Rival Conn. casino tribes forge alliance

UNCASVILLE, Conn. (AP) — The leaders of the rival Connecticut tribes that own two of the world's largest casinos say they are seeking ways to work as allies as they struggle through extended slumps.

Mohegan Chairman Bruce "Two Dogs" Bozsum and Mashantucket Pequot Chairman Rodney Butler have won concessions in joint talks with Connecticut's governor and say they are seeking out other areas where they can speak with a single voice.

In interviews with The Associated Press, the chairmen said they realized they were dealing with many of the same challenges amid the weak economy and growing competition.

The two tribes fought a war against each other in the 1600s. Today the Mohegans own the Mohegan Sun casino, which is seven miles from the Pequots' Foxwoods Resort Casino in rural southeastern Connecticut.