Casino, locals feel economic pangs

North Stonington (WTNH) - With layoffs at the casinos and the economy spiraling down, Schemitzun is the next victim to fall to tough times. The nationwide event featuring Native American dancers and crafts has been canceled.

Brittany Johnson of Mystic Pizza II has been working at the restaurant for three years and has noticed a decline in business as the casino traffic slows. Now, the canceling of Schemitzun, something the Native Americans hold sacred, has gotten her thinking.

"For this summer, there is definitely going to be a lot less, a lot of people don't have money to travel," said Johnson. "I don't know. I hope they stay busy because they keep us busier."

People say different businesses closing has become a disturbing trend along Rt. Two in North Stonington. There is even a building just up around the corner that is for rent. And with the economy on the decline, and the casinos cutting back, canceling Foxwoods' Schemitzun is just one more nail it the coffin.

"Tim Hortons shut down and that has to have something to do with it," said Johnson of a former neighboring restaurant.

Dan Aranda, of North Stonington, lives and works in the area and while he doesn't go to the casino very often, he is always slowed by the traffic. With the canceling of Schemitzun, he knows there will be less traffic on the road which is something he never thought would concern him.

"It makes my ride easier but it is bad for business," said Aranda. "I could drive straight home the other day and normally it takes me a little while to get home through traffic."