"Anyone who supports the establishment of a permanent gambling casino in downtown Buffalo has to be pleased by the announcement that the Seneca Nation of Indians wants to become a force in the development of the city's waterfront. And, happily, so can those who oppose the casino. The nation's support in creating a thriving waterfront district is welcome regardless of how the casino plan, itself, is resolved.

In fact, the Senecas seem to be generally approaching their neighbors in Buffalo and Niagara Falls in a more neighborly way since Robert Odawi Porter was elected the nation's president and Cathy Walker was named chief executive officer and president of the Seneca Gaming Corp. That new attitude is a positive development -- one that could pay rich dividends in Buffalo and might also help Niagara Falls achieve some of the benefits that many expected when the casino was first built in 2002.

For Buffalo, the Senecas say they want to help develop a walkable district that includes Coca-Cola Field, HSBC Arena, Erie Canal Harbor and, of course, the Buffalo Creek Casino. With their money and influence, the Senecas could be a potent force for the revival of Buffalo's waterfront area. A Native American aspect to the project would be both welcome and appropriate."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Positive moves by Senecas (The Buffalo News 6/23)

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