VERONA - Hornell resident Sherry Greco was among the large group of people waiting for the doors of the Turning Stone Casino to re-open.
"There’s nothing like the first day of anything. The first day is the most important of anything, so we want to be a part of the first day. Whatever this experience is going to bring."
There wasn’t much in the way of social distancing in the parking garage at the Turning Stone Casino, and since we weren’t allowed on the gaming room floor, we don’t know how strict they’re enforcing the rules there. We can tell you hand sanitizer and a valid New York State driver’s license or non-driver ID is required to get in.
Attendants at the doors were standing by with instructions. "You’ll pull your face cover down for 3 seconds so the camera can see who you are."
ID verification protocols for contact tracing are now in effect to ensure everyone’s safety, even though Oneida Nation Enterprises CEO Ray Halbritter would have liked things a little different.
"The developments for the… treating the disease and this pandemic would help us get back to normal as soon as possible, and while things aren’t exactly that way, well we can still enjoy life."
Guests like Geneva resident Andy Principio seem to agree. "Bingo! We missed bingo the last 3 ½ months that they were closed."
Johnstown resident Debbie Henderson was excited to get in. "First day open….a new experience with the mask."
Syracuse resident Crystal Evans couldn't wait any longer. "We’ve been missing the casino. What’s it been 3 or 4 months without it?"
Turning Stone is only allowing people within a 120 mile radius to enter the casino, but what they’re not limiting is the amount of people who can come in.