It was the first day of a new self-imposed rule requiring robust masks following research suggesting bandanas, gaiters and coverings with valves were less effective at limiting the spread of coronavirus respiratory droplets. One maskless woman waved the offer away and kept walking, despite prodding. In mid-August, when an inewsource reporter was invited to tour Sycuan with a casino official, once-furloughed employees rehired as “safety agents” walked the floor reminding guests to cover their faces and provided a mask if they didn’t have one.

They also reminded the officials that the casinos are a “lifeline” for funding essential tribal government operations including police, fire, healthcare, education, housing and environmental protections. Gavin Newsom, county Supervisor Greg Cox and other officials, eight of the gaming tribes explained their decision to reopen, saying they believed they could ensure the well being of guests and employees and scale back if needed. With the exception of Sycuan, casino officials declined to comment for this story, did not respond or referred a reporter to safety policies posted online. Zoë Meyers A woman floats in one of the pools at the Sycuan Casino Resort, where social distancing measures are in place, Aug. Then I’ll be living on the streets with my kids.” If I don’t have the job, I can’t afford my house. “I cannot just let my job go because I’m scared,” she said. One employee at the Sycuan Casino Resort in East County said she prays for her health before each shift.

Some said their management isn’t providing them any information about cases linked to their workplace.

Mask policies are difficult to enforce with guests, they said, and crowds can form around table games and slot machines despite social distancing efforts. inewsource agreed not to name them because they feared losing their jobs. Online it’s selling tickets to concerts.Įmployees at three of the county’s casinos said the new protocols aren’t always followed. Pala Casino Spa Resort in North County, for example, has reduced its transportation program but continues to bus in guests from throughout Southern California. 14, 2020.Įach business had varying levels of enforcement and open activities. Zoë Meyers While smoking, eating, or drinking visitors are not required to wear masks at the Sycuan casino in East County, Aug.

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