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The Confederated Grand Ronde Tribes of Oregon has spent nearly $1 million in television ads in hopes of blocking another tribe's casino.

The unprecedented campaign has worried some elders who worked to restore the tribe's recognition. They say the current tribal leadership is motivated by greed.

"It's money holding the tribe together," Margaret Provost, one of the organizers of the restoration effort, told The Oregonian. "Not culture, not heritage. It's money."

Outsiders question the spending as well. Former Rep. Elizabeth Furse, who helped the tribe regain its recognition, said it could affect how the Grand Ronde are perceived among other tribes in the state.

Tribal Chairwoman Cheryle Kennedy isn't too concerned. She said she will do "whatever it takes," to stop the Warm Springs Tribes from opening an off-reservation casino.

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Tribe takes gamble in turf war (The Oregonian 6/25)