When you think of Gene Simmons, co-founder of the iconic rock band KISS, images of leather, face paint, and tongue-wagging may come to mind. The last thing you would expect is a connection to Niagara Falls. However, Simmons has developed a strong bond with the area, so much so that a street will be named after him.
On August 18th, Simmons will be presented with symbolic keys to the cities of Niagara Falls and North Tonawanda. Niagara Falls Mayor Robert Restaino will also unveil Gene Simmons Boulevard in downtown Niagara Falls. The ceremony will take place at 2pm on August 18th at Niagara Falls City Hall, located at 745 Main Street.
This special event will honor Simmons for his contributions to the music industry and his connection to the region. In addition to the key presentation, Simmons will perform a fundraising concert with his solo band, Gene Simmons Band, on August 19th at 7:30pm. The concert will be held at the Riviera Theatre in North Tonawanda, located at 67 Webster St. All proceeds from the concert will go towards the lobby expansion project of the Riviera Theatre. Tickets for the concert are priced at $100 and can be purchased in advance.
This is a unique opportunity for fans to experience the legendary Gene Simmons live in an intimate setting while supporting a local community project. Simmons' ties to the Niagara Falls area began when he partnered with brothers Paul and John Janik, third-generation owners of Johnnie Ryan Soda, to create a cane sugar soda called MoneyBag Sodas. Since then, Simmons has made multiple visits to the region.
In 2018, he spent an afternoon meeting fans and promoting his soda at a 7-Eleven in Niagara Falls. In 2020, he even endorsed a sandwich from Twin City Deli in Niagara Falls which was shipped overnight to him by treasurer of MoneyBag Sodas Christopher Haick. Johnnie Ryan Soda, which has been producing soda in Niagara Falls since 1935, manufactures MoneyBag Sodas under its subsidiary, Rock Steady Sodas.
The partnership between Simmons and the Janik brothers has not only brought attention to their soda brand but has also highlighted the region and its local businesses.
"We're proud that we're from Niagara Falls, and Gene recognizes Western New York," said Paul Janik. "He knows Niagara Falls and talks about it, and he's proud that we're from the area too. We're not only celebrating him, he's celebrating us and the area."
MoneyBag Sodas can be found at Tops Friendly Markets, Wegmans, and select Walmart locations. The brand's popularity continues to grow, thanks in part to Simmons' involvement and his appreciation for the Niagara Falls community.
Gene Simmons to Receive Keys to the City in Niagara Falls and North Tonawanda.
Based on independent reporting and the Buffalo News.