Not true; all elite members can get it. I just checked with my wife's account - she's a silver. She's able to get $1000 for 135K pts.

Here's a link: https://www.marriott.com/rewards/mor...points=135,000

Text:
Marriott Cheques
Points: 135,000
Code: E195
For Elite Members Only
$1,000 in Marriott Cheques

Receive (20) $50 Marriott Cheques. Imagine how much $1,000 would add to your vacation! Use it like cash to indulge in luxurious spas. Take on the challenge of par-defying golf. Enjoy spectacular dining experiences from dusk to dawn..or give as a gift to make any occassion special.

Take on the challenge of par-defying golf. Enjoy spectacular dining experiences from dawn to dusk...or, give as a gift to make any occasion special. All at 25% off the regular point amount.

The choice is yours through December 31, 2011.




Ignore 31 Dec 2011; they always renew it. They haven't changed the point level required (135K) in the three or four years I've been redeeming points for gift cheques.