
09/02/2020
Copied this from another group in a neighboring town.
“As some of you may know, I'm an attorney who specializes in State Liquor Authority ("SLA") matters. Over the years, I have had the good fortune of representing many of our fine dining establishments. As all of you likely know, the restaurant industry as a whole has been decimated by the Covid-19 pandemic.
To make things even a bit more stressful for establishments, is that over the past three months the SLA has gone on an all out assault to assure 100% compliance of the Governor's orders pertaining to restaurants and bars...This is not necessarily a bad thing, as we all want to make certain when we go out to eat that we are in a safe environment.
A recent problem that has been arising more and more, is that the non-compliance by customers has resulted in tremendous fines for these establishments, and in a growing number of cases, suspensions of their liquor licenses altogether.
Just tonight, while eating at a local place, in the span of about 30 minutes I noticed 4 people walk into the place without a mask. Not sure if they were thinking this is still 2019, or they simply forgot, but the SLA would not care why.
When you go out to eat, WEAR YOUR MASK. Keep it on when you sit down, and take it off only once you have started your meal or drink. You are doing that not only for those around you, but also for the proprietor looking to hold on to their business, and the employees looking to hold on to their jobs.
Don't underestimate the probability of an investigator sitting at the next table, or viewing you from just outside. Places that may have been visited by investigators for routine inspections once (or never) in years, are now getting unannounced visits several times a week. You will most likely not even know it, but if they snap a photo of you standing in the place without a mask, the financial hardship you may've just inadvertently caused the owners may not be sustainable for them. My having to assist these clients get through the process is not the kind of work I enjoy getting.
So think of all of those you would negatively affect, and do the right and safe thing. Care.”