"The world changes, and those who perceive the changes -- and act -- benefit. That's why it's said: Knowledge is power.

A case in point is the evolving relationship between the Mashantucket Pequots and Mohegans, and the communities struggling with the impact of the tribes' casinos -- on schools, roads, law enforcement, you name it.

In the early years -- Foxwoods Resort Casino has only been around since 1992; Mohegan Sun since 1996 -- both tribes reveled in their new-found independence and wealth.

It must have been fun, after 300 years under the thumb.

That was then; this is now. The casinos, like it or not, have become dominant institutions in Eastern Connecticut and, as such, recognize no tribe is an island."

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Editorial: Town, tribal collaboration is our future (The Norwich Bulletin 2/22)