Poker is a community card game that features players constantly sizing each other up, so to speak. Sure, there has always been literally nothing material between the players, ironically. But things have hopped on the other foot lately. Now for the first time, ever since the game was first played in the 10^th century something has come indeed, between ‘em. So much for sizing each other up. But perhaps sizing ‘em up through a reflection caught of an opponent’s hand could be something else?

Some call them face coverings; some, sneeze guards. They don’t both have to go together apparently.

                Well they serve separate purposes, to be fair. But the former has come to be popularly known as the face mask – the most straightforward method to counter Covid-19. At the same time, the Bellagio has now the edge over other poker rooms in Las Vegas courtesy of its plexiglass dividers between players.

It was (is) the only room with six-handed games; when it stepped up its risks with Covid-19 as it reopened, 18^th of last month (June). The state game control board of Nevada US., has required patrons to be equipped with appropriate protection against Covid-19.

Further, the mandate states that table and card game members/participants need to use face coverings if a barrier of any sort does not exist between them (dealer and each player). This is in fact the case with other poker rooms in Las Vegas that have been approved for only five-handed games by the Gaming control board. Casino poker rooms largely host nine or ten players at the table.

                Not only do the players have to observe this rule but also, spectators or people less than 6 feet away from the game.

While licensed proprietors are required to guarantee the availability of face masks upon request, these are expected to be offered to guests as they enter the establishment(s). Also, dedicated signage that informs of mask availability must be highlighted throughout the establishment. In the Bellagio notably, the prevalence of plexiglass (sneeze guards) only encourage patrons to wear masks nonetheless whereas the mask is indispensable for down through five handed games and games at all other casinos without modified tables.

And for good reason. The exchange of cash cards and chips amongst hugs and banter had claimed the lives of three among eight retired New Yorkers, leaving the rest infected. The poker lovers had in the past met during their frequent bouts in South Florida casinos, playing for the final time on March 12.