Safety protocols announced as casino prepares to reopen its doors
Ilani has announced it will reopen for business on May 28, with new protocols in place to adhere to the guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control and Washington health authorities.
Leaders of Ilani and the Cowlitz Tribe will gather for a blessing and a smudging ceremony at 10 a.m. The public is invited to attend the ceremony and ribbon-cutting event.
“In Native American cultures, a smudging ceremony is an opportunity to purify ourselves and our surroundings,” said William “Bill” Iyall, tribal chairman, via press release from Ilani. “It is a powerful ritual and holds great significance as we move to resume gathering all walks of life through Ilani’s doors, but within new constraints established for the well-being of all.”
Guests will have their temperatures checked before being allowed inside the resort. At noon on May 28, Ilani will resume its normal hours of operation, 24 hours, seven days a week.
The health of Ilani team members and guests is the priority, the release noted. The Cowlitz Tribe has monitored activity and the latest guidance from health authorities to develop a reopening plan. Guests can expect the following measures:
- Reduced and distanced seating at all restaurants and lounges.
- Powered off gaming machines to ensure more physical distance between patrons.
- Signage with distance markers for food and beverage outlets and high-traffic areas.
- Entrances equipped with temperature checks.
- Face masks for team members.
- Increased number of hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipe stations.
- Frequent sanitizing of all high-touch surfaces and stringent cleaning procedures multiple times per day.
- Plexiglass barriers in key locations, including table games.
Also, team members will have their temperatures checked. Anyone exhibiting a fever or reporting other signs of illness, will be sent home.
“We are optimistic that we can help the community maintain its momentum flattening the curve, while implementing enhanced health protocols that safely allow our employees and guests to reconnect with all that Ilani has to offer,” said Kara Fox-LaRose, president and general manager of Ilani.
