SALEM, Ore. — UPDATE: Glamour Salon opened on Tuesday and Gov. Brown's office issued a statement, calling that decision "irresponsible and unfortunate." On Wednesday owner Lindsey Graham received a notice from the city that opening her business is a violation of her lease. Check here for the latest updates
Original story below:
Like all salons across Oregon, Glamour Salon in Salem has been closed for weeks. Owner Lindsey Graham misses her clients and stylists.
"We have incredibly deep relationships where we share everything with each other and laugh with each other," said Graham.
As great as that is, Graham misses an income even more. She says providing for her three kids and husband has been difficult at best.
"It's been extremely tough," she said. "We're not sure where next month's funds will come from."
The situation is so dire that Graham is planning to defy Governor Kate Brown's orders and re-open Tuesday morning. She says the move is for her family and fellow business owners.
"People are looking up to me to be the leader in this," she said. "How's this going to go for you? Can you open your doors and provide for your family and if that goes well maybe I can open my doors and provide for my family."
This could be costly. Graham says somebody from Oregon Occupational Safety and Health paid a visit Monday. They warned of hefty fines should Graham re-open.
"That's an ending for us," Graham said tearfully. "That can't happen."
Graham says something has to be done. It may as well be her, regardless of the backlash that could follow.
"The government has backed us into a corner and driven fear into us so that we can't even take a stand and make our living," she said. "It's completely unconstitutional and devastating and immoral."
Graham says three or four stylists are slated to work Tuesday. They will wear masks and gloves. She says clients have appointments scheduled, as well. One client will be allowed in the salon at a time.