The Warm Springs Tribes proposal for an off-reservation casino in Oregon has sparked a lot of debate. The Oregonian newspaper publishes a few letters about the subject.

Demus D. Martinez: "I find it absurd that the Grand Rondes (which operate Spirit Mountain Casino) are meddling with another tribe's financial security. I am hurt that they would try and deprive my Warm Springs people of needed revenue. The Columbia River Gorge is our traditional land. We have lived there for centuries, fished there for centuries. We were stewards of the river before the freeways, dams, homes and railways were there. Why do we need permission to build on our lands?"

Earl C. Switzer: "There is a third choice (relating to building a casino in Hood River or Cascade Locks): No more casinos are needed in Oregon. A casino, even in the cities within the Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area, would harm the unique Columbia Gorge environment, contributing to increased air and water pollution."

Joan Yasui Emerson: "I know from volunteer efforts there that there is great need to find ways to deal with devastating social problems -- chronic illnesses, lack of educational opportunities, unemployment and hopelessness, to name a few. There are not many doors or windows open for them. Sadly, the casino does represent a ray of hope; and the truth is, casinos have brought economic relief and some hope to other tribes. "

Bryan Y. Weight: "Gambling takes money from one pocket and places it into another. There is no growth, no long-term benefit and no increase in productivity for the state of Oregon as a whole. I am opposed to any increase in gambling."

Get the Story:
Letters: COLUMBIA GORGE CASINO (The Oregonian 9/25)