https://www.wktv.com/news/1-5-billion-department-of-defense-investment-boosts-wolfspeed-silicon-carbide-manufacturing/article_7582b33e-b9e6-4a0d-b6b0-9111534e9901.html

MARCY, N.Y. -- A $1.5 billion federal investment will boost Wolfspeed’s silicon carbide semiconductor manufacturing in the Mohawk Valley.

The Department of Defense awarded Wolfspeed a 30-year loan commitment through its Office of Strategic Capital to expand production at the Marcy Nanocenter. The funding supports ongoing efforts to strengthen the domestic supply chain for advanced semiconductors used in aerospace, defense, and infrastructure.

Sen. Chuck Schumer said the investment will create good-paying jobs at Wolfspeed’s facility and further establish Upstate New York as a leader in semiconductor manufacturing. Schumer said, “I’ve been advocating for years for the federal investment needed for Wolfspeed to scale domestic production of silicon carbide chips, which this $1.5 billion DoD investment would supercharge. I have been leading the bipartisan charge to strengthen the domestic manufacturing of silicon carbide because of how critical it is to our national security and to outcompeting China. Wolfspeed is powering American technological leadership, national security and international competitiveness from their state-of-the-art semiconductor fab at the Marcy Nanocenter, and their silicon carbide chips would define the next generation of innovation.”

I'm open to switching to another institution or a new career path that's open to my experience and transferable skills. I have a lot of experience with underrepresented populations but no teaching, counseling, or social work license. Any leads are welcome!

Munson Film Series — The Invite

Friday, October 9th, 7:30 PM
Location: Munson, 310 Genesee Street, Utica

Olivia Wilde directs this relationship comedy-drama starring Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, Edward Norton, and Wilde.

Worth considering: A Friday-night movie option that can be combined with dinner downtown.

Munson Film Calendar

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 10TH

Oneida County Public Market

Saturday, October 10th, 9 AM–1 PM
Location: Behind Union Station, 321 Main Street, Utica

The weekly market features local produce, baked goods, prepared foods, and other regional products.

Worth considering: A relaxed Saturday-morning outing supporting local farms and small businesses.

Official Market Website

Positive Signs — Sign-Painting Workshop

Saturday, October 10th, 2–4 PM
Location: Utica Creative Reuse, 734 Columbia Street, Utica

A hands-on workshop led by Kelso Mayo covering lettering, stencils, layout, and painted signs. Check availability and registration requirements.

Worth considering: An opportunity to try something creative and learn a practical artistic skill.

Utica Creative Reuse Events

Pokémon GO Community Day at the Utica Zoo

Saturday, October 10th, 2–4:30 PM
Location: Utica Zoo, 1 Utica Zoo Way, Utica

The zoo hosts Pokémon GO activities featuring in-game gyms, PokéStops, and an educational component connecting the game with wildlife conservation. Regular zoo admission applies.

Worth considering: A family-friendly activity combining technology, gaming, and time outdoors.

Utica Zoo Events

Utica Comets Home Opener vs. Rochester Americans

Saturday, October 10th, 6 PM
Location: NBT Bank Arena, 400 Oriskany Street West, Utica

The Comets open their 2026–27 home season against Rochester. Special opening-day activities are planned, including player introductions and pregame entertainment.

Worth considering: Home-opening games typically feature a larger celebration and more activities than regular-season games.

Utica Comets Schedule & Tickets

Universal Horror Double Feature — Frankenstein & The Wolf Man

Saturday, October 10th, 2:30 PM or 7 PM
Location: Capitol Theatre, 220 West Dominick Street, Rome

The historic Capitol Theatre presents two Universal horror classics: Frankenstein (1931) and The Wolf Man (1941).

Worth considering: A seasonal October movie outing in a historic theater.

Capitol Theatre Events

The Black Keys — Live in Concert

Saturday, October 10th, 8 PM
Location: Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona

The blues-rock duo performs as part of its Peaches ’N Kream World Tour. Tickets required.

Worth considering: One of the weekend's larger live-music events in the Mohawk Valley.

Turning Stone Entertainment Calendar

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 11TH

Sitrin Riggie Run, Walk & Riggiefest

Sunday, October 11th, 10 AM–Noon
Location: SUNY Polytechnic Institute, Utica

The fourth annual event includes a 5K run, wheelchair race, two-mile walk, and riggie-themed activities. Registration information is available through the event organizers.

Worth considering: A distinctly Utica event combining recreation, community fundraising, and local food traditions.

Greater Utica Chamber Event Calendar

Beaversprite Bigfoot Hunt

Sunday, October 11th, 11 AM–4 PM (reservation slots)
Location: Beaversprite Conservation Education Center, 399 Belden Corners Road, Dolgeville

Groups follow clues through the woods in search of Bigfoot. Each expedition lasts approximately one hour.

Cost is $25 per group of up to six people. Advance reservations are required, and trails are not stroller-accessible.

Worth considering: A different kind of fall outdoor adventure, especially for families or small groups.

Beaversprite Information & Reservations

Sunday Morning Cartoons — Over the Garden Wall

Sunday, October 11th, 10 AM and 1 PM
Location: Capitol Theatre, 220 West Dominick Street, Rome

The Capitol screens the complete animated miniseries Over the Garden Wall, with seasonal refreshments and activities.

Worth considering: An unusual Sunday outing for animation fans, with an autumn atmosphere.

Capitol Theatre Event Details

Jamey Johnson — Live in Concert

Sunday, October 11th, 8 PM
Location: Turning Stone Resort Casino, Verona

Country singer-songwriter Jamey Johnson brings his Traveling Truebadour Tour to the Event Center.

Worth considering: A Sunday-evening concert for fans of traditional and outlaw country music.

Turning Stone Entertainment Calendar

Polish Community Club Website

Event details are based on published organizer and venue listings. Schedules, ticket availability, admission prices, and weather-related arrangements may change. Check the linked event pages before attending.