ST. REGIS MOHAWK CASINO

MONTICELLO, New York -- The press is reporting that the Bureau of Indian Affairs

has approved the St. Regis Mohawk tribe's plan to build a tribal casino at the Monticello

Raceway in New York's Catskill Mountains. The tribe can now transfer 30 acres of land at

the horse racing track to be a site for the casino. The casino now needs approval of state

officials. Although Governor George Pataki has not seen the federal approvals, he has voiced

support for the concept of gaming in resort areas. The proposed casino will be 75 miles north

west of New York City and Atlantic City casino owners are concerned that it will have a

major impact on their business.