The Shinnecock tribe, who have lived for centuries in a patch of land on the Hamptons shoreline, have been formally recognized by the federal government after a 32-year court battle. The Shinnecock had to prove they existed in order to apply for federal funding to build schools, health centers and set up their own police force, which left some members bitter: "Why do we need federal recognition to show we are who we are? It's a humiliating, degrading and insensitive process. Why do Indian people have to go through that? No other peoples are treated like that," said Shinnecock leader Lance Gumbs. more ›

You know what the Hamptons really need? A more efficient way to throw money away. That's why the Shinnecock tribe on Long Island is hoping to get federal recognition and open a casino out there. (They've been recognized by the state for ages.) The Shinnecocks filed a petition with the Interior Department for federal recognition back in 1978, but you can't rush the Grandfather in Washington. The tribe finally sued the agency in 2006, and on Tuesday the Interior Department finally agreed to a time frame to answer the tribe's petition. John A. Strong, a retired professor who's an expert on Long Island tribes, tells the Times recognition is pretty much a lock, and once that happens, the Shinnecocks will be allowed to open a Class II casino (just video slot machines, no table games). They'd sure love it if they could get out of poverty by attracting gambling swells from the Hamptons, but because Suffolk County is worried about the traffic, the tribe may cut a deal with the state to open a Class I casino in Queens, perhaps at the Aqueduct racetrack! more ›