TOPPENISH—-The 10,000 strong Yakama Nation has shelled out to each of its tribal members $2000 to help tide over the cost of Christmas celebrations. This one time infusion of money from the casino profits amounts to $20 million into the local economy.

Earlier this month at the tribe’s General Council meeting Tribal members had asked for the money. Major decisions, including election of the tribal leaders were also concluded in the meeting.

The legality of handing over the profits to the members have been questioned by the tribal members, keeping in mind the fact that the Federal Government had not approved of any such plan. Other tribal leaders go on to say that it is perfectly legal as the payments were made on a one time basis and is not going to be a regular feature.

Every enrolled man woman and child is to receive the check which has been dispatched on Friday. The Tribal leaders were in for a surprise this Christmas as their earlier requests for money to help in School Shopping and Christmas was not entertained. However, tribal members did receive $500 each for school shopping.

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