Will be Sentenced to a Minimum of 7 Years in Prison ALBANY, NEW YORK – Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, age 29, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty today to civil rights and firearm charges related to his firing shots outside of an Albany synagogue.  Alkhader pled guilty to obstructing the free exercise of religious beliefs by threat of force, brandishing a firearm during the commission of this offense, and conspiring to purchase a firearm unlawfully.  Alkhader was arrested on December 7, 2023, and has been in federal custody since that date. On the afternoon of December 7, 2023, Alkhader took an Uber from his home in Schenectady to Temple Israel in Albany.  Upon arriving, he walked up the front steps of the synagogue, removed a shotgun from a duffel bag, and discharged two rounds into the air shouting, “Free Palestine!”  Still holding the shotgun, he then attempted to remove an Israeli flag from a flagpole outside of the synagogue before walking away.  He was arrested shortly after by Albany Police Officers. United States Attorney Carla Freedman stated: “The defendant’s violent, antisemitic and terrifying act targeted the Temple Israel congregation, the larger Jewish community, and the right of every person to practice their religion without fear of violence. I commend law enforcement for acting swiftly to arrest Mufid Fawaz Alkhader, to investigate his motives and his illegal acquisition of the shotgun, and to bring about today’s guilty plea to a crime carrying a minimum term of 7 years in prison.” FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig Tremaroli stated: “Mr. Alkhader’s plea confirms his deliberate and premeditated intentions to illegally acquire a gun and use it to bring terror to the Temple Israel community as they were preparing to celebrate the first night of Hanukkah. Thanks to the swift actions of the Temple Israel community and our law enforcement partners, justice has been served. The FBI remains steadfast in our mission to ensure all our communities can live without fear of hateful violence.” Alkhader’s threatening actions forced the daycare operating inside of Temple Israel at the time of his actions to go into lockdown.  Alkhader also significantly disrupted activities that the Temple Israel community had planned to celebrate the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah and made congregants afraid to return to their place of worship. Alkhader also admitted that in November 2023, he and Andrew Miller agreed that Miller would purchase a shotgun for Alkhader by lying to a firearms dealer and falsely representing that Miller was the purchaser of the shotgun. On November 5, 2023, Alkhader and Miller drove to a federal firearms dealer in Albany and Miller purchased the Kel-Tec KS7 12-gauge pump-action shotgun; Miller later gave the shotgun to Alkhader. Alkhader fired this shotgun outside of Temple Israel. ATF Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller stated: “This guilty plea shows accountability for unlawfully obtaining a firearm and using it to instill fear. By stopping those who seek to use firearms to threaten and intimidate others, we are sending a message that gun violence will not be tolerated. This case demonstrates the dangerous consequences of unlawful gun possession. The cooperation between federal, state and local agencies remains critical in dismantling illegal gun trafficking. The successful resolution of this case was made possible due to collaboration between ATF NY Albany, FBI Albany, Albany PD, New York State Police and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.” Albany Police Chief Brendan Cox stated: “The Albany Police Department wants to reassure the community that these incidents are taken very seriously, and we are dedicated to maintaining peace and safety for everyone in our community. Alkhader directly targeted the Jewish community, and I am pleased with our department’s quick action in apprehending the defendant, as well as the collective partnerships with the FBI Albany Office and the ATF who helped bring justice to this case.” Sentencing is scheduled for June 6, 2025, before United States District Judge Anne M. Nardacci.  Alkhader faces at least 7 years and up to life in prison, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of up to 5 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statutes the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Andrew Miller pled guilty and  was sentenced to 14 months of imprisonment for his role in the straw purchase conspiracy. The FBI Albany Field Office, in conjunction with the ATF and the Albany Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Belliss and Alexander Wentworth-Ping for the Northern District of New York, Trial Attorney Jennifer Levy of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division, and Trial Attorney Trevor Kempner of the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.  Updated February 4, 2025 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndny/pr/schenectady-man-pleads-guilty-hate-crime-threatening-and-firing-shots-outside-albany

On the evening of February 2, 2024, at approximately 7:12 PM , the Oneida County Sheriff's Office responded to a two-car accident at the intersection of Fairchild Rd and James Rd in the Town of Remsen. The crash involved a black 2016 BMW and a 1997 Dodge Ram pickup truck, resulting in property damage and one person being injured. According to Sheriff Robert Maciol, deputies first arrived on the scene and confirmed the male driver of the pickup truck was unharmed. However, when they approached the operator of the BMW, identified as 42-year-old Luis Garcia-Martinez of Remsen, they noticed signs of disorientation and an apparent injury. Medical personnel were immediately called to evaluate him. The investigation revealed that Garcia-Martinez was traveling south on Bardwell Mills Rd in his BMW, which was moving too quickly for the snow-covered roads. As he approached the intersection of Bardwell Mills and Fairchild Rd, he was unable to stop at the stop sign and slid into the intersection. His vehicle was then struck by the eastbound Dodge Ram, operated by 24-year-old Noah Skermont, also from Remsen. The impact sent Garcia-Martinez’s BMW into a snowbank, where it finally came to rest on the southern shoulder of Fairchild Rd. Garcia-Martinez was treated at the scene and later transported by STaR Ambulance to Wynn Hospital for further evaluation of his injuries. Both vehicles sustained heavy damage and were towed away from the scene by AGWAY Towing of Holland Patent. Garcia-Martinez was issued multiple citations related to the incident, which will be addressed in the Town of Remsen Court at a later date. The Sheriff's Office was assisted by the New York State Police, Remsen Fire Department, and STaR Ambulance. The crash serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by winter weather and the importance of adjusting driving speeds to match road conditions. Deputy Thomas R. Bronson Oneida County Sheriff's Office Road Patrol Division

According to Oneida County Sheriff Robert Maciol, On February 02, 2025, at about 11:00 PM Deputies responded to a check the welfare complaint on Steuben Street in the Village of Remsen. It was reported that a male was possibly unconscious and slumped over the wheel of a black Jeep Cherokee that was parked in the middle of the roadway. Upon arrival, Deputies did confirm one unresponsive male was in the driver seat of the black Jeep which was parked facing East in the middle of the westbound lane of traffic. Throughout the investigation on the scene, Jason K. Light (52) of Boonville was determined to be under the influence of alcohol. Jason was advised that he was being placed under arrest and began to resist when Deputies attempted to place him in custody. Jason refused to comply with orders from Deputies. The deputies were able to place Jason in custody. Jason was charged with driving while intoxicated, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration, and issued several other traffic citations regarding the incident. Jason was taken to the Oneida County Sheriff's Law Enforcement Building for processing and held at the Oneida County Jail for Centralized Arraignment. Deputies were assisted onthe scene by STaR Ambulance and AGWAY towing of Holland Patent.

New York, NY – January 31, 2025 – New Yorkers are feeling the pinch as egg prices continue to rise, with many grocery shoppers noticing significant increases at their local stores. The price surge is being attributed to a combination of factors, including supply chain disruptions, avian flu outbreaks, and higher production costs. According to recent reports, the average cost of a dozen eggs in New York State has jumped by nearly 20% over the past two months. Some supermarkets are even experiencing shortages, forcing consumers to hunt for affordable options. Farmers say inflation and rising feed costs are also impacting egg production. "The cost of grain and transportation has gone up, making it more expensive to raise hens and get eggs to market," said Tom Bennett, a poultry farmer from the Hudson Valley. Additionally, outbreaks of avian influenza have led to significant losses in flocks nationwide, reducing supply and driving up prices. The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently reported that millions of egg-laying hens have been affected, further straining the market. Consumers are seeking alternatives, with some turning to local farmers' markets for better deals. Meanwhile, restaurants and bakeries are adjusting their menus and pricing to cope with the increased cost of eggs. While prices may stabilize in the coming months, experts warn that continued economic pressures and disease outbreaks could keep egg prices high for the foreseeable future.

On January 27, 2025 , at approximately 10:36 a.m., New York State Police in Lyons responded to 18 Sweed Road in the town of Newark, Wayne County, following a report from Wayne County Probation regarding the discovery of a firearm during a probation check. A Wayne County Probation Officer was conducting a routine check at the residence of Gregg M. Pottorff when he observed a loaded Hatfield Gun Company single-shot shotgun in plain view. Further investigation revealed the firearm had been reported stolen from a residence in the village of Newark on August 28, 2020. The Newark Police Department confirmed the stolen status of the shotgun. Pottorff was taken into custody by Wayne County Probation and transferred to the custody of the New York State Police. Pottorff was charged with Criminal Possession of a Weapon 4th (A Misdemeanor) and Criminal Possession of Stolen Property 4th (E Felony). Pottorff was processed at SP Lyons and issued an appearance ticket for Arcadia Town Court on February 19, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. He was subsequently released into the custody of Wayne County Probation for further action regarding his probation violation. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/probation-check-leads-arrest-and-recovery-stolen-firearm-wayne-county

Press Release On January 20, 2025, State Police arrested Michael J. Eisgruber , for the following: Criminal Possession Stolen Property-5th Degree  (class “A” misdemeanor) Criminal Possession Controlled Substance- 7th Degree  (class “A” misdemeanor) Possession Forged Instrument-2nd Degree  (class “D” felony) Manufacture Drug Related Paraphernalia  (Meth) (class “A” misdemeanor) Petit Larceny  (class “A” misdemeanor) On Monday, January 20, 2025, at approximately 7:34 a.m., on Route 9W in the Town of Catskill, County of Greene, State of New York the defendant did steal a key belonging to Peckham Industries, that was secured in a black hide a key box on the metal post of the gate, which is used only for Peckham Industries employees. Criminal Possession Controlled Substance- 7th Degree  (class “A” misdemeanor) For unlawfully possessing multiple plastic baggies containing a clear/white hard substance, identified as crystal methamphetamine, with a total aggregate weight of 1.0 grams. Criminal Trespass 3rd: Property Fenced in or Enclosed  (class “B” misdemeanor) when he knowingly and unlawfully entered and remained on private property, which is secured by fencing, belonging to Peckham Industries.  On January 20, 2025, at 7:34 am, State Police responded to Peckham Industries,  ROUTE 9W, Catskill, NY for a subject who had entered their posted/gated property with a vehicle. When troopers arrived, they located a vehicle which was occupied by operator, Michael J. Eisgruber who was taken into custody for Criminal Trespassing at scene. While inspecting the vehicle, Troopers located a handwritten red and black inspection sticker that was obviously forged on the windshield. Also located were stolen license plates mounted on the vehicle, multiple bags of methamphetamine, and a glass pipe used to ingest methamphetamine. Eisgruber was transported to State Police Catskill and was processed on the above charges arraigned at the Town of Cairo Court and released on his own recognizance. Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-arrest-port-ewin-man-trespass-forgery-and-drug-related-charges-town-catskill

On January 30, 2025, at about 7:47 a.m., State Police in Lafayette responded to State Route 91 in the town of Pompey for a two-vehicle personal injury accident. A preliminary investigation revealed that Gia L. Myers , age 17, from Jamesville, NY, was operating a 2010 Hyundai Accent southbound on State Route 91 when she lost control due to snow-covered roadway and entered the opposite lane striking a 2022 Chevy Tahoe, operated by Krystal L. Behnke , age 37, from Fabius, NY that was traveling northbound. The passenger of the 2010 Hyundai Accent, Gavin R. Myers , age 15, from Jamesville, NY, was pronounced deceased at the scene. Gia L. Myers was transported to Upstate Hospital where she is listed in critical condition. Gia and Gavin are both students in the Fabius-Pompey School District.   The investigation is continuing.   Sources: https://troopers.ny.gov/news/state-police-investigate-fatal-crash-pompey

Albany’s rainmakers have found a new way to shower cash into the state’s dwindling coffers. The day after Christmas, Gov. Hochul signed Bill S2129A into law, deputizing the Department of Environmental Conservation to fine fossil fuel companies billions of dollars for past greenhouse gas emissions. The money will go into a Climate Change Slush — er, “superfund” that will be used, ostensibly, to prepare for and manage adverse weather events, like floods. Sponsored by five Senate Democrats — Liz Krueger (28th Senate District), Joe Addabbo (15th), Neil Breslin (46th), Jabari Brisport (25th), and Samra Brouk (55th) — and following on the heels of a law Vermont passed last year, the Climate Change Superfund will retroactively levy a fee on firms that “engaged in the trade or business of extracting fossil fuel or refining crude oil” during a “covered period” from Jan. 1, 2000 to Dec. 31, 2018; that exceeded 1 billion metric tons of emissions; and that sold their products into the Empire State — big foreign producers like China National Petroleum Company and Rosneft needn’t worry. Keep reading at  NYPost.com https://nygop.org/icymi-albanys-new-fossil-fuels-super-fund-could-hit-consumers-hard/

Here’s a clearer and more engaging rewrite of the order while keeping its formal tone and intent: Executive order i ssued by the President of the United StatesJanuary 27, 2025 Section 1: Purpose and Policy On August 24, 2021, the Secretary of Defense required all service members to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. That mandate was later rescinded on January 10, 2023. However, it was an unfair and unnecessary burden on our military personnel. Many service members were unjustly discharged for refusing the vaccine, despite their years of dedicated service. Others were denied exemptions they rightfully deserved. It’s time to correct this wrong. Section 2: Restoring Justice To ensure fairness, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security must take all lawful actions to: (a) Offer reinstatement to any active or reserve service member who was discharged solely for refusing the COVID-19 vaccine, if they request to return. (b) Reinstate those service members at their previous rank with full back pay, benefits, and bonuses. (c) Allow former service members who voluntarily separated rather than comply with the mandate—if they provide a sworn statement—to return without penalty to their rank, pay, or status. Section 3: Agency Responsibilities (a) This order does not prevent disciplinary actions for any conduct that violates the Uniform Code of Military Justice (10 U.S.C. 801-946a). (b) Within 60 days, the Secretary of Defense and the Secretary of Homeland Security must report to the President on their progress in carrying out this order. Section 4: Legal Safeguards If any part of this order is found invalid, the rest remains in effect. Section 5: Implementation (a) This order does not override existing laws or agency authorities. (b) It will be executed in accordance with applicable laws and available funding. (c) This order does not create legal rights enforceable against the U.S. government or its agencies. THE WHITE HOUSE January 27, 2025

Governor Kathy Hochul today urged New Yorkers to consider using the Direct File program in New York State to ease the burden of filing taxes. The joint project with the IRS, available starting today, allows taxpayers to file their federal and state taxes online at no cost. Building on Governor Hochul’s initiative to make New York more affordable, this program helps the average New York taxpayers save around $260 in tax preparation fees. “Direct File is a common-sense approach to filing taxes,” Governor Hochul said. “If you have a basic return, you’ll find that it’s easy to complete the process and that you can save hundreds of dollars in tax preparation fees.” The Tax Department estimates that 3.4 million New Yorkers will be able to use Direct File this year. To find out if you're eligible, visit the New York State Tax Department’s webpage . New York State Department of Taxation and Finance Acting Commissioner Amanda Hiller said, “Direct File is a safe, secure system that you can access from a smartphone or desktop computer. Qualified New Yorkers can answer simple questions instead of filling out forms or paying a preparer to complete their income return.” New York piloted Direct File with the IRS in 2024. In its first year, the program was open for a limited time to a limited number of taxpayers. Some 14,000 New Yorkers used Direct File last year and 96 percent reported a positive experience. The 2025 Direct File Program — available starting today — expands eligibility, covering more tax credits and different types of income. The Tax Department estimates that 3.4 million New Yorkers will be able to use Direct File this year. New Yorkers with 2024 wages of up to $200,000, or $250,000 if filing a joint return, may qualify. Direct File is part of Governor Hochul’s ongoing effort to save New Yorkers money and improve government services. As part of her FY 2026 Budget, Governor Hochul proposed a middle class tax cut to deliver nearly $1 billion in tax relief to more than 8.3 million New Yorkers. When fully phased in, the middle-class tax cut will deliver hundreds of dollars in average savings to nearly 77 percent of filers — representing three out of every four taxpayers. Additionally, Governor Hochul proposed New York’s first-ever inflation refund that will put $3 billion back in the pockets of 8.6 million taxpayers. Joint tax filers who make $300,000 or less will receive a $500 payment and all single New York taxpayers who make $150,000 or less will receive a $300 payment. Governor Hochul also proposed a vast expansion of New York's Child Tax Credit that will double or triple the current credit in many cases, offering up to $1,000 annually per child under four and up to $500 per child aged four to 16. This marks the largest increase in the credit’s history, significantly surpassing the current maximum of $330 per child. https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/free-online-tax-filing-ease-governor-hochul-announces-direct-file-program-now-available

2024 Statewide Attendance Hits 88.3 Million, Exceeding Previous Record Set in 2023 by 4 Million Parks’ Centennial and Eclipse-Viewing Gatherings, Governor’s Free Swimming Initiatives Contributed to 12th Consecutive Year of Increased Attendance Governor’s Unplug and Play Strategy Encourages Even More Healthy Recreation for New York Families Park Attendance Data Available Here Governor Kathy Hochul today announced state parks, historic sites, campgrounds and trails operated by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (State Parks) saw a record 88.3 million visits in 2024. Total visits statewide surged by over four million, which is a five percent increase compared to the previous record year in 2023. These numbers reflect Governor Hochul's commitment to expanding access to parks and outdoor recreation, including her investment in the park system’s 100th anniversary last year, the 2024 total solar eclipse viewing events that broke state tourism records, and her free swimming initiatives. “This new attendance record is a result of our commitment to expanding opportunities for residents and visitors alike to enjoy safe, healthy recreation, whether it’s through swimming, hiking, camping, or gathering to take in our world-class vistas, beaches and waterfalls,” Governor Hochul said. “We are fortunate that our state parks offer a much-needed break from the addictive digital landscape many are exposed to, and with my “Unplug and Play” strategy, we are going to make sure even more New Yorkers and future generations have access to phenomenal recreational facilities in their state parks and in their own communities.” Over the last two decades, State Parks’ attendance has climbed steadily, increasing 66 percent, with last year marking the 12th consecutive annual increase. Contributing to this surge in visitation was the New York State park and historic site system’s Centennial in 2024. The year-long celebration honored influential figures and milestone moments in State Parks’ development and gave the agency an opportunity to connect with local communities across the state by hosting dozens of Centennial-themed events. On April 8, State Parks hosted a range of events and activities to celebrate the rare total solar eclipse that passed through western New York, the Finger Lakes, and the Adirondacks. Governor Hochul was one of 45,000 visitors who experienced the celestial event at Niagara Falls State Park. The eclipse brought record-setting tourism numbers in New York from April 6 to April 9 of last year. Governor Hochul’s free swimming initiatives fortified the new record. Prior to the July 4 weekend last year, Governor Hochul removed swimming pool entry fees at State Parks for the entire summer. Through Labor Day, pool attendance increased 36 percent, with over 542,000 people visiting a State Park pool. Twenty-two facilities hosted free swimming lessons, tripling the number of facilities from previous years and teaching over 2,000 students how to swim. State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons said, “State Parks is one of the most admired parks systems in the world, welcoming many millions more visitors than ever before to unplug and play! Governor Hochul’s continued support for outdoor recreation and land conservation, paired with the passion and hard work of our State Parks team, undoubtedly helped us reach this new record. We look forward to working with partners around the state to keep the momentum going, aid in the mental and physical wellness of all, drive affordability and help deliver economic boosts to communities around the Empire State for years to come.” Senator José Serrano, Chair of Majority Conference and Chair of the Committee on Cultural Affairs, Tourism, Parks & Recreation said, "New York's State Parks and Historic Sites offer a wide variety of activities for everyone to enjoy. Spending time in nature provides so many physical and mental health benefits, so it is not surprising to see that attendance has continued to grow as people enjoy these benefits while visiting our State Parks. Thank you to Governor Kathy Hochul and State Parks Commissioner Pro Tempore Randy Simons for their commitment to our parks, and I look forward to working together to help connect more people to the great outdoors in the coming years." Assemblymember Ron Kim, Chair, the Committee on Tourism, Parks, Arts and Sports Development said, “I am incredibly excited to join Governor Hochul and my colleagues in continuing to invest in our state parks, recreational areas, and cultural sites. They have proven to be an essential engine for New York's economic development, bringing millions of annual visitors and immeasurable intrinsic value to our communities, which is critical for long-term sustainable growth.” Camping continued to be an in-demand offering at State Parks in 2024 with 2,206,986 campers pitching their tents at New York’s state park facilities. With more than 226,000 reservations, those campers spent a collective 753,731 nights under the stars while providing a boost to local economies. The New York State Parks Wellness Challenge   was launched Jan. 1 to encourage both mental wellness and outdoor recreation while also educating residents and visitors on wellness-focused activities within State Parks in 2025. The challenge was designed to align with Governor Hochul’s efforts to encourage New Yorkers to get off their devices and enjoy the outdoors. The challenge includes 50 missions that can be completed at various State Parks. Once participants finish 25 of the available 50 missions, they will receive a commemorative sticker and postcard mailed to their address as a prize. Governor Hochul’s Fiscal Year 2026 Executive Budget proposes $200 million for State Parks to invest in and aid the ongoing transformation of New York’s flagship parks and support critical infrastructure projects throughout the park system. The Governor’s new Unplug and Play initiative also earmarks $100 million for construction and renovation of community centers through the Build Recreational Infrastructure for Communities, Kids and Seniors (NY BRICKS), $67.5 million for the Places for Learning, Activity and Youth Socialization (NY PLAYS) initiative helping New York communities construct new playgrounds and renovate existing playgrounds; and an additional $50 million for the Statewide Investment in More Swimming (NY SWIMS) initiative supporting municipalities in the renovation and construction of swimming facilities. The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, recreational trails, golf courses, boat launches and more, and welcomes over 88 million visitors annually. For more information on any of these recreation areas, visit  parks.ny.gov , download the free  NY State Parks Explorer app   or call 518-474-0456. Connect with them on   Facebook ,   Instagram ,   X (formerly Twitter) , the  OPRHP Blog or via the OPRHP Newsroom . https://www.governor.ny.gov/news/governor-hochul-announces-record-attendance-state-parks

With the historic Turning Stone Evolution and a major expansion at Point Place Casino underway, the Oneida Indian Nation dramatically increased its capital project investments and New York State vendor spending during 2024. Investments in team members grew significantly in payroll, healthcare and 401(k) retirement plan contributions. Oneida Indian Nation Homelands (January 27, 2025) – The Oneida Indian Nation today announced a historic economic impact for 2024 with investments in its team members, capital projects and supply chain exceeding $700 million. These major investments in the Nation’s team, enterprises, and business partners represent dramatic increases that include a nearly 30 percent increase in capital investments, a 21 percent increase in spending with New York State vendors and an approximately 14 percent growth in pay and benefits for our team members. 2024 by the Numbers During the last year, the Oneida Indian Nation’s extensive investments in its enterprises, team and Upstate New York included: Increased capital project spending by $29,257,718 ($129,562,600 total) Increased spending with New York State vendors by $45,569,291 ($263,909,435) Increased investments in payroll, healthcare benefits and 401(k) retirement plan contributions by $37,094,011 ($306,737,647 total) In addition to investments in wages, healthcare and retirement savings benefits, the Oneida Indian Nation offers team members a range of innovative career advancement programs, including tuition reimbursement, scholarships, training schools, paid on-the-job training and more. In 2022, the Nation also created the first-of-its-kind affordable team housing development in Upstate New York, The Villages at Stoney Creek, which offers one-, two- and three-bedroom apartments with below-market rents, spacious floor plans and free transportation to and from work. Investing In New York State and Local Businesses Among its spending with New York State vendors, the Nation also expanded investments with vendors across the tri-county area, which grew to $161,088,227 in 2024, a 13 percent increase over 2023 with $27,594,731 for Oneida County vendors, $4,244,141 for Madison County vendors and $129,249,355 for Onondaga County vendors. As these investments grew in 2024, so did the network of partnerships between the Oneida Indian Nation and state and regional vendors. Last year, the Nation invested with: 1,346 New York State vendors 813 vendors across the tri-county region 289 Oneida County vendors 137 Madison County vendors 387 Onondaga County vendors These numbers will continue to grow in 2025 as the Oneida Indian Nation awards a variety of contracts to businesses throughout Upstate New York for the Turning Stone Evolution. In November, the Nation announced awards to 26 initial subcontractors to support construction of the new Grand Expo, The Crescent Hotel and a new parking garage. “We know that if you are not moving forward, you are moving backward. Continuous investment is the only way to sustain that momentum,” said Ray Halbritter, Oneida Indian Nation Representative and Turning Stone Enterprises CEO . “We are proud to reinvest all of our proceeds in Central New York and the Oneida people, by building on investments in our people, our enterprises, our team and the region’s business community year after year.” This level of investment follows explosive diversification and growth across Turning Stone Enterprises, the parent organization for all of the Oneida Indian Nation’s business operations. Just a few of the initiatives currently underway across the Nation’s enterprises include: The Turning Stone Evolution, a $370 million investment in the largest expansion of Turning Stone Resort Casino in two decades that will double the resort’s existing conference and events spaces and add a new hotel, restaurant, indoor parking garage and outdoor spaces, and an on-site medical center for team members, their families and guests A $50 million expansion at Point Place Casino that will double its casino and create a new 100-room hotel, event space, restaurant and other amenities The expansion of Verona Collective, with two new dispensaries opening in Sherrill and Chittenango after the launch of its first two locations in 2024 and plans for two additional dispensaries before the end of 2025 As the Oneida Indian Nation’s enterprises continue to grow and evolve, so too will its role in economic development and job creation in Upstate New York. Investments in capital projects, vendor spending and its workforce will continue at historic rates in 2025, building on the Nation’s more than $1 billion annual economic impact and contributing to the economic foundation for everyone who lives and works in the region.   About the Oneida Indian Nation The Oneida Indian Nation is a federally recognized Indian nation in Central New York. A founding member of the Haudenosaunee Confederacy (also known as the Six Nations or Iroquois Confederacy), the Oneida Indian Nation sided with the Americans in the Revolutionary War and was thanked by Congress and President George Washington for its loyalty and assistance. Today, the Oneida Indian Nation consists of about 1,000 enrolled Members, most of them living in Central New York. The Nation’s enterprises, which employ more than 4,500 people, include Turning Stone Resort Casino, YBR Casino & Sports Book, Point Place Casino, The Lake House at Sylvan Beach, The Cove at Sylvan Beach, Maple Leaf Markets, SāvOn Convenience stores, Verona Collective, a seed-to-sale cannabis operation, RV Park, and marinas. Proceeds from these enterprises are used to rebuild the Nation’s economic base and provide essential services, including housing, health care, and education incentives and programs, to its Members. Media Contact Joel Barkin, Vice President for Strategic Communications and Community Engagement315.361.8173 jbarkin@oneida-nation.org