The Chumash Casino Resort in Santa Ynez has extended its closure related to the coronavirus/COVID-19 pandemic for another 30 days, the casino announced on its website.
The Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, which operates the casino resort, closed the facility on March 15 over fears of the coronavirus spreading.
The Chumash also have closed Hotel Corque in Solvang, the Hadsten House in Solvang, Root 246 in Solvang and the Kitá Wine tasting room in Lompoc during the outbreak.
The cases of coronavirus in Santa Barbara County increased to 47 as of Friday.
“We believe that closing our operations when we did was the right thing to do for the safety and well-being of our team members, guests and the greater community,” Kenneth Kahn, tribal chairman of the Santa Ynez Band of Chumash Indians, said on the website. “Extending the closure falls in line with the serious measures our local, state and federal agencies have taken to help protect the population and not overwhelm the heroes working in clinics and hospitals throughout the nation.”
The casino said it would honor cash-out vouchers that expire in March, and Club Player Cards will remain active with tier status maintained. All slot point balances, free play balances and earned rewards balances will be kept in patron accounts.
— Noozhawk sports editor Barry Punzal can be reached at bpunzal@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk Sports on Twitter: @NoozhawkSports. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.