This week, the Oneida Indian Nation has updated the mask protocols for its gaming properties in Oneida and Madison counties in New York State. Following, Governor Kathy Hochul’s new mandate to wear masks in all indoor public places, the tribal company has decided also to implement it across its Empire State gaming properties.
Due to being a sovereign nation, Oneida is not required to follow state mandates such as Gov. Hochul’s latest one. However, the nation realizes its responsibility towards local communities and the growing cases of the unprecedented situation and hospitalizations in the state, it will also be introducing the mandatary face masks for visitors.
The New Rule
New York State’s new mask policy requires all individuals to wear protective face masks while at public indoor places, or businesses unless those locations require patrons to show proof of vaccination to gain entry. Similarly, to the state mandate, the tribe informs that patrons are allowed to remove their masks while seated for dining and drinking.
The tribal company’s new policy states that if individuals wish to drink while standing in the public areas, such as bars, and the gaming floor, they can do so with a straw beneath their face covering. Full details about the new mask protocols at the Native American company’s properties can be found online on its official website.
The policy applies to the properties managed by Oneida Nation Enterprises, this includes Turning Stone Resort Casino, Point Place Casino, YBR Casino & Sports book, The Lake House, Maple Leaf Markets, SavOn Convenience Store and all hotels. However, the new rule does not alter the existing proof of vaccination required to enter the company’s clubs at its resorts.
These clubs and other areas are Turning Stone Resort Casino’s Exit 33, the Turning Stone Event Center, and the Turning Stone Showroom. Masks are not mandatory in the said venues. In order to gain entry visitors must present a vaccine card, a digital photo of the card on their phones, or an Excelsior Pass. Last but not least, smoking will be temporarily banned on the Turning Stone gaming floor.
Return of Nightlife
The Exit 33 clubs at Turning Stone Resort Casino were reopened quite recently by Oneida Indian Nation, and now they will be operational on Friday and Saturday nights. Also, Tin Rooster, The Gig, and The Atrium Bar are now able to host live shows, and they will welcome performances by The Beadle Brothers, Gridley Paige, Scars N’ Stripes, and Tom Nitti. However, the three venues will not work on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, which are Friday and Saturday.
2021 Gaming Awards
Not long ago, Turning Stone Resort Casino was recognized for its premium gaming and dining amenities at the 2021 Gaming Awards by Casino Player Magazine. The Verona property managed to snatch 24 honors at the awards, including ones in categories such as Best Overall Gaming Resort, Best Hotel, Best Suites, Best Pool, Best Spa, Best Golf Course, and many more.
Source: Cazentre, Don “Oneida Indian Nation updates face mask policy at Turning Stone, other casinos and properties”, Syracuse.com, December 13, 2021