Three more bars facing enforcement action for reopening in violation of COVID rules
Three more bars in Minnesota are facing enforcement action from state authorities for reopening in contravention of COVID-19 rules.
The Minnesota Department of Health has announced it's issued cease-and-desist orders and notices of liquor license suspensions to the bars for various violations of state guidelines.
They are:
- Joe's Diner, East Grand Forks.
- King Sparrow, Milaca.
- Big Orv's, Adrian..
MDH says Joe's Diner was not only found to be open during an inspection Dec. 17, but a waitress was also observed not wearing a mask, and there were no signs reminding customers to wear masks.
A follow-up inspection on Dec. 22 found it was once again open for food and drink.
King Sparrow was also found to be open for food and drink service on Dec. 18, as well as allowing more than five customers indoors at the same time to pick up takeout. Employees were also observed working without masks.
And at Big Orv's, the bar was found to be open for drinks on Dec 21, with one customer violating the state's face mask rules that state they must be worn in indoor public spaces unless the person is eating or drinking.
The announcement came a day after MDH announced it was taking the same action against Long Pine Store, in Pine River, and Jamieson's on Main, in Oslo, for reopening for food or drink service.