News Bite

Some Desperate Barbers, Salons, Others Reopen Despite Lockdown

But beware the license bureau

Owosso barber Karl Manke has received international attention for keeping his shop open despite a Michigan COVID-19 emergency stay-at-home order.

He's not the only one.

Ardor+Grit Salon and Lounge in Holland reopened on May 15, according to its Facebook page. The owner says she received a cease-and-desist letter from the Holland Police Department the next day.

“I will lose my house. I will lose my business. I will lose my friggin’ livelihood if I do not go back to work,” teary-eyed owner Sarah Huff said in a Facebook video.

The Capri Drive-In Theater in Coldwater announced on Facebook that it reopened on May 15.

“The turnout we had over the weekend gave us a much needed boost,” the drive-in posted May 17 on Facebook.

The Boulder Ridge Wild Animal Park in Alto reopened on May 15, according to its Facebook page.

“Thanks for an amazing first two days of the season,” the animal park posted on Facebook.

Abbie’s First Cut barbershop in Cadillac announced on Facebook it was opening May 12.

“It was a great week at the Barbershop!” Abbie’s First Cut posted on its Facebook page. “Thank you everyone that came out to support my small business.”

While some Michigan sheriffs have said they will not enforce lockdown orders, the state licensing bureau is offering no similar leniency. Karl Manke's barber's license has been suspended.

Michigan Capitol Confidential is the news source produced by the Mackinac Center for Public Policy. Michigan Capitol Confidential reports with a free-market news perspective.