The Oneida Indian Nation awarded more than $5 million in bonuses to all eligible employees in its 4,500 employee workforce. Though the U.S. economy remains sluggish, unemployment high and businesses across Central New York and around the state have been reluctant to invest in jobs and infrastructure, the Nation’s enterprises have averted layoffs experienced by other regional employers. Earlier in the year, the Nation awarded a cost of living adjustment to all of its government employees.

In making the holiday bonus announcement, Nation Representative and CEO of Nation Enterprises Ray Halbritter said, “We believe that by investing in our employees and in our community, will we truly be successful as a business and as a people. It is that mentality that has made us the third largest employer in the 16 counties that make up Central New York.” He added, “Our guiding principle is building for the 7th Generation. That means that our choices today should be made with consideration of how they will impact seven generations into the future.

The bonuses, which were awarded a few days before the start of the traditional holiday shopping season, will have significant economic benefits throughout Central New York and beyond. “We are encouraging all of our employees to shop and support local establishments during this holiday season,” said Halbritter. “To that end, we will be distributing information to our employees about local business and encouraging them all to shop locally this holiday season.”

In addition to the Nation’s executive and senior management team, the news announcement was attended by Oneida County Executive Anthony Picente and representatives of Oneida County Tourism and several local business groups.