Capitol News

Despite Gov. Whitmer’s orders, businesses have been developing their own procedures to safely reopen and provide services. 

The Hi-Way Drive In Theater opened on May 1st after two weeks of planning and contacting state officials. 

“I started with our state representative and detailed our plight and plans,” Steve Kursinsky, Hi-Way Drive In Theater owner, said in a Facebook post on April 29. “We are not defying the order, nor trying to.” 

Kursinsky said they also spoke to local law enforcement, who directed him to speak with Michigan’s Attorney General office. Kursinsky said the AG's office allowed them to open. 

“We plan to open,” Kursinsky said. “Now I don't know for sure how this will all play out but I want you our customers to understand our opening was not taken lightly and we have done everything in our power to do the right thing.”

The safety precautions the Drive In implemented include opening at half capacity, spacing out cars and creating a website that allows customers to order tickets and concessions online. 

“We have added 4 port-a-johns to help with the bathroom situation and we will be cleaning all restrooms regularly throughout the evening,” Kursinsky said. “We ask that everyone stay in their parking space and maintain a six-foot distance.”

The community was excited for the theater’s re-opening, with hundreds of people writing words of encouragement on the Hi-Way's Facebook page. 

Other businesses that opened last month include Dream Golf Course in Ogemaw County, where golf carts are being used despite Whitmer not allowing them. 

Kursinsky and Dream Golf Course did not respond to requests for comment.