Michigan Gov. Whitmer’s new executive order places tighter restrictions on the whole state. Michigan’s Upper Peninsula has been a very unique location during the ongoing pandemic. Locked away by water, and being quite remote, this offers protection against easy virus transmission. On the other hand, remote areas end up a desirable destination for vacationers and travelers alike.
Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer has pushed for social distancing and safe practices from the very beginning of the outbreak. As of July 31, Gov. Whitmer’s latest executive order directs all of Michigan a step into the more cautious territory. The biggest change is restricting indoor gatherings to no more than 10 people.
Luckily for the UP, and specifically in Marquette, the community response has been excellent. Bars, restaurants, grocery stores, and many local businesses have taken proactive steps since the beginning. Many establishments already had rules in place that meet this criterion. Marquette is “Keeping Calm, and Yoopering on” as iconic signs around town say. Downwind Sports, Blackrocks Brewery, and the Marquette Food Co-Op are just a few of the businesses that set strong standards for the community.
“The change was scary [in the beginning], closing down March 16, going dark, canceling orders, being complete 100% over inventory,” Said King, owner of Marquette’s Downwind Sports. “All of a sudden we scaled up, we got busy and we scaled up again.”
Downwind Sports has taken steps to keep its shoppers safe, said King. They monitor how many people are in the store and have sometimes had to lock doors to keep that number safe when they get busier. King reports that they are improving circulation in the store to reduce the likelihood of virus transmission, being inside.
King said that if someone refuses to wear one, they will accommodate that person outside. Masking is strictly enforced as it is, via the executive order. King also claims they are excited to safely provide the influx of wildcat students with the best outdoor recreation experience possible.
“We understand that there is going to be a certain percentage testing positive,” said King. “I think that Northern actually has a really good plan in place. It’s going to keep everyone safe and keep their industry moving forward,” King included. “Having an influx of students that are excited to come to NMU, to come to Marquette, and enjoy everything we have to offer up here, that is very exciting for us.”
For the beer fans, Blackrocks implemented a very important new feature – a gatekeeper. This person is responsible for checking I.D.s and explaining the new safety standards.
“We find that setting the standard at the door makes everyone’s experience a little bit better. When they know what to expect, it makes everything a little smoother,” said Blackrocks Bartender Ryan Moin, as he swiftly kept Marquette served with beers between questions. Blackrocks is very popular in Marquette, especially with students. The new order hasn’t changed anything for them, for now.
It is important to practice social distancing and mask-wearing when appropriate to prevent the spread of COVID-19. To be aware of current restrictions visit this website for the current COVID-19 restrictions.
