FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                                                                          CONTACT: Peter ClerkinApril 30, 2008                                                                                                             (503) 336-4381 STEVE MARKS STATEMENT ON COLUMBIA RIVER GORGE GAMING PROPOSAL(Salem, OR) – Today, Steve Marks, Democratic candidate for Oregon's 5th Congressional District, release the following statement regarding the proposed off-reservation gaming establishment at the Columbia River Gorge:"I am adamantly opposed to the concept of off-reservation gaming.  The policy of one casino per tribe on reservation land is a sound one, and I am proud to have helped create that policy with Governor Kitzhaber.  This policy ensures that the laws are applied equally to all tribes.  The rules are clear; tribes can invest in their on-reservation facilities and plan for their memberships' future.  I feel strongly that this policy leads to equity amongst all tribes, and it helps balance gaming activity, both tribal and non-tribal, throughout the State of Oregon.  A casino in the Columbia River Gorge would adversely affect the existing gaming facilities and the economies they support.  In Congress I will work to ensure that the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act limits off-reservation and tribal lands casinos.  Beyond gaming policy, the proposal for a casino in the Columbia River Gorge is environmentally unwise and is a disastrous land use decision that will adversely impact the Columbia River Gorge, an area that Congress, at the urging of Oregonians, has seen as important to protect."-30-