A lengthy discussion regarding establishing a Gambling Casino, off
reservation, in the State of Connecticut, in the City of Bridgeport, was
capped at 5 pm today when Gov. John Rowland selected the Mashantucket
Pequots over Steve Wynn's Mirage Hotel Group. Wynn, a Connecticut native
and the other finalist amoung six indicated interested groups, has yet to
comment.
In comments earlier, Gov. Rowland stated that it was not difficult to make
up his mind. And at the announcement, Gov. Rowland paid tribute to the
works of the tribe and their citizenship. Michael Brown, CEO of Foxwoods,
the tribe's origional Casino, noted that the tribe had been citizens longer
than anyone else.
The Mashantucket Pequots, who's adult population numbers less than 200, have
been extremely careful who they have relied upon for assistance in they
increadable rise from the ashes almost every Eastern Woodland tribe has
found itself in. And as they have grown they have shared with their fellow
Nutmeggers, (their largest contribution - a $2,000,000 donation to help
bring the World Special Olympics to New Haven this summer.) and with their
fellow Native Americans, with a $10,000,000 donation to the National Museum
of the American Indian. All this in addition to sharing their take on the
slot machines, giving the State of Connecticut 25% of the profit, which
amounts to $400,000,000 donated to State coffers annually.
Although the Legislature must approve gambling in the State, it is my
feeling that it may just happen. In any case, some very important people
have said some very nice things about Indians in Connecticut today. And
everyone could hear it!!
Perhaps the Circle closed just a little today.
Suave...
Pablo