"Fact: New York State has supported legalized gambling for years with its lottery, scratch games and, right now, the State is installing VLTs (electronic slot machines) at racetrack and probably at every OTB, including Southampton.

Fact: Indian gaming is one of the most highly regulated forms of gaming in the country. The State Police, FBI, IRS and Home security offices can enforce most of their laws on Shinnecock land.

Fact: Indian gaming will work for the entire community. In our region, gaming would support year-round jobs and generate millions of dollars in economic activity.

Fact: The Shinnecock plans call for an access road from Sunrise Highway to alleviate traffic congestion paid for by the Shinnecock. The Shinnecock have recently opened a dialogue regarding other sites further west.

Fact: The Shinnecock Nation has been recognized by the state of New York as an independent, self-governing nation for centuries. This historic, diplomatic arrangement provides the foundation for the Nation to govern and conduct gaming on our tribal lands. The tribe is a responsible member of the community and has every intention to meet or exceed the Federal Standards as a practice of sound business."

Get the Story:
Lance Gumbs: For The Record (The Hampton Independent 2/11)

Relevant Links:
Shinnecock Nation - http://www.shinnecocknation.com

Related Stories:
Judge to have 'final word' on Shinnecock recognition (01/28)
Shinnecock Nation case tests legal waters (1/26)
Shinnecock leaders compare opposition to genocide (1/22)
BIA wants Shinnecocks to wait a decade for status (12/18)
N.Y. opinion affirmed Shinnecock Nation sovereignty (09/19)
Decision awaited in Shinnecock casino case (08/06)