In a surprising turn of events, Swinomish Casino & Lodge in Anacortes has announced its sudden closure, leaving both employees and guests puzzled. The popular casino and hotel, owned and operated by the Swinomish Indian Tribal Community, has been a staple in the community for years, offering entertainment, dining, and lodging options for locals and visitors alike.
According to a statement released by the casino’s management, the closure is due to unforeseen circumstances related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The statement cites a recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the area as the primary reason for the decision to temporarily shutter the casino and lodge.
“We take the health and safety of our guests, staff, and community very seriously,” the statement reads. “Due to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases, we have made the difficult decision to close our doors temporarily to help prevent the spread of the virus. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding during this challenging time.”
The closure comes as a shock to many, as the casino had recently implemented strict health and safety protocols to ensure the wellbeing of guests and employees. These measures included mandatory mask-wearing, temperature checks, increased sanitation efforts, and limited capacity in gaming and dining areas.
Employees of Swinomish Casino & Lodge have been informed of the closure and are currently being furloughed until further notice. The management has stated that they are committed to providing support to their staff during this difficult time and will continue to monitor the situation closely.
As news of the closure spreads, many in the community are expressing their disappointment and concern for the future of the casino and its employees. Some are worried about the economic impact of the closure on the local economy, while others are hopeful that the casino will be able to reopen soon and continue to provide entertainment and employment opportunities for the community.
In the meantime, the management of Swinomish Casino & Lodge is urging guests to stay safe and follow all public health guidelines to help prevent the spread of COVID-19. They have assured the public that they are working diligently to come up with a plan to safely reopen the casino and lodge as soon as possible.
As the situation continues to unfold, many are eagerly awaiting updates from Swinomish Casino & Lodge on when they can expect to see the doors of the beloved establishment open once again. In the meantime, the community is coming together to support one another during these challenging times and remain hopeful for a swift recovery.