Podcast: A few weeks ago I had the opportunity to sit down with Barry W. Brandon, Sr. VP and General Counsel to the Seneca Gaming Corporation (SGC). That visit occurred at the Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls. Much of the conversation that took place revolved around some of the constant questions that people ask concerning the SGC and the plans to build a fully operational gaming facility in downtown Buffalo. After the announcement of the super-sized Buffalo casino, I called Barry and asked him if he would be willing to sit down for an audio interview. He agreed, and this podcast will hopefully be of interest to some people who have wanted to hear SGC’s side of the story. Along with him for the interview was Philip Pantano, Director of Public Relations and Public Affairs.
Originally I was one of those people who didn’t understand why Buffalo needed a casino when there were so many others nearby. I was not against gambling… I just felt that Niagara Falls was the perfect place for it. Then I saw the addition of the small, blue, tin shed being constructed and there was no doubt in my mind that a casino was coming. It was then that I decided to talk to one of the higher-ups at the SGC. Instead of listening to rumors about the corporation’s intentions I wanted to hear firsthand what their sentiments were concerning Buffalo and their future plans in the city. What could we expect down the road? How would this casino differ from the one in Niagara Falls (besides the design)? How would the four restaurants impact the other restaurants in the city? What about the addictive nature of the casino, was the tribe as a whole starting to see the benefits?
Before Barry and Philip left, Barry told me that it is SGC’s intention to keep communication open, and doesn’t want people to think that there is a veil of secrecy surrounding the downtown development. The gaming company is operating with the intention to see that the Buffalo casino becomes a 5-star destination that will compete with other tourist destinations around the country.
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