COLUMBUS, Ohio — Two Northeast Ohio establishments were cited for violating the state’s COVID-19 health orders on Halloween, according to the Ohio Investigative Unit.
The Islander Bar & Grille in Middleburg Heights was visited by agents who observed “egregious violations” and around 60 to 70 customers attending a Halloween party, moving freely throughout the establishment while consuming alcoholic beverages. Nearly every seat at the bar was occupied and more customers stood behind to order drinks, OIU said.
Agents cited the bar for improper conduct – disorderly activity.
OIU agents also visited Sky Mediterranean Lounge in Parma Heights Saturday night after receiving multiple complaints from the community.
Agents arrived on the scene around 11:30 p.m. and observed around 100 to 120 customers on site. Every seat at the bar was occupied and all of the tables were occupied with no social distancing or physical barriers in place between groups of customers, OIU said.
Customers were seen moving freely around consuming alcoholic beverages and not wearing face masks or coverings. Employees were also not wearing face coverings and continued selling and allowing the consumption of alcoholic beverages past the state’s curfew.
Both establishments will have their cases heard before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission for potential penalties, including fines and/or the suspension or revocation of liquor permits.
