24/7 operations resume with Texas hold ’em added to existing table games
Poker returns to Canterbury Park on Thursday, July 9 as the Shakopee, Minn. casino, which has already been offering table games such as blackjack since June 15, expands its hours of operation to 24/7. When the poker room reopens at 10 a.m., the 14 tables dedicated to poker will initially offer Texas hold ’em with limits ranging from $3-$6 to $40-$80.
“It is time to start dealing poker again, and with the experience we have gained running table
games, we are extremely well prepared,” Vice President of Casino Operations Michael Hochman said. “When poker will return has been one of the most-asked questions I have fielded since March. I am glad to have the answer now and look forward to July 9 when we put the cards in the air.”
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Canterbury Park suspended all operations in mid-March. The casino reopened June 15 to table games with added safety precautions. The number of players per table was reduced and acrylic shields installed. Face masks were required of all employees and players. Poker will operate with the same measures in place. Poker tables which normally would be nine-handed will host a maximum of six players plus the dealer. The tables themselves are spread further apart than in the past. Table-side beverage service will continue to be offered, however dining at the table will not be allowed. Chips will be sanitized on a daily basis and decks of cards rotated out of play regularly.
“Disinfecting is a constant process that we take very seriously. The acrylic barriers we’ve designed offer another layer of protection for both our team members and our guests,” Hochman said. “We’ll have a bottle of hand sanitizer on top of every dealer button on every single table.”
While not yet scheduled, Hochman is planning a return of poker tournament play, very popular amongst players, in August.
