GRESHAM, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – Campgrounds are classified as essential housing under Wisconsin’s “Safer at Home” order. But there’s one spot in Shawano County that’s catching some heat.
Annie’s Campground near Gresham has chosen to keep its doors and its grounds open.
“Everybody’s just kinda tired of being cooped up and, you know, basically being instructed to be ‘safe not sorry.’ Well, at some point we have to start living!” said Annie’s Campground owner and operator Ann Retzlaff.
Living is just what Retzlaff says you’ll be able to do at her Shawano County campground.
But some people are criticizing her for staying open.
“I’m being accused of not caring for people, which is ridiculous,” said Retzlaff. “I’m being accused of a lot things, like very hurtful, hateful things, and that’s not who I am.”
Retzlaff tells FOX 11 others are defending her.
“I have a lot more people that are very happy that I’m open, and that I do stand my ground that we will remain open.”
Retzlaff says for campsites like hers not to be open is not only wrong, but unconstitutional.
“I believe in the Constitution, and the Constitution doesn’t get trumped by any other person or any other law. The Constitution is the law of the land!”
In a letter posted on social media Friday, Shawano County Sheriff Adam Bieber says he won’t enforce rules or laws that he believes infringe on constitutional rights.
The campsites aren’t the only thing open at Annie’s Campground. It’s business as usual at Retzlaff’s restaurant and bar, which even held a live music performance Saturday night.
“We provide a safe environment, or as safe as it can be, you know, every family needs to make their….they need to make up their own mind – what’s safe for you and your family!”
Retzlaff says she wants other bars and restaurants to reopen too. And, she’s planning another live music performance again this weekend.
