WAYNE COUNTY (WXYZ) — Despite a potential legal battle, a gym owner in Wayne County says he will open the doors of his business on Friday. The company bought an ad on social media to notify current and new members to sign up.
Donald Larson, owner of Gold's Gym Detroit a franchise location, said he will defy Gov. Whitmer's executive order.
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"If my members want to come workout, I am allowing them to workout," Larson said.
He said his livelihood is at stake. He plans to implement a playbook provided by the franchisor to reopen under new safety guidelines.
"I'm going to check everyone's temp," Larson said. "Use of showers are prohibited. I have 30 plus disinfectant bottles all over the gym. I have sanitizer all over the gym."
Gyms are not allowed to reopen yet under Whitmer's executive order. On Thursday, she reassured Michigangers that COVID-19 cases are declining but we need to use caution.
"But our work is not over," said Gov. Whitmer during her daily COVID-19 breifings. "We must continue to do out part to prevent a second wave and to protect our families. We owe it to the real heroes on the front lines of this crisis."
There's been a push by small businesses across the state to reopen during the pandemic.
Larson fears if his doors are closed another couple weeks it will permanently shut him down.
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