our biggest stars graciously provided an in-depth – and quite hilarious – question-and-answer session for you, the readers. This summer, enjoy our AAA Four Diamond hotels, array of outstanding restaurants, the newest and hottest slot machines which are entering our casinos on an almost-daily basis, and our high-energy table games. All are presented with the fabulous Seneca service from a terrific team at each casino, and you are certain to have a great experience every time you visit. Sincerely, Gus Tsivikis General Manager Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel
Chuck Kilroy General Manager Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel and Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino
Seneca Today is published by Rev Publishing Inc. All opinions expressed in Seneca Today are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Seneca Gaming Corporation employees or owners. All unsolicited manuscripts and/or photographs submitted are assumed to be intended for publication or republication in whole or in part. The right to alter, edit or refuse photos and/or manuscripts intended for publication is assumed. All unsolicited material submitted to Seneca Today are submitted at the author’s risk. Manuscripts and or photographs intended to be returned must be accompanied by sufficient postage. Seneca Today does not assume any responsibility for any claims of our advertisers and reserves the right to refuse any advertising.
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LeT SeNeCA CASiNOS HOST yOur NexT CONFereNCe, TrADe SHOW, FOrmAL eveNT, SOCiAL OuTiNG Or meeTiNG Our EXPERIENCED staff of professional event planners and catering experts are available to ensure your event unfolds perfectly from start to finish. • Over 35,000 square feet of event facilities and meeting space • AAA Four Diamond hotel accommodations at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel and Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel • Catering services featuring a wide variety of menu options with cuisine that’s perfect for any occasion • Fully appointed Business Center • World-class gaming with over 6,500 new & exciting slots and 133 thrilling table games at two premier casino properties • Great attractions and amenities like The Spa, retail shops and sight-seeing attractions
To plan your next function, please call one of our event professionals at 1-866-939-7100 or visit SenecaMeetings.com.
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niagara niagara Inviting players to VIP events is nothing new for Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel or other quality casinos throughout the world. Niagara But inviting them Inviting players to VIP events is nothing new for Seneca Casino to aor special with a fashion show – that’s Excitement & Hotel other dinner, quality complete casinos throughout the world. But inviting them Sharing. to aWorth special dinner, complete with a fashion show – that’s Excitement Worth Sharing. On the lucky day of Saturday, March 17, 2012 - St. Patrick’s Day - 300 attendees experienced the March unexpected as -Seneca Niagara On the lucky day of Saturday, 17, 2012 St. Patrick’s DayCasino - 300 & Hotel teamed with Fashion Outlets ofasNiagara and Casino Wilhelmina attendees experienced the unexpected SenecaFalls Niagara & Models of Rochester, NY, Outlets to transform SenecaFalls Niagara Center Hotel teamed with Fashion of Niagara andEvents Wilhelmina into of a glamorous Models Rochester,fashion NY, to runway. transform Seneca Niagara Events Center into a glamorous fashion runway. “Guests weren’t sure what to expect, and what they got was a highend fashion said Debby Wiech, special manager, “Guests weren’tshow,” sure what to expect, and what events they got was a Seneca high& Hotel. “They werespecial treatedevents to a fabulous four-course endNiagara fashion Casino show,” said Debby Wiech, manager, Seneca seated dinner, and then 20 models each sporting four Niagara Casino & Hotel. “Theywitnessed were treated to a fabulous four-course different types of outfits – everything from casual wear to evening seated dinner, and then witnessed 20 models each sporting four gowns. And all those items, of course, are available for purchase at the different types of outfits – everything from casual wear to evening Fashion Outlets.” gowns. And all those items, of course, are available for purchase at the Fashion Outlets.” Seneca Niagara’s celebrity host, Mike Robitaille, and Alexis Williams of 96.1 Joy FM emceed the event – creating even more excitement in Seneca Niagara’s celebrity host, Mike Robitaille, and Alexis Williams the room. Each attendee also received a welcome bag and a Fashion of 96.1 Joy FM card. emceed the event – creating even more excitement in Outlets gift the room. Each attendee also received a welcome bag and a Fashion Outlets gift card. In addition, five lucky couples were invited thanks to a special promotion through the Seneca Casinos’ Facebook page. And, when Seneca In addition, lucky&couples were invited thanks a special promotion Niagarafive Casino Hotel upped the ante by to giving away additional through theOutlets Seneca Facebook And, when Fashion giftCasinos’ cards throughout thepage. evening, luck had itSeneca that one Niagara & Hotel the ante giving away of theCasino five $1,000 giftupped card winners alsobyhappened to beadditional one of the Fashion Outlets gift cardswinners. throughout the evening, luck had it that one Facebook promotion of the five $1,000 gift card winners also happened to be one of the Facebook promotion The fashion show iswinners. just one of many initiatives between Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel and Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls. Last fall, the two Theorganizations fashion show is just one of between Seneca Niagara partnered to many offer ainitiatives new all-in-one Seneca Savings Card Casino HotelSavings and Fashion Outlets of Niagara Falls.designed Last fall,just thefor two and&Green Card. The promotion – initially the organizations partnered to offer Savings Card holidays – was so popular thata itnew stillall-in-one continuesSeneca today. Guests can pick the Savings cards forCard. free The and promotion save on items at participating retail andup Green – initially designed just forstores the throughout both locations. holidays – was so popular that it still continues today. Guests can pick up the cards for free and save on items at participating retail stores “It’s a natural for Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel and Fashion Outlets throughout bothfit locations. of Niagara Falls to work together,” said Greg Bechkos, vice president of Gaming Corporation. great excitement “It’smarketing, a natural fitSeneca for Seneca Niagara Casino &“Both Hotel offer and Fashion Outlets for locals and alike. Thesaid combination of gaming and shopping of Niagara Falls totourists work together,” Greg Bechkos, vice president of really makes for Gaming a complete visit to Niagara marketing, Seneca Corporation. “BothFalls.” offer great excitement for locals and tourists alike. The combination of gaming and shopping Wiech agrees. “Both arevisit ‘destinations’ Niagara Falls and provide really makes for a complete to Niagarain Falls.” great value for guests,” she said. “Our partnership for the savings card andagrees. the recent fashion show both were huge successes. the first Wiech “Both are ‘destinations’ in Niagara Falls andIt’sprovide time we ever put on a fashion show, and we’re hoping to have great value for guests,” she said. “Our partnership for the savingsmore cardof these in the future.” and the recent fashion show both were huge successes. It’s the first
time we ever put on a fashion show, and we’re hoping to have more of To pick up your FREE Seneca Savings Card and Green Savings Card, these in the future.” simply visit the Promotions Booth at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. To pick up your FREE Seneca Savings Card and Green Savings Card, simply visitSHOW the Promotions Booth at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. FASHION IMAGES PROVIDED BY IRA MORRIS: IRAIMAGESPHOTOGRAPHY.COM. FASHION SHOW IMAGES PROVIDED BY IRA MORRIS: IRAIMAGESPHOTOGRAPHY.COM.
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Seneca Casinos Heats Up the Excitement with 2012 S ‘ ummer Rush’ Seneca caSinoS will deliver an unprecedented level of excitement thiS Summer with “Summer ruSh” – a package of world-claSS entertainment, promotionS and Special eventS during June through early September. the fun takeS place at all three caSino propertieS and the new Seneca hickory Stick golf courSe in lewiSton.
- EntErtainmEnt -
- PrOmOtiOnS anD EVEntS -
Summer rush debuts with multiple GrammY® award-winning soft rock/soul singer Michael Bolton at Seneca niagara Events Center on June 9. additional star-studded performers at the venue include: impressionist comedian Frank Caliendo – known for his live stand-up comedy and countless uncanny voice and physical impersonations – on June 23; solo star singer and Fleetwood mac lead vocalist Stevie Nicks on July 7; emerging country sensation Billy Currington on July 28; legendary comedian and reality tV star Larry the Cable Guy – who will ‘Git-r-Done’ for two performances – on august 18, and; comedian and radio celebrity Artie Lange with comic Nick DiPaolo – who will have outrageous stories to tell – on September 1.
Promotions during June include a $20,000 slot tournament at Seneca allegany Casino, a $50,000 sweepstakes at Seneca niagara Casino, and the Seneca Summer Shopping Spree at both casinos – offering guests the opportunity to purchase some of the summer’s hottest items and new technology using gaming points. in addition, Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino will have a $6,000 sweepstakes and an ongoing hot seat contest to win baseball tickets.
the excitement also takes place at the Seneca allegany Events Center this summer with country matriarch Loretta Lynn on June 10; Sylvia Browne – a world-renowned spiritual teacher, psychic, author, lecturer and researcher in the field of parapsychology – on June 30; Lonestar – a country band that is celebrating 20 years of great music – on July 14; classic rock icon Meat Loaf with his “mad, mad Summer tour” on July 29; Eagles guitarist and rock singer Joe Walsh – who will bring his own array of classic rock hits – on august 11, and; Trace Adkins – a perennial country favorite of Seneca Casinos guests – on august 26. Entertainers at the Bear’s Den Showroom include: Joan Osborne, the tokens, Blue Suede Shoes – a tribute to million Dollar Quartet, and the night of a thousand Laughs Direct from the World Famous Friars Club Starring Stewie Stone and Dick Capri in June; Bette & Barry (tribute show to Bette midler and Barry manilow), ann Hampton Callaway Presents the Streisand Songbook, and Lou Christie in July, and; Jay White as neil Diamond, rik Emmett, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, and Viva Santana (tribute show to Carlos Santana) in august.
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to kick off July, Seneca allegany will host its extravagant fireworks display on monday, July 2. the following evening on tuesday, July 3, an equally-spectacular fireworks display will take place at Seneca niagara. in addition, Seneca niagara Casino and Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino will each host slot tournaments throughout the month. at Seneca allegany Casino, the “Great race Giveaway” will include opportunities to win tickets, pit passes and more to new York’s yearly biggest stock car race. in august, all three casinos will offer ticket giveaways and opportunities to win exciting merchandise for Buffalo’s professional football team, with grand prizes that include season tickets and a trip to the Super Bowl. in addition, racing fans will have the opportunity to meet legendary driver rusty Wallace at Seneca allegany Casino on thursday, august 9. ticket giveaways and opportunities to win exciting merchandise for Buffalo’s professional hockey team will take place in September at Seneca niagara Casino and Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino. For daily slot tournament lovers, there will be a buy-in tournament every monday through thursday with $20,000 in prizes at Seneca allegany Casino, as well as a special $10,000 giveaway throughout Labor Day weekend.
- SPECiaL OFFErinGS Golf fans who want to stay overnight at Seneca niagara Casino & Hotel and play at Seneca Hickory Stick Golf Course can enjoy a special package with discounted hotel rates. the course is in its second full season of golf and was recently ranked as one of the Best Casino Courses in the U.S. by Golfweek magazine. Golfers can enjoy a new Seneca Hickory Stick Loyalty Card for $29.99 with hundreds of dollars’ worth of benefits, as well as delicious food at the new Seneca Hickory Grill restaurant.
Fans of Summer rush should be on the lookout for an upcoming entertainment coupon book with more than $200 in savings towards retail, dining, golf, and spa services. in addition, Seneca Casinos will continue to roll out partnerships with nearby hotels to provide hotel guests with casino vouchers.
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CA NIAGARA
SENECA ALLEGANY
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Summer ruSh entertainment at Seneca caSinoS Seneca niagara eventS center (aLL SHOWS 8 Pm UnLESS nOtED)
bear’S den Showroom at Seneca niagara caSino & hotel (aLL SHOWS 8 Pm UnLESS nOtED)
• June 9 – Michael Bolton • June 23 – Frank Caliendo • July 7 – Stevie Nicks • July 28 – Billy Currington • August 18 – Larry the Cable Guy (7 PM and 10 PM) • September 1 – Artie Lange & Nick DiPaolo Seneca allegany eventS center (aLL SHOWS 7 Pm UnLESS nOtED)
• June 10 – Loretta Lynn (5 PM) • June 30 – Sylvia Browne • July 14 – Lonestar
• June 1 – Joan Osborne • June 2 – The Tokens (3 PM and 8 PM) • June 16 – Blue Suede Shoes: A Tribute to Million Dollar Quartet (3 Pm and 8 Pm) • June 30 – Night of a Thousand Laughs Direct from the World Famous Friars Club Starring Stewie Stone and Dick Capri (3 Pm and 8 Pm) • July 14 – Bette & Barry (Bette Midler / Barry manilow tribute), (3 Pm and 8 Pm) • July 20 – Ann Hampton Callaway Presents the Streisand Songbook
• July 29 – Meat Loaf (5 PM)
• July 21 – Lou Christie (3 PM and 8 PM)
• August 11 – Joe Walsh
• August 4 – Jay White as Neil Diamond
• August 26 – Trace Adkins (5 PM)
(3 Pm and 8 Pm) • August 10 – Rik Emmett • August 24 – Preservation Hall Jazz Band • August 25 – Viva Santana (Carlos Santana tribute) (3 Pm and 8 Pm)
tickets are available at all Seneca casino box offices, www.ticketmaster.com, all ticketmaster locations, or by phone at 800-745-3000.
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MakE SEnECa aLLEgany CaSIno & HoTEL youR EnTERTaInMEnT DESTInaTIon Enjoy non-stop gaming action with over 2,000 new & exciting slots and over 30 thrilling table games. Indulge in a variety of delicious dining options including Thunder Mountain Buffet, voted best buffet by readers of Casino Player Magazine. Relax in the comfort of AAA Four-Diamond hotel accommodations with 212 rooms on 11 levels. Let our professional and attentive staff revitalize your mind, body and soul in The Spa and Salon. Experience the excitement of live entertainment in our 2,400-seat Events Center. It’s all here waiting for you at Seneca Allegany Casino!
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S D N u O S THE r e m m U S OF micHAEL bOLTON
LORETTA LyNN
SAT., JUne 9 · 8 pm TickeTS STArT AT $30
SUn., JUne 10 · 5 pm TickeTS STArT AT $35
STEviE NickS
LONESTAR
JOE WALSH
LARRy THE cAbLE guy
SAT., JULY 7 · 8 pm TickeTS STArT AT $85
SAT., AUG. 11 · 7 pm TickeTS STArT AT $65
ON SALE NOW Seneca casino box Offices
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SAT., JULY 14 · 7 pm TickeTS STArT AT $35
SAT., AUG. 18 7 pm & 10 pm TickeTS STArT AT $60
e h T T O We’ve G
S e m A n T S e biGG ! T n e m in
A T r e T n in e FRANk cALiENDO
SyLviA bROWNE
biLLy cuRRiNgTON
mEAT LOAF
TRAcE ADkiNS
ARTiE LANgE & Nick DipAOLO
SAT., JUne 23 · 8 pm TickeTS STArT AT $40
SAT., JUne 30 · 7 pm TickeTS STArT AT $30
SUn., JULY 29 · 5 pm TickeTS STArT AT $65
SAT., JULY 28 · 8 pm TickeTS STArT AT $60
SUn., AUG. 26 · 5 pm TickeTS STArT AT $65
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SENECA CASINOS
1-877-8-SenecA Senecacasinos.com 17
Michael Bolton Seneca Niagara Events Center Saturday, June 9, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $30
Two Grammy Awards... six American Music Awards... more than 53 million albums sold... and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Michael Bolton is a household name for soft rock and soul, with No. 1 hits such as “When a Man Loves a Woman,” “How Am I Supposed to Live Without You,” and “Time, Love, and Tenderness.” See him in Niagara Falls this June as part of his worldwide tour.
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Few comedians comedians have Few havemastered masteredthe thevariety varietyofof
Frank Frank Caliendo Caliendo Seneca Niagara Events Center Seneca Niagara Events Center Saturday, June 23, 8 p.m. Saturday, June 23, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $40 Tickets start at $40
characters as characters as impressionist impressionistFrank FrankCaliendo Caliendohas. has. Just some some of Just of his his more morethan than120 120impersonations impersonations include Charles Charles Barkley, include Barkley,John JohnMadden, Madden,William William Shatner, and Shatner, and Former FormerPresident PresidentGeorge GeorgeW.W.Bush. Bush. Frank Caliendo hosted his own show – “Frank Frank Caliendo hosted his own show – “Frank TV,” was a cast member on “MADtv,” and TV,” was a cast member on “MADtv,” and continues to make appearances as the in-house continues to make appearances as the in-house comedian for Fox NFL Sunday. Who knows what comedian for Fox NFL Sunday. Who knows what celebrity Frank Caliendo might impersonate next! celebrity Frank Caliendo might impersonate next! Find out this June and laugh ‘til it hurts inside Find out this June and laugh ‘til it hurts inside Seneca Niagara Events Center. Seneca Niagara Events Center. 19
SteVie SteVie nickS nickS
SenecaNiagara NiagaraEvents EventsCenter Center Seneca Saturday,July July7, 7,88p.m. p.m. Saturday, Ticketsstart startat at$85 $85 Tickets
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Dubbed Queen of ofRock Rockand andRoll” Roll” Dubbed the “Reigning Queen by magazine, Stevie StevieNicks Nicksmakes makesaa by Rolling Rolling Stone magazine, rare the region region this thisJuly July––performing performing rare appearance in the live at at Seneca Niagara live Niagara Events Events Center! Center!With Withrock rock anthems such as “Dreams” anthems “Dreams” and and“Landslide” “Landslide”from from legendary band Fleetwood legendary Fleetwood Mac, Mac,to tosolo solohits hitssuch such as “Stand “Stand Back” and “Stop as “Stop Draggin’ Draggin’My MyHeart Heart Around,” this this is Around,” is aa must-see must-see concert concertfor forthe thesummer. summer. Susan Anton
Billy currington Seneca Niagara Events Center Saturday, July 28, 8 p.m. Tickets start at $60
One of country music’s rising stars, Billy Currington, will delight music-goers at Seneca Niagara Events Center this July with No. 1 hits like “People Are Crazy,” “Pretty Good at Drinkin’ Beer,” and “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right.” Experience for yourself why Billy Currington is beginning to take the music industry by storm!
Lee Greenwood
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Joe Joe WalSh WalSh
Seneca Allegany Events Center Seneca Allegany Center Saturday, AugustEvents 11, 7 p.m. Saturday, August 11, 7 p.m. Tickets start at $65 Tickets start at $65
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Joe Walsh – best known for his powerful guitar riffs Joe Walsh – best known for his powerful guitar riffs as a longtime member of the legendary Eagles – as a longtime member of the legendary Eagles – has accomplished a little bit of everything the past has accomplished a little bit of everything the past four decades. Whether it’s writing timeless tunes four decades. Whether it’s writing timeless tunes such as “Life in the Fast Line,” recording hits with such as “Life in the Fast Line,” recording hits with the bands Barnstorm and the James Gang, or the bands Barnstorm and the James Gang, or performing on dozens of fellow artists’ albums from performing on dozens of fellow artists’ albums from Dan Fogelberg to Bob Seger, Joe Walsh will always Dan Fogelberg to Bob Seger, Joe Walsh will always nail the guitar notes with undeniable passion. nail the guitar notes with undeniable passion.
trace trace adkins adkins
SenecaAllegany AlleganyEvents EventsCenter Center Seneca Sunday, August 26, 5 p.m. Sunday, August 26, 5 p.m. Tickets start at $65 Tickets start at $65
TraceAdkins Adkinsisisone oneof of country country music’s music’s most most Trace versatileand andaccomplished accomplished entertainers. entertainers. In In the the versatile 15 years since his platinum debut, he released 10 15 years since his platinum debut, he released 10 studio albums, three greatest hits packages, and studio albums, three greatest hits packages, and 30 chart singles. Along the way, he earned four 30 chart singles. Along the way, he earned four Grammy nominations, three ACM awards, and Grammy nominations, three ACM awards, and two CMT awards. Adkins also made his mark as two CMT awards. Adkins also made his mark as a TV and film actor, a voiceover artist, an author, a TV and film actor, a voiceover artist, an author, a social commentator, and a participant on NBC’s a social commentator, and a participant on NBC’s Celebrity Apprentice. At Seneca Allegany Events Celebrity Apprentice. At Seneca Allegany Events Center, he’ll perform many of his hits as well as Center, he’ll perform many of his hits as well as songs from his latest album, Proud to Be Here songs from his latest album, Proud to Be Here – including the Top Ten single “Just Fishin’.” – including the Top Ten single “Just Fishin’.” 23
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Recently I had the chance to talk with the hilarious Larry the Cable Guy, who will be part of “Summer Rush” entertainment at Seneca Casinos, performing two shows on August 18 at Seneca Niagara Events Center. To say it was the funniest conversation I’ve ever had is an understatement. Larry has been in the business now for more than 20 years and shows no signs of slowing down.
MELANIE: We are so excited that you will be doing two shows at Seneca Niagara Casino’s Events Center. LARRY: I’ll tell you what... it’s gonna be fun! I always look forward to it every time I get out on a stage. And I’m not just blowing smoke. Stand-up’s my favorite thing over everything else I do. It explains why Jerry Seinfeld and Jay Leno continue to do 160 dates a year. There’s nothing like stand-up.
Family is very important to him and he speaks of his family with tremendous love; yet he still injected that “Larry” humor when he spoke of his daughter Reagan (named after his favorite President, by the way), saying she was four years old...“Wait,” he thought – “Let me check her Facebook.”
MELANIE: How many shows do you typically do in a year? LARRY: 433,000. I do four shows a night... no, typically I do 140 to 160, about as many as they do.
Upon asking him his thoughts on his amazing career, he reflected: “It’s been awesome! I’ve really enjoyed it. I’ve gone and done things I didn’t even think I would ever do. I’m thankful for it, and believe me – I don’t take any of it for granted. If it all ended tomorrow, I’d be completely happy. People ask me if there is anything else I want to do and I’ve got to be honest... no, there isn’t. I just want to be a good dad and raise my kids.”
MELANIE: (laughs) You know when you are here on August 18, you might get to witness our first blizzard of the year. LARRY: August 18? (laughs) Yeah, you’re right... that weather’s something else, I tell you. MELANIE: Let’s talk about your catch phrase, “Git-R-Done.” LARRY: Git-R-Done!
MELANIE: Was that something you came up with or something you always said and incorporated into your act? LARRY: It’s something I’ve been saying since I was a kid. How it came about as part of my act, though, was when I was doing a radio station show in Tampa once a week and I had to sign off – and so I just popped out “Git-RDone.” The next thing you know people started saying it. The show then went to two days a week, then three days a week, and it was getting pretty popular. The radio station was in Tampa but it was syndicated in Orlando. I knew I was onto something when I went to Orlando to a comedy club or something and I went into this record store, back when they had record stores, and some guy was walking out of the store and I heard him yell to the clerk “Git-R-Done” and the clerk yelled back “Git-R-Done.” So I said to the guy, “Hey, that ‘Git-R-Done’ you just said, where did you hear that?” And he goes, “Oh, man... this guy on a radio station says ‘Git-R-Done’ every time he signs off from doing social commentary. His name is Larry the Cable Guy.” So I say, “Dude, that’s me... I’m Larry the Cable Guy!” He says, “No you’re not... shut up!” So I say, “Yeah I am... listen.” So I do my best “Git-R-Done” and he says, “That’s not even close!” (laughs) 25
MELANIE: (laughs) Oh no! LARRY: So that’s when I got it copyrighted and made T-shirts, because when people are in record stores yelling it, you know that’s your next step. MELANIE: You’ve been in the business for more than 20 years now. LARRY: Yeah, I went to do professional stand-up in May of 1988. I officially still haven’t quit my job as a bellman at the Hyatt Regency. I just took a leave of absence and never went back. MELANIE: You have a current show on the History Channel called “Only in America with Larry the Cable Guy,” which you just finished your second season and will start shooting in August for your third season. I saw that one of the episodes was you being the “Naked Cowboy” in Times Square. LARRY: (laughs) Oh, boy... MELANIE: (laughs) You were taking donations. How much did you end up collecting? LARRY: You know what? I walked away with 17 bucks. MELANIE: (laughs) Sad... very sad. Do you pick where you go next on the show, or is that done by the producer? LARRY: I like to keep the show spontaneous. It’s unscripted and I really love that. If there’s something I really want to do then they’ll do it – but generally, I leave it up to them. They’ll tell me things like there’s a guy in Pennsylvania that takes in animals that all have birth defects, for example. That’s the only thing I was told. I don’t want to know anything else. They have already pre-planned what they want me to do, but I don’t ask because I want to have a real reaction. I’m like the redneck Charles Kuralt.
MELANIE: ( laughs) Who cracks you up? LARRY: My wife is hilarious... but as far as growing up, I would say I was a big fan of vaudeville and old time comedy – that was my influence. I loved Charlie Callas, Henny Youngman, Phyllis Diller, Milton Berle, and Bob Hope. I’m a fan of quick, short jokes... the rim shots, the stupid stuff. I love Steve Martin and Howie Mandel. My three favorite sitcoms growing up were the original “Bob Newhart Show,” “Mary Tyler Moore,” and “All in the Family.” But I would say my all-time favorite at this point would be “Seinfeld.” Now as far as stand-up comedy goes, it is Jeff Foxworthy. I think he is the king. His first two albums are the funniest albums of all time. I love Nick DiPaolo – I think he is hilarious – and a guy named Dom Irrera... and Colin Quinn. MELANIE: D o yo u w r i te yo u r stand-up routines or is it more of an off-the-cuff type of thing when you are on stage? LARRY: A lot of it I write, but I’ll say about a third of it is off-the-cuff. When you’re on stage and you’re doing jokes and you’re on a roll, it’s almost like you’re just hanging out with a group of 10 people at a bar and you get on a roll just talking to someone. When you’re on stage, you think of tags – another one-liner played off of another. There’s no better example of that than the Viagra joke I wrote about my wife’s grandpa overdosing on Viagra and his coffin had a sun roof. Then, boom – right after that I thought of: “I guess they had to bury him eight feet under!” (laughs) The last one I wrote is this one about gas prices: “Gas prices are really starting to affect NASCAR. As a matter of fact, in this Sunday’s race, Greg Biffle, Tony Stewart, and Danica Patrick have announced they’re gonna car pool. They drew straws and Tony Stewart’s
gonna ride shotgun and Danica Patrick is gonna sit in the back and bitch about Biffle’s driving!” MELANIE: (laughs) What’s the funniest one-liner you’ve heard someone else say? LARRY: Oh, my gosh. It was a Nick DiPaolo line. When the Pope passed away he said, “Yeah you never saw that coming... the guy had the posture of a jumbo shrimp for the past 20 years!” (laughs) MELANIE: (laughs) Larry, this has been some of the most fun I’ve ever had doing an interview. Before you go, do you want to say something to the readers of Seneca Today? LARRY: Tell them they are awesome fans and I can’t wait to perform for them! Git-R-Done!
About the Writer: Melanie Ann Hulick has interviewed more than 120 artists from the entertainment world starting with her first, Enrique Iglesias, in February of 2004. Her articles are featured in Orchard Park Press and on MetroWNY.com under the entertainment news section. To contact Melanie, email her at mahulick@verizon.net.
Larry the CabLe Guy Larry the Cable Guy performs at Seneca Niagara Events Center on Saturday, August 18, for two shows at 7 PM and 10 PM. Tickets start at $60 and are available at all Seneca Casino box offices, Ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster locations, or by phone at 800-745-3000.
ON SALE NOW Seneca Casino Box Offices 26
So get connected. You could be our next big winner. Plus, you never know what we’ll do next! Show your Seneca Casinos pride and “get in the know” by joining us at:
EvEn whEn You CannoT phYSiCallY bE aT onE oF Facebook.com/SenecaCasinos
ThE ThrEE SEnECa CaSinoS, You Can STaY ConnECTEd onlinE Through SoCial nETworkS. bE SurE To join uS on Facebook, TwiTTer, and YouTube! Each site gives you an in-depth look at what’s happening throughout the casinos, as well as firsthand news about just-announced entertainment and promotions. join a discussion with fellow fans, or simply let us know what you like about the Seneca experience. and now, we’ve upped the ante on becoming a member of our Facebook page with special Facebook-only promotions to win prizes like concert tickets and hotel stays.
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e-A B l P I ence I r r T e P I P V Ar ex
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Throughout the month of june, just fill out the entry form once under the “Seneca Experience” tab on our Facebook page, and you’ll be entered to win a fabulous prize pack that includes tickets to see the Triple-a all-Star baseball game at Coca-Cola Field in downtown buffalo on july 11, an overnight stay for you and a guest at Seneca niagara Casino & hotel, and a $150 resort credit. we will have two lucky winners for this promotion!
Twitter.com/SenecaCasinos
YouTube.com/SenecaCasinos
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StIc y r o Ick
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Throughout the month of july, enter once again under the “Seneca Experience” tab on our Facebook page, and you could win a golf package for you and three friends. once again, two lucky people will win! The prize package includes: a round of golf for four at the award-winning Seneca hickory Stick golf Course in lewiston, nY – designed by legendary golf course architect robert Trent jones ii, an overnight stay with two rooms at Seneca niagara Casino & hotel, and a $150 gift card.
When we reach 50,000 fans, we will have an exclusive promotion just for our Facebook fans – $50,000 in prizes will be available and one lucky fan will win $25,000! 27
Celebrating 20 Years of Adventure on the Niagara River!
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Scan. Visit. Enjoy.
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Step beyond the velvet rope and party like a rock star at Hard Rock Cafe, Niagara Falls- USA. The cafe features great food, authentic memorabilia and cool merchandise all under one roof. Hard Rock Cafe is conveniently located across from Niagara Falls State Park and the International Rainbow Bridge. Live performances by local and national artists featured weekly, including the Hard Rock Rocks Old Falls Street, USA Free Outdoor Summer Music Series.
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SUMMER OUTDOOR MUSIC SERIES SATURDAYS • SHOW 6PM JULY 7
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sloan
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VIP TICKETS AVAILABLE TICKETWEB.COM 333 prospect street • +1-716-282-0007 hardrock.com • facebook.com/hardrockcafeniagarafallsusa
See the Show! July 7th
Opening for The Guess Who • eXit! • Salt Peter
July 14th
Opening for BPO performs the music of the Grateful Dead • Brass Monkeez
July 21st
Opening for Sloan • The Junction • Topanga
July 28th
Opening for Talas • The Road • Fat Brat
Aug 4th
Opening for KC and the Sunshine Band • Lance Diamond • Vitamin D
Aug 11th
Opening for Finger Eleven • USS • The Whiskey Reverb
Visit hardrock.com/niagarafalls for additional event listings or visit us on our official Facebook page, facebook.com/hardrock.niagarafalls 29
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The Little Yellow Artisan House
476 Center Street, Lewiston NY. 14090 (716) 251-1335 • littleyellowartisanhouse@gmail.com unique hand-crafted items such as wire wrapped and gemstone jewelry, beaded jewelry, pottery, photography, digital art and so much more
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PEanut ButtER chOcOlatE Blast
OuR stRawBERRy BlOndE™
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FOundER’s FavORItE®
OREO® IndulgEncE Blast
at cold stone cre amery There’s a major reason why the ice cream tastes so good at Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop/Cold Stone Creamery inside Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel: it’s made fresh daily on property. Guests can choose from any combination of 14 delicious flavors of ice cream and their favorite mix-ins at the restaurant inside the casino, which is one of more than 90 Cold Stone Creamery outlets inside Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop locations throughout the United States and part of 1,500 Cold Stone Creamery locations worldwide. “We take pride in the fact that the ice cream at Cold Stone inside Tim Hortons is made fresh on site, rather than brought in from a truck,” said Tom Passmore, district manager, Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop. “Restaurants featuring both brands only began two years ago, but they’ve quickly become a hit among our guests. We’re finding that Tim Hortons and Cold Stone Creamery customers are very similar.” The creation of fresh ice cream begins with a vanilla or chocolate base, followed by specific mixes. Precise amounts of each are then placed inside the Carpigiani 5000 – a machine that Gary McHale, executive chef at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, calls “the Ferrari of ice cream machines.”
“The Carpigiani 5000 constantly measures the density and creaminess of the ice cream as it spins around the ingredients,” he said. “There’s a constant freeze, scrape, and chill of the mixture, and the machine monitors itself and then freezes the ice cream to the right consistency. It’s just an amazing machine and I’ve never seen anything like it before.” A chart above the Carpigiani 5000 shows the flavors and amounts to add, as well as the minutes needed inside the machine. According to David Achenbach, manager of the Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop/ Cold Stone Creamery inside Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, it’s an easy process – but extra steps are taken for the very best quality. “It can definitely be a one-person job to work the machine, but we’ll often have two or three people helping to ensure freshness,” he said. “We then taste the product before storing in the freezer. It’s what I call a ‘fringe benefit’ of working here.” The Carpigiani 5000 will make one batch – or two and a half gallons – of ice cream. “Overall, on very busy days such as weekends and holidays, we’ll roll through upwards of 35 to 40 gallons of ice cream,” Achenbach said.
Achenbach and Passmore both said that the freshness and variety of flavors make for an enjoyable customer experience. “French Vanilla and Sweet Cream are two of the popular purchases at Seneca Niagara, and every flavor tastes very rich,” said Passmore. Achenbach added, “The Cotton Candy flavor looks and tastes amazing. Many customers like to choose that and mix in gummy bears.” Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop/Cold Stone Creamery at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel will have many new offerings this summer to fit with the warmer months. In addition to seasonal flavors of ice cream such as watermelon sorbet, two “Retro” items – a root beer float and a Banana Royale – will provide tasty refreshment. Customers also can enjoy the new “Blast” – a combination of soft-serve ice cream and Mix-Ins™ such as candies, chocolates, cookies, and more. Tim Hortons Cafe & Bake Shop/Cold Stone Creamery at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel is located in the casino concourse on the Fourth Street side and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For more information, please visit www.SenecaCasinos.com.
aBOut tIm hORtOns caFE & BakE shOP Tim Hortons is one of the largest publicly-traded restaurant chains in North America based on market capitalization. Operating in the quick service segment of the restaurant industry, Tim Hortons appeals to a broad range of consumer tastes, with a menu that includes premium coffee, flavored cappuccinos, specialty teas, home-style soups, fresh sandwiches, wraps, hot breakfast sandwiches and fresh baked goods, including our trademark donuts. As of January 1, 2012, Tim Hortons had 714 restaurants in the United States and 4,014 restaurants systemwide. For more information, visit www.TimHortons.com.
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The AsiAn experience at S e n eca n i ag a r a caS i no & Hote l 34
Seneca Gaming Corporation initiated a new Asian Marketing Department in late 2009 to bring particular focus to Asian players. Since then, what began as a one-person department has now blossomed into a half-dozen people planning monthly variety shows, special events, and more. “On a busy night at Seneca Niagara, you might find upwards of 50 percent or more of table games players to be of Asian descent,” said Lisa Chan, vice president of Asian marketing, Seneca Gaming Corporation. “While there certainly is a growing Asian community in Ontario, we’re actually seeing the majority of our Asian players – mostly from China and Vietnam – coming from Rochester, Syracuse, and Buffalo.” Arguably the most noticeable addition to Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel as a result of increased Asian players is in the way of entertainment. On Thanksgiving (U.S.) evening in 2009, the team at Seneca Niagara tested an “Asian Dancing Night” inside Seneca Niagara Events Center. The event was such a success and continued to grow in popularity that it now takes place nearly every month. And the popularity is expanding beyond the Asian community. “More and more of our non-Asian players are starting to purchase tickets to the dancing nights,” said Hing Cheung, a casino host for Asian players at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. “They not only hear how much fun the events are, but also want to share in the experience with their Asian friends.”
“the dancing nights are like variety shows,” said chan. “You’ll hear everything from pop music to opera to comedy, in both english and Vietnamese.
There are round tables in the back of the room where guests can have drinks. Often times, guests will bring their children to have an evening of fun for the whole family. The performing artists – many of whom are superstars in Asia – really get involved with the audience in terms of dancing and shaking hands. The event is like a party, and it’s a great occasion for interacting with others.”
Another noticeable addition at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel is the Chinese New Year celebration in January – complete with lion and dragon dances, festive music, and the traditional handing out of red envelopes with cash to wish guests a “lucky” new year. “This past January we celebrated the Year of the Dragon,” Chan said, “and it was so well-attended that we had to wait on the dragon dance to make room for the two lions. We started these full-scale celebrations in 2010, and the crowds have grown tremendously with each passing year.” Perhaps one unique characteristic of the Asian experience is casino gaming preferences. Many prefer table games – especially baccarat, blackjack, and pai gow poker – over slot machines. “It’s all about the personal interaction when it comes to Asian players and the love of table games,” said Cheung. “In Asian casinos, you’ll see baccarat tables everywhere. I think with baccarat, there’s a perception that it’s a fair game with 50-50 odds of winning, and that one player’s hand doesn’t influence others.” In terms of food, the Asian experience is now becoming the overall player experience at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. Koi, the pan-Asian restaurant, continues to soar in popularity with a variety of guests. Its success led to the 2010 creation of the Noodle Bar inside the restaurant, which provides guests a quick and savory bite to eat. Many Asian players prefer the Noodle Bar as opposed to the larger Koi restaurant. “Food is important to Asian players, but it’s really all about convenience,” Cheung said. “When they come to Seneca Niagara, the main objective is to gamble – and then get food quickly and get back to the game. Honestly, if they could eat right at the table games, they would!” To connect with the Seneca Casinos’ Asian Marketing Department, please call 716-501-2688. Visit www.SenecaCasinos.com and click on “Entertainment” for upcoming Asian Dancing Shows.
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SenecaCasinos.com 詳情請致電 1-877-8-SENECA (873-6322) 或 聯絡東方市場 716-501-2360, 716-501-2375 or 716-501-2299
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FOLLOW SENECA CASINOS
e T S a T a t e s r a e a Sh the far of
The besT of Pan-asian innovaTion meeTs Timeless TradiTions Savor a refreshing take on authentic Asian cuisine at Koi – Seneca Niagara Casino’s innovative Asian dining experience. Enjoy mouthwatering dishes infused with a modern flair, or stop by the Noodle Bar for a quick and delicious meal on-the-go. Witness your own meal being prepared in the central cooking line and surround yourself in a high-energy atmosphere.
oPen 7 days a week from 5 Pm. for reservations, call 1-877-8-seneCa (873-6322).
SenecaCasinos.com
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Two Hundred new HoTel rooms
Coming To seneCa allegany Casino There will soon be nearly twice as many quality rooms for hotel guests to love at Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel. Thanks to an unseasonably warm winter, construction progress on a new $53 million hotel wing is well ahead of schedule – with 200 more rooms slated to open this fall.
member of the board of directors for Seneca Gaming Corporation. “As we continue to expand our reach and work with other tourism leaders in New York’s Southern Tier Region, we need to offer our guests the complete experience they have come to expect from Seneca Gaming Corporation.”
With the new addition, Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel will have 413 rooms – or effectively double the space of its existing 212 rooms. The hotel is one of only three properties in Western New York to have a coveted AAA Four Diamond Award for exceptional guest service and amenities (with Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel being another recipient), and has a 96 percent occupancy rate. Its rooms are completely sold out on most weekends.
Construction began on the tower in late 2007 with a number of steel beams erected, but was suspended in 2008 due to global economic conditions. Progress resumed in December 2011, and the final steel beam was lowered into place just two months later – ahead of schedule and under budget – thanks to one of the mildest winters on record in the region.
“The ability to offer additional hotel capacity will help further establish Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel as a true destination resort,” said Karen Karsten,
And now, instead of a planned opening in early 2013, the new hotel tower may be ready as early as this October. The project, designed by JCJ Architecture and managed by Seneca Construction Management Corporation, added approximately 300 construction jobs and will create more than 30 new hotel positions. Nearly three million people visit Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel each year, making it one of the leading tourist attractions in the region.
“The construction schedule didn’t jump ahead; it leaped,” said Jim Wise, senior vice president of marketing for Seneca Gaming Corporation. “Every day this winter was a workable day for the crews. We never lost a full day to the weather.” To book a hotel room at Seneca Allegany Casino & Hotel, please call 1-877-8-SENECA (1-877-873-6322) or visit www.SenecaCasinos.com.
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ConstruCtion Begins T h i s
Crews will be busy constructing a redesigned $130 million Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino this summer in downtown Buffalo. The exciting new property will replace the current, slots-only casino that opened in 2007, and will feature a stone-faced building containing more than 900 of the newest slots, table games, and a small American-style restaurant and bar. The current temporary Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino opened in 2007 and underwent two expansion projects in 2008 and 2010. With the redesigned
s u m m e r
aT
building, which is slated to open in the summer of 2013, nearly 500 new casino jobs will come to Western New York.
added Karen Karsten, member of the board of directors for Seneca Gaming Corporation.
As part of a collaborative planning process, Seneca Gaming Corporation and architects with the Memphisbased Hnedak Bobo Group design firm engaged in an ongoing dialogue with neighborhood representatives and local leaders about plans for downtown Buffalo.
Seneca Gaming Corporation and the Seneca Nation of Indians are also helping to redefine the neighborhoods surrounding the Buffalo Creek Territory with $1 million in grants to boost infrastructure, landscaping, lighting, and signage in areas around the casino.
“The responses we received from the community were tremendously helpful in shaping our project as an integral piece of the redevelopment process for the Inner Harbor area,” said Robert Chamberlain, senior vice president of design and construction for Seneca Gaming Corporation. “We are excited by the investments being made, by ourselves and by many others, to create an exciting destination atmosphere in the Inner Harbor and Buffalo River areas,”
Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino currently features 457 of the latest slot machines and attracts more than 750,000 visitors a year, making it one of downtown Buffalo’s most popular destinations. Visit Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino 24 hours a day, seven days a week, at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Perry Street in downtown Buffalo. For more information, please call 1-877-8-SENECA (1-877-8736322) or visit www.SenecaCasinos. com 39
From hair styling and coloring to couples’ massages to aromatherapy, The Spa & Salon at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel has a bit of everything to help you rejuvenate and relax. And to experience the very best massage techniques all rolled into one glorious treatment for relaxation, try the Tranquility Signature Massage. This exclusive massage, developed by The Spa & Salon’s highly-skilled licensed massage therapists, offers 80 minutes of pure bliss with rejuvenation effects that can last for weeks. According to Christine Lovewell, a licensed massage therapist at The Spa & Salon, the Tranquility Signature Massage was designed to be a unique combination of customers’ favorite techniques. “We’ve only had this on our menu for a year, but it’s already 40
immensely popular,” she said. “Many customers tell us they can breathe better and sit straighter afterwards. This is a treatment that our massage therapists want to experience for themselves after they’re finished practicing it.” The Tranquility Signature Massage takes place in a dimly-lit private room with soft music and a cozy, heated bed. For the first few minutes, you’ll begin by laying face-down as one of our therapists places an herbal heat pack on your back. Then, a Swedish massage technique is applied on the back of the legs, followed by the back. “Swedish massage techniques have medium pressure and lengthening strokes to help increase circulation and relax muscles,” Lovewell said. “The techniques are designed to
loosen toxins throughout the body. I tell customers to drink plenty of water afterwards to help flush out the toxins even more – which just adds to the feelings of relaxation and rejuvenation.” Hot stones are then gently applied to the back in order to better penetrate and relax the muscles. The massage therapist will place hot towels on the back as well, and apply special compression techniques to increase blood flow and further relax the body. About 40 minutes – or halfway – into the treatment, the massage therapist will have you lay face-up for peppermint aromatherapy. This will invigorate the head and scalp as well as relieve sinus pressure and congestion. Next, the massage therapist will apply a warm herbal eye mask to open sinuses and improve breathing.
The Tranquility Signature Massage continues with neck and shoulder work to reduce tension and relieve headaches. The massage therapist will also focus on pressure points at the base of the skull before applying a warm herbal neck wrap. He or she will then apply reflexology techniques on the arms and hands – focusing on specific points that correspond with other parts of the body. You will feel incredibly relaxed, as these techniques help treat sinus zones and aid in digestion. As the treatment nears the end, the massage therapist will continue with Swedish massage techniques on the legs for lengthening and stretching, followed by reflexology techniques on the feet to relax the spine and alleviate back problems. He or she will then place warm towels on your feet and provide gentle compressions to help you feel relaxed from head to toe. “Depending on what type of person you are,” Lovewell said, “you could immediately feel ready to sleep the rest of the day or incredibly reinvigorated. But no matter what, you’ll definitely feel younger.” The 80-minute treatment costs $160 USD and includes use of The Spa & Salon’s facilities – including the sauna, whirlpool, steam room, and showers with heat lamps – that day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. While you’re at The Spa & Salon, make it an extended stay! Try a couples’ massage and order chocolates from the special spa menu. Enjoy a citrusmint scalp massage to reduce stress. Or, have lunch delivered as you relax in the sauna. To indulge in the Tranquility Signature Massage or any treatment at The Spa & Salon at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, book your appointment today by calling 1-888-849-4477. Visit SenecaCasinos.com for more information.
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ChooSE From A vAriEtY oF rEStAurANtS ANd ExpEriENCE AwArd-wiNNiNg diNiNg At itS FiNESt
WesTern door sTeakhouse Voted best steakhouse in Western NY 3 years in a row. Tender steaks and chops. Fresh seafood. The finest wines in the area. It’s the ultimate dining experience!
la CasCaTa Delicious, authentic Italian food featuring traditional family recipes complemented by the finest selection of Italian wines.
koi Traditional Asian cuisine fused with tasty innovations and served in a modern atmosphere featuring shimmering décor.
Thunder Falls This spectacular all-you-can-eat buffet includes eight serving stations and exhibition cooking with more than 100 items to choose from, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. Voted Western NY’s best buffet.
Three sisTers Enjoy any of our delicious chef-inspired menu items at any time of day — steak in the morning, eggs at night or however you want!
Blues Burger Bar Unbelievably tasty burgers piled high with the finest, freshest ingredients — made just the way you like it!
1-877-8-SENECA SenecaCasinos.com 310 Fourth Street Niagara Falls, NY 14303 42
Choose from a variety of restaurants and experienCe award-winning dining at its finest
The WeSTern door STeakhouSe
Thunder MounTain
PaTria
The Seneca café
Voted best steakhouse in Western NY 3 years in a row. Tender steaks and chops. Fresh seafood. The finest wines in the area. It’s the ultimate dining experience!
Italian food as it should be: unhurried, uncomplicated and uncompromisingly fresh. All entrees are complemented by a remarkable collection of the finest wines and cheeses Italy has to offer.
This spectacular all-you-can-eat buffet includes eight serving stations and exhibition cooking with more than 100 items to choose from, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. Voted Western NY’s best buffet.
Satisfy any craving and grab something quick and casual at our mouth-watering cafes. At Seneca Café and Seneca Café Express, you can choose from breakfast, lunch and dinner 24/7.
777 seneca allegany Boulevard salamanca, ny 14779 1-877-8-seneCa (873-6322) senecaCasinos.com 43
the
experience
at S e n e c a n i a g a r a c a S i n o & H o t e l Katie Figliomeni knows a thing or In recent years with the sudden influx two about Italians. For starters, her of Italian casino-goers to the property, family hails from Siderno, Italy, in the Figliomeni is more excited than ever to southern region of Calabria. And as be in her role. a player development executive at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel in “It’s more than just my job – but rather, Niagara Falls USA, she works with it’s personal enjoyment to make lasting more than 500 unique premium players connections from the heart with our of Italian descent to make sure every Italian guests,” she said. “I’m very proud of my heritage, and I still feel trip is eccellente. more Italian than North American.” Figliomeni also knows a thing or two about casinos. Immediately after According to the 2006 census college, she worked for a Canadian of Canada, the Italian-Canadian casino for five years before joining population increased more than 12 Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel in 2003. percent compared to 2001. And in the 44
Greater Toronto Area, Italian is only second to Chinese as a foreign native language. Figliomeni notices the recent surge of Italian guests – particularly from the southern part of Italy. So what makes Italian guests unique? Does a typical night at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel start with pasta at la Cascata, the Italian restaurant? According to Figliomeni: not exactly. “La Cascata is certainly a fantastic restaurant with fresh ingredients, excellent service, and a high-energy atmosphere,” she said, “and many of
our Italian guests enjoy eating there. But no matter what kind of Italian restaurant that Italian guests go to, they’re always going to compare the sauce to ‘nonna’s sauce.’ That’s just how we are. Starting off the evening with excellent food and vino is a ‘must,’ and that’s why you’ll find just as many Italians – if not more – at a place like The Western Door steakhouse. Having good food means just that… it doesn’t have to be Italian food.” In reality, the Italian experience at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel is not too unlike the experience for other guests. Figliomeni said that after a meal, they like to try their hands at any number of slots and table games, relax at The Spa and Salon, and simply make sure to have lots of fun with good company. “The difference, though, really is the presence of good food,” she said. “Most love to start the gaming experience with a nice, long, uninterrupted meal and engage in plenty of conversations about Italian neighborhoods and customs.” As a player development executive, Figliomeni said she gets to really know each of the premium players, understand what they like, and even travel with them to special events. Her goal is to always make them feel “at home” and a part of the Seneca Casinos “family.”
“What I genuinely enjoy most is putting smiles on people’s faces,” she said. “Whether I’m calling guests from my home to wish them a happy birthday, meeting new guests and explaining our wonderful restaurants and spa services, or sitting down to a tasty meal and discussing Italy, there’s a common thread in all the experiences – we’re all humans first, and everyone deserves to be treated with the utmost respect. My nonno always said, ‘Every house has its cross to bear, and that’s why you should always be respectful and smile.’” As a child, Figliomeni traveled back and forth between Niagara Falls, Canada, and Siderno, Italy, to spend many months with her grandparents and extended family. She didn’t even know English when she entered kindergarten, and certainly didn’t expect to work in the casino industry. But she definitely knew she wanted to work closely with people, and planned to always embrace her Italian roots. Now, Figliomeni is beginning to become a bit of a “local celebrity.”
“Just in the past year, guests are beginning to recognize me as ‘the girl in Vivo magazine for the Seneca Niagara ad,’” she said. “It’s wonderful to simply get to know people on deeper levels. And with the Italian community growing so fast, the satisfaction of my career now touches me even more on a personal level.” As for her own Italian experience, Figliomeni had frequently traveled to Italy but hasn’t had the chance to visit “home” since 2009. “There’s a lot I miss,” she said. “I miss my family, the Ionian Sea, the mountains, gelato nocciola, torrone, figs, olive oil, dancing the Tarantella… I could go on and on!” To connect with Katie Figliomeni, email her at Katie@SenecaCasinos.com.
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TASTEThE ThEflAvorS flAvorS TASTE
can neither be defined as your traditional Chinese nor Japanese restaurant. Rather, this Asian restaurant inside Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel, offers a culinary fusion of foods as diverse as the continent of Asia. Koi opened in 2006 along with Three Sisters Café and la Cascata as part of the hotel tower addition. Since then, it has gained a reputation as the place to go for one of the widest varieties of Asian food in Western New York.
“We have authentic Japanese food, Thai food, Vietnamese food, Chinese food, American-Chinese food, and more,” said Gary McHale, executive chef at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. “You could call it a blend of Asian foods all under one roof.” “There really is a little bit of everything here,” said Ayu Travis, the room chef at Koi (pictured above). “Even in China alone, there are so many different styles of cooking among its different regions.” 46
Some examples of the variety of foods on Koi’s menu are sushi (Japan), Dungeness crab (China), Tom Yum soup (Thailand), and Vietnamese Beef Stew (Vietnam). According to McHale, Koi is a popular destination for guests who enjoy vegetarian or gluten-free foods. And according to Travis, Koi attracts a variety of customers as well. “It’s definitely very populated with Asian guests during table games tournaments,” she said, “but most of the time, I’d say close to nine out of 10 people inside Koi are Caucasian.” To create the authentic food, Koi has eight cooks with nearly 90 combined years of culinary experience. They hail from four countries: Burma, China, the U.S., and Vietnam. “Our diverse staff is by design,” McHale said. “Although, how well you cook is certainly more important than where you’re from. Ultimately, we look for those with a strong background in authentic Asian cooking.” McHale also said that with the summer 2010 addition of the Noodle Bar inside Koi restaurant, overall sales are up more than 50 percent. The increased popularity of the restaurant led to its recent expansion of being open every day, instead of just five days a week.
Of THE
fAr EAST AT
Koi’s unique décor and layout also add excitement to the dining experience. “The open kitchen provides live action and lots of energy,” McHale said. “You can hear the sizzle and smell the sauces. Koi also can accommodate private parties. It’s a really versatile restaurant.”
Tom Yum Soup rEcipE
A new “Classical Chinese Menu” will roll out this summer with six to eight additional food items for purchase. Some of the existing popular items with guests include Beef Chow fun, General Tsao’s Chicken, and Pad Thai.
Ayu Travis recommends trying the Tom Yum Soup (pictured below) during a visit to Koi. “The lemongrass really makes it go,” she said. “There’s also a splash of chili that gives it a little bit of hotness, but not too much.”
“Another interesting choice among our guests is the fried Whole fish,” Travis said. “It’s battered, fried, and has delicious sauce. The presentation is amazing, but some guests are skeptical at first because they see an actual head of the fish – it’s de-boned and twisted, and almost looks like it’s standing up. But then they quickly discover how delicious it is, and usually request it again on their next visit.”
The Tom Yum Soup costs $9 and includes fried wonton skins and plum sauce to nosh on while the cooks prepare the item. Here’s the recipe, if you’d like to try preparing it yourself!
Despite the wide variety of Asian food at Koi, Travis sums up the experience in four simple words: unique and tasty food. “With one visit to Koi, you’ll experience for yourself that we cook with passion and care,” she said.
1 lb. whole shrimp (16 to 20 count) 1 pt. grape tomatoes 8 oz. Shiitake mushrooms 1 tbsp. oil 2 tbsp. red curry paste 2 stalks lemongrass (roughly chopped) 2 tsp. ground turmeric 2 tsp. chopped red chili (optional) 4-8 kaffir lime leaves 2 tbsp. fish sauce 2 tbsp. lime juice 2 tsp. brown sugar Cilantro (garnish) Basil (chiffonade, garnish) Peel the shrimp and gently pull out the dark vein from each prawn back. Retain the shells and heads. Heat the oil in a large saucepan; add the shrimp shells and heads to the pan and cook for 10 minutes over high heat, tossing frequently until the shells and heads are deep orange in color. Have eight (8) cups of water ready. Add one (1) cup of water, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, and the red curry paste to the pan. Boil for five (5) minutes until liquid is slightly reduced. Add the remaining water and simmer for 20 minutes. Drain the stock, discarding the shrimp heads and shells. Return the drained stock to the pan. Add the ground turmeric and chili; then bring to a boil and cook for two (2) minutes. Add shrimp and cook for five (5) minutes. Add fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, mushrooms, and tomatoes; stir to combine and cook for one (1) minute. Garnish with basil and cilantro, and serve immediately. Serves four to six people.
Koi is located near the hotel lobby inside Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel and is open seven days a week, beginning at 5 p.m. To make reservations, call 1-877-8-SENECA (1-877-873-6322). For more information, please visit www.SenecaCasinos.com.
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YOU’RE INVITED!!
HAPPY 200TH BIRTHDAY TOWN OF NIAGARA VETERANS’ MEMORIAL PARK - 7000 LOCKPORT ROAD SATURDAY JUNE 30, 2012 11AM TO 10PM TNBPA Parade at 11am- Starts at 4th Ave. ends at K-Mart Military Road Car Show 9am to 4pm Sponsored by Joe Cecconi’s Chrysler Complex Ladies Bocce Tournament 10am Volleyball Tournament- Sponsored by Rapids Theatre
200 years of Legislative Growth
Highlights 1801 General Moses Porter commissioned Military Road
to be a federal road for supplies between Fort Porter (Buffalo) and Fort Niagara.
1812 The New York State Legislature established the Towns of Cambria, Hartland, Porter and Schlosser from the Town of Cambria. 1816 The Town of Schlosser became the Town of Niagara. The term "Niagara" was first used by the Indians to describe the thundering waters. 1836 Wheatfield, previously encompassed by the Town of Niagara, were separated to form a separate town. 1837 Pendleton was separated. 1851 Railroads began to provide services in the area.
Clowns/Face painting/Balloon Creations 2pm-4pm Puppet Show -Niagara Presbyterian 3pm Historical Society Display in Community Center - continues till Sunday Basket Auction by Town of Niagara Lioness – noon-5pm Vendors for Arts and Crafts, Jewelry, Food - continues till Sunday Musical Entertainment- Pirate Dreams 2pm-5pm Musical Entertainment Shawn Klush – Voted the World’s Greatest Elvis Beer and Wine Tent Spectacular Fireworks Display 9:45pm SUNDAY, JULY 1, 2012 NOON TO 5PM Men’s Bocce Tournament- 10am Tour of Historical Homes 2pm Sponsored by DJ the Dee Jay Clowns/Face painting/Balloon Creations 1pm-3pm NC Reptiles Show - 1:30pm Historical Society Display in Community Center Musical Entertainment - 90 West – Noon – 3pm Vendors for Arts and Crafts, Jewelry, Food & Beverages Beer and Wine Tent
1892 City of Niagara Falls was established from the
remaining Town of Niagara parcels, the Village of Manchester, Bellevue, Clarksville and Suspension Bridge.
1937 The first church to be located in the City was the
United Presbyterian. Hope Lutheran was established in 1942, and St. Leo's RC in 1957.
Re-enactment of Fort Niagara War of 1812 3pm – 5pm Presenting of the Colors - 4:30 pm Fly Over from the 914th Closing Ceremony at 5pm OTHER SPONSORS Hodgson Russ LLP Attorneys KeyBank
1938 The Niagara No. 1 Fire Company was organized along with the Niagara Active Hose in 1940. 1939 Property was purchased on Lockport (East Britton) from the Witmer farm, and a Town Hall was built. The first meeting was held on June 14. 1951 Plans were released to build an air force base on private property on Lockport Road. Under President Truman, the Naval Air Station was erected. 1971 The present Town Hall was opened under the direction of Supervisor Jesse Castricone.
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Chiavetta’s Chicken BBQ 1-4pm – Sponsored by Niagara Presb Church
townofniagara.com
One of the original Five Nations of the Haudenosaunee, or Iroquois Confederacy, the Senecas are proud people with a rich culture. Experience our living legacy at one of our cultural events this summer: • Berries, Baskets, and Beads- June 29& 30 at the Cattaraugus Community Center in Irving, NY. • Iroquois Post 1587 Veterans Pow Wow- July
13-15 at the Cattarugus Community Center in Irving, NY. • Seneca Pow Wow 2012- July 21-22 at Veteran’s Park in Salamanca, NY. • Buffalo Creek Native Festival- August 4&5 at Canalside in Buffalo, NY. Visit our website for more information on these and other events that the whole family will love.
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“Bingo!” Seneca Gaming and Entertainment in Irving and Salamanca offers some of the biggest daily BINGO payouts in Western New York! The Irving location, located on Route 5, features smoking and non-smoking sections and more than 650 video gaming machines in their game room. The Salamanca location, located at 768 Broad Street, features an exciting game room and a live action poker room. Both locations are open seven days a week and offer tons of special promotions!
Visit Both Seneca Poker Room Locations! The Seneca Gaming & Entertainment Poker Rooms offer two great venues for poker enthusiasts: Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel in Niagara Falls and Seneca Gaming and Entertainment’s Bingo Hall in Salamanca. Both locations offer daily tournaments as well as signature events such as World Series of Poker satellite games.
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Visit Both Seneca Poker Room Locations! The Seneca Gaming & Entertainment Poker Rooms offer two great venues for poker enthusiasts: Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel in Niagara Falls and Seneca Gaming and Entertainment’s Bingo Hall in Salamanca. Both locations offer daily tourna¬ments as well as signature events such as World Series of Poker satellite games.
Lon McEachern (ESPN WSOP Commentator) kicked off the inaugural DeepStacks Poker Tour Western New York Poker Championship, which came to a close on the evening of Sunday, February 19, in Niagara Falls, NY! The Final Table was located in the Bear’s Den Showroom, which drew a large crowd for the final six players in the Championship Event.
The Seneca Niagara Poker Room is located inside the Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls, NY; and the Seneca Salamanca Poker Room is located in a Class II–gaming facility in Salamanca, NY. At both poker locations, Texas Hold ‘em, Omaha, and Stud are available for your excitement! With live action games, monthly promotional events, and signature tournaments – including the Summer Slam and DeepStacks tournaments, just to name a few – there is always fun and excitement in Niagara Falls and Salamanca. Be sure to sign up for a Seneca Rewards Card to earn comps and be eligible for promotional giveaways! For more information, visit us at www. senecapoker.com and check us out on Facebook.
After three days of play, William Vogel outlasted a field of 217 players to collect the top prize of $71,827 and the honor of being the first winner of the DeepStacks Poker Tour. William Vogel earned a place in this championship by winning a $55 satellite game!
Seneca Gaming & Entertainment’s Poker Room Team recently hosted the first ever televised poker event in Western New York! This four-day event drew more than 1,000 tournament players, of which, 217 participated in the $1,500.00 Buy-In Championship Event. Some of the biggest names in poker like Mike “The Mouth” Matusow, Michael “The Grinder” Mizrachi, Karina Jett, Adam Levy, and Randal Flowers played in the Championship Event, which had a $281,232 prize pool that paid 24 spots – with $71,827 to first place!
This event puts Seneca Gaming & Entertainment’s Poker Room on the map as a world-class destination for tourna¬ment and live action poker. Since 2004, Seneca Niagara Hotel & Casino has been the home of SG&E’s Poker Room, which continues to draw top players to participate in their first-rate tournaments. The devotion to hard work, profes¬sionalism, “can-do attitude” of the Seneca Gaming and Entertainment Poker Team, and the close teamwork with the Seneca Niagara Casino staff made for one of the most suc¬cessful events yet for Seneca Gaming and Entertainment Poker. For Poker tournaments and events, visit www.senecagames.com/senecapoker.html
Western New York Poker Championship Final Table Results Place Player Prize 1st 2nd 3rd 4th 5th 6th
William Vogel Lou Procopio Nick Goetz Mike Wachowski Tom Krol Steve Przbyl
$71,827 $43,928 $31,161 $22,245 $17,802 $13,359
NIAGARA FALLS 310 Fourth Street, Niagara Falls, NY 877-873-6322
SALAMANCA 768 Broad Street, Salamanca, NY 877-860-5130 51
Open Daily: Mon-Thurs 9am-2am Fri&Sat: 9am-3am Sunday-Noon-2am
HAPPY HOUR STARTS AT 9AM
OPEN 365 DAYS A YEAR
JOIN US FOR NASCAR SUNDAYS
NIAGARA FALLS ONLY SPORTSBAR Cataract Grill Featuring
Dougs Famous Subs, Pizza, and Wings 716-282-1393 delivery available
Large Selection of
Wine , Spirits, Beer Tapas Fine Dining
Martinis
Daily Happy Hour 4-6pm
716.285.WINE
501 Third Street at 9 Ferry Street 4 6 3
Downtown Niagara Falls USA ONE BLOCK FROM SENACA CASINO
wineonthird.com 52
Come Play in Our Backyard 2012
Calendar of Festival and Events 100 N. Third St. | Lewiston, NY | 716.754.9500 • www.NiagaraRiverRegion.com
Niagara River Region Festivals The Niagara River Region is full of great festivals and events. There is always something going on from family friendly to cool jazz, wine and brews! Most of the festivals and events happen alongside the center/main streets in the towns and villages. Here is a list of the major festivals, with a complete list. Fairy House Festival at Artpark- June 9-10 This outdoor festival is inspired by the children’s book series by author Tracy Kane and will consist of a tour of fairy houses, hands-on art activities, and other happenings for families to enjoy throughout the park. Tickets for this event are $5. Held at Artpark (450 S. Fourth St. Lewiston, NY). For information, call the Artpark Box Office (716) 754-4375 or online at www.artpark.net. Lewiston Tour of Kitchens- June 9-10 The Tour of Kitchens is all about beautiful decorating, fabulous tablescapes, kitchens in Lewiston, NY, and great food from area restaurants that you get to taste! A portion of the proceeds will be donated to the Historical Associations of Lewiston and Porter. Tickets are $27 and are available on online at www. TourofKitchens.net or by calling (716) 628-9583. Pubfest for the Variety Kids Telethon- June 15-17 Hosted by the Lewiston Village Pub & Restaurant, Pubfest is a three day weekend event to benefit the Variety Kids Telethon. Pubfest is located at Academy Park (Center Street in Lewiston, NY) and features a weekend of Live Bands, Food, Beer Tent (over 21), Basket Auction, and activities for the kids! For more information, contact the Lewiston Village Pub & Restaurant at (716) 405-7017. Lewiston Garden Fest- June 23-24 Hosted by the Lewiston Garden Club, this home show for casual and avid gardeners will inspire you to find new decorating ideas, watch demonstrations and more. Vendors host booths along Center Street in the Village of Lewiston, NY. For more information, call the Garden Club at (716) 754-2084 or visit online at www.LewistonGardenFest.com. Old Fort Niagara French & Indian War Encampment- July 6-8 Old Fort Niagara’s largest event of the year recreates the exciting days of the 1759 siege of Fort Niagara during the French & Indian War. Large scale battles, artillery bombardments, impressive pageantry, and huge living history camps make this an event not to be missed. For more information, visit www. OldFortNiagara.org or call (716) 745-7611. Porter Cup Golf Tournament- July 18-21 The Niagara Falls Country Club is host to the Porter Cup, one of the top amateur golf tournaments in the world. The Porter Cup has hosted PGA greats as Tiger Woods & Phil Mickelson. Open to the public to watch (505 Mountain-
view Drive, Lewiston, NY). “Fore” more information, visit www.portercup.com or call (716) 282-1204. Youngstown Level Regatta- July 28-29 One of the largest fresh water regatta’s in the world. Watch world-class sailing along the shores of the unbelievably picturesque Village of Youngstown (Water Street). For more information, visit www.yyc.org or call (716) 745-7230. Sanborn-Lewiston Farm Festival- July 28-29 Held at the Sanborn-Lewiston Farm Museum in the heart of the agricultural district in Sanborn (2660 Saunders Settlement Road (Rt 31), Sanborn, NY). Experience farm life with an antique/flea market, antique engine & tractor exhibits, food, 100 year-old barn, music, and fun for the entire family! For more information, visit www.SanbornHistory.org or call (716) 754-9500. Wine & Culinary Festival- July 28-29 Join the Niagara Wine Trail for the fourth year of wine and food in Lewiston at Academy Park! Events include: Wine Tasting (featuring Niagara Wine Trail USA), live music, local restaurants, and more. Tickets are $20 presale online and $25 day of event and include a one-day pass to the wine tasting and a keepsake wine glass. Designated drivers are free! This event is located at Academy Park in Lewiston. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit www.NiagaraWineTrail.org. Lewiston Art Festival- August 11-12 The Lewiston Art Council presents their annual prestigious two-day art festival along Center Street in the Village of Lewiston. In their 46th year, the art festival features more than 170 artists from the USA and Canada. On Saturday, watch the chalk fly with teams from area high school artists, as they create spectacular chalk murals. For more information, visit www.ArtCouncil. org or call (716) 754-0166. Old Fort Niagara – Soldiers of the Revolution- August 1112 Forces of Crown and Congress do battle outside the Fort as the frontier war of the American Revolution is recreated. Living history programs, battle demonstrations, hands-on activities for the entire family. For more information, visit www.OldFortNiagara.org or call (716) 745-7611. Historic Lewiston Jazz Festival- August 24-25 Don’t miss the 11th annual Historic Lewiston Jazz Festival featuring free performances outdoors along Center Street in the Village of Lewiston. Visit www. LewistonJazz.com for more information, or call (716) 628-9583.
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Sic Bo
THe lATeST TABle gAme CRAze AT SeNeCA NiAgARA CASiNo
ABOUT THE GAME
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A Sic Bo table may look daunting at first glance, but it’s actually one of the easiest – and maybe the most exciting – table games you’ll ever play. And it’s now part of the 100 tables on Seneca Niagara Casino’s gaming floor. The history of Sic Bo dates back to the game’s origins in ancient China, where the term translates to “dice pair.” The object is to bet on the outcome of a roll of three dice – which can include combinations of any two or three of the dice, single numbers, two of a kind, or three of a kind. Altogether, a player can choose from up to 50 unique bets, which payouts ranging from 1-to-1 to 180-to-1. “Sic Bo is similar to Roulette in that you have a designated time frame to place bets on specific numbers or combinations of numbers,” said Joseph Villagomez, director of table games at Seneca Niagara Casino & Hotel. “The game boils down to the roll of three dice – but when you have many people choosing all at once from 50 different betting squares, the atmosphere quickly becomes action-packed and full of energy.”
BETs And pAyOUTs All players’ bets are against the house, not against each other. Players may make multiple bets, but chips should be placed directly on the betting squares. • Single number bet – Placing your chip on numbers one through six at the front of the table. Pays 1-to-1 if one dice shows your number, 2-to-1 if two dice show your number, and 3-to-1 if all three dice show your number.
• Small or big bet – Placing your chip on one of two squares: Small = the three dice add up anywhere from four to 10; Big = the three dice add up anywhere from 11 to 17. Pays 1-to-1; no payout if three identical dice appear.
• two number Combination bet – Placing your chip on one of 15 spaces that have a combination of two unique dice numbers. Pays 6-to-1.
• Double bet – Placing your chip on one of six squares indicating that two of the dice will show a specific identical number. Pays 11-to-1.
• total Sum bet – Placing your chip on one of 14 spaces (from 4 through 17) so that the combination of the three dice adds up to that number. Payouts are as follows:
• any triple bet – Placing your chip on the square at the top-center of the table, indicating that the roll will show any three identical numbers. Pays 30-to-1.
• 4 = Pays 60-to-1. • 5 = Pays 30-to-1. • 6 = Pays 18-to-1. • 7 = Pays 12-to-1. • 8 = Pays 8-to-1. • 9 = Pays 6-to-1. • 10 = Pays 6-to-1.
• triple bet – Placing your chip on one of six squares indicating that all three dice will show a specific identical number. Pays 180-to-1.
• 11 = Pays 6-to-1. • 12 = Pays 6-to-1. • 13 = Pays 8-to-1. • 14 = Pays 12-to-1. • 15 = Pays 18-to-1. • 16 = Pays 30-to-1. • 17 = Pays 60-to-1.
WHeN YoU HAVe mANY PeoPle CHooSiNg All AT oNCe FRom 50 DiFFeReNT BeTTiNg SQUAReS, THe ATmoSPHeRe QUiCKlY BeComeS ACTioN-PACKeD AND FUll oF eNeRgY – Joseph Villagomez director of table games at seneca niagara casino & Hotel
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Pow wow
Season
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This July, visitors to Seneca Nation of Indians territories will have the chance to experience two back-to-back pow wow weekends. The popularity of pow wows has grown significantly throughout the past 50 years as opportunities to celebrate Native American identity and expression. All are welcome to attend these events and experience the sights, sounds, and tastes that have made pow wows a modern-day cultural phenomenon. The Iroquois Post 1587 Veterans Pow Wow will be held July 13-15, 2012, at the Cattaraugus Community Center (12767 Route 438 in Irving, NY) and will feature family flag honorings, food and craft vendors, educational exhibits, and smoke dance and drum competitions. “The theme of this year’s pow wow is ‘Honor All Veterans,’” said Bud Thompson, co-chair of the Iroquois Post 1587 Veterans Pow Wow. “This reflects the Seneca people’s deep respect and appreciation for all veterans, both native and nonnative.” The following weekend, July 21-22, the Seneca Pow Wow 2012 takes place at Veterans Park on Broad Street in Salamanca, NY, and will feature drum and dance competitions as well as food and craft vendors. Seneca Pow Wow 2012 committee chair Pamela Bowen estimates that pow wows began on Seneca Nation territories in the late 1980’s.
Bowen said. “It is a borrowed custom, but we try to infuse the pow wow with our own unique Seneca culture by showcasing our Iroquois dance styles, such as the smoke dance competition and various social dances that highlight our local Seneca singers and instruments.” There are several different stories about how pow wows started. Some believe that the Ponca and other Southern Plains Tribes originated the pow wow. Another belief is that the government forced Native American tribes on reservations and made the tribes have dances for the public to come and see. Before each dance they were lead through the town in a parade, which is the beginning of the Grand Entry. In any case, it is certain that pow wows did not originate in this part of the country, and that over the course of the 20th Century they evolved into intertribal gatherings representing a variety of Native American cultures. Today, pow wows are held all across the North American continent and are famous for their pageantry of colors and dance, which have been adapted and changed over time. Thousands of singers, dancers, and vendors follow the pow wow trail across the entire continent to celebrate their respective cultures and compete in drum and dance competitions. More information on both pow wows can be found at www.senecapowwow.org.
“Although pow wows are not a part of our culture historically, my understanding is that early organizers began holding them on our territories as a way to extend our hand in friendship to our neighbors and other Nations from across the country,”
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Fierce Lacrosse Camp:
Kids Get Their Game On By Leslie Logan
That isn’t the smell of spring in the air… it’s the smell of lacrosse season kicking in to gear on the territories! To help launch the start of minor lacrosse season, Fierce Lacrosse held a half-day lacrosse camp, sponsored by the Seneca Nation Health System, in conjunction with Community Fair Week. Ask any Seneca kid spinning a ball around in the head of his stick why they play and they’re likely to give a shy smile, shrug their shoulders, and say, “I just do.” They play because their fathers did, their grandfathers did; they play because as Seneca people, it’s what we do.
The contemporary sport of lacrosse is gaining greater popularity beyond Native territories such as our own. Iroquois people credit the game to the Creator, but too often we forget that the game was often played by our ancestors, and still is, not just for mere sport and recreation, but for medicinal purposes—for healing, and in these instances was to be played with a good mind. “The game is still one that in all cases should be played with a good mind,” says Ryan Jimerson, owner of Fierce Lacrosse and one of the coordinators of the lacrosse clinic. “That should be lesson number one.” Lacrosse is a game of speed and agility, with the best players having strong discipline, determination and dedication to the sport. In addition to drive and ability there are other factors that combine for making well-rounded players beyond that which occurs on the field or the floor. Twenty-two girls and boys suited up for a clinic at the Cattaraugus Community Center that focused on stick skills but also stressed the need for a good attitude and respect for coaches, team members, and opponents. The lacrosse camp also featured breakout sessions on bullying, nutrition, and the benefits of staying active. “The goal of any lacrosse program is to produce wellrounded, hard-working players with good attitudes or at the very least to be part of the process that helps groom strong athletes with good character,” said Claudia Jezioro, who has been instrumental in starting the girls’ lacrosse programs at the Seneca Nation. “The lacrosse clinic today hit on important moves and stick handling, but we also talked about good sportsmanship, being aware of the signs of bullying, treating your teammates and opponents with respect, and ways to keep yourself healthy and active with diet and exercise.” Jimerson talked about the beauty of the players that are groomed at the Seneca Nation from early on. “The great thing about Seneca players, girls and boys, is that we start them early – and over time they learn different skills by playing both box lacrosse and field lacrosse,” said Jimerson. He explained that there are different skills that are developed in each game, but what happens with Seneca players – without them even
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realizing it – is that they become far more versatile players than those players who only play field lacrosse. “Seneca players develop stronger handling and stick skills that are seen as highly valuable by top-tier college recruiters,” he said. “If you have good grades and you’ve been developing strong lacrosse skills over time, chances are you’ll be sought after by schools like USC, Syracuse, and Florida.” Working hard both on the field and off could reap tremendous benefits to skilled players in the form of scholarships and active recruitment by nationallyranked schools with competitive lacrosse programs. Amber Hill, Cayuga, is the women’s head lacrosse coach at Niagara University. She has played lacrosse since she was five years old. Hill graduated from Niagara Wheatfield in 2005, where she played three years on the varsity squad and a year on the junior varsity squad. In her senior year, she was recruited by Syracuse University, where she played for three years. Hill also captained the 2009 Haudenosaunee World Cup Lacrosse team that traveled to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. “I knew lacrosse would take me places, so I played as much as I could – but it also gave me a chance to do something that I love,” said Hill. “Kids need to understand that good grades play a huge role in college athletics. You have to be an awesome athlete with strong academics – not just excel on the field. It’s also really important to stress respect and having a good mind to our kids. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle where kids steer clear of drugs and alcohol is imperative to their success.” Fierce Lacrosse put together a host of lacrosse giveaways for the participants, raffled off several items, and gave away a Harrow shaft valued at more than $90 to the winner of the lacrosse shootout. Graham “Oshna” Logan, 12, won the shootout and beamed broadly as he held his new Harrow shaft in the air above his head. His excitement was all over his face as he bumped knuckles and exclaimed, “This is awesome!” Every participant in the lacrosse camp left with a bag full of freebies, a little bit of sweat on the back from the workout, and a headful of sound advice and tips. “We wanted kids to walk away with a good experience and hopefully having learned a couple things they didn’t know before today,” said Jimerson. “Judging by what we saw on the floor and what we heard in the breakout sessions, I think the camp was a good start and hopefully we’ll do another session in the future, with even greater turnout.”
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Berries, Baskets & Beads June 29 & 30, 2012,10am – 6pm
Seneca Cattaraugus Community Center Route 438 Irving, NY
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Celebrate strawberry season this June on the beautiful Cattaraugus Territory of the Seneca Nation of Indians. The strawberry is an important plant to the Seneca and other Haudenosaunee Nations. It is the first berry of the season and heralds the warmth and abundance of summer. Many Seneca artists use the strawberry as a prominent cultural symbol in their contemporary artworks. This two-day event will feature authentic black ash splint baskets, beadwork, and strawberry-themed artwork from some our most talented Haudenosaunee artists. There will be basket makers and bead workers selling their one-of-a-kind pieces of artwork, as well as an art show and competition. Enjoy strawberry shortcake, traditional strawberry juice, and barbeque foods. Admission to this event is free and open to the public.
Pow Wows The Iroquois Post 1587 Veterans Pow Wow takes place July 13 to 15, 2012 at the Seneca Cattaraugus Community Center. The theme of this year’s pow wow is “Honor All Veterans” and reflects the Senecas’ deep respect and appreciation for all veterans – native and non-native. The pow wow will feature family flag honorings, food and craft vendors, educational exhibits, and drum and dance competitions. Another pow wow, Seneca Pow Wow 2012, takes place the following weekend, July 21 and 22, at Veterans Park on Broad Street in Salamanca, NY. It will feature drum and dance competitions as well as food and craft vendors.
Buffalo Creek Native Festival August 4 and 5, 2012 Canal Side on the Central Wharf 1 Marine Drive, Buffalo, NY The Buffalo Creek Native Festival is a free, family-oriented event that invites visitors to experience the rich culture of this region’s Native American people with theatrical storytelling, dance and art demonstrations, traditional games, craft activities, and native art and food vendors. A twice-daily historical re-enactment will focus on an important but often overlooked portion of Buffalo’s cultural history – the Buffalo Creek Reservation and the Seneca and other Haudenosaunee people who lived there.
For more information on any of these events, please visit www.senecanation.com 61
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July 21 & 22, 2012 Veterans Park Salamanca, NY DANCE SPECIAL: Jackie Bowen Womens’ Old Style Jingle Special: A Healing Special sponsored by J. Bowen Family • 18 and up • cash prizes
Adults - $10/day Elders, 60+ yrs - $5/day Children, 5-17 yrs - $5/day Children, 4yrs and under - FREE Veterans/Active service members with appropriate ID will receive free admission
Dancers, Singers and Vendors call (716) 945-2655 or (716) 244-1752 (c) or go to www.senecapowwow.org to register and for more information. Visit our facebook page at: www.facebook.com/senecanationpowwow A Drug & Alcohol Free Event 90 Ohiyo Way · Salamanca, NY 14779
The Seneca Nation of Indians, the Pow-wow Committee, and the sponsors of the event are not liable for accidents, damages, injuries, lost or stolen articles or hard-ships in connection with this event.
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300 Third Street
Niagara Falls New York, 14303 68