We asked tribal leaders to discuss their tribes’ top priorities and how gaming supports those objectives; the role innovation plays in shaping decisions across their gaming and hospitality portfolios; and their approaches to leadership development to foster long-term stability and growth. Here is what Oneida Indian Nation Representative Ray Halbritter had to say…
Ray Halbritter, Representative
Oneida Indian Nation
Turning Stone Resort Casino – Verona; Point Place Casino Hotel – Bridgeport; The Lake House at Sylvan Beach; YBR Casino & Sports Book – Chittenango; Play On Slot Lounge – Verona; PlayOn Slot Parlor by Turning Stone (5 locations) – NY
turningstoneenterprises.com/our-brands / oneidaindiannation.com
PRIORITIES: The Oneida Indian Nation’s priorities are firmly rooted in the future and the outlook unto the seventh generation. Since opening more than three decades ago, our flagship property, Turning Stone Resort Casino, has generated resources that help the Oneida Indian Nation provide housing, healthcare, education, cultural programs, and other services for our members. Turning Stone has transformed the Nation’s economic outlook and the economy of Upstate New York, creating thousands of jobs, supporting regional businesses, and strengthening tourism. A 2023 economic impact report by Oxford Economics showed that the Oneida Indian Nation and its enterprises generate more than $1 billion annually in regional economic activity, making it one of Upstate New York’s largest economic engines.
INNOVATION: Always looking to the future and planning for what is next has allowed the Oneida Indian Nation to thrive, and innovation is fundamental to that success. The Nation has never viewed gaming as a static business. Instead, we have continually reinvested in innovation across our enterprises. Innovation is at the heart of our historic $400 million Turning Stone Evolution, the largest reinvestment into the property since it opened more than 30 years ago. The expansion transformed Turning Stone into New York’s largest meetings and conventions resort, introducing The Crescent luxury hotel, the fine-dining restaurant Salt, and The Grand Expo event space, which includes a 30,000 sq. ft. ballroom and brings Turning Stone’s total event space to over 225,000 sq. ft. That same philosophy extends to all our enterprises, including the $50 million transformation of Point Place Casino Hotel and continued investments in new gaming, hospitality, dining, entertainment, and technology experiences.
LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT: The Oneida Indian Nation recognizes sustainable growth depends on developing the people who lead and support Turning Stone Enterprises. As one of Upstate New York’s largest employers with a workforce of more than 5,400 individuals, Turning Stone Enterprises is comprised of people who bring passion, skill, respect, and integrity to advancing our mission and delivering world-class hospitality. Turning Stone Enterprises has invested in numerous leadership and skill development programs to ensure our workforce is able to adapt and grow with our organization.
