Novi's mall is back . . . but where is everyone? It's not a school day, after all. (Photos: Michael Lucido)
Unlocked shopping malls are a welcome reminder of The Before, though Thursday morning's scene at Twelve Oaks in Novi wasn't any kind of festive reopening.
A play zone is barricaded, some stores remain dark, health safety rules are posted, santizer stations are added, masks are musts and as few as five people can enter small shops at once. Hours are limited to 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Chains not yet ready for business as semi-usual include Sunglass Hut, Vans, Vera Bradley luggage and handbags and Swarovski, which sells jewelry, figurines, ornaments, watches, home accessories and fashion items.
Welcome to mid-pandemic mallgoing, a far cry from leisurely browsing or hanging out with friends in food courts. It's now basically a get in, get out destination more like a podiatry office than a retail theme park.
Our photojournalist captures vignettes of the non-gala reopening in western Oakland County.
Photo by Michael Lucido
Customer limits create a short line outside the Journeys footwear store.
