Mayor supports Mashpee Wampanoag land-into-trust application
Monday, August 30, 2010
The mayor of Fall River, Massachusetts, is urging the Interior Department to approve the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe land-into-trust application.
The tribe wants to build a casino on a 300-acre site in the city. Mayor Will Flanagan said the project is important to the area.
"Development of that land that the tribe is seeking to have placed in trust will provide the good jobs that are so desperately needed in this area. In addition, revenue that will be provided to the city through an intergovernmental agreement will allow us to fund the public safety, education and infrastructure projects that are so important to the health of this city and the surrounding region," Flanagan wrote in a letter to Secretary Ken Salazar, The Fall River Herald News reported.
The tribe started the land-into-trust process in August 2007. In February 2009, the U.S. Supreme Court issued its decision in Carcieri v. Salazar.
The decision limits the land-into-trust process to tribes that were "under federal jurisdiction" in 1934. The Mashpees didn't gain formal recognition until May 2007 but the Obama administration is moving forward with all pending applications.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Story taken from www.indianz.com
Of course the Mayor of Fall River wants the casino to go through. This is the town that closed it's airport and turned it into a dump (land fill).
On the other side of the state, in Palmer, the Mohegans are talking of buying the 150 acres they lease, to maybe build a casino. Where are the Mohegans going to get the funds? Owning the land doesn't necessarily mean that the tribe will get a casino. ITS A BIG, BIG GAMBLE. What do you think?
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Friday, August 27, 2010
COULD VIOLENCE HAPPEN IN NEW YORK?
New York governor cites potential for 'violence' over state taxes
Friday, August 27, 2010
New York Gov. David Paterson (D) will go forward with plans to impose a tobacco tax on reservations despite acknowledging the potential for "violence and death."
Starting on September 1, the state will impose a tax on tobacco sold to non-Indians. "There will be quite an uprising and protest to this, but I am going to maintain this policy," Paterson said on WOR-AM.
Paterson doesn't plan on sending state troopers to reservations. In the past, there have been clashes between law enforcement and tribal activists who opposed the tax.
"This is a very dangerous situation," Paterson said. "There is a -- I think -- high alert. The State Police tells us over and over again that there could be violence and death as a result of some of the measures we're taking."
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article from www.indianz.com Could what happened in Rhode Island several years ago, now happen in New York? What do you think?
Friday, August 27, 2010
New York Gov. David Paterson (D) will go forward with plans to impose a tobacco tax on reservations despite acknowledging the potential for "violence and death."
Starting on September 1, the state will impose a tax on tobacco sold to non-Indians. "There will be quite an uprising and protest to this, but I am going to maintain this policy," Paterson said on WOR-AM.
Paterson doesn't plan on sending state troopers to reservations. In the past, there have been clashes between law enforcement and tribal activists who opposed the tax.
"This is a very dangerous situation," Paterson said. "There is a -- I think -- high alert. The State Police tells us over and over again that there could be violence and death as a result of some of the measures we're taking."
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article from www.indianz.com Could what happened in Rhode Island several years ago, now happen in New York? What do you think?
WERE BLOOMBERG'S COMMENTS INAPPROPRIATE?
New York governor condemns 'inappropriate' remark about tribes
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Gov. David Paterson (D) said New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) made "inappropriate" remarks about the state's tribes.
Paterson said it was "dangerous" for Bloomberg to suggest a confrontation with tribes over the collection of a tobacco tax. "The state police tell us over and over again that there could be violence and death as a result of some of the measures we're taking," Paterson said on WOR-AM.
"So I really feel in this case the mayor's remarks are inappropriate," Paterson said.
Paterson still plans on enforcing state taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians. The plan goes into effect on September 1.
“I’m going to maintain this policy because we are not interfering with their treaties. We are leveling the playing field for our commercial establishments right here in New York State who are being gouged because what the Indians are doing by selling cigarettes tax free on their property,” Paterson said.
Bloomberg had told Paterson to "get yourself a cowboy hat and a shotgun" in order to deal with tribes.
ATRICLE TAKEN FROM www.indianz.ocm CHECK OUT TABLE GAMES IN PENNSYLVANIA AT www.feathernews.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 26, 2010
Gov. David Paterson (D) said New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) made "inappropriate" remarks about the state's tribes.
Paterson said it was "dangerous" for Bloomberg to suggest a confrontation with tribes over the collection of a tobacco tax. "The state police tell us over and over again that there could be violence and death as a result of some of the measures we're taking," Paterson said on WOR-AM.
"So I really feel in this case the mayor's remarks are inappropriate," Paterson said.
Paterson still plans on enforcing state taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians. The plan goes into effect on September 1.
“I’m going to maintain this policy because we are not interfering with their treaties. We are leveling the playing field for our commercial establishments right here in New York State who are being gouged because what the Indians are doing by selling cigarettes tax free on their property,” Paterson said.
Bloomberg had told Paterson to "get yourself a cowboy hat and a shotgun" in order to deal with tribes.
ATRICLE TAKEN FROM www.indianz.ocm CHECK OUT TABLE GAMES IN PENNSYLVANIA AT www.feathernews.blogspot.com
Thursday, August 26, 2010
ONEIDA TOBACCO MANUFACTURING ON RESERVATION?
Oneida Nation moves tobacco manufacturing plant to reservation
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
The Oneida Nation of New York is moving its cigarette manufacturing operation to the reservation.
The tribe bought Sovereign Tobacco about two years ago. The operation was located in Buffalo but it's now being moved to trust land in order to avoid state taxation issues.
The tribe said it will be able to manufacture tobacco products without worrying about the state's effort to collect taxes on reservations.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Story taken from www.indianz.com
Could this solve the tobacco tax problems for the Oneida Tribe in New York?
Is this a form of diversification or is it expansion?
Did the Mohegan Tribe expand or diversify? Is Pocono Downs expansion? What about Palmer Massachusetts? What do you think?
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
The Oneida Nation of New York is moving its cigarette manufacturing operation to the reservation.
The tribe bought Sovereign Tobacco about two years ago. The operation was located in Buffalo but it's now being moved to trust land in order to avoid state taxation issues.
The tribe said it will be able to manufacture tobacco products without worrying about the state's effort to collect taxes on reservations.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Story taken from www.indianz.com
Could this solve the tobacco tax problems for the Oneida Tribe in New York?
Is this a form of diversification or is it expansion?
Did the Mohegan Tribe expand or diversify? Is Pocono Downs expansion? What about Palmer Massachusetts? What do you think?
Wednesday, August 25, 2010
THREE MEMBERS OF MISSISSIPPI CHOCTAW TAKE TRIBAL COUNCIL TO COURT
Mississippi Choctaw court hears dispute over casino referendum
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Three members of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians went to tribal court on Monday to ask for a reservation-wide referendum on a controversial casino project.
The tribal council voted 8-7 to build a casino near Sandersville. Vickie Rangel, Austin Tubby and Bobbie Frazier say tribal members have a right to vote on the issue.
The tribe operates two casinos at its headquarters in Philadelphia. The new site is about 80 miles away but is still considered a part of the reservation.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Story taken from www.indianz.com
Could Mohegan Tribal Members take their Tribal Council to court for the decisions it has made in the past or could make in the future? It will be interesting to see how this story plays out. What do you think?
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Three members of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians went to tribal court on Monday to ask for a reservation-wide referendum on a controversial casino project.
The tribal council voted 8-7 to build a casino near Sandersville. Vickie Rangel, Austin Tubby and Bobbie Frazier say tribal members have a right to vote on the issue.
The tribe operates two casinos at its headquarters in Philadelphia. The new site is about 80 miles away but is still considered a part of the reservation.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Story taken from www.indianz.com
Could Mohegan Tribal Members take their Tribal Council to court for the decisions it has made in the past or could make in the future? It will be interesting to see how this story plays out. What do you think?
Thursday, August 19, 2010
SIX NATIVE TRIBES VOW TO FIGHT TABACCO TAXES
New York tribes united in opposition to state's tobacco efforts
Thursday, August 19, 2010
All six member tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy held a historic meeting on Wednesday to oppose the state of New York's attempts to force tobacco taxes on their reservations.
About 100 representatives of the Mohawk, Onondaga, Oneida, Cayuga, Tuscarora and Seneca tribes condemned the effort as an affront to their sovereignty. They said they would fight a new state law and new state regulations that would require them to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians.
The new changes are due to go into effect on September 1. The Seneca Nation filed a lawsuit in hopes of stopping the state
Thursday, August 19, 2010
All six member tribes of the Iroquois Confederacy held a historic meeting on Wednesday to oppose the state of New York's attempts to force tobacco taxes on their reservations.
About 100 representatives of the Mohawk, Onondaga, Oneida, Cayuga, Tuscarora and Seneca tribes condemned the effort as an affront to their sovereignty. They said they would fight a new state law and new state regulations that would require them to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians.
The new changes are due to go into effect on September 1. The Seneca Nation filed a lawsuit in hopes of stopping the state
SENECAS FILE LAWSUIT IN FEDERAL COURT
Seneca Nation sues to halt state taxation of reservation tobacco
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
The Seneca Nation filed a lawsuit in federal court to block the state of New York from imposing its tobacco tax on the reservation.
The tribe is challenging a new state law and new state regulations that would require smoke shops on the reservation to collect taxes on goods sold to non-Indians. The changes are due to go into effect on September 1.
We are asking the governor and attorney general to stand down and allow the court to handle this. We are trying to avoid needless tension and chaos that is likely to ensue if the state attempts to start collections on Sept. 1," President Barry E. Snyder Sr. said in a letter.
Snyder said he wants to hear from the state by Thursday about the issue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE; Will there be a showdown between the Native American tribes and the State of New York on September 1, 2010? What do you think?
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
The Seneca Nation filed a lawsuit in federal court to block the state of New York from imposing its tobacco tax on the reservation.
The tribe is challenging a new state law and new state regulations that would require smoke shops on the reservation to collect taxes on goods sold to non-Indians. The changes are due to go into effect on September 1.
We are asking the governor and attorney general to stand down and allow the court to handle this. We are trying to avoid needless tension and chaos that is likely to ensue if the state attempts to start collections on Sept. 1," President Barry E. Snyder Sr. said in a letter.
Snyder said he wants to hear from the state by Thursday about the issue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE; Will there be a showdown between the Native American tribes and the State of New York on September 1, 2010? What do you think?
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
CONNECTICUT CASINOS SHOW SMALL GAIN FOR JULY
Casinos’ slots revenue was up in July
By Brian Hallenbeck
Publication: TheDay.com
Connecticut’s tribally owned casinos reported slight increases in their slot-machine “wins” last month, reversing a long-running trend.
Mohegan Sun’s win was up 1.8 percent over July 2009, its first year-over-year gain in more than two years. Foxwoods Resort Casino, including MGM Grand at Foxwoods, reported its win was up 1.3 percent for the month.
Mohegan Sun kept $70.3 million in slot winnings while Foxwoods kept $64.1 million. Mohegan Sun sent more than $18 million of its win to the state Division of Special Revenue; Foxwoods contributed $17. 2 million to state coffers.
Mohegan Sun had last recorded a year-over-year gain in May 2008, and since then had experienced 25 straight months of declines. Foxwoods had 15 straight months of declines since posting increases in February and March 2009.
Atlantic City’s 11 casinos last week reported a 5 percent decline in July slot revenue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE; Both casinos are going in the right direction, upward. However, think about three years of losses. It is a step in the right direction, but the tribes have a long, long way to go. What do you think?
By Brian Hallenbeck
Publication: TheDay.com
Connecticut’s tribally owned casinos reported slight increases in their slot-machine “wins” last month, reversing a long-running trend.
Mohegan Sun’s win was up 1.8 percent over July 2009, its first year-over-year gain in more than two years. Foxwoods Resort Casino, including MGM Grand at Foxwoods, reported its win was up 1.3 percent for the month.
Mohegan Sun kept $70.3 million in slot winnings while Foxwoods kept $64.1 million. Mohegan Sun sent more than $18 million of its win to the state Division of Special Revenue; Foxwoods contributed $17. 2 million to state coffers.
Mohegan Sun had last recorded a year-over-year gain in May 2008, and since then had experienced 25 straight months of declines. Foxwoods had 15 straight months of declines since posting increases in February and March 2009.
Atlantic City’s 11 casinos last week reported a 5 percent decline in July slot revenue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE; Both casinos are going in the right direction, upward. However, think about three years of losses. It is a step in the right direction, but the tribes have a long, long way to go. What do you think?
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
FUNERAL FOR GRANT FOX TODAY AT 3:00 P.M.
Reminder: Services For Grant Fox To Be Held At Fort Shantok Tuesday, August 17 At 3:00
Posted by Ken Davison at 5:04 PM 0 comments
Posted by Ken Davison at 5:04 PM 0 comments
BLOOMBERG AND HIS SHOT GUN ATTITUDE
New York mayor wants tribes shown the 'shotgun' for tax issues
Monday, August 16, 2010
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) says tribes should be shown the "shotgun" for asserting their sovereignty on tobacco sales.
On his August 13 radio show, Bloomberg said he gave advice to Gov. David Paterson (D) on the issue. "'You know, get yourself a cowboy hat and a shotgun. If there's ever a great video, it's you standing in the middle of the New York State Thruway saying, you know, 'Read my lips: The law of the land is this and we're going to enforce the law,' " Bloomberg said.
"This is an outrage," Bloomberg continued. "You know, if you and I have to pay taxes, everybody should pay taxes -- and this is just a scam to get around the taxes.
"They say, 'Well, if you start taxing, it'll cost a few jobs.' Yeah, the cigarettes are killing our people,'" he said.
The comments drew a critical response from the Seneca Nation. "It's obvious Mayor Bloomberg is supportive of religious freedoms and not sovereign rights. It's precisely this kind of cavalier attitude that has led to the past breaking of treaties by various federal and state governments. Maybe Mayor Bloomberg could use a refresher course on the US Constitution and the need to honor Indian treaties," President Barry Snyder Sr. said in a press release.
Bloomberg has gone after tribal smoke shops in the New York City area for selling tobacco without collecting state taxes.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: New York City wants the taxes collected because its own stores are possibly buying the cigarettes from the smoke shops that are on tribal lands. Why isn't Bloomberg going after N.Y.C. stores instead?
I believe a Show Down is coming on September 1, 2010.
Even though this may not concern tribes like the Mohegans and the Mashantucket Pequots, (they charge state sales tax), they should help the New York tribes.
The reason governments get away with taking away tribes rights is because each tribe is on its own on their separate battles. Native Americans should stand up for each other whether the fight involves them or not.
At the the end of the day if the State was going to do something to the Mohegans or the Mashantucket Pequots, who will stand up with them? What do you think?
IS UNITY THE KEY? What do you think?
These are the opinions, ideas and facts of Brokenwing.
Monday, August 16, 2010
New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R) says tribes should be shown the "shotgun" for asserting their sovereignty on tobacco sales.
On his August 13 radio show, Bloomberg said he gave advice to Gov. David Paterson (D) on the issue. "'You know, get yourself a cowboy hat and a shotgun. If there's ever a great video, it's you standing in the middle of the New York State Thruway saying, you know, 'Read my lips: The law of the land is this and we're going to enforce the law,' " Bloomberg said.
"This is an outrage," Bloomberg continued. "You know, if you and I have to pay taxes, everybody should pay taxes -- and this is just a scam to get around the taxes.
"They say, 'Well, if you start taxing, it'll cost a few jobs.' Yeah, the cigarettes are killing our people,'" he said.
The comments drew a critical response from the Seneca Nation. "It's obvious Mayor Bloomberg is supportive of religious freedoms and not sovereign rights. It's precisely this kind of cavalier attitude that has led to the past breaking of treaties by various federal and state governments. Maybe Mayor Bloomberg could use a refresher course on the US Constitution and the need to honor Indian treaties," President Barry Snyder Sr. said in a press release.
Bloomberg has gone after tribal smoke shops in the New York City area for selling tobacco without collecting state taxes.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: New York City wants the taxes collected because its own stores are possibly buying the cigarettes from the smoke shops that are on tribal lands. Why isn't Bloomberg going after N.Y.C. stores instead?
I believe a Show Down is coming on September 1, 2010.
Even though this may not concern tribes like the Mohegans and the Mashantucket Pequots, (they charge state sales tax), they should help the New York tribes.
The reason governments get away with taking away tribes rights is because each tribe is on its own on their separate battles. Native Americans should stand up for each other whether the fight involves them or not.
At the the end of the day if the State was going to do something to the Mohegans or the Mashantucket Pequots, who will stand up with them? What do you think?
IS UNITY THE KEY? What do you think?
These are the opinions, ideas and facts of Brokenwing.
Monday, August 16, 2010
CONNECTICUT SUN OUT OF THE PLAYOFFS
August 16, 2010
Sun's playoff hopes dashed
By Ned Griffen
Publication: The Day
Mohegan - The end to the Connecticut Sun season came when Indiana Fever reserve Jessica Davenport came off the bench late in Sunday's game and made three unanswered field goals to give her team a lead it never relinquished.
The dagger was Indiana's Tamika Catchings scoring seven straight points, including a rare 3-pointer immediately after the Sun had cut their deficit to three points.
Yes, Connecticut has three more games left in the regular season, but that's it. It won't be in the playoffs. Again.
Indiana 79, Connecticut 66.
Mohegan Sun Arena will be dark for the second straight postseason.
"It's tough," Sun guard Renee Montgomery said. "You never want your season to end before the season is over. Whenever there's games to play, you want to be playing until the last game of the season, the championship game. Just to know that it's a big game and that we lost, it's tough."
Connecticut coach Mike Thibault, when asked how he felt, said: "Crappy."
The Washington Mystics, who beat the Seattle Storm, 80-71, earlier Sunday, clinched the fourth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference when the Sun lost.
"I didn't know how good we'd be or how bad we'd be this year, but I thought we had a chance to get in the playoffs," Thibault said. "Obviously the East is pretty good, and we haven't done what we were supposed to."
The loss spoiled the accomplishments of Connecticut rookie center Tina Charles. She had 18 points and 13 rebounds, setting a league record for most rebounds in a season (368). The previous mark was set by former Detroit Shock Cheryl Ford (363 in 2006).
Charles also set a league record for double-doubles (20). Natalie Williams had 19 for the now-defunct Utah Starrz in 2000.
"It's definitely bittersweet," Charles said. "I think the fact that I was able to come in and do that and get the respect of my teammates and from coaches is great, but we lost and we're not in the playoffs.
"I think the staff here did a great job of getting a collective team to play together, but we couldn't pull it off."
The Sun had one of their worst shooting games of the season before a crowd of 7,915 assembled to honor former star Nykesha Sales and for Season Ticket Holder Appreciation Day. Connecticut shot 31.7 percent.
Somehow, the Sun took a 54-50 lead into the fourth quarter.
Indiana starter Ebony Hoffman fouled out of the game with 7 minutes, 19 seconds left in the game.
Enter Davenport, the second overall pick in 2007. The 6-foot-5 center made an 18-foot jumper with 5:21 remaining to tie it at 63.
Davenport followed with two more jumpers, including one from 17 feet, to push Indiana ahead, 67-63, with under four minutes left.
Davenport shot 5-of-5 for 10 points, eight of which came in the final seven minutes.
Two foul shots by Tan White and a technical free throw by Kara Lawson cut Connecticut's deficit to 69-66.
Catchings answered seconds later with a 3-pointer. She finished with a game-high 26 points along with seven rebounds and seven assists.
"And that's why that kid is one of the greatest players in the history of our game," Thibault said. "Her will to win is incredible. And you look at her box score - that's a winning box score."
Montgomery, who shot 3 of 17, had 12 points, eight assists and five steals. Asjha Jones added 11 points and five rebounds.
"I would say tonight was probably the perfect example of the difference between two teams in their stages of development and maturity," Thibault said.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTES: Over the years the Editior of the Feather News and myself have gone to Connecticut Sun games and cheered for the team as fans. This year we didn't go. The reason it was a bad team with bad coaching. The team just couldn't win.
One Friday Night we went to the casino and watched people leaving five minutes before the game ended, because the Connecticut Sun were losing by over 30 points. The fans saying, why does the coach take out Charles in the third and fourth quarters? They thought the coach should go.
How is this helping business at the Mohegan Sun? What about telebising the the games on national tv (espn)?
A tribal member called and said tribal members want the coach and Mr. Etess gone. What do you think?
Sun's playoff hopes dashed
By Ned Griffen
Publication: The Day
Mohegan - The end to the Connecticut Sun season came when Indiana Fever reserve Jessica Davenport came off the bench late in Sunday's game and made three unanswered field goals to give her team a lead it never relinquished.
The dagger was Indiana's Tamika Catchings scoring seven straight points, including a rare 3-pointer immediately after the Sun had cut their deficit to three points.
Yes, Connecticut has three more games left in the regular season, but that's it. It won't be in the playoffs. Again.
Indiana 79, Connecticut 66.
Mohegan Sun Arena will be dark for the second straight postseason.
"It's tough," Sun guard Renee Montgomery said. "You never want your season to end before the season is over. Whenever there's games to play, you want to be playing until the last game of the season, the championship game. Just to know that it's a big game and that we lost, it's tough."
Connecticut coach Mike Thibault, when asked how he felt, said: "Crappy."
The Washington Mystics, who beat the Seattle Storm, 80-71, earlier Sunday, clinched the fourth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference when the Sun lost.
"I didn't know how good we'd be or how bad we'd be this year, but I thought we had a chance to get in the playoffs," Thibault said. "Obviously the East is pretty good, and we haven't done what we were supposed to."
The loss spoiled the accomplishments of Connecticut rookie center Tina Charles. She had 18 points and 13 rebounds, setting a league record for most rebounds in a season (368). The previous mark was set by former Detroit Shock Cheryl Ford (363 in 2006).
Charles also set a league record for double-doubles (20). Natalie Williams had 19 for the now-defunct Utah Starrz in 2000.
"It's definitely bittersweet," Charles said. "I think the fact that I was able to come in and do that and get the respect of my teammates and from coaches is great, but we lost and we're not in the playoffs.
"I think the staff here did a great job of getting a collective team to play together, but we couldn't pull it off."
The Sun had one of their worst shooting games of the season before a crowd of 7,915 assembled to honor former star Nykesha Sales and for Season Ticket Holder Appreciation Day. Connecticut shot 31.7 percent.
Somehow, the Sun took a 54-50 lead into the fourth quarter.
Indiana starter Ebony Hoffman fouled out of the game with 7 minutes, 19 seconds left in the game.
Enter Davenport, the second overall pick in 2007. The 6-foot-5 center made an 18-foot jumper with 5:21 remaining to tie it at 63.
Davenport followed with two more jumpers, including one from 17 feet, to push Indiana ahead, 67-63, with under four minutes left.
Davenport shot 5-of-5 for 10 points, eight of which came in the final seven minutes.
Two foul shots by Tan White and a technical free throw by Kara Lawson cut Connecticut's deficit to 69-66.
Catchings answered seconds later with a 3-pointer. She finished with a game-high 26 points along with seven rebounds and seven assists.
"And that's why that kid is one of the greatest players in the history of our game," Thibault said. "Her will to win is incredible. And you look at her box score - that's a winning box score."
Montgomery, who shot 3 of 17, had 12 points, eight assists and five steals. Asjha Jones added 11 points and five rebounds.
"I would say tonight was probably the perfect example of the difference between two teams in their stages of development and maturity," Thibault said.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTES: Over the years the Editior of the Feather News and myself have gone to Connecticut Sun games and cheered for the team as fans. This year we didn't go. The reason it was a bad team with bad coaching. The team just couldn't win.
One Friday Night we went to the casino and watched people leaving five minutes before the game ended, because the Connecticut Sun were losing by over 30 points. The fans saying, why does the coach take out Charles in the third and fourth quarters? They thought the coach should go.
How is this helping business at the Mohegan Sun? What about telebising the the games on national tv (espn)?
A tribal member called and said tribal members want the coach and Mr. Etess gone. What do you think?
MOHEGANS AND PALMER WANT CASINO IN PALMER
Massachusetts town remains hopeful for Mohegan Tribe casino
Friday, August 13, 2010
A bill to legalize gaming in Massachusetts remains in limbo but officials and business leaders in the western part of the state are optimistic the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut will be able to open a casino there.
Leaders from the town of Palmer and from the tribe met this week to discuss the future of the project. The two parties agreed to start working on a memorandum of understanding for municipal services and infrastructure at the proposed Mohegan Sun Palmer.
The bill under consideration would authorize three casinos, including one in western Massachusetts. The tribe would have to bid on the facility and pay taxes and other fees to the state.
ARTICLE TAKEN FROM www.inindianz.com
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Where are the Mohegans going to get the money to fund this venture, if they are selected to put a casino in Palmer?
Who are they going to get as a partner? How is a casino with probably less than a million people within 50 miles of it, going to support a casino costing between $500 million and One Billion Dollars?
Do the Mohegans have the funds to do this deal on their own? I DOUGHT IT.
Is this another bad deal like Pocono Downs? Are the members of the Mohegan Tribe being asked to make scrafices, because of a bad business decisions the MTGA has made in the past and continues to make, at the same time looking to expand? What do you think?
Friday, August 13, 2010
A bill to legalize gaming in Massachusetts remains in limbo but officials and business leaders in the western part of the state are optimistic the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut will be able to open a casino there.
Leaders from the town of Palmer and from the tribe met this week to discuss the future of the project. The two parties agreed to start working on a memorandum of understanding for municipal services and infrastructure at the proposed Mohegan Sun Palmer.
The bill under consideration would authorize three casinos, including one in western Massachusetts. The tribe would have to bid on the facility and pay taxes and other fees to the state.
ARTICLE TAKEN FROM www.inindianz.com
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Where are the Mohegans going to get the money to fund this venture, if they are selected to put a casino in Palmer?
Who are they going to get as a partner? How is a casino with probably less than a million people within 50 miles of it, going to support a casino costing between $500 million and One Billion Dollars?
Do the Mohegans have the funds to do this deal on their own? I DOUGHT IT.
Is this another bad deal like Pocono Downs? Are the members of the Mohegan Tribe being asked to make scrafices, because of a bad business decisions the MTGA has made in the past and continues to make, at the same time looking to expand? What do you think?
Thursday, August 12, 2010
IS THERE A SURGE IN BUSINESS AT NEW YORK STATE TRIBAL SMOKE SHOPS?
Tribal retailers see business boost after New York tobacco hike
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Indian smoke shops are seeing a surge in business since the state of New York has raised its tobacco tax on July 1.
The parking lots at Cayuga Nation, Onondaga Nation and Oneida Nation businesses are full. Patrons say they drive miles to reservation smoke shop to avoid an additional $6.02 charge on a pack of 20 cigarettes.
“This tax is only hurting New York State businesses,” smoker Julie Squadrito told The Syracuse Post-Standard. “I plan on quitting soon, hopefully, but for right now I just buy the cheaper ones.”
The Cayuga Nation has seen a 50 to 60 percent increase in cigarette sales, representative Clint Halftown said. That's about 1,200 additional customers a day.
The state wants to force tribal retailers to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians under a new law that takes effect September 1.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
What will happen on September 1, 2010? Will the State of New York have a show down with the Native American tribes of New York? What do you think?
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Indian smoke shops are seeing a surge in business since the state of New York has raised its tobacco tax on July 1.
The parking lots at Cayuga Nation, Onondaga Nation and Oneida Nation businesses are full. Patrons say they drive miles to reservation smoke shop to avoid an additional $6.02 charge on a pack of 20 cigarettes.
“This tax is only hurting New York State businesses,” smoker Julie Squadrito told The Syracuse Post-Standard. “I plan on quitting soon, hopefully, but for right now I just buy the cheaper ones.”
The Cayuga Nation has seen a 50 to 60 percent increase in cigarette sales, representative Clint Halftown said. That's about 1,200 additional customers a day.
The state wants to force tribal retailers to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians under a new law that takes effect September 1.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
What will happen on September 1, 2010? Will the State of New York have a show down with the Native American tribes of New York? What do you think?
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
GARY A. BAKER
Gary A. Baker
Jewett City - Gary 'Cigarman' A. Baker, 53, of Carely Ave., died unexpectedly Monday morning at his home.
He was born in Norwich on Nov. 21, 1956, son of the late Albert A. and Delvina (Repose) Baker.
Gary had worked for many years at Pete's Tire Barn in Franklin. He was a member of the Mohegan Tribe.
Mr. Baker is survived by his wife, Lori (Riley) Baker, his daughter and her husband, Carrie and Michael Froscello; son and his wife, Anthony and Nicole Payette, step-son, Wayne Riley; his grandchildren, Cheyenne, Dakota, Michael and Michael; his sister and her husband, Debbie and Donnie Gordon, sister, Sara Briggs and a sister, Liz McCarty.
Gary was predeceased by two brothers, Larry Bly and Artie McCarty and one sister, Mary Bartha.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at the Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home, 82 Cliff St., Norwich. The funeral will assemble at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home and proceed to am 11 a.m. burial at Fort Shantok, Mohegan, Conn.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to D.A.R.E. America, P.O. Box 512090, Los Angeles, CA 90051.
A note of condolences may be shared with the family at www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Published in The Day on August 11, 2010
Jewett City - Gary 'Cigarman' A. Baker, 53, of Carely Ave., died unexpectedly Monday morning at his home.
He was born in Norwich on Nov. 21, 1956, son of the late Albert A. and Delvina (Repose) Baker.
Gary had worked for many years at Pete's Tire Barn in Franklin. He was a member of the Mohegan Tribe.
Mr. Baker is survived by his wife, Lori (Riley) Baker, his daughter and her husband, Carrie and Michael Froscello; son and his wife, Anthony and Nicole Payette, step-son, Wayne Riley; his grandchildren, Cheyenne, Dakota, Michael and Michael; his sister and her husband, Debbie and Donnie Gordon, sister, Sara Briggs and a sister, Liz McCarty.
Gary was predeceased by two brothers, Larry Bly and Artie McCarty and one sister, Mary Bartha.
Family and friends are invited to a visitation from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesday at the Cummings-Gagne Funeral Home, 82 Cliff St., Norwich. The funeral will assemble at 10 a.m. on Thursday at the funeral home and proceed to am 11 a.m. burial at Fort Shantok, Mohegan, Conn.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to D.A.R.E. America, P.O. Box 512090, Los Angeles, CA 90051.
A note of condolences may be shared with the family at www.cummings-gagnefh.com.
Published in The Day on August 11, 2010
SENECA BUSINESS OWNER SUES NEW YORK STATE OVER TRUCK
Seneca Nation business owner blasts state seizure of tobacco
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The state of New York seized a truck that was headed towards a smoke shop on the Seneca Nation.
Aaron J. Pierce owns the truck. He is the plaintiff in a lawsuit that seeks to stop the enforcement of Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act, a federal law, on Seneca businesses.
"This outrageous seizure is clear retaliation for my company's litigation in federal court," Pierce said in a statement, The Buffalo News reported.
The state is moving to impose its taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians but regulations have not been finalized.
EDITRIAL FOOTNOTE: Story from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
The state of New York seized a truck that was headed towards a smoke shop on the Seneca Nation.
Aaron J. Pierce owns the truck. He is the plaintiff in a lawsuit that seeks to stop the enforcement of Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act, a federal law, on Seneca businesses.
"This outrageous seizure is clear retaliation for my company's litigation in federal court," Pierce said in a statement, The Buffalo News reported.
The state is moving to impose its taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians but regulations have not been finalized.
EDITRIAL FOOTNOTE: Story from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
IS PALMER A LONG SHOT FOR THE MOHEGAN SUN?
Mohegan Sun still betting on Palmer
Despite setbacks, tribe still committed to town
Updated: Monday, 09 Aug 2010, 6:52 PM EDT
Published : Monday, 09 Aug 2010, 4:20 PM EDT
Elysia Rodriguez
PALMER, Mass. (WWLP) - Representatives from Mohegan Sun met with Palmer officials on Monday, hoping to strengthen a casino proposal for the town.
The closed-door meeting is part of a push to make sure the plan is ready if casino gambling legislation ends up passing.
They also hope to make sure it stands up to plans for casinos in Chicopee and Holyoke.
"Mohegan Sun and Palmer seem to be on the same page we're committed to the site, we're committed to development and we're committed to seeing legislation pass," Palmer Town Council President Paul Burns said.
“We remain very committed to this project here in Palmer. We think Western Massachusetts is absolutely the right place for this project," Lynn Malerba of the Mohegan Tribe said.
The legislature agreed on a compromise bill that included three resort-style casinos and two racetrack slot machine parlors, or “racinos.”
Governor Deval Patrick told 22News that he hopes the Legislature will come back into session to vote on his amendment to drop racinos from the bill.
Despite setbacks, tribe still committed to town
Updated: Monday, 09 Aug 2010, 6:52 PM EDT
Published : Monday, 09 Aug 2010, 4:20 PM EDT
Elysia Rodriguez
PALMER, Mass. (WWLP) - Representatives from Mohegan Sun met with Palmer officials on Monday, hoping to strengthen a casino proposal for the town.
The closed-door meeting is part of a push to make sure the plan is ready if casino gambling legislation ends up passing.
They also hope to make sure it stands up to plans for casinos in Chicopee and Holyoke.
"Mohegan Sun and Palmer seem to be on the same page we're committed to the site, we're committed to development and we're committed to seeing legislation pass," Palmer Town Council President Paul Burns said.
“We remain very committed to this project here in Palmer. We think Western Massachusetts is absolutely the right place for this project," Lynn Malerba of the Mohegan Tribe said.
The legislature agreed on a compromise bill that included three resort-style casinos and two racetrack slot machine parlors, or “racinos.”
Governor Deval Patrick told 22News that he hopes the Legislature will come back into session to vote on his amendment to drop racinos from the bill.
Monday, August 9, 2010
SENECAS POST AN INCREASE
Seneca Nation reports six percent increase in profits from gaming
Friday, August 6, 2010
The Seneca Nation of New York reported an increase in profits and an increase in revenues from its gaming enterprise.
Seneca Gaming Corp. saw a six percent increase in profits in the second quarter. Revenues were up two percent.
“Seneca Gaming Corp. is in a much stronger financial position now than it was just a year ago,” Richard K. Nephew, the treasurer of the company’s board of directors, told The Buffalo News.
The tribe operates two off-reservation casinos and another casino on the reservation.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
DIDN'T THE MOHEGAN SUN POST A LOST FOR THE LAST QUARTER BUT THE SENECAS POST AN INCREASE? DOES ANYONE ON THE MTGA WANT TO EXPLAIN WHY THEY CAN'T MAKE A PROFIT? What do you think?
Friday, August 6, 2010
The Seneca Nation of New York reported an increase in profits and an increase in revenues from its gaming enterprise.
Seneca Gaming Corp. saw a six percent increase in profits in the second quarter. Revenues were up two percent.
“Seneca Gaming Corp. is in a much stronger financial position now than it was just a year ago,” Richard K. Nephew, the treasurer of the company’s board of directors, told The Buffalo News.
The tribe operates two off-reservation casinos and another casino on the reservation.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
DIDN'T THE MOHEGAN SUN POST A LOST FOR THE LAST QUARTER BUT THE SENECAS POST AN INCREASE? DOES ANYONE ON THE MTGA WANT TO EXPLAIN WHY THEY CAN'T MAKE A PROFIT? What do you think?
Friday, August 6, 2010
MASSACHUSETTS GAMING QUESTIONS
Editorial: Answers needed on gaming legislation in Massachusetts
Thursday, August 5, 2010
"Power struggles are not uncommon on Beacon Hill, a place where strong-willed, sometimes self-serving politicians throw their weight around on pet projects that too often benefit the powerful few rather than the commonwealth as a whole.
The battle over casinos in Massachusetts is no exception: The two most powerful state leaders have seemingly fought to a stalemate, in the process stymieing progress and holding the state’s economic development hostage.
Gov. Deval Patrick has refused to approve a package the Legislature sent to him that calls for three resort style casinos and two so-called “racinos,” which would add video slot machines to two race tracks in the state. Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo insists on keeping the slot parlors as part of the legislation. His fight for slot parlors at race tracks is a personal one, as his district includes Suffolk Downs in East Boston and Wonderland Greyhound Park in Revere.
In an attempt to seek compromise, Patrick said he would allow one slot parlor, as long as it wasn’t promised to an individual racetrack, which he correctly termed an unfair “no-bid practice.” Indeed, should slot parlors ultimately be included in the legislation, they must be open to a competitive process, just as the resort casinos would be. “I’m not saying they shouldn’t be able to compete. I don’t like slot parlors, but the bigger notion is that the no-bid practice has to end,” the governor said."
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Thursday, August 5, 2010
"Power struggles are not uncommon on Beacon Hill, a place where strong-willed, sometimes self-serving politicians throw their weight around on pet projects that too often benefit the powerful few rather than the commonwealth as a whole.
The battle over casinos in Massachusetts is no exception: The two most powerful state leaders have seemingly fought to a stalemate, in the process stymieing progress and holding the state’s economic development hostage.
Gov. Deval Patrick has refused to approve a package the Legislature sent to him that calls for three resort style casinos and two so-called “racinos,” which would add video slot machines to two race tracks in the state. Speaker of the House Robert DeLeo insists on keeping the slot parlors as part of the legislation. His fight for slot parlors at race tracks is a personal one, as his district includes Suffolk Downs in East Boston and Wonderland Greyhound Park in Revere.
In an attempt to seek compromise, Patrick said he would allow one slot parlor, as long as it wasn’t promised to an individual racetrack, which he correctly termed an unfair “no-bid practice.” Indeed, should slot parlors ultimately be included in the legislation, they must be open to a competitive process, just as the resort casinos would be. “I’m not saying they shouldn’t be able to compete. I don’t like slot parlors, but the bigger notion is that the no-bid practice has to end,” the governor said."
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Thursday, August 5, 2010
THE CONFUSION OF MASSACHUSETTS GAMING PLANS
Massachusetts gaming in limbo amid dispute over provisions in bill
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
er: Legislation Lawmakers in Massachusetts agreed on a gaming bill over the weekend but Gov. Deval Patrick (D) said he wouldn't sign it and sent back an amended version.
The bill authorizes three casino resorts and two slot parlors at existing racetracks. Patrick opposes the slot parlors and took them out in his amended version.
The bill also attempts to dictate the terms of a tribal-state gaming compact. It limits the state to one compact -- presumably with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, whose plans call for a casino in the city of Fall River.
"Because of the Mashpee Wompanoag tribe, when they get their land and trust, they're going to open up gaming, whether the state says they're going to or not," state Sen. Stan Rosenberg (D) told WWLP-TV.
The tribe is reportedly amending its pending land-into-trust application to cover the site in Fall River.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
er: Legislation Lawmakers in Massachusetts agreed on a gaming bill over the weekend but Gov. Deval Patrick (D) said he wouldn't sign it and sent back an amended version.
The bill authorizes three casino resorts and two slot parlors at existing racetracks. Patrick opposes the slot parlors and took them out in his amended version.
The bill also attempts to dictate the terms of a tribal-state gaming compact. It limits the state to one compact -- presumably with the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe, whose plans call for a casino in the city of Fall River.
"Because of the Mashpee Wompanoag tribe, when they get their land and trust, they're going to open up gaming, whether the state says they're going to or not," state Sen. Stan Rosenberg (D) told WWLP-TV.
The tribe is reportedly amending its pending land-into-trust application to cover the site in Fall River.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Saturday, July 31, 2010
TWO MASHPEE WAMPANAOGS LOSE IN APPEALS COURT
Appeals court denies Mashpee Wampanaog claim to ancestral land
Friday, July 30, 2010
Two members of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts lost their land claim before the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals today.
Amelia Bingham and her son, Steven, sued the state for depriving them of their right to land that was deeded to Mashpee ancestors in the late 1600s. The deeds said the land was to be owned by "the South Sea Indians: and their[] Children for ever: and not to be sold or given away from them by any one: without all their[] Consents there unto."
The Binghams said they are descendants of the South Sea Indians but the 1st Circuit said they didn't show how their ancestors held an actual interest in the land at issue. "Plaintiffs must show they had an individual interest in the property rights granted in the seventeenth-century deeds in order to show they were personally injured by the later state actions affecting those property rights," the court noted.
"Plaintiffs can do so only if the deeds conveyed to plaintiffs' individual ancestors discrete property interests that passed through successive generations," the court continued. "Even when viewing all facts in the light most favorable to plaintiffs, and taking all reasonable inferences in their favor, plaintiffs have not alleged sufficient facts to surmount this bar."
The Binghams filed the lawsuit on their own behalf. The tribe itself has not filed a land claim.
1st Circuit Decision:
Bingham v. Massachusetts (July 30, 2010)
Article taken from www.indianz.com
Friday, July 30, 2010
Two members of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts lost their land claim before the 1st Circuit Court of Appeals today.
Amelia Bingham and her son, Steven, sued the state for depriving them of their right to land that was deeded to Mashpee ancestors in the late 1600s. The deeds said the land was to be owned by "the South Sea Indians: and their[] Children for ever: and not to be sold or given away from them by any one: without all their[] Consents there unto."
The Binghams said they are descendants of the South Sea Indians but the 1st Circuit said they didn't show how their ancestors held an actual interest in the land at issue. "Plaintiffs must show they had an individual interest in the property rights granted in the seventeenth-century deeds in order to show they were personally injured by the later state actions affecting those property rights," the court noted.
"Plaintiffs can do so only if the deeds conveyed to plaintiffs' individual ancestors discrete property interests that passed through successive generations," the court continued. "Even when viewing all facts in the light most favorable to plaintiffs, and taking all reasonable inferences in their favor, plaintiffs have not alleged sufficient facts to surmount this bar."
The Binghams filed the lawsuit on their own behalf. The tribe itself has not filed a land claim.
1st Circuit Decision:
Bingham v. Massachusetts (July 30, 2010)
Article taken from www.indianz.com
Friday, July 30, 2010
PLENTY OF LOCATIONS AVAILABLE TO THE SHINNECOCK TRIBE
Shinnecock Nation presented with dozens of locations for a casino
Thursday, July 29, 2010
A couple of years ago, no one wanted to talk to the Shinnecock Nation of New York about gaming. Now everyone is courting the tribe with the hopes of landing a casino in their community.
"We never realized how much land is available on Long Island until this happened," Tribal trustee Lance Gumbs said at a gaming task force meeting, The Riverhead News-Review reported. "Everybody and their brother now is presenting different pieces to us."
Gumbs said "upwards of 30 sites" have been presented to the tribe. Some of them have been publicized in local media reports.
The tribe's federal recognition was due to become final last week. It will be delayed due to a challenge filed with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals.
THIS STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Thursday, July 29, 2010
A couple of years ago, no one wanted to talk to the Shinnecock Nation of New York about gaming. Now everyone is courting the tribe with the hopes of landing a casino in their community.
"We never realized how much land is available on Long Island until this happened," Tribal trustee Lance Gumbs said at a gaming task force meeting, The Riverhead News-Review reported. "Everybody and their brother now is presenting different pieces to us."
Gumbs said "upwards of 30 sites" have been presented to the tribe. Some of them have been publicized in local media reports.
The tribe's federal recognition was due to become final last week. It will be delayed due to a challenge filed with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals.
THIS STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
DAVID COLLINS ON THE LOBBYING GROUP FOR CONNECTICUT CASINOS?
Who are the secret interests lobbying for Connecticut's casinos?
By David Collins
Publication: The Day
Published 07/25/2010 12:00
It calls itself the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs, and it jumped headlong into New England gambling politics earlier this month, filing a lengthy legal appeal of the pending federal recognition of Long Island's Shinnecock Indians.
The appeal with the U.S. Department of the Interior, filed "on behalf" of 18,000 gaming workers at Mohegan Sun and Foxwooods Resort Casino, claims the Shinnecocks should not be recognized because they are "financially supported solely, directly and for the benefit of" the developers who want to help them build a casino on Long Island.
Of course, the fact that the Shinnecocks may be financially supported by casino developers shouldn't surprise anyone, least of all the folks at the Department of the Interior.
What is shocking is that this Connecticut coalition, which surfaced out of the blue to challenge the Shinnecocks, won't say who its members or backers are or where its own money is coming from.
Both the Mohegan Indians and Mashantucket Pequots have been quick to distance themselves from the new group, already branded "shadowy" in some accounts.
The Connecticut tribes are surely no doubt sensitive to the notion that they would in any way be behind efforts to derail another tribe's progress toward federal recognition.
"The Mohegan Tribe has nothing whatsoever to do with the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs," a Mohegan spokesman said bluntly in a statement. A Mashantucket Pequot spokesperson said only they heard about the group through news accounts.
The front person for the coalition is Matthew Hennessy, former chief of staff and political director for disgraced former Hartford Mayor Eddie A. Perez. Hennessy last made the news earlier this summer as a defense witness at the trial in which Perez was convicted on multiple felony charges.
The work for the coalition, Hennessy told me last week, is one of a number of "advocacy issues" his firm, Tremont Public Advisors, has done for a variety of "corporate interests" since he stopped working for the former mayor about a year ago.
He declined to name any of his other clients.
Attorney Derek Donnelly of Suffield, who signed the extensive appeal the coalition filed with the Department of the Interior against the Shinnecocks, is also a former Perez aide and a one-time unsuccessful candidate for the General Assembly.
Donnelly declined to talk about his work for the coalition when I talked to him last week, saying he has been told not to speak with the press.
Chris Cooper, a former spokesman for Gov. M. Jodi Rell and a current spokesman for the gubernatorial campaign of Lt. Gov. Michael Fedele, has been hired by the coalition as a communications specialist.
Cooper, strangely, also declined to talk on the record about the coalition or its membership and referred me to Hennessy. Cooper did say, though, that neither Rell nor Fidele have anything to do with the coalition.
Hennessy told me that the coalition and its members are also concerned about developments in Rhode Island and Massachusetts that could lead to new competition for Connecticut's casinos, but he said they acted promptly in the case of the Shinnecocks because the clock on appeals started with the final recognition imposed this month on the tribe.
A judge last week already gave the Shinnecocks, who have been seeking recognition since 1978, some good news in regards to the appeal filed by the coalition and another fled by a separate Long Island tribe, suggesting there could be some resolution of the issues by September.
The Shinnecocks are reportedly considering a variety of locations for a casino if their recognition is made final, from sites near their reservation in the Hamptons, on the north fork of Long Island, to more populated areas in Suffolk and Nassau counties.
Indeed, a large Long Island casino close to New York could be as troubling to the Connecticut casinos as one in Massachusetts.
Hennessy said some members of the coalition may or may not choose to identify themselves sometime soon.
I asked him whether the coalition's work and efforts at lobbying on behalf of Connecticut's casino interests aren't tainted by the secrecy.
After all, disclosure and transparency are mainstays of most lobbying ethics rules.
No, was his short answer.
"I think the important thing is our goals," he said. "What we want to accomplish and our mission are transparent."
The longer contributing coalition members choose to remain anonymous, the more compromised they will be when they come forward or finally get identified.
And revelation, in this case, seems inevitable.
If you are going to lobby in secret, you better do it really well.
This is the opinion of David Collins.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By David Collins
Publication: The Day
Published 07/25/2010 12:00
It calls itself the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs, and it jumped headlong into New England gambling politics earlier this month, filing a lengthy legal appeal of the pending federal recognition of Long Island's Shinnecock Indians.
The appeal with the U.S. Department of the Interior, filed "on behalf" of 18,000 gaming workers at Mohegan Sun and Foxwooods Resort Casino, claims the Shinnecocks should not be recognized because they are "financially supported solely, directly and for the benefit of" the developers who want to help them build a casino on Long Island.
Of course, the fact that the Shinnecocks may be financially supported by casino developers shouldn't surprise anyone, least of all the folks at the Department of the Interior.
What is shocking is that this Connecticut coalition, which surfaced out of the blue to challenge the Shinnecocks, won't say who its members or backers are or where its own money is coming from.
Both the Mohegan Indians and Mashantucket Pequots have been quick to distance themselves from the new group, already branded "shadowy" in some accounts.
The Connecticut tribes are surely no doubt sensitive to the notion that they would in any way be behind efforts to derail another tribe's progress toward federal recognition.
"The Mohegan Tribe has nothing whatsoever to do with the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs," a Mohegan spokesman said bluntly in a statement. A Mashantucket Pequot spokesperson said only they heard about the group through news accounts.
The front person for the coalition is Matthew Hennessy, former chief of staff and political director for disgraced former Hartford Mayor Eddie A. Perez. Hennessy last made the news earlier this summer as a defense witness at the trial in which Perez was convicted on multiple felony charges.
The work for the coalition, Hennessy told me last week, is one of a number of "advocacy issues" his firm, Tremont Public Advisors, has done for a variety of "corporate interests" since he stopped working for the former mayor about a year ago.
He declined to name any of his other clients.
Attorney Derek Donnelly of Suffield, who signed the extensive appeal the coalition filed with the Department of the Interior against the Shinnecocks, is also a former Perez aide and a one-time unsuccessful candidate for the General Assembly.
Donnelly declined to talk about his work for the coalition when I talked to him last week, saying he has been told not to speak with the press.
Chris Cooper, a former spokesman for Gov. M. Jodi Rell and a current spokesman for the gubernatorial campaign of Lt. Gov. Michael Fedele, has been hired by the coalition as a communications specialist.
Cooper, strangely, also declined to talk on the record about the coalition or its membership and referred me to Hennessy. Cooper did say, though, that neither Rell nor Fidele have anything to do with the coalition.
Hennessy told me that the coalition and its members are also concerned about developments in Rhode Island and Massachusetts that could lead to new competition for Connecticut's casinos, but he said they acted promptly in the case of the Shinnecocks because the clock on appeals started with the final recognition imposed this month on the tribe.
A judge last week already gave the Shinnecocks, who have been seeking recognition since 1978, some good news in regards to the appeal filed by the coalition and another fled by a separate Long Island tribe, suggesting there could be some resolution of the issues by September.
The Shinnecocks are reportedly considering a variety of locations for a casino if their recognition is made final, from sites near their reservation in the Hamptons, on the north fork of Long Island, to more populated areas in Suffolk and Nassau counties.
Indeed, a large Long Island casino close to New York could be as troubling to the Connecticut casinos as one in Massachusetts.
Hennessy said some members of the coalition may or may not choose to identify themselves sometime soon.
I asked him whether the coalition's work and efforts at lobbying on behalf of Connecticut's casino interests aren't tainted by the secrecy.
After all, disclosure and transparency are mainstays of most lobbying ethics rules.
No, was his short answer.
"I think the important thing is our goals," he said. "What we want to accomplish and our mission are transparent."
The longer contributing coalition members choose to remain anonymous, the more compromised they will be when they come forward or finally get identified.
And revelation, in this case, seems inevitable.
If you are going to lobby in secret, you better do it really well.
This is the opinion of David Collins.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, July 26, 2010
MASHANTUCKETS FILE APPEAL OVER UNION VOTE
Mashantucket Tribe filed appeal over union vote at casino on time
Monday, July 26, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut has filed an appeal over a union vote at its casino.
A spokesperson for the National Labor Relations Board told The Norwich Bulletin last week that the tribe failed to meet a deadline for an appeal. But it turns out that the NLRB in Washington, D.C., received the tribe's paperwork on time.
The United Food and Commercial Workers wants to represent about 360 employees at Foxwoods Resort Casino. The union previously tried to organize under tribal law but the effort failed due to the way non-votes were counted as "no" votes.
The tribe says an NLRB election will interfere with its own laws
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Monday, July 26, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut has filed an appeal over a union vote at its casino.
A spokesperson for the National Labor Relations Board told The Norwich Bulletin last week that the tribe failed to meet a deadline for an appeal. But it turns out that the NLRB in Washington, D.C., received the tribe's paperwork on time.
The United Food and Commercial Workers wants to represent about 360 employees at Foxwoods Resort Casino. The union previously tried to organize under tribal law but the effort failed due to the way non-votes were counted as "no" votes.
The tribe says an NLRB election will interfere with its own laws
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Sunday, July 25, 2010
AQUINNAH WAMPANOAG TRIBE BLOCKS BEACH PATH
Town upset after Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe blocks beach path
Friday, July 23, 2010
A pile of twigs, some brush and a sign is stirring a new controversy for the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts.
The tribe recently blocked an access path to the popular Lobsterville Beach on Martha's Vineyard. The decision has enraged leaders in the town of Aquinnah.
"The taxpayers in town are being deprived of their right to access to the beach and that right is established by an act of Congress," town selectwoman Camille Rose told The Martha's Vineyard Gazette.
The path was closed because it was not a public path, the director of the tribe's natural resources department told The Martha's Vineyard Times. Parking also has been restricted to two points along the beach.
"It is a piece of private property," Bret Stearns told the paper. "The tribal lands are not open to public access, with the exception of where it has already been established by agreement."
In 1987, Congress passed an act to settle the tribe's land claims. The state courts have ruled that the settlement subjected the tribe to local and state laws and that it waived the tribe's sovereign immunity for alleged violations of local and state laws.
The tribe will hold a public meeting next week to Thursday to discuss the issue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Story taken from indianz.com
Friday, July 23, 2010
A pile of twigs, some brush and a sign is stirring a new controversy for the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts.
The tribe recently blocked an access path to the popular Lobsterville Beach on Martha's Vineyard. The decision has enraged leaders in the town of Aquinnah.
"The taxpayers in town are being deprived of their right to access to the beach and that right is established by an act of Congress," town selectwoman Camille Rose told The Martha's Vineyard Gazette.
The path was closed because it was not a public path, the director of the tribe's natural resources department told The Martha's Vineyard Times. Parking also has been restricted to two points along the beach.
"It is a piece of private property," Bret Stearns told the paper. "The tribal lands are not open to public access, with the exception of where it has already been established by agreement."
In 1987, Congress passed an act to settle the tribe's land claims. The state courts have ruled that the settlement subjected the tribe to local and state laws and that it waived the tribe's sovereign immunity for alleged violations of local and state laws.
The tribe will hold a public meeting next week to Thursday to discuss the issue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Story taken from indianz.com
Friday, July 23, 2010
SHINNECOCK PARTNER FILES PAPERS
Shinnecock Nation casino partner filed papers for 'gaming' group
Thursday, July 22, 2010
The gaming firm that wants to develop a casino for the Shinnecock Nation of New York apparently tried to block a mysterious group from using the name "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs," The Hartford Courant reports.
Tom Shields, a spokesperson for Gateway Casino Resorts, filed papers for the name last Thursday. That was a day after Matthew Hennessy, a lobbyist, announced the creation of the "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs."
However, the original name for the mysterious group was the "Coalition for Connecticut Gaming Jobs." Hennessy changed the name to "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs'" just hours before Shields filed the papers, the Courant reported.
As a reuslt, the Connecticut secretary of the state blocked Shields because the name was already taken. "The folks at Gateway are aware that I did this," he told the paper. "I told them."
Hennessy has refused to divulge who is behind the "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs." The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe both say they are not connected in any way to the group.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
WHO DO THINK MAKE UP THIS COALITION? What do you think?
Thursday, July 22, 2010
The gaming firm that wants to develop a casino for the Shinnecock Nation of New York apparently tried to block a mysterious group from using the name "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs," The Hartford Courant reports.
Tom Shields, a spokesperson for Gateway Casino Resorts, filed papers for the name last Thursday. That was a day after Matthew Hennessy, a lobbyist, announced the creation of the "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs."
However, the original name for the mysterious group was the "Coalition for Connecticut Gaming Jobs." Hennessy changed the name to "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs'" just hours before Shields filed the papers, the Courant reported.
As a reuslt, the Connecticut secretary of the state blocked Shields because the name was already taken. "The folks at Gateway are aware that I did this," he told the paper. "I told them."
Hennessy has refused to divulge who is behind the "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs." The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe both say they are not connected in any way to the group.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
WHO DO THINK MAKE UP THIS COALITION? What do you think?
Thursday, July 22, 2010
WILL THE U.S. SENATE AND HOUSE FIX THE LAND INTO TRUST ISSUE?
Land-into-trust fix still faces major obstacles in House and Senate
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tribes and the Obama administration are united in their support for a fix to the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Carcieri v. Salazar but Congress isn't rushing towards a solution.
The Senate Indian Affairs Committee passed a bill to ensure that all tribes, regardless of the date of federal recognition, can follow the land-into-trust process. But the bill has yet to come up for a vote on the Senate floor amid a lack of Republican support and an association of the issue with Indian gaming, said Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-North Dakota).
There is Republican support for a fix in the House. But the House leadership doesn't appear to be behind the bill, according to Rep. Tom Cole (R-Oklahoma), a member of the Chickasaw Nation.
Tribal advocates believe the best strategy is to attach the bill to another piece of must-pass legislation. There's been discussion of such a move since late last year
“This bill will not move as a standalone due to political opposition,” lobbyist Debbie Ho of Ietan Consulting told tribal leaders at a summit hosted by the National Congress of American Indians and the United South and Eastern Tribes, Indian Country Today reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from indianz.com
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Tribes and the Obama administration are united in their support for a fix to the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Carcieri v. Salazar but Congress isn't rushing towards a solution.
The Senate Indian Affairs Committee passed a bill to ensure that all tribes, regardless of the date of federal recognition, can follow the land-into-trust process. But the bill has yet to come up for a vote on the Senate floor amid a lack of Republican support and an association of the issue with Indian gaming, said Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-North Dakota).
There is Republican support for a fix in the House. But the House leadership doesn't appear to be behind the bill, according to Rep. Tom Cole (R-Oklahoma), a member of the Chickasaw Nation.
Tribal advocates believe the best strategy is to attach the bill to another piece of must-pass legislation. There's been discussion of such a move since late last year
“This bill will not move as a standalone due to political opposition,” lobbyist Debbie Ho of Ietan Consulting told tribal leaders at a summit hosted by the National Congress of American Indians and the United South and Eastern Tribes, Indian Country Today reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from indianz.com
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
SHINNECOCKS MORE DELAYS?
Shinnecock Nation endures another delay over federal recognition
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
The Shinnecock Nation of New York almost joined the list of federally recognized tribes on Monday but a challenge will force another delay in the process.
The tribe was the fourth group to file a petition for federal recognition in 1978. The tribe completed its application in September 2003 but had to go to court to force the Bureau of Indian Affairs to make a final decision.
The BIA issued a final determination in favor of the tribe on June 15. It was due to become official yesterday but a group called the "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs" filed a challenge with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals.
It's not known how long the IBIA process will take. Another group, a splinter faction of the Montaukett Tribe of New York, also filed a challenge, Newsday reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
The Shinnecock Nation of New York almost joined the list of federally recognized tribes on Monday but a challenge will force another delay in the process.
The tribe was the fourth group to file a petition for federal recognition in 1978. The tribe completed its application in September 2003 but had to go to court to force the Bureau of Indian Affairs to make a final decision.
The BIA issued a final determination in favor of the tribe on June 15. It was due to become official yesterday but a group called the "Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs" filed a challenge with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals.
It's not known how long the IBIA process will take. Another group, a splinter faction of the Montaukett Tribe of New York, also filed a challenge, Newsday reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
NO FEDERAL RECOGNITION FOR SHINNECOCKS YET?
Shinnecock recognition in limbo Shinnecock recognition in limbo
by Claude Solnik
Published: July 19, 2010
They waited. And they waited. And now they’re waiting again.
It was a case of a dream delayed, if not denied, for the Shinnecock Indian Nation today as the much-awaited federal recognition failed to materialize.
A month after receiving a call notifying them that the federal government would recognize the Shinnecock Indian Nation, there was no congratulatory call, no victory lap.
The 30-day comment period expired quietly today after which the recognition would take effect, if there were no protests.
But a group called the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs filed a protest, at least temporarily putting recognition on hold.
“We recommended the final determination,” said Nedra Darling, a spokeswoman for the United States Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs. “The final finding was they were to be recognized.”
But the Interior Board of Indian Appeals received the protest, which must be ruled on before that decision is ratified.
A spokeswoman for the Board of Appeals earlier today said the judge hadn’t issued any ruling regarding the case.
“They have to look at the appeal. They do all the research,” Darling said. “We made the decision. There is an appeals process.”
Calls seeking comment from the Shinnecocks weren’t immediately returned. But as recognition appeared to retreat for the moment, Suffolk County Legislator Jay Schneiderman, I-Montauk, in a written statement lashed out at efforts to stall the decision.
He said interests sought to stop the Shinnecocks from rightful recognition in order to benefit Connecticut casinos and other businesses. Federal recognition brings the right to develop a casino.
“For the past 20 years, Connecticut has benefited significantly from the great number of Long Islanders who spend their money in Connecticut casinos,” Schneiderman said. “The loss of this revenue is what is motivating this new attack on our indigenous people.”
A spokesman for the Connecticut group wouldn’t say who financed it, but said it did not represent tribes that own casinos in Connecticut.
The challenge by the group, which records indicate was created only days before the filing, will be handled by the Interior Board of Indian Appeals, an appellate review body whose administrative judges decide appeals to decisions of the Bureau of Indian Affairs within the Department of the Interior.
While IBIA decisions represent the department’s final rulings, they may be appealed to the United States district courts. This could open the door to delays due to litigation.
The Department of Interior’s final determination, which is being challenged, treats the Shinnecock Indian Nation as having existed at least since 1789 as a historical Indian tribe.
An act passed by New York in 1792 re-organized this tribe as a trusteeship, living on a leasehold created in 1703 in Southampton.
The law provided for annual elections of three Indian trustees, elections that have taken place from 1792 to the present.
The trustees have allocated the group’s land and resources consistently for almost 220 years, according to the Department of the Interior.
by Claude Solnik
Published: July 19, 2010
They waited. And they waited. And now they’re waiting again.
It was a case of a dream delayed, if not denied, for the Shinnecock Indian Nation today as the much-awaited federal recognition failed to materialize.
A month after receiving a call notifying them that the federal government would recognize the Shinnecock Indian Nation, there was no congratulatory call, no victory lap.
The 30-day comment period expired quietly today after which the recognition would take effect, if there were no protests.
But a group called the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs filed a protest, at least temporarily putting recognition on hold.
“We recommended the final determination,” said Nedra Darling, a spokeswoman for the United States Department of the Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs. “The final finding was they were to be recognized.”
But the Interior Board of Indian Appeals received the protest, which must be ruled on before that decision is ratified.
A spokeswoman for the Board of Appeals earlier today said the judge hadn’t issued any ruling regarding the case.
“They have to look at the appeal. They do all the research,” Darling said. “We made the decision. There is an appeals process.”
Calls seeking comment from the Shinnecocks weren’t immediately returned. But as recognition appeared to retreat for the moment, Suffolk County Legislator Jay Schneiderman, I-Montauk, in a written statement lashed out at efforts to stall the decision.
He said interests sought to stop the Shinnecocks from rightful recognition in order to benefit Connecticut casinos and other businesses. Federal recognition brings the right to develop a casino.
“For the past 20 years, Connecticut has benefited significantly from the great number of Long Islanders who spend their money in Connecticut casinos,” Schneiderman said. “The loss of this revenue is what is motivating this new attack on our indigenous people.”
A spokesman for the Connecticut group wouldn’t say who financed it, but said it did not represent tribes that own casinos in Connecticut.
The challenge by the group, which records indicate was created only days before the filing, will be handled by the Interior Board of Indian Appeals, an appellate review body whose administrative judges decide appeals to decisions of the Bureau of Indian Affairs within the Department of the Interior.
While IBIA decisions represent the department’s final rulings, they may be appealed to the United States district courts. This could open the door to delays due to litigation.
The Department of Interior’s final determination, which is being challenged, treats the Shinnecock Indian Nation as having existed at least since 1789 as a historical Indian tribe.
An act passed by New York in 1792 re-organized this tribe as a trusteeship, living on a leasehold created in 1703 in Southampton.
The law provided for annual elections of three Indian trustees, elections that have taken place from 1792 to the present.
The trustees have allocated the group’s land and resources consistently for almost 220 years, according to the Department of the Interior.
Monday, July 19, 2010
IS THERE A CONNECTION?
Both tribes in Connecticut deny connection to new 'gaming' group
Monday, July 19, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe both say they are not connected in any way to a new "gaming" group that is challenging the federal recognition of the Shinnecock Nation of New York.
"Have absolutely nothing to do with them," Chuck Bunnell, the Mohegans' chief of staff, told The Norwich Bulletin.
"We are not affiliated with them in any way whatsoever," a spokesperson for the Pequots told the paper.
The calls itself the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs. Its spokesperson is a lobbyist who won't divulge the identities of any of its members.
The Shinnecock Nation's federal recognition was due to become final today. But the group's challenge, which was filed with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals, will delay the matter.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Monday, July 19, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe both say they are not connected in any way to a new "gaming" group that is challenging the federal recognition of the Shinnecock Nation of New York.
"Have absolutely nothing to do with them," Chuck Bunnell, the Mohegans' chief of staff, told The Norwich Bulletin.
"We are not affiliated with them in any way whatsoever," a spokesperson for the Pequots told the paper.
The calls itself the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs. Its spokesperson is a lobbyist who won't divulge the identities of any of its members.
The Shinnecock Nation's federal recognition was due to become final today. But the group's challenge, which was filed with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals, will delay the matter.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com
Monday, July 12, 2010
MASHANTUCKETS TO APPEAL NLRS DECISION
Mashantucket Tribe to appeal NLRB decision over union at casino
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut said it will fight the National Labor Relations Board over a union vote at its casino.
A regional director of the NLRB ordered an election among bartenders, beverage servers and related workers at Foxwoods Resort Casino. The United Food and Commercial Workers wants to represent about 360 employees.
The appeal would go to the NLRB board in Washington, D.C., which has enough members to make valid decisions. A prior ruling that went against the tribe was made by a two-member NLRB, in apparent violation of the National Labor Relations Act, according to a U.S. Supreme Court decision issued last month.
The tribe has been working with unions under tribal law.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Friday, July 9, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut said it will fight the National Labor Relations Board over a union vote at its casino.
A regional director of the NLRB ordered an election among bartenders, beverage servers and related workers at Foxwoods Resort Casino. The United Food and Commercial Workers wants to represent about 360 employees.
The appeal would go to the NLRB board in Washington, D.C., which has enough members to make valid decisions. A prior ruling that went against the tribe was made by a two-member NLRB, in apparent violation of the National Labor Relations Act, according to a U.S. Supreme Court decision issued last month.
The tribe has been working with unions under tribal law.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
ONEIDA NATION TESTS SMOKE FREE CASINOS
Oneida Nation tests smoke-free policy at two gaming facilities
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
The Oneida Nation of Wisconsin is testing a smoke-free policy at two of its gaming facilities.
The facilities went smoke free on June 1. The tribe wants to see whether the policy has an effect on revenues.
"Gaming revenue is the tribe's lifeblood," Vice chairwoman Kathy Hughes told The Green Bay Press-Gazette "We're already seeing an impact from the economy, so we don't want to do anything else that is going to cause a greater negative effect on that."
A new Wisconsin law bans smoking in any indoor establishment or workplace. The law does not apply on reservations.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
The Oneida Nation of Wisconsin is testing a smoke-free policy at two of its gaming facilities.
The facilities went smoke free on June 1. The tribe wants to see whether the policy has an effect on revenues.
"Gaming revenue is the tribe's lifeblood," Vice chairwoman Kathy Hughes told The Green Bay Press-Gazette "We're already seeing an impact from the economy, so we don't want to do anything else that is going to cause a greater negative effect on that."
A new Wisconsin law bans smoking in any indoor establishment or workplace. The law does not apply on reservations.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
ARE THE MASHANTUCKETS RESTUCTING?
Mashantucket Tribe continues talks to restructure gaming debt
Friday, July 2, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut continues to negotiate with its lenders over $1.3 billion in gaming debt.
The tribe has been unable to make payments on the debt since last fall. A $700 million revolving credit is due July 13 so talks have taken on a new urgency, The Wall Street Journal reports.
Revenues at Foxwoods Resort Casino and MGM Grand at Foxwoods have fallen consistently over the past year.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from indianz.com/
Could this happen to the Mohegan Tribe also? How will this affect tribal members? Will tribal members suffer because of the poor judgement of the Mohegan Tribal Council? What do you think?
Friday, July 2, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut continues to negotiate with its lenders over $1.3 billion in gaming debt.
The tribe has been unable to make payments on the debt since last fall. A $700 million revolving credit is due July 13 so talks have taken on a new urgency, The Wall Street Journal reports.
Revenues at Foxwoods Resort Casino and MGM Grand at Foxwoods have fallen consistently over the past year.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from indianz.com/
Could this happen to the Mohegan Tribe also? How will this affect tribal members? Will tribal members suffer because of the poor judgement of the Mohegan Tribal Council? What do you think?
IS THE I.R.S LOOKING AT THE SENECA TRIBE?
IRS seeks wide range of information on Seneca Nation spending
Friday, July 2, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service has launched a broad probe into the Seneca Nation, its businesses and its spending, The Buffalo News reports.
The IRS wants the tribe to turn over a wide range of documents, the paper said. The request includes information about payments to President Barry E. Snyder Sr. and other employees, records of per capita payments to tribal members, records of all property leases signed by the tribe, records on all payments by the tribe and reports of any audits of tribal finances.
The paper said the probe centers in spending in the year 2008.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: This article came from indianz.com.
Could the same thing happen to the Mohegan Tribal Government? Does the Mohegan Tribal Council allow tribal members to see how much money they spend on their expense accounts? What about the business deals the MTGA have made in the past and present? Could the B.I. A. become involved also? Will the I.R.S. look at the MTGA? What do you think?
Friday, July 2, 2010
The Internal Revenue Service has launched a broad probe into the Seneca Nation, its businesses and its spending, The Buffalo News reports.
The IRS wants the tribe to turn over a wide range of documents, the paper said. The request includes information about payments to President Barry E. Snyder Sr. and other employees, records of per capita payments to tribal members, records of all property leases signed by the tribe, records on all payments by the tribe and reports of any audits of tribal finances.
The paper said the probe centers in spending in the year 2008.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: This article came from indianz.com.
Could the same thing happen to the Mohegan Tribal Government? Does the Mohegan Tribal Council allow tribal members to see how much money they spend on their expense accounts? What about the business deals the MTGA have made in the past and present? Could the B.I. A. become involved also? Will the I.R.S. look at the MTGA? What do you think?
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
NEW YORK TRIBES TO FIGHT TABACCO TAXES
New York tribes vow to fight attempt to collect tobacco taxes
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The New York Legislature passed a bill that requires tribes to collect the state's tobacco tax on their reservations. The bill also raises the state tax by $1.60 to $4.35 a pack.
The plan will go into effect on September 1. Tribal leaders said they would fight any attempt to infringe on their sovereignty.
"This is nothing less than a deliberate effort to sabotage our federal treaty rights and rape our economy to bail out New York State," Seneca Nation President Barry Snyder Sr. said in a statement, The Buffalo News reported.
The state has tried to impose tobacco taxes on reservations in the past. In 1997, protests by tribal members led to a shutdown of the New York Thruway.
Gov. David Paterson (D) led the latest effort even as he said he wants to negotiate with tribes. A provision of the bill apparently authorizes his office to settle current and future lawsuits without legislative approval, the Buffalo paper reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
The New York Legislature passed a bill that requires tribes to collect the state's tobacco tax on their reservations. The bill also raises the state tax by $1.60 to $4.35 a pack.
The plan will go into effect on September 1. Tribal leaders said they would fight any attempt to infringe on their sovereignty.
"This is nothing less than a deliberate effort to sabotage our federal treaty rights and rape our economy to bail out New York State," Seneca Nation President Barry Snyder Sr. said in a statement, The Buffalo News reported.
The state has tried to impose tobacco taxes on reservations in the past. In 1997, protests by tribal members led to a shutdown of the New York Thruway.
Gov. David Paterson (D) led the latest effort even as he said he wants to negotiate with tribes. A provision of the bill apparently authorizes his office to settle current and future lawsuits without legislative approval, the Buffalo paper reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Monday, June 21, 2010
WHAT WILL COMPETITION DO TO THE MOHEGAN SUN AND FOXWOODS?
Editorial: Casino competition takes toll on Connecticut tribes
Monday, June 21, 2010
"Connecticut's two American Indian-operated casinos have known for more than a decade that competition was coming. They talked about it, strategized for it, and even said they'd welcome it. But all that was before what Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke calls "the worst financial crisis in modern history."
Just as Foxwoods Resort and Mohegan Sun casinos were hitting their stride in 2007 the Great Recession set in and has lingered. And just as businesses and individuals around the world have been stung, so have Connecticut's casinos. But the economic hard times have also hastened their competition, as states once cool to legalizing gambling are stampeding to open, and cash in on, their own casinos.
Just how big is that gambling revenue pie and how many states can get a slice of it? Rhode Island and Massachusetts are in a sprint to see which state can legalize Las Vegas-style gambling first (although Rhode Island may have violated its own state and local laws in the rush to get there).
In Massachusetts, meanwhile, some lawmakers are concerned about the thoroughness and thoughtfulness of the hurried legislation.
Then there's the Shinnecock Tribe in Long Island, just across the Sound, recognized last week by the federal government, opening the door for its planned casino enterprise."
ARTICLE TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com Is this a case of the Indians being the wagon train and being surrounded by the other guys? ARE MEMBERS OF THE MOHEGAN TRIBAL COUNCIL RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SITUATION THE MOHEGAN SUN IS IN? What do you think?
Monday, June 21, 2010
"Connecticut's two American Indian-operated casinos have known for more than a decade that competition was coming. They talked about it, strategized for it, and even said they'd welcome it. But all that was before what Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke calls "the worst financial crisis in modern history."
Just as Foxwoods Resort and Mohegan Sun casinos were hitting their stride in 2007 the Great Recession set in and has lingered. And just as businesses and individuals around the world have been stung, so have Connecticut's casinos. But the economic hard times have also hastened their competition, as states once cool to legalizing gambling are stampeding to open, and cash in on, their own casinos.
Just how big is that gambling revenue pie and how many states can get a slice of it? Rhode Island and Massachusetts are in a sprint to see which state can legalize Las Vegas-style gambling first (although Rhode Island may have violated its own state and local laws in the rush to get there).
In Massachusetts, meanwhile, some lawmakers are concerned about the thoroughness and thoughtfulness of the hurried legislation.
Then there's the Shinnecock Tribe in Long Island, just across the Sound, recognized last week by the federal government, opening the door for its planned casino enterprise."
ARTICLE TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com Is this a case of the Indians being the wagon train and being surrounded by the other guys? ARE MEMBERS OF THE MOHEGAN TRIBAL COUNCIL RESPONSIBLE FOR THE SITUATION THE MOHEGAN SUN IS IN? What do you think?
Friday, June 18, 2010
UNIONS SEEK INFORMATION ON REJECTION OF CASINO
Unions seek investigation into rejection of Menominee casino
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Two labor unions are calling on the federal government to investigate why the Menominee Nation off-reservation casino in Kenosha, Wisconsin, was rejected.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs rejected the tribe's land-into-trust application in the final days of the Bush administration. But the regional office of the BIA supported the casino and memos that supported the casino were kept from the tribe.
The documents, however, were given to the Forest County Potawatomi Tribe under a Freedom of Information Act request. The Potawatomis used the information to bolster their case against the Menominee casino.
The Menominee Nation is in federal court in hopes of overturning a Bush-era policy that led to the rejection.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Two labor unions are calling on the federal government to investigate why the Menominee Nation off-reservation casino in Kenosha, Wisconsin, was rejected.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs rejected the tribe's land-into-trust application in the final days of the Bush administration. But the regional office of the BIA supported the casino and memos that supported the casino were kept from the tribe.
The documents, however, were given to the Forest County Potawatomi Tribe under a Freedom of Information Act request. The Potawatomis used the information to bolster their case against the Menominee casino.
The Menominee Nation is in federal court in hopes of overturning a Bush-era policy that led to the rejection.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Article taken from www.indianz.com
Thursday, June 17, 2010
A SLEEP
Strange things happen in Uncasville, Connecticut. It makes me remember my dad. He has been gone a long time, but what he said rings true to this day.
My dad used to say, "He was a sleep at the switch."
I always felt it had to do with train switch men. They would at first manually turn the switches for trains. Later there were levers put in towers so the switching then was done inside.
If for some reason the switcher fell asleep or was distracted, the train could end up going down the wrong tracks, to some kind of catastrophe. The switch man would be blamed for not doing the right switching.
How about the engineer of the train? Wouldn't he see that the signal at the switch was wrong too? Maybe they would both be at fault.
Shouldn't the public demand the switch man and the engineer do their very best? The situation can never be allowed to happen.
Shouldn't the people who live in the community be protected by the train company? Are the officials of the train company also responsible?
So do we know anyone who is asleep at the switch? What do you think?
My dad used to say, "He was a sleep at the switch."
I always felt it had to do with train switch men. They would at first manually turn the switches for trains. Later there were levers put in towers so the switching then was done inside.
If for some reason the switcher fell asleep or was distracted, the train could end up going down the wrong tracks, to some kind of catastrophe. The switch man would be blamed for not doing the right switching.
How about the engineer of the train? Wouldn't he see that the signal at the switch was wrong too? Maybe they would both be at fault.
Shouldn't the public demand the switch man and the engineer do their very best? The situation can never be allowed to happen.
Shouldn't the people who live in the community be protected by the train company? Are the officials of the train company also responsible?
So do we know anyone who is asleep at the switch? What do you think?
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
MASHANTUCKET MAN GETS 21 MONTHS FOR WIRE FRAUD
Mashantucket man sentenced to 21 months over wire fraud
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Christopher Pearson, a member of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison after being convicted of wire fraud.
Prosecutors said Pearson, 51, defrauded people out of $280,000 by telling them they were investing in an official tribal development project. He ended up using the money for personal expenditures.
The 21-month sentence, to be followed by three years of supervised release, appears to be the lower end of federal guidelines.
The tribe banished Pearson from the reservation.
FOOTNOTE: Artticle taken from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Christopher Pearson, a member of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison after being convicted of wire fraud.
Prosecutors said Pearson, 51, defrauded people out of $280,000 by telling them they were investing in an official tribal development project. He ended up using the money for personal expenditures.
The 21-month sentence, to be followed by three years of supervised release, appears to be the lower end of federal guidelines.
The tribe banished Pearson from the reservation.
FOOTNOTE: Artticle taken from www.indianz.com
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
SHINNECOCKS SHOULD GET RECOGNITION SOON
Shinnecock Nation expects phone call on federal recognition
Tuesday, June 15, 201
The Shinnecock Nation of New York has been told to expect a phone call this morning from the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The tribe expects to receive a final decision on its federal recognition petition. A preliminary ruling found that the Shinnecock met all seven criteria for acknowledgment as an Indian tribe.
The BIA noted that the tribe has occupied a state-recognized reservation since 1703. The tribe's political and governing system has remained intact since then, the BIA said.
The tribe was one of the first to start the federal recognition process in 1978. The tribe completed its petition over 10 year ago but languished on the BIA's "ready" list.
To settle a court case, the BIA agreed to issue a proposed finding in December 2009. The final determination is now due.
Since 2000, the BIA has recognized just two tribes through its regulatory process. The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts won recognition in May 2007.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Congradulations to the Shinnecocks.
Should this happen for other tribes, too? What about Connecticut tribes?
How will this affect the Mohegan Sun Casino, Foxwoods Resort Casino and MGM Grand at Foxwoods?
What is the Mohegan Tribal Council going to do keep its share of the gaming market? What do you think?
Tuesday, June 15, 201
The Shinnecock Nation of New York has been told to expect a phone call this morning from the Bureau of Indian Affairs.
The tribe expects to receive a final decision on its federal recognition petition. A preliminary ruling found that the Shinnecock met all seven criteria for acknowledgment as an Indian tribe.
The BIA noted that the tribe has occupied a state-recognized reservation since 1703. The tribe's political and governing system has remained intact since then, the BIA said.
The tribe was one of the first to start the federal recognition process in 1978. The tribe completed its petition over 10 year ago but languished on the BIA's "ready" list.
To settle a court case, the BIA agreed to issue a proposed finding in December 2009. The final determination is now due.
Since 2000, the BIA has recognized just two tribes through its regulatory process. The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts won recognition in May 2007.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Congradulations to the Shinnecocks.
Should this happen for other tribes, too? What about Connecticut tribes?
How will this affect the Mohegan Sun Casino, Foxwoods Resort Casino and MGM Grand at Foxwoods?
What is the Mohegan Tribal Council going to do keep its share of the gaming market? What do you think?
Friday, June 11, 2010
VOTE NO
VOTE "NO"
Don't allow your petitioning rights to be eroded
VOTE NO IF ASKED
Posted by Ken Davison at 8:14 PM 0 comments
ARTICLE TAKEN FROM www.feathernews.blogspot.com
Don't allow your petitioning rights to be eroded
VOTE NO IF ASKED
Posted by Ken Davison at 8:14 PM 0 comments
ARTICLE TAKEN FROM www.feathernews.blogspot.com
TRIBE FILES FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST ON ANOTHER TRIBE AND GETS INFORMATION
Menominee Nation casino documents provided to rival tribe
Thursday, June 10, 2010
The Menominee Nation of Wisconsin says documents related to its off-reservation casino bid were provided to a rival tribe.
The Menominees repeatedly asked the Bureau of Indian Affairs for documents that favored the Kenosha casino, attorney Rory Dilweg said. The Forest County Potawatomi Tribe ended up with them instead -- after filing a Freedom of Information Act request.
"I find it interesting the federal government chose to give it to them, but not to us," Dilweg told The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "We asked them for copies and they refused to provide them, saying they were internal and deliberative."
The Potawatomis used the two memos at issue to bolster their opposition to the Kenosha casino. "We followed the FOIA law and were consistent and constant in our requests," spokesperson Ken Walsh told the paper.
The Menominees found out about the documents after filing a lawsuit against the federal government. The tribe says the casino was improperly rejected in the final days of the Bush administration.
The denial was based on a new policy that makes it nearly impossible for tribes to acquire land away from existing reservations. The Obama administration has not taken any steps to address the issue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Weren't the Menominee Tribe, the tribe the Mohegans of Connecticut were trying to help get a casino? Should the information have been given to a rival tribe? Was the federal government right in doing so?
How come under the Freedom of Information, a Mohegan Tribe member allegedly, couldn't find out about the expense accounts of Elected Officials of the Mohegan Tribal Government? Should the information be released? What do you think?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
The Menominee Nation of Wisconsin says documents related to its off-reservation casino bid were provided to a rival tribe.
The Menominees repeatedly asked the Bureau of Indian Affairs for documents that favored the Kenosha casino, attorney Rory Dilweg said. The Forest County Potawatomi Tribe ended up with them instead -- after filing a Freedom of Information Act request.
"I find it interesting the federal government chose to give it to them, but not to us," Dilweg told The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. "We asked them for copies and they refused to provide them, saying they were internal and deliberative."
The Potawatomis used the two memos at issue to bolster their opposition to the Kenosha casino. "We followed the FOIA law and were consistent and constant in our requests," spokesperson Ken Walsh told the paper.
The Menominees found out about the documents after filing a lawsuit against the federal government. The tribe says the casino was improperly rejected in the final days of the Bush administration.
The denial was based on a new policy that makes it nearly impossible for tribes to acquire land away from existing reservations. The Obama administration has not taken any steps to address the issue.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Weren't the Menominee Tribe, the tribe the Mohegans of Connecticut were trying to help get a casino? Should the information have been given to a rival tribe? Was the federal government right in doing so?
How come under the Freedom of Information, a Mohegan Tribe member allegedly, couldn't find out about the expense accounts of Elected Officials of the Mohegan Tribal Government? Should the information be released? What do you think?
Thursday, June 10, 2010
THE NEW LONDON DAY AND LYNN MALERBA ON THE MOHEGAN GOVERNMENT BUILDING
Mohegans say community center funds not a bailout
By Brian Hallenbeck
Publication: The Day
Published 06/09/2010
Chairwoman says $74 million in federal stimulus money makes project possible
Mohegan - For more than a year, the Mohegan Tribe's long-planned community and government center has been a ghostly, shrink-wrapped presence on Crow Hill, a monument to arrested development.
With rust appearing on the building's steel framework and the economic downturn squeezing the Mohegans' casino-fed revenue stream, tribal officials had all but decided they would have to enclose the site in a more permanent way and sit tight. At stake was the $28 million they'd already spent on design and construction. The tribe's "place of its own" would have to wait.
Enter the federal government.
Eager to push out stimulus loans and create jobs, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced last month that it had approved $74 million in loans for the Mohegans, enough to cover the entire cost of a scaled-down version of the center. Look for the shrink wrap to come undone in July or August and the building to be finished a year later.
For the tribe, the timing of the fed's largesse was "fortuitous," Lynn Malerba, chairwoman of the Mohegan Tribal Council, said in an interview Tuesday. Not that the money's a gift by any means, she was quick to emphasize.
"It's not about a bailout," she said. "It's about a low-interest loan. We're going to pay every bit of it back - with interest."
Indeed, the aid includes $54 million in loans funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as well as another $18 million in guaranteed loans and $2 million in nonguaranteed loans, according to tribal officials. All of it is to be paid back over 30 years at an effective interest rate of 2.8 percent.
"Our preference would have been to stop the project, but the USDA financing was available now," Malerba said. "Without a loan at such a low rate we couldn't have done it. We wanted to protect our asset and we were more than 'shovel-ready,' which was required to get these loans.
"The council thought long and hard about it."
The chairwoman addressed some misconceptions that she said have arisen, namely that the tribe's project will create some 1,300 permanent jobs and include an educational center and a health administration center, as the USDA announced in a May 27 press release.
In truth, she said, construction is expected to create 114 direct jobs. Federal officials estimate the project will create 1,239 indirect jobs through vendors and subcontractors in the region. The center will house some 300 tribal-government employees, most of whom now work in the tribe's low-slung offices on Crow Hill Road.
No longer the "Cadillac" depicted in an early rendering, the center is to be completed for $15 million less than the $89 million originally budgeted, Malerba said. It will still have four floors and a lower level, but only the two lower floors and the lower level will be completed at this time. Savings have also been realized on furnishings and landscaping.
The building will house a library and offices for the tribal and elders councils and such tribal-government departments as Health and Human Services, Education, Cultural and Community Programs, Legal, Finance, Court, Administration and Publications. A lower level will include a gym with two basketball courts, locker rooms and a fitness center. The exterior will reflect the style of the tribe's longhouses, with arched roofs and elongated wings.
The center's been a long time coming for a tribe that has long since outgrown the confines of the reservation church, Malerba said, recalling that the plans for the center were first drawn and then shelved in 1999. After years of funding expansion at Mohegan Sun, infrastructure improvements on the reservation and commitments to surrounding communities, the tribe dusted off the plans in 2006-07.
Then came the downturn and in early 2009 the shrink wrap.
Now it's time for the Mohegans to finish something "so near and dear to us," Malerba said.
Who would begrudge us that?"
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: The Feather News at www.feathernews.blog spot.com added the following comment.
There have been no reports that Mohegan tribal members were asked by their government as to whether the new debt should be taken on at this time.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
ARE MOHEGAN TRIBAL MEMBERS HAVING BENEFITS TAKEN AWAY, AT THE SAME TIME THE TRIBAL COUNCIL IS BUILDING A GOVERNMENT COMMUNITY CENTER, THAT MOST TRIBAL MEMBERS I HAVE TALKED TO DO NOT WANT?
IN BROKENWING'S OPINION, SINCE THE TRIBAL COUNCIL MADE THIS ALLEGED MESS, WHY AREN'T THEY TAKING SOME FORM OF REDUCTIONS IN PAY AND BENEFITS? HOW ABOUT DOING AWAY WITH THEIR CREDIT CARDS TO START?
What do you think?
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Readers please check out the negative comments, on this article at www.theday.com.
By Brian Hallenbeck
Publication: The Day
Published 06/09/2010
Chairwoman says $74 million in federal stimulus money makes project possible
Mohegan - For more than a year, the Mohegan Tribe's long-planned community and government center has been a ghostly, shrink-wrapped presence on Crow Hill, a monument to arrested development.
With rust appearing on the building's steel framework and the economic downturn squeezing the Mohegans' casino-fed revenue stream, tribal officials had all but decided they would have to enclose the site in a more permanent way and sit tight. At stake was the $28 million they'd already spent on design and construction. The tribe's "place of its own" would have to wait.
Enter the federal government.
Eager to push out stimulus loans and create jobs, the U.S. Department of Agriculture announced last month that it had approved $74 million in loans for the Mohegans, enough to cover the entire cost of a scaled-down version of the center. Look for the shrink wrap to come undone in July or August and the building to be finished a year later.
For the tribe, the timing of the fed's largesse was "fortuitous," Lynn Malerba, chairwoman of the Mohegan Tribal Council, said in an interview Tuesday. Not that the money's a gift by any means, she was quick to emphasize.
"It's not about a bailout," she said. "It's about a low-interest loan. We're going to pay every bit of it back - with interest."
Indeed, the aid includes $54 million in loans funded under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act as well as another $18 million in guaranteed loans and $2 million in nonguaranteed loans, according to tribal officials. All of it is to be paid back over 30 years at an effective interest rate of 2.8 percent.
"Our preference would have been to stop the project, but the USDA financing was available now," Malerba said. "Without a loan at such a low rate we couldn't have done it. We wanted to protect our asset and we were more than 'shovel-ready,' which was required to get these loans.
"The council thought long and hard about it."
The chairwoman addressed some misconceptions that she said have arisen, namely that the tribe's project will create some 1,300 permanent jobs and include an educational center and a health administration center, as the USDA announced in a May 27 press release.
In truth, she said, construction is expected to create 114 direct jobs. Federal officials estimate the project will create 1,239 indirect jobs through vendors and subcontractors in the region. The center will house some 300 tribal-government employees, most of whom now work in the tribe's low-slung offices on Crow Hill Road.
No longer the "Cadillac" depicted in an early rendering, the center is to be completed for $15 million less than the $89 million originally budgeted, Malerba said. It will still have four floors and a lower level, but only the two lower floors and the lower level will be completed at this time. Savings have also been realized on furnishings and landscaping.
The building will house a library and offices for the tribal and elders councils and such tribal-government departments as Health and Human Services, Education, Cultural and Community Programs, Legal, Finance, Court, Administration and Publications. A lower level will include a gym with two basketball courts, locker rooms and a fitness center. The exterior will reflect the style of the tribe's longhouses, with arched roofs and elongated wings.
The center's been a long time coming for a tribe that has long since outgrown the confines of the reservation church, Malerba said, recalling that the plans for the center were first drawn and then shelved in 1999. After years of funding expansion at Mohegan Sun, infrastructure improvements on the reservation and commitments to surrounding communities, the tribe dusted off the plans in 2006-07.
Then came the downturn and in early 2009 the shrink wrap.
Now it's time for the Mohegans to finish something "so near and dear to us," Malerba said.
Who would begrudge us that?"
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: The Feather News at www.feathernews.blog spot.com added the following comment.
There have been no reports that Mohegan tribal members were asked by their government as to whether the new debt should be taken on at this time.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
ARE MOHEGAN TRIBAL MEMBERS HAVING BENEFITS TAKEN AWAY, AT THE SAME TIME THE TRIBAL COUNCIL IS BUILDING A GOVERNMENT COMMUNITY CENTER, THAT MOST TRIBAL MEMBERS I HAVE TALKED TO DO NOT WANT?
IN BROKENWING'S OPINION, SINCE THE TRIBAL COUNCIL MADE THIS ALLEGED MESS, WHY AREN'T THEY TAKING SOME FORM OF REDUCTIONS IN PAY AND BENEFITS? HOW ABOUT DOING AWAY WITH THEIR CREDIT CARDS TO START?
What do you think?
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Readers please check out the negative comments, on this article at www.theday.com.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
WILL A CASINO END UP ON MARTHA'S VINEYARD?
June 08, 2010 BOSTON — Aquinnah Wampanoag leaders today threatened to build a gaming facility on their Martha's Vineyard reservation land if the Legislature legalizes casinos but the tribe does not get one of the state gambling licenses.
At a press conference in front of the Statehouse, Naomi Carney, chairman of the tribe's gaming commission, said that building a gaming facility on Martha's Vineyard is not the tribe's first choice, but that the tribe has been trying to build a casino for more than a decade and would evoke it's rights under the federal Indian Gaming Act to build if necessary.
Gaming foes, backers converge on Statehouse....Tribes showing cards todayAquinnah Wampanoag push Fall River casinoRelated Links
Read our ongoing casino coverage.....But state officials dispute the Aquinnah tribe’s rights to offer gambling on tribal land saying they waived those rights in their 1987 land deal with the federal government. In a 2004, the state Supreme Judicial Court ruled in a zoning dispute that the tribe land falls under the same zoning laws, including the permitting process, as any other property.
Members of the tribe were surrounded by pro-casino forces as tribal leaders unveiled a rival plan to build a 400-room hotel and 250,000 square feet of gaming space on 230 acres in Fall River near Route 195 and Route 24 on the Fall River-Dartmouth-Westport town lines.
It's a deal they first talked about two weeks ago, but that appeared dead in the wake of that city's subsequent deal to sell 300 acres on Route 24 to the Mashpee Wampanoag for a casino, hotels and shopping mall. That plan would force city officials to move a planned biotechnology park slated for that property to another location.
Under the Aquinnah Wampanoag proposal, Fall River would be able to continue with plans for the biotechnology park that had been planned on the 300 acres now under agreement with the Mashpee tribe.
The Aquinnah proposal comes as the state Senate holds a hearing at today on its proposal to bring expanded gambling to Massachusetts. By 1 p.m. when the hearing began Gardner Auditorium at the Statehouse was packed. Most of the spectators word orange pro-casino T-shirts.
The Senate will begin debate on its own legislation, which is different from what was passed by the House in April. That plan calls for two resort casinos and slots at the state's four race tracks.
But the Senate plan, though not completely ironed out, eliminates slots at the tracks and calls for three resort casinos spread out across the state, including one for a "for a qualified Native American tribe."
According to the draft legislation, the tribe would have to enter into a contract with the state regarding the conduct of gambling on tribal lands. "The tribe would then be subject to the same conditions as any other casino license holder, including those related to revenue," the draft legislation states.
Both the Aquinnah and Mashpee tribes are federally recognized, which gives them the authority to provide gambling on their reservations once the state legalizes Las Vegas-style gambling.
At a press conference in front of the Statehouse, Naomi Carney, chairman of the tribe's gaming commission, said that building a gaming facility on Martha's Vineyard is not the tribe's first choice, but that the tribe has been trying to build a casino for more than a decade and would evoke it's rights under the federal Indian Gaming Act to build if necessary.
Gaming foes, backers converge on Statehouse....Tribes showing cards todayAquinnah Wampanoag push Fall River casinoRelated Links
Read our ongoing casino coverage.....But state officials dispute the Aquinnah tribe’s rights to offer gambling on tribal land saying they waived those rights in their 1987 land deal with the federal government. In a 2004, the state Supreme Judicial Court ruled in a zoning dispute that the tribe land falls under the same zoning laws, including the permitting process, as any other property.
Members of the tribe were surrounded by pro-casino forces as tribal leaders unveiled a rival plan to build a 400-room hotel and 250,000 square feet of gaming space on 230 acres in Fall River near Route 195 and Route 24 on the Fall River-Dartmouth-Westport town lines.
It's a deal they first talked about two weeks ago, but that appeared dead in the wake of that city's subsequent deal to sell 300 acres on Route 24 to the Mashpee Wampanoag for a casino, hotels and shopping mall. That plan would force city officials to move a planned biotechnology park slated for that property to another location.
Under the Aquinnah Wampanoag proposal, Fall River would be able to continue with plans for the biotechnology park that had been planned on the 300 acres now under agreement with the Mashpee tribe.
The Aquinnah proposal comes as the state Senate holds a hearing at today on its proposal to bring expanded gambling to Massachusetts. By 1 p.m. when the hearing began Gardner Auditorium at the Statehouse was packed. Most of the spectators word orange pro-casino T-shirts.
The Senate will begin debate on its own legislation, which is different from what was passed by the House in April. That plan calls for two resort casinos and slots at the state's four race tracks.
But the Senate plan, though not completely ironed out, eliminates slots at the tracks and calls for three resort casinos spread out across the state, including one for a "for a qualified Native American tribe."
According to the draft legislation, the tribe would have to enter into a contract with the state regarding the conduct of gambling on tribal lands. "The tribe would then be subject to the same conditions as any other casino license holder, including those related to revenue," the draft legislation states.
Both the Aquinnah and Mashpee tribes are federally recognized, which gives them the authority to provide gambling on their reservations once the state legalizes Las Vegas-style gambling.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
LYNN MALERBA AT DINNER
Grace: Mohegan chairwoman transitions to tribal chief post
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
"Lynn Malerba had a "little" announcement for her best friend over dinner recently. She had just been selected as the next chief for life of the Mohegan Tribe.
"She told me so nonchalantly," says Donna Prue. "She lays it on you like it's no big deal. She said it was an honor and she couldn't refuse."
Prue met Malerba at the Hartford Hospital School of Nursing nearly 40 years ago and wondered if anybody could really be that nice.
"When I got to know her, I said, 'Oh my God, she really is that nice,' " Prue remembers.
The two women have been through many of life's milestones together - Malerba says her husband Paul had to pass the "Donna test" before they could get married - and Prue says even though Malerba is the chief, to her she will still be "just Lynn."
Malerba grew up in Uncasville, where streets and schools are named after her tribal ancestors. She and her husband live here today and regularly host Sunday dinner for the family. She says she loves to be part of the tribe's "living history."
On a recent sunny afternoon, she stopped in at the tribe's modest museum on Church Lane and lingered in front of photographs of her mother and aunts and her great grandfather, Burrill Fielding, also known as Chief Matagha.
"This is our place," she says, flashing her fabulous smile."
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Some members of the Mohegan Tribe showed me this article. Here are the questions they asked.
How about working on the financial problems of the Mohegan Tribe, which is what Lynn Malerba was elected to do?
How about fixing things that need doing?
Instead we go out to dinner with friends? Should Malerba have waited to be Chief until she fulfill er her alleged promise of a four year term?
What do you think?
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
"Lynn Malerba had a "little" announcement for her best friend over dinner recently. She had just been selected as the next chief for life of the Mohegan Tribe.
"She told me so nonchalantly," says Donna Prue. "She lays it on you like it's no big deal. She said it was an honor and she couldn't refuse."
Prue met Malerba at the Hartford Hospital School of Nursing nearly 40 years ago and wondered if anybody could really be that nice.
"When I got to know her, I said, 'Oh my God, she really is that nice,' " Prue remembers.
The two women have been through many of life's milestones together - Malerba says her husband Paul had to pass the "Donna test" before they could get married - and Prue says even though Malerba is the chief, to her she will still be "just Lynn."
Malerba grew up in Uncasville, where streets and schools are named after her tribal ancestors. She and her husband live here today and regularly host Sunday dinner for the family. She says she loves to be part of the tribe's "living history."
On a recent sunny afternoon, she stopped in at the tribe's modest museum on Church Lane and lingered in front of photographs of her mother and aunts and her great grandfather, Burrill Fielding, also known as Chief Matagha.
"This is our place," she says, flashing her fabulous smile."
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Some members of the Mohegan Tribe showed me this article. Here are the questions they asked.
How about working on the financial problems of the Mohegan Tribe, which is what Lynn Malerba was elected to do?
How about fixing things that need doing?
Instead we go out to dinner with friends? Should Malerba have waited to be Chief until she fulfill er her alleged promise of a four year term?
What do you think?
WAMPANOAGS CASE FOR CASINOS IN MASSACHUSETTS
Wampanoag tribes make case for casinos in Massachusetts
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
The chairman of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe will testify at a hearing today on a bill to legalize casinos in Massachusetts while the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe will unveil plans for its casino.
Mashpee Chairman Cedric Cromwell is set to appear with Fall River Mayor Will Flanagan at the State House in Boston. The tribe wants to build a casino, hotel and a shopping mall on 300 acres in Fall River.
The Aquinnah are also looking at Fall River. The tribe will hold a press conference on the steps of the State House to discuss plans for a 230-acre site in the city.
If Massachusetts lawmakers legalize casinos, both tribes should be able to offer the same types of games. But the Senate version of the gaming bill attempts to limit the state to one tribal compact.
GateHouse News Service 6/8)
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
The chairman of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe will testify at a hearing today on a bill to legalize casinos in Massachusetts while the Aquinnah Wampanoag Tribe will unveil plans for its casino.
Mashpee Chairman Cedric Cromwell is set to appear with Fall River Mayor Will Flanagan at the State House in Boston. The tribe wants to build a casino, hotel and a shopping mall on 300 acres in Fall River.
The Aquinnah are also looking at Fall River. The tribe will hold a press conference on the steps of the State House to discuss plans for a 230-acre site in the city.
If Massachusetts lawmakers legalize casinos, both tribes should be able to offer the same types of games. But the Senate version of the gaming bill attempts to limit the state to one tribal compact.
GateHouse News Service 6/8)
Thursday, June 3, 2010
CASINO REVENUE AND CONNECTICUT
Editorial: Casino revenue won't rescue Connecticut budget
Thursday, June 3, 2010
"In the annals of legalized gambling in Connecticut another milestone has been reached. In their 18 years of operation, the slot machines at the Foxwoods Resort Casino have produced $3 billion in revenue for the state of Connecticut.
As part of the deal worked out under then Gov. Lowell P. Weicker Jr. that allowed legalized gambling at two Indian tribes’ casinos in the state, one-quarter of slot machine revenues goes to Connecticut’s budget.
When the state negotiated the deal, its terms were more favorable than they are today. Foxwoods and a second Indian tribe’s casino, Mohegan Sun, which opened five years later, were the only game in New England and New York. Mohegan Sun has sent $2.3 billion in slot revenues to the state’s coffers.
Foxwoods’ $3 billion milestone may seem large. But, it piled up over 18 years. In comparison, the state government’s operating budget for the coming year is $19 billion. Gambling is not going to rescue Connecticut from its budget problems. And that $3 billion is only a quarter of the casino’s slot machines revenue.
One can only wonder if the $12 billion lost at the casino’s slot machines could have been put to better uses, such as paying the mortgage or the weekly grocery bill."
Thursday, June 3, 2010
"In the annals of legalized gambling in Connecticut another milestone has been reached. In their 18 years of operation, the slot machines at the Foxwoods Resort Casino have produced $3 billion in revenue for the state of Connecticut.
As part of the deal worked out under then Gov. Lowell P. Weicker Jr. that allowed legalized gambling at two Indian tribes’ casinos in the state, one-quarter of slot machine revenues goes to Connecticut’s budget.
When the state negotiated the deal, its terms were more favorable than they are today. Foxwoods and a second Indian tribe’s casino, Mohegan Sun, which opened five years later, were the only game in New England and New York. Mohegan Sun has sent $2.3 billion in slot revenues to the state’s coffers.
Foxwoods’ $3 billion milestone may seem large. But, it piled up over 18 years. In comparison, the state government’s operating budget for the coming year is $19 billion. Gambling is not going to rescue Connecticut from its budget problems. And that $3 billion is only a quarter of the casino’s slot machines revenue.
One can only wonder if the $12 billion lost at the casino’s slot machines could have been put to better uses, such as paying the mortgage or the weekly grocery bill."
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
COMMENTS FROM DAVID COLLINS READERS ON $54 MILLION MOHEGAN STIMULUS PACKAGE
A $54 million USDA loan to the Mohegans?
By David Collins
Publication: The Day
Published 06/02/2010 12:00
COMMENTS ( 4 )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LD Posted - June 2, 2010 07:33 AM
Great job, Collins! Keep ferreting out the inequities! One curious thing I found in the article: The tribe is securing the loans with general obligation bonds. G.O. bonds are considered high quality because they are issued by a municipality which, in turn has the ability to raise taxes in order to insure there is enough money to pay back the loan in case of a shortfall. What such ability does the Mohegan tribe have to ensure the repayment of this loan?
(Report Abuse)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
billd Posted - June 2, 2010 07:32 AM
Amazing, no response from Lieberman, lame duck Dodd and Courtney just found out about it. One would think one of them would question what the hell are we thinking knowing what is going on with their constituents. The best part is I am not sure they know who their constituents are!! The tribe is a foreign nation and we the people who are struggling need the money to survive are not being protected, Maybe one of them will wake up and see what a farce sovereignty is and will initiate a bill to END SOVEREIGNTY. A nation within our nation that uses our money when we are in such need. What a joke. Yes David continue to report on these abuses and don't let them slide under the table
(Report Abuse)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ctgirl Posted - June 2, 2010 06:35 AM
I think David Collins needs to find someone or something other than the tribes to write about--not too original and starting to sound like a one note opinion writer. By his reasoning, the State of CT that has some of the wealthiest communities in CT should not receive any federal funding either. Seems to me the taxpayers aren't subsidizing anything since it is a loan repaid with interest! A little misleading but then of course, designed to sell papers.
(Report Abuse)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Roberto Domingo Posted - June 2, 2010 06:32 AM
"Once completed, the new center will provide essential government services and create an estimated 1,279 jobs for this rural community," the press release said.
Thank goodness that our federal government is looking out for the rural areas of this country. Montville has been in the dark ages for so long. Next the feds need to help out the likes of rural Hartford and maybe even Providence Rhode Island. The Mohegan tribe must have some pretty influential friends who lobby for their NEEDS in the US Capital. What an amazing story of the needs of rural America. The best part is that each and every one of us actually get to be part of this by paying for this through our taxes. We should all feel part of the solution now.
-----------------------------------------------------------
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Mohegan Tribal Members, do we need this? Who is to blame for this mess (bad press)? Could it be the Mohegan Tribal Council? Is it time for a change? Should these people go? What do you think?
By David Collins
Publication: The Day
Published 06/02/2010 12:00
COMMENTS ( 4 )
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
LD Posted - June 2, 2010 07:33 AM
Great job, Collins! Keep ferreting out the inequities! One curious thing I found in the article: The tribe is securing the loans with general obligation bonds. G.O. bonds are considered high quality because they are issued by a municipality which, in turn has the ability to raise taxes in order to insure there is enough money to pay back the loan in case of a shortfall. What such ability does the Mohegan tribe have to ensure the repayment of this loan?
(Report Abuse)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
billd Posted - June 2, 2010 07:32 AM
Amazing, no response from Lieberman, lame duck Dodd and Courtney just found out about it. One would think one of them would question what the hell are we thinking knowing what is going on with their constituents. The best part is I am not sure they know who their constituents are!! The tribe is a foreign nation and we the people who are struggling need the money to survive are not being protected, Maybe one of them will wake up and see what a farce sovereignty is and will initiate a bill to END SOVEREIGNTY. A nation within our nation that uses our money when we are in such need. What a joke. Yes David continue to report on these abuses and don't let them slide under the table
(Report Abuse)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ctgirl Posted - June 2, 2010 06:35 AM
I think David Collins needs to find someone or something other than the tribes to write about--not too original and starting to sound like a one note opinion writer. By his reasoning, the State of CT that has some of the wealthiest communities in CT should not receive any federal funding either. Seems to me the taxpayers aren't subsidizing anything since it is a loan repaid with interest! A little misleading but then of course, designed to sell papers.
(Report Abuse)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Roberto Domingo Posted - June 2, 2010 06:32 AM
"Once completed, the new center will provide essential government services and create an estimated 1,279 jobs for this rural community," the press release said.
Thank goodness that our federal government is looking out for the rural areas of this country. Montville has been in the dark ages for so long. Next the feds need to help out the likes of rural Hartford and maybe even Providence Rhode Island. The Mohegan tribe must have some pretty influential friends who lobby for their NEEDS in the US Capital. What an amazing story of the needs of rural America. The best part is that each and every one of us actually get to be part of this by paying for this through our taxes. We should all feel part of the solution now.
-----------------------------------------------------------
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Mohegan Tribal Members, do we need this? Who is to blame for this mess (bad press)? Could it be the Mohegan Tribal Council? Is it time for a change? Should these people go? What do you think?
DAVID COLLINS AND THE MOHEGANS $54 MILLION STIMULUS PACKAGE
A $54 million USDA loan to the Mohegans?
By David Collins
Publication: The Day
Published 06/02/2010 12:00
It turns out that, for the purpose of funneling $54 million in federal stimulus money to the sovereign Mohegan Indians, you have to first define the tribe's reservation, which, on a slow day attracts tens of thousands of people, arriving on the tribe's own interstate highway connection, as a rural area.
That's right, it's the U.S. Department of Agriculture, through its rural development program, that has agreed to lend the tribe the money to finish its stalled community center project.
"Through our programs, we touch rural America in many ways," the USDA says on its website about the rural development program.
In this case, the USDA is touching rural America by helping to develop, among other things, new executive offices for a tribal government that manages one of the world's largest casinos.
This is not a Tea Party fantasy. It's really true. The USDA announced the $54 million in loans to the Mohegans, money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, in a press release last week.
Since then, no one has had a lot to say about the loans.
A Mohegan spokesman said the tribe does not want to comment until a briefing for tribal members, which is scheduled for next week.
The tribal spokesman did say, however, that the project will create construction jobs, not permanent new tribal jobs, as suggested in the USDA press release.
"Once completed, the new center will provide essential government services and create an estimated 1,279 jobs for this rural community," the press release said.
Not true, apparently.
A brief statement from Sen. Chris Dodd, issued when I asked his office for a comment on the loans, also made mention of the new jobs.
"These critical loans will fund the creation of nearly 1,300 jobs for residents of eastern Connecticut," Dodd's statement said.
Well, no.
The office of U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney also responded to questions about the loans with a statement.
It said the congressman first learned about the loans when the USDA made its announcement last Thursday.
"The Mohegan project was one of 145 projects in 37 states supported by the USDA's rural development program," the Courtney statement said. "In the case of the Mohegan Tribe, they applied for the loan as an eligible tribal entity and USDA selected theirs and other projects out of a host of competing applications."
Sen. Joe Lieberman's office did not respond at all.
The loans are strange on a lot of levels, even if you could get over the notion of a rural casino with a glass-walled 39-story hotel tower.
I could understand federal assistance to impoverished tribes in remote areas, where unemployment, inadequate health care and limited education opportunities are chronic problems.
But why should taxpayers subsidize a tribe in the Northeast that is so wealthy that it pays its members a per capita stipend, dividends from its successful gambling franchise.
I did ask a USDA spokesman to explain how the Mohegans qualified for a program meant to support rural areas, and she said Montville, with a population of 18,546 in the 2000 census, falls under the department's defining threshold of 20,000 people for a rural community.
The town's own website, though, currently lists its population at 20,003, not quite so rural.
The interest rate on the Mohegan loans is "market" rate, according to the USDA, currently 4.125 percent. The term is 30 years and the loans will be secured by general obligation bonds issued by the tribe.
So there are good things to say about the assistance, too.
The government might end up making money on the loans and they will at least, in the short term, help create construction jobs.
The loans also benefit one of eastern Connecticut's largest employers at a time when it is coping with harsh recessionary and competitive pressures.
The bad labeling here reminds me of the consequences of Chris Dodd's "VIP" mortgage loans for his home refinancing, which contributed to his political downfall.
It turns out the actual rate and terms of the senator's mortgage loans weren't all that preferential.
It's how they were characterized by the lender that got him into trouble.
This is the opinion of David Collins
By David Collins
Publication: The Day
Published 06/02/2010 12:00
It turns out that, for the purpose of funneling $54 million in federal stimulus money to the sovereign Mohegan Indians, you have to first define the tribe's reservation, which, on a slow day attracts tens of thousands of people, arriving on the tribe's own interstate highway connection, as a rural area.
That's right, it's the U.S. Department of Agriculture, through its rural development program, that has agreed to lend the tribe the money to finish its stalled community center project.
"Through our programs, we touch rural America in many ways," the USDA says on its website about the rural development program.
In this case, the USDA is touching rural America by helping to develop, among other things, new executive offices for a tribal government that manages one of the world's largest casinos.
This is not a Tea Party fantasy. It's really true. The USDA announced the $54 million in loans to the Mohegans, money from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, in a press release last week.
Since then, no one has had a lot to say about the loans.
A Mohegan spokesman said the tribe does not want to comment until a briefing for tribal members, which is scheduled for next week.
The tribal spokesman did say, however, that the project will create construction jobs, not permanent new tribal jobs, as suggested in the USDA press release.
"Once completed, the new center will provide essential government services and create an estimated 1,279 jobs for this rural community," the press release said.
Not true, apparently.
A brief statement from Sen. Chris Dodd, issued when I asked his office for a comment on the loans, also made mention of the new jobs.
"These critical loans will fund the creation of nearly 1,300 jobs for residents of eastern Connecticut," Dodd's statement said.
Well, no.
The office of U.S. Rep. Joe Courtney also responded to questions about the loans with a statement.
It said the congressman first learned about the loans when the USDA made its announcement last Thursday.
"The Mohegan project was one of 145 projects in 37 states supported by the USDA's rural development program," the Courtney statement said. "In the case of the Mohegan Tribe, they applied for the loan as an eligible tribal entity and USDA selected theirs and other projects out of a host of competing applications."
Sen. Joe Lieberman's office did not respond at all.
The loans are strange on a lot of levels, even if you could get over the notion of a rural casino with a glass-walled 39-story hotel tower.
I could understand federal assistance to impoverished tribes in remote areas, where unemployment, inadequate health care and limited education opportunities are chronic problems.
But why should taxpayers subsidize a tribe in the Northeast that is so wealthy that it pays its members a per capita stipend, dividends from its successful gambling franchise.
I did ask a USDA spokesman to explain how the Mohegans qualified for a program meant to support rural areas, and she said Montville, with a population of 18,546 in the 2000 census, falls under the department's defining threshold of 20,000 people for a rural community.
The town's own website, though, currently lists its population at 20,003, not quite so rural.
The interest rate on the Mohegan loans is "market" rate, according to the USDA, currently 4.125 percent. The term is 30 years and the loans will be secured by general obligation bonds issued by the tribe.
So there are good things to say about the assistance, too.
The government might end up making money on the loans and they will at least, in the short term, help create construction jobs.
The loans also benefit one of eastern Connecticut's largest employers at a time when it is coping with harsh recessionary and competitive pressures.
The bad labeling here reminds me of the consequences of Chris Dodd's "VIP" mortgage loans for his home refinancing, which contributed to his political downfall.
It turns out the actual rate and terms of the senator's mortgage loans weren't all that preferential.
It's how they were characterized by the lender that got him into trouble.
This is the opinion of David Collins
TABLE GAMES COMING TO POCONO DOWNS
Mohegans’ Pa. casino adds table games
Yesterday
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Connecticut tribe that owns Mohegan Sun Casino has installed table games at its Pennsylvania casino as that state prepares to open that style of gambling in July.
Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs added the first 30 of its incoming 82 tables games on May 26 and the rest will be installed in the coming weeks. The table games include poker, blackjack, craps and roulette. Pocono Downs will be the first in Pennsylvania to operate table games.
The Mohegans purchased the Plains, Pa. casino in 2005. It was Pennsylvania's first casino. It includes 55,000 square feet of gambling space and 2,500 slot machines and electronic table games. The facility also hosts live harness racing for eight months each year.
Yesterday
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Connecticut tribe that owns Mohegan Sun Casino has installed table games at its Pennsylvania casino as that state prepares to open that style of gambling in July.
Mohegan Sun at Pocono Downs added the first 30 of its incoming 82 tables games on May 26 and the rest will be installed in the coming weeks. The table games include poker, blackjack, craps and roulette. Pocono Downs will be the first in Pennsylvania to operate table games.
The Mohegans purchased the Plains, Pa. casino in 2005. It was Pennsylvania's first casino. It includes 55,000 square feet of gambling space and 2,500 slot machines and electronic table games. The facility also hosts live harness racing for eight months each year.
Saturday, May 29, 2010
ARE CONNECTICUT TRIBES FACING INCREASED COMPETITION?
Connecticut tribes face gaming threats from nearby states
Friday, May 28, 2010
Connecticut's two federally recognized tribes are facing increased competition as gaming is being expanded or considered in nearby states.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe face the biggest threat from Massachusetts, according to one analyst. Lawmakers there are considering a plan to legalize full-scale casinos.
The Mohegan Tribe plans to apply for a license if the bill passes. “We have an excellent chance to get the Palmer license," Mohegan Sun CEO Mitchell Etess said at the East Coast Gaming Congress, The Norwich Bulletin reported, referring to a site in western Massachusetts.
The Mohegan Tribe already has experience in commercial gaming. The tribe operates a slot machine facility in Pennsylvania and will be adding table games to the facility.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation also won a license for a slot facility in Pennsylvania but the project has yet to get off the ground amid financing and other concerns.
Other threats come from New York, although off-reservation tribal casinos in the Catskills have not come to fruition, and from New Hampshire, analysts said..
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: It is obvious that there is and will continue to be increased competition for the Mashantucket Pequots and the Mohegans.
It seems that the Mohegans have not prepared very will for the increased competition. How about saving for a rainy day? Does anyone in the MTGA know what that means?
Palmer is probably a pipe dream. Poconod Downs, in my opinion, has never made money and probably never will. Has the MTGA continued to just make bad investments? Can you nane one project that has made money for the Mohegan Tribe?
Will this end up costing Mohegan Tribal Members benefits and other financial blessings? Who is to blame for this Situation? What do you think?
Friday, May 28, 2010
Connecticut's two federally recognized tribes are facing increased competition as gaming is being expanded or considered in nearby states.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe face the biggest threat from Massachusetts, according to one analyst. Lawmakers there are considering a plan to legalize full-scale casinos.
The Mohegan Tribe plans to apply for a license if the bill passes. “We have an excellent chance to get the Palmer license," Mohegan Sun CEO Mitchell Etess said at the East Coast Gaming Congress, The Norwich Bulletin reported, referring to a site in western Massachusetts.
The Mohegan Tribe already has experience in commercial gaming. The tribe operates a slot machine facility in Pennsylvania and will be adding table games to the facility.
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation also won a license for a slot facility in Pennsylvania but the project has yet to get off the ground amid financing and other concerns.
Other threats come from New York, although off-reservation tribal casinos in the Catskills have not come to fruition, and from New Hampshire, analysts said..
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: It is obvious that there is and will continue to be increased competition for the Mashantucket Pequots and the Mohegans.
It seems that the Mohegans have not prepared very will for the increased competition. How about saving for a rainy day? Does anyone in the MTGA know what that means?
Palmer is probably a pipe dream. Poconod Downs, in my opinion, has never made money and probably never will. Has the MTGA continued to just make bad investments? Can you nane one project that has made money for the Mohegan Tribe?
Will this end up costing Mohegan Tribal Members benefits and other financial blessings? Who is to blame for this Situation? What do you think?
Monday, May 24, 2010
SENECA TRIBE AND TABACCO SALES
Seneca Nation defends tobacco sales on treaty anniversary
Monday, May 24, 2010
Seneca Nation of New York commemorated the Treaty of Buffalo Creek of 1842 last week, using the occasion to criticize the state and federal government for trying to curb the sale of tobacco.
Gov. David Paterson (D) is proposing rules to require tribes to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians. Lawmakers are prepared to go further by imposing taxes on all sales on the reservation.
"As we commemorate this anniversary of the Treaty of Buffalo Creek, all people are reminded that a treaty is more than words, it is a sacred bond, and when you break a treaty, you break the law,” said Seneca President Barry Snyder Sr., Business First of Buffalo reported.
Meanwhile, the Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act goes into effect on June 29. The law prohibits the Postal Service from delivering cigarettes and certain tobacco products, effectively killing the tribal tobacco industry.
The tribe says the law could impact 3,000 jobs on and off the reservation that are connected to the tobacco industry.
Monday, May 24, 2010
Seneca Nation of New York commemorated the Treaty of Buffalo Creek of 1842 last week, using the occasion to criticize the state and federal government for trying to curb the sale of tobacco.
Gov. David Paterson (D) is proposing rules to require tribes to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians. Lawmakers are prepared to go further by imposing taxes on all sales on the reservation.
"As we commemorate this anniversary of the Treaty of Buffalo Creek, all people are reminded that a treaty is more than words, it is a sacred bond, and when you break a treaty, you break the law,” said Seneca President Barry Snyder Sr., Business First of Buffalo reported.
Meanwhile, the Prevent All Cigarette Trafficking Act goes into effect on June 29. The law prohibits the Postal Service from delivering cigarettes and certain tobacco products, effectively killing the tribal tobacco industry.
The tribe says the law could impact 3,000 jobs on and off the reservation that are connected to the tobacco industry.
VOTE NO
VOTE NO , ON THE NEW PETITION AMENDMENT TO THE MOHEGAN CONSTITUTION.. IT IS A BAD AMENDMENT. THE COUNCIL OF ELDERS PROPOSED THIS.
IT SHOULD NOT BE PASSED.
YOU EITHER WANT YOUR GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABLE OR YOU ARE WILLING TO ALLOW THE GOVERNMENT TO RUN WILD.
IT IS YOUR CHOICE............ BE SMART,.......... VOTE NO.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: these are the opinions, ideas and facts of Brokenwing What do you think?
IT SHOULD NOT BE PASSED.
YOU EITHER WANT YOUR GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABLE OR YOU ARE WILLING TO ALLOW THE GOVERNMENT TO RUN WILD.
IT IS YOUR CHOICE............ BE SMART,.......... VOTE NO.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: these are the opinions, ideas and facts of Brokenwing What do you think?
Thursday, May 20, 2010
PASSAMAQUODDY TRIBES CASINO IN MAINE?
Passamaquoddy Tribe prepares to open new Class II facility
Thursday, May 20, 2010
The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township is getting ready to open a Class II casino.
The facility will feature 50 electronic gaming machines, a restaurant and a bowling alley. "There is a lot of interest already," Gov. William Nicholas told The Bangor Daily News.
The casino is set to open on July 17 -- two days after a new state law that authorized electronic gaming machines goes into effect. "The Passamaquoddy really did their homework,” David Bowler, of the Maine State Police gaming division, told the paper. “They wanted to do everything right and they were very good to work with.”
:
Thursday, May 20, 2010
The Passamaquoddy Tribe at Indian Township is getting ready to open a Class II casino.
The facility will feature 50 electronic gaming machines, a restaurant and a bowling alley. "There is a lot of interest already," Gov. William Nicholas told The Bangor Daily News.
The casino is set to open on July 17 -- two days after a new state law that authorized electronic gaming machines goes into effect. "The Passamaquoddy really did their homework,” David Bowler, of the Maine State Police gaming division, told the paper. “They wanted to do everything right and they were very good to work with.”
:
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
DO PER CAPS AFFECT TRIBAL MEMBERS HEALTH?
Study ties Eastern Cherokee health to per capita payments
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who received per capita payments from the tribe's casino were less likely to abuse alcohol and marijuana, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Tribal members began receiving a share of gaming revenues in 1996. The study tracked Eastern Cherokee youth from 1993 through 2006 and found a link between well-being and the payments.
Tribal youth were better off as adults than older tribal members who did not grow up with the revenues, according to the study. And tribal youth fared "significantly" better as adults than non-Indians, researchers found.
The tribe operates the Harrah's Cherokee Hotel and Casino in western North Carolina.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians who received per capita payments from the tribe's casino were less likely to abuse alcohol and marijuana, according to a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Tribal members began receiving a share of gaming revenues in 1996. The study tracked Eastern Cherokee youth from 1993 through 2006 and found a link between well-being and the payments.
Tribal youth were better off as adults than older tribal members who did not grow up with the revenues, according to the study. And tribal youth fared "significantly" better as adults than non-Indians, researchers found.
The tribe operates the Harrah's Cherokee Hotel and Casino in western North Carolina.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
DOES FALL RIVER WANT A CASINO?
GOING FOR BROKE: City still faces casino hurdles
By Michael Holtzman
Herald News Staff Reporter
Posted May 15, 2010 @ 06:23 PM
Fall River —
If city residents and business people say bringing a destination resort casino to Fall River is a mega-gamble, it’s not just figurative talk.
There remain more hurdles to leap than an Olympic track event.There are various “ifs” playing out in the high-stakes game with the city’s wheel of fortune in the balance.
It appears a full-blown casino could be built here…IF the state Senate follows suit of the House and passes a casino gambling bill and license designations the two chambers can agree on and the governor, who’s in favor of three statewide casinos, signs.
IF a deed restriction on the 300-acre SouthCoast BioPark site banning casinos is lifted. The state Legislature needs to vote the casino restriction out.
The mayor says that takes a majority, while casino critics says it requires a two-thirds vote.IF the city’s Redevelopment Authority votes to approve the sale of the 300-acre park to the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Tribe and their financial backers.
That could happen as soon as tomorrow night. IF the state Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development continues to fund the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's proposed bioprocessing center and the parties can agree upon the Redevelopment Authority’s alternative site.
The Greater Fall River Development Corp. will also kick in $3 million to further what was billed as the BioPark anchor tenant project by UMass Dartmouth.IF city voters support building a casino during a required referendum vote. Mayor Will Flanagan believes 7 in 10 will.
-->
By Michael Holtzman
Herald News Staff Reporter
Posted May 15, 2010 @ 06:23 PM
Fall River —
If city residents and business people say bringing a destination resort casino to Fall River is a mega-gamble, it’s not just figurative talk.
There remain more hurdles to leap than an Olympic track event.There are various “ifs” playing out in the high-stakes game with the city’s wheel of fortune in the balance.
It appears a full-blown casino could be built here…IF the state Senate follows suit of the House and passes a casino gambling bill and license designations the two chambers can agree on and the governor, who’s in favor of three statewide casinos, signs.
IF a deed restriction on the 300-acre SouthCoast BioPark site banning casinos is lifted. The state Legislature needs to vote the casino restriction out.
The mayor says that takes a majority, while casino critics says it requires a two-thirds vote.IF the city’s Redevelopment Authority votes to approve the sale of the 300-acre park to the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Tribe and their financial backers.
That could happen as soon as tomorrow night. IF the state Executive Office of Housing and Economic Development continues to fund the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth's proposed bioprocessing center and the parties can agree upon the Redevelopment Authority’s alternative site.
The Greater Fall River Development Corp. will also kick in $3 million to further what was billed as the BioPark anchor tenant project by UMass Dartmouth.IF city voters support building a casino during a required referendum vote. Mayor Will Flanagan believes 7 in 10 will.
-->
Friday, May 14, 2010
DO THE MASHPEE WAMPANOAGS WANT TO PUT A CASINO IN FALL RIVER?
Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe negotiates for a new casino site
Friday, May 14, 2010
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is in talks to buy land in Fall River, Massachusetts, for a casino.
The tribe wouldn't comment but a state lawmaker told The Brockton Enterprise that negotiations are underway. That would apparently mean the tribe's plans for a casino in Middleboro are dead.
“I’m very disappointed, but it doesn’t surprise me,” Middleboro Town Manager Charles J. Cristello told the paper. “Where’s there’s smoke, there’s fire.”
The tribe reached an intergovernmental agreement with Middleboro in 2007 and started the land-into-trust process in August of that year. But the tribe changed investors and started looking at other locations for a casino.
The tribe's land-into-trust application also faces questions under the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Carcieri v. Salazar, which restricts the land-into-trust process to tribes that were "under federal jurisdiction" in 1934. The Mashpees didn't gain formal recognition until May 2007
Get the Story:Fall River land deal could spell end for a casino in Middleboro
Friday, May 14, 2010
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe is in talks to buy land in Fall River, Massachusetts, for a casino.
The tribe wouldn't comment but a state lawmaker told The Brockton Enterprise that negotiations are underway. That would apparently mean the tribe's plans for a casino in Middleboro are dead.
“I’m very disappointed, but it doesn’t surprise me,” Middleboro Town Manager Charles J. Cristello told the paper. “Where’s there’s smoke, there’s fire.”
The tribe reached an intergovernmental agreement with Middleboro in 2007 and started the land-into-trust process in August of that year. But the tribe changed investors and started looking at other locations for a casino.
The tribe's land-into-trust application also faces questions under the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Carcieri v. Salazar, which restricts the land-into-trust process to tribes that were "under federal jurisdiction" in 1934. The Mashpees didn't gain formal recognition until May 2007
Get the Story:Fall River land deal could spell end for a casino in Middleboro
MASHANTUCKET PEQOUTS WANT GAMBLING AGE LOWERED?
Pequot Tribe seeks lower gambling age, longer alcohol sales
Thursday, May 13, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut wants to lower the gambling age from 21 to 18 and to extend alcohol sales at casinos.
Chairman Rodney Butler wants to talk with the governor and lawmakers about the changes. He said they will make Connecticut more competitive as gaming options increase in New England and the Northeast.
The gambling age in New York is 18 although it's 21 at some facilities, The Hartford Courant reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Maybe the gambling age should be lowered so that Connecticut casinos could be more competitive with New York Casinos.
However, how do the casinos control drinking of alcohol on the gambling floor, when the drinking age is 21? This seems like it could be a logistical nightmare.
If the casinos want to be truly competitive with Atlantic City and Las Vegas, then they should be allowed by Connecticut to have drinking 24 hours a day? What do you think?
Thursday, May 13, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut wants to lower the gambling age from 21 to 18 and to extend alcohol sales at casinos.
Chairman Rodney Butler wants to talk with the governor and lawmakers about the changes. He said they will make Connecticut more competitive as gaming options increase in New England and the Northeast.
The gambling age in New York is 18 although it's 21 at some facilities, The Hartford Courant reported.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Maybe the gambling age should be lowered so that Connecticut casinos could be more competitive with New York Casinos.
However, how do the casinos control drinking of alcohol on the gambling floor, when the drinking age is 21? This seems like it could be a logistical nightmare.
If the casinos want to be truly competitive with Atlantic City and Las Vegas, then they should be allowed by Connecticut to have drinking 24 hours a day? What do you think?
Thursday, May 13, 2010
IS TOBACCO BIG BUSINESS FOR THE SENECA TRIBE?
Tobacco shops on Seneca Nation put 1,000 people to work
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Tobacco is big business on the Seneca Nation in New York, where about 1,000 people are employed by smoke shops like the one owned by J. Conrad Seneca. 50, runs the Native Pride Travel Plaza. He employs 120 people, most of them non-Indian.
"We have our treaties with the United States that guarantee us certain rights. It doesn't matter whether a treaty was made in 1842 or 1794, or New York state is $8 billion in the hole," Seneca told The Ithaca Journal, citing a treaty right to sell tobacco free of state taxation.
Gov. David Paterson (D) wants to tap into the reservation revenue stream and require smoke shops to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Tobacco is big business on the Seneca Nation in New York, where about 1,000 people are employed by smoke shops like the one owned by J. Conrad Seneca. 50, runs the Native Pride Travel Plaza. He employs 120 people, most of them non-Indian.
"We have our treaties with the United States that guarantee us certain rights. It doesn't matter whether a treaty was made in 1842 or 1794, or New York state is $8 billion in the hole," Seneca told The Ithaca Journal, citing a treaty right to sell tobacco free of state taxation.
Gov. David Paterson (D) wants to tap into the reservation revenue stream and require smoke shops to collect taxes on the sale of tobacco to non-Indians.
CAYUGAS TO SUE TWO NEW YORK COUNTIES
Cayuga Nation to sue two counties for raid on smoke shops
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Cayuga Nation plans to sue two New York counties for raiding the tribe's smoke shops and seizing tribal property
.
The tribe always contended that Cayuga and Seneca counties lacked jurisdiction over its two smoke shops. A ruling from the New York Court of Appeals, the state's highest court, confirmed that
.
The counties seized over $500,000 of tobacco products and cash from the smoke shops in November 2008. The property was never returned.
"They’re done, they’re past the spoilage date….Of course, all of this was completely avoidable," Daniel French, an attorney for the tribe, told The Syracuse Post-Standard.
New York Appellate Division Decision:Cayuga Nation v. Gould (July 10, 2009)
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Cayuga Nation plans to sue two New York counties for raiding the tribe's smoke shops and seizing tribal property
.
The tribe always contended that Cayuga and Seneca counties lacked jurisdiction over its two smoke shops. A ruling from the New York Court of Appeals, the state's highest court, confirmed that
.
The counties seized over $500,000 of tobacco products and cash from the smoke shops in November 2008. The property was never returned.
"They’re done, they’re past the spoilage date….Of course, all of this was completely avoidable," Daniel French, an attorney for the tribe, told The Syracuse Post-Standard.
New York Appellate Division Decision:Cayuga Nation v. Gould (July 10, 2009)
MASHANTUCKETS HIT THE THREE BILLION MARK
Mashantucket Tribe reports $3B shared under gaming pact
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation will hold a ceremony today to mark a milestone in its relationship with the state of Connecticut.
The tribe signed a Class III gaming compact in 1993. The agreement requires the tribe to share 25 percent of slot machine revenues with the state.
Since 1993, the tribe has contributed $3 billion to the state. That comes to an average of $160 million a year
.
The Mohegan Tribe has shared $2.3 billion with the state in the past 13 years.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation will hold a ceremony today to mark a milestone in its relationship with the state of Connecticut.
The tribe signed a Class III gaming compact in 1993. The agreement requires the tribe to share 25 percent of slot machine revenues with the state.
Since 1993, the tribe has contributed $3 billion to the state. That comes to an average of $160 million a year
.
The Mohegan Tribe has shared $2.3 billion with the state in the past 13 years.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
ONEIDAS DEAL WITH C D FOOD AND BEVERAGE
Oneida Nation details arrangement for casino alcohol sales
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
The Oneida Nation of New York offered details about a business deal that will bring liquor to the Turning Stone Resort and Casino.
The tribe will lease all of the restaurant, hotel, entertainment and gaming floor space at the casino to CD Food & Beverage. Gaming operations space and retail outlets will not be included.
CD will pay sales taxes to Oneida County and to the state, along with a county occupancy tax on hotel room. CD will also pay an 8 percent sales tax to the tribe and a 3 percent occupancy tax to the tribe.
The deal does not call for the tribe to waive its immunity. CD agreed to be held liable for drunken driving cases.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
The Oneida Nation of New York offered details about a business deal that will bring liquor to the Turning Stone Resort and Casino.
The tribe will lease all of the restaurant, hotel, entertainment and gaming floor space at the casino to CD Food & Beverage. Gaming operations space and retail outlets will not be included.
CD will pay sales taxes to Oneida County and to the state, along with a county occupancy tax on hotel room. CD will also pay an 8 percent sales tax to the tribe and a 3 percent occupancy tax to the tribe.
The deal does not call for the tribe to waive its immunity. CD agreed to be held liable for drunken driving cases.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
WHITE EARTH GOVERNMENT REJECTS PETITION FOR RECALL
White Earth council rejects petition to remove chairwoman
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Erma Vizenor, the chairwoman of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe Indians of Minnesota, won't face a removal election.
Tribal members submitted a petition with 567 signatures last month. They said Vizenor was disregarding the tribal constitution. They also complained about not being able to work at the tribal casino and about tribal enrollment issues.
The tribal council examined the petition and said it found numerous deficiencies. Only 375 signatures were valid, not enough for a recall.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Petitions have the potential to make governments accountable.
Why is the Mohegan Council of Elders trying to change the Petition Rights in the Mohegan Constitution? Is making your government accountable a good thing?
Do we (the Mohegan Tribe) need changes in Petition Rights in our Constitution? What do you think?
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Erma Vizenor, the chairwoman of the White Earth Band of Ojibwe Indians of Minnesota, won't face a removal election.
Tribal members submitted a petition with 567 signatures last month. They said Vizenor was disregarding the tribal constitution. They also complained about not being able to work at the tribal casino and about tribal enrollment issues.
The tribal council examined the petition and said it found numerous deficiencies. Only 375 signatures were valid, not enough for a recall.
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Petitions have the potential to make governments accountable.
Why is the Mohegan Council of Elders trying to change the Petition Rights in the Mohegan Constitution? Is making your government accountable a good thing?
Do we (the Mohegan Tribe) need changes in Petition Rights in our Constitution? What do you think?
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
APPEALS COURT SIDES WITH CAYUGA ON TABACCO TAXES
Appeals court sides with Cayuga Nation in tobacco tax case
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
The court said the tribe can continue to sell tobacco at two smoke shops. The facilities are located on "qualified reservation" property -- as that term is defined by state law -- even though the properties are the subject of a pending land-into-trust application.
"But based on existing precedent and federal consideration of the fee-for-trust application, the United States government continues to recognize the existence of a Cayuga reservation in New York," the court said in a 4-3 decision.
The court said the tribe cannot sell tobacco to non-Indians without collecting a state tax. However, the state has yet to implement regulations that would facilitate the process so the court said it would be "unduly burdensome' to force the tribe to pay the taxes at this time
.
The appeals court is the highest court in the state.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
The court said the tribe can continue to sell tobacco at two smoke shops. The facilities are located on "qualified reservation" property -- as that term is defined by state law -- even though the properties are the subject of a pending land-into-trust application.
"But based on existing precedent and federal consideration of the fee-for-trust application, the United States government continues to recognize the existence of a Cayuga reservation in New York," the court said in a 4-3 decision.
The court said the tribe cannot sell tobacco to non-Indians without collecting a state tax. However, the state has yet to implement regulations that would facilitate the process so the court said it would be "unduly burdensome' to force the tribe to pay the taxes at this time
.
The appeals court is the highest court in the state.
STORY TAKEN FROM www.indianz.com.
Monday, May 10, 2010
WILL TRIBAL GAMING COME TO MASSACHUSETTS?
Opinion: Opening door to tribal gaming in Massachusetts Monday, May 10, 2010
"Robert DeLeo wants to bring legalized gambling to Massachusetts. He wants two casinos and slots at four racing tracks, and right now, it looks like he’s going to get his wish.
And, potentially, a lot more. In DeLeo’s rush to appease the building trades and carve out some action for the two racetracks in his district, the speaker of the House is setting the table for a gambling expansion in Massachusetts that has the potential to be far broader than anything he’s pitching. He’s opening the door to new gambling halls on Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape, in Middleborough and Fall River. It’s also something neither he, nor anyone else on Beacon Hill, can control.
Forget, for a second, all the reasons we know we should worry about legalized gambling — its regressive nature, the way it cannibalizes money that would otherwise be spent at local businesses, the negligible benefits it offers strained government budgets, the staggering social and regulatory costs. None of that has swayed DeLeo, or anybody else on Beacon Hill whose opinion actually matters these days. Two years ago, the Legislature was debating whether to legalize casinos at all; now the body is just wondering how many to greenlight.
The Mashpee Wampanoag and the Aquinnah, the state’s two federally recognized Native American tribes, have each expressed serious interest in owning a gleaming gambling hall. They haven’t been able to follow through on those urges because, legally, they can’t.
The tribes are sovereign, but they’re only allowed to set up a gambling shop at the highest level of gaming that’s legal in their home state. Right now, they could peddle scratch tickets, or maybe hop into the high-stakes bingo game. There’s no serious money in either pursuit. That changes the moment the governor signs a casino bill into law this summer. Each will be freed to set up gaming operations on their tribal land, on the Cape and Martha’s Vineyard. And the state wouldn’t be able to touch a dime of whatever rolls in."
"Robert DeLeo wants to bring legalized gambling to Massachusetts. He wants two casinos and slots at four racing tracks, and right now, it looks like he’s going to get his wish.
And, potentially, a lot more. In DeLeo’s rush to appease the building trades and carve out some action for the two racetracks in his district, the speaker of the House is setting the table for a gambling expansion in Massachusetts that has the potential to be far broader than anything he’s pitching. He’s opening the door to new gambling halls on Martha’s Vineyard and the Cape, in Middleborough and Fall River. It’s also something neither he, nor anyone else on Beacon Hill, can control.
Forget, for a second, all the reasons we know we should worry about legalized gambling — its regressive nature, the way it cannibalizes money that would otherwise be spent at local businesses, the negligible benefits it offers strained government budgets, the staggering social and regulatory costs. None of that has swayed DeLeo, or anybody else on Beacon Hill whose opinion actually matters these days. Two years ago, the Legislature was debating whether to legalize casinos at all; now the body is just wondering how many to greenlight.
The Mashpee Wampanoag and the Aquinnah, the state’s two federally recognized Native American tribes, have each expressed serious interest in owning a gleaming gambling hall. They haven’t been able to follow through on those urges because, legally, they can’t.
The tribes are sovereign, but they’re only allowed to set up a gambling shop at the highest level of gaming that’s legal in their home state. Right now, they could peddle scratch tickets, or maybe hop into the high-stakes bingo game. There’s no serious money in either pursuit. That changes the moment the governor signs a casino bill into law this summer. Each will be freed to set up gaming operations on their tribal land, on the Cape and Martha’s Vineyard. And the state wouldn’t be able to touch a dime of whatever rolls in."
Thursday, May 6, 2010
EIGHT DOLLARS MORE PLEASE
Uncasville, Connecticut...........One customer of the Mohegan Sun Casino Hotel said, "they're nickel and diming us to death."
What was this customer talking about? It seems for over a year now, the Mohegan Sun Hotel has been charging $8.40 including tax for the use of the indoor pool (the only pool), the gym and to get a newspaper in the morning. These items over the years have been provided free, now they are being charged for.
I asked the hotel, if what I had been informed was true. I was told it was. I asked why couldn't the charge be included in the room charge. I was told that state law required a separate charge.
This doesn't sound like good business practices to me. How many people are angry about this? One customer, I talked to, said if they went to another hotel there wouldn't be a charge for the gym, the pool or a newspaper.
HOW MUCH BUSINESS IS BEING LOST FROM THIS PRACTICE? What do you think?
What was this customer talking about? It seems for over a year now, the Mohegan Sun Hotel has been charging $8.40 including tax for the use of the indoor pool (the only pool), the gym and to get a newspaper in the morning. These items over the years have been provided free, now they are being charged for.
I asked the hotel, if what I had been informed was true. I was told it was. I asked why couldn't the charge be included in the room charge. I was told that state law required a separate charge.
This doesn't sound like good business practices to me. How many people are angry about this? One customer, I talked to, said if they went to another hotel there wouldn't be a charge for the gym, the pool or a newspaper.
HOW MUCH BUSINESS IS BEING LOST FROM THIS PRACTICE? What do you think?
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
SHOULD THE U.S. ARMY TEACH SOLDIERS ABOUT WOUNDED KNEE?
Editorial: Incident shows need to learn about Indian people
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
"It seems as though overreaction successfully was avoided last weekend after a controversy at the Wounded Knee memorial.
The Colorado Army National Guard unit seeking to land its helicopters at the site didn't know much about the site's history. In fact, the reason the Guard members were there was to learn more about the 1890 massacre.
The helicopter unit's commander, Capt. Todd Stansbury, sought permission to land at the memorial from Oglala Sioux President Theresa Two Bulls. In turn, she asked for input from Wounded Knee District representatives. Not hearing anything back, Stansbury's request was approved.
Despite her efforts, the Guard unit's three helicopters were greeted by protesters as they attempted to land. Not wanting confrontation, the unit instead flew to Rapid City.
The fact that there's still so much serious mistrust in Indian Country highlights the need for efforts such as the Year of Unity to take hold at the ground level. There need to be even more attempts, however awkward, on the part of non-Indians to learn more about Native American history."
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Doesn't the United States Army teach its soldiers about history? Could this be a real blunder by some members of the U. S. Army?'
Native Americans should be outraged. Is this another example of where Native Americans need to unite? Does what happens at a reservation in South Dakota have an effect on tribes in other parts of the country?
Native Americans need to stand together. If something is done to one group, should other groups come forward and stand up and be counted? What do you think?
ARTICLE COPIED FROM http://www.indianz.com/.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
"It seems as though overreaction successfully was avoided last weekend after a controversy at the Wounded Knee memorial.
The Colorado Army National Guard unit seeking to land its helicopters at the site didn't know much about the site's history. In fact, the reason the Guard members were there was to learn more about the 1890 massacre.
The helicopter unit's commander, Capt. Todd Stansbury, sought permission to land at the memorial from Oglala Sioux President Theresa Two Bulls. In turn, she asked for input from Wounded Knee District representatives. Not hearing anything back, Stansbury's request was approved.
Despite her efforts, the Guard unit's three helicopters were greeted by protesters as they attempted to land. Not wanting confrontation, the unit instead flew to Rapid City.
The fact that there's still so much serious mistrust in Indian Country highlights the need for efforts such as the Year of Unity to take hold at the ground level. There need to be even more attempts, however awkward, on the part of non-Indians to learn more about Native American history."
EDITORIAL FOOTNOTE: Doesn't the United States Army teach its soldiers about history? Could this be a real blunder by some members of the U. S. Army?'
Native Americans should be outraged. Is this another example of where Native Americans need to unite? Does what happens at a reservation in South Dakota have an effect on tribes in other parts of the country?
Native Americans need to stand together. If something is done to one group, should other groups come forward and stand up and be counted? What do you think?
ARTICLE COPIED FROM http://www.indianz.com/.
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