West Siloam Springs’ Cherokee Casino & Hotel Reopens

Published: 15/06/2020

Reading Time: 4 Min

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Cherokee Casino & Hotel in West Siloam Springs were the last batch of Cherokee Business properties to reopen. Ten features of the operator are now ready to offer its services to patrons. The reopening followed the state’s move to loosen measures allowing businesses to start their recovery plans.

Many states have already resumed their casinos as they hope to find alternative revenues in their support of their coronavirus preventive and recovery plans. Many state leaders opposed the reopening of the casinos. However, the jurisdiction of the states is limited when it comes to the operations of tribal casinos.

Patrons welcomed the reopening of casinos in many states with delight. People traveled miles to book for accommodation in hotels and casinos. New health and safety protocols attracted more gamblers that are eager to release stress and tension brought by the coronavirus crisis.

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Cherokee casino reopened in differ schedules

On Thursday, the Cherokee business announced the reopening of its ten casinos in Northeast Oklahoma. The statement said they would resume the operations of the casinos in West Siloam Springs for last. The properties were shut down since March 17 after the government-mandated establishments to halt operations because of the spread of the deadly virus.

On June 1, Cherokee Casino Tahlequah and Cherokee Casino Ft. Gibson led the reopening of Cherokee Business properties. It was followed by the reopening of the Cherokee Casino Sallisaw on June 2.

The reopening of the other casinos was delayed on June 10 as CNB waited for its hospitality plant’s approval from the Cherokee Nation Gaming Commission. Cherokee Casino Will Rogers Downs, Cherokee Casino Grove, and Cherokee Casino Roland started accepting guests after receiving the approval.

Cherokee casinos followed government-mandated hygiene and sanitation protocols during their operations.

They needed to reduce capacity as mandated, ensuring physical distancing on the floor at all times. The casinos also required to clean and sanitize machines and the whole facility at all times.

Guests and employees needed to pass a non-invasive temperature screening before entry. Individuals with a temperature higher than 100.4°F are restricted from heading to the vicinity. Everyone is advised to wear masks at all times to avoid the spread of viruses on the casino floor.

Casinos resumed operations despite warnings from state leaders

Many state leaders warned about casino reopening while there is a lurking threat of the novel coronavirus.

Connecticut Gov. Ned Lamont instructed transportation workers to install lights warning people of going to casinos.

Flashing warning, saying “Avoid Large Crowds” and “Don’t Gamble With COVID,” welcomed travelers coming in the state.

Tribes in the state resumed their operations despite the warning of the governor, arguing sovereignty and autonomy. States have limited powers when it comes to sovereign tribal territories. Tribes have the freedom to decide when to resume the operations of their casinos.

Gavin Newsman, a democratic Governor from California, warned people that the virus does not recognize jurisdictional boundaries. Mayor Carlos Gimenez of Florida warned people on his social media account. He said the elderly should take responsibility and stay away from casinos.