New York's Wizard of Oz Casino to Open Soon

Casino gamers that frequent the East Coast have something to smile about this summer, as news just hit the airwaves that a Native American tribe is opening up a casino. The Oneida Indian Nation in central New York is funneling $20 million into the planned Wizard of Oz-themed gaming hall, in a bid to possibly siphon visitors away from the competition.

What competition? Well, New York State officials just recently announced their intent to license three non-Indian casinos; one of which is in Seneca County. Because the Oneida Indian Nation's casino is on tribal land, they're able to open it without State approval. Their Wizard of Oz casino will create hundreds of jobs for the community during and after its construction, and occupy almost 70,000 square feet in Chittenango - which is just a dozen miles east of Syracuse, New York. Of course, Native Americans enjoy a 1993 gaming compact that gives them license to own and operate such casinos without approval from government at any level.

The name of the Indian's gaming hall will be the Yellow Brick Road Casino, and it will be full of the traditional goodies. 430 Slot machines - modeled after the ones in Las Vegas - will be placed strategically throughout the property. One of the main attractions for the older crowd will be Wizard Hall, which is a 500-seater Bingo room. The obligatory restaurants and bars will complement the Keno Lounge and other gaming attractions.

It's worth it to note that, as per the terms of a settlement back in 2013 regarding exactly what constitutes Oneida Indian Nation land, 25% of the Yellow Brick Road Casino's take from the Slot machines will have to be handed over to the State. In return, there will be no regulation in the gaming facilities there. It's a nice addition to the plethora of gaming options in that general area, and is open around the clock.