Shinnecock Tribe Gets Closer To Federal Recognition

The Shinnecock Nation is one of the oldest self governing Indian tribes in the nation. Located in Long Island's tony Southhampton, the Shinnecock tribe is almost guaranteed federal recognition. These Algonquian Indians have lived along the East End of Long Island, New York since around the 1600s.

The New York Times reports on the 30 year battle for the Shinnecock Nation to gain United States recognition. Today the Obama administration said the Shinnecock Indian Nation of Long Island met the criteria for federal recognition. There is still a period of public comment before the tribe gets recognition.

The major concern for local residents is the tribe building a casino on their 800 acre reservation. Federal recognition would allow the Shinnecock Indian Nation to build a casino on the reservation or outside the reservation in the NYC/suburban area.

At this point it appears the Shinnecock tribe is considering a casino outside the reservation because it would be more lucrative for them and New York state. The reservation is located in Southampton where transportation is often strained.

Federal recognition would be a major accomplishment for the Shinnecock Nation. Frederick C. Best, one of the nation's three trustees, sees offhanded neglect at the reservation amidst one of the wealthiest communities in the country. A casino could significantly improve their way of life.

As an East Ender, I see the condition of the reservations and feel improvements must be made. Recently the local reservations on Long Island lost their right to sell untaxed cigarettes which serious impacts their ability to earn money. The Shinnecock Nation needs the Federal recognition to generate essential revenue for their communities. The location of the potential casino is a concern for everyone.

Here is a YouTube video of the Shinnecock Indian Nation 63rd Annual Labor Day Weekend Powwow in 2009:

Mastic Beach Christmas Tree & Menorah Lighting

The Mastic Beach Christmas tree and menorah lighting was rained out yesterday and rescheduled to Sunday, December 6, at 6:30 PM.  See you there!

Mastic Beach Tree Lighting 2009

Thanks to the Mastic Beach Property Owners Association, the community will enjoy a Christmas tree and menorah lighting on December 5, 2009 at the gazebo on Neighborhood Road.  It's right across from the John's Pizza (the pink pizza place). 

Santa will be there so bring the children for a great family time!  We had fun last year and look forward to attending this year.  Isn't the snowman from last year's ceremony adorable?  There will be decorations and memories to be made right in Mastic Beach.