The National Indian Gaming Association (NIGA) has reiterated that its forthcoming Tradeshow in San Diego remains on schedule, building on its original statement regarding the Coronavirus outbreak.
In a missive released earlier this week, the association stated that the show remains on track for a March 24 opening date, and assured those attending that it is working alongside the Governments of the City of San Diego and California to plan and provide a safe and productive Tradeshow environment.
Ernie Stevens Jr, Chairman of NIGA, stated: “Our organization continues to closely monitor the Coronavirus outbreak in the United States and its impact on large gatherings. As of today, given the reassurances from local, State, and Federal, public health officials, we are committed to providing a safe and entertaining venue to celebrate our Indian Gaming Industry.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected across the nation by this situation; however, we are looking forward to hosting a fantastic Tradeshow in two weeks.”
This latest statement is the second released by NIGA following a high volume of daily inquiries regarding the status of the event due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.
As well as working alongside state authorities such as the San Diego Convention and Tourism Authority, Stevens also confirmed that the tradeshow team is in close contact with local hotels, to ensure preventive measures are in place to keep attendees safe and surrounded by the best sanitary conditions available.
The statement released by NIGA goes on to state that the association is available to answer any questions or concerns, whilst also directing readers to the California Department of Public Health and the San Diego Public Health Administrator.
According to the release, at this time:
- The California Department of Public Health is not recommending the cancellation of public events. The health risk from COVID-19 to the general public remains low at this time.
- The San Diego Public Health Officer, Dr Wilma Wooten, stated on March 08: “Closing large gatherings is not something that is prudent at this time.”
- California state and local health officials are actively working to help protect the health of visitors to the great state of California.
- The CDC is not recommending cancellation of community events at this time if no COVID-19 cases exist within the community.
