Ralph Sturges, the longtime chief of the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut, was named Citizen of the Year by the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut.

Sturges, 86, was recognized for his commitment to the tribe. He was a leader of the tribe's successful bid for federal recognition, which led to the opening of a large casino.

Sturges' role as chief is mostly ceremonial but he is seen as a key tribal adviser. According to The Norwich Bulletin, he supports efforts by Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona) to strengthen regulation of Indian gaming.

"Gaming for the Indians has been a good thing, but things are getting out of hand," Sturges said, the paper reported. "They should do it the way it was originally meant to be: ...honest and aboveboard."

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A Commitment To Culture (The New London Day 4/14)
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'He's a hero of mine' (The Norwich Bulletin 4/14)