The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services reports 645 new cases of the corona virus and 16 deaths over the last 24 hour period. Many recent outbreaks have been traced to gatherings of large crowds leading state officials to repeat their warnings of the importance of wearing masks. More retailers have come on board in refusing admittance to those who won’t comply. They are Meijer, Kohl’s, Target, Kroger and CVS.
Hillsdale College, a conservative private school, is in the second day of a 3-day on-campus celebration for the class of 2020 and state officials and Hillsdale County health officers are not happy with the situation. Some 26-hundred people are expected. It ends tomorrow with an outdoor commencement ceremony. Governor Whitmer’s June 1st executive order limits outdoor gatherings to 100 people who are spaced six feet apart. Attorney General Dana Nessel said the college’s action shows a lack of consideration for the dangers of the corona virus. Health officials in Hillsdale County oppose the move. College officials say safety precautions are in place and attendees are required to wear masks.
The August primary is less than three week away and concerns are being raised about Governor Whitmer’s mandate that people wear masks in public places. She said her administration is looking into the best way to keep voters and poll workers safe. Although there has been a record demand for absentee ballots, thousands are still expected to vote at polling booths. Whitmer said no one would be denied their right to vote, even if they are not wearing a mask.