More information is being released from the state as to why a local bar had its liquor license suspended for violating coronavirus related regulations.
The State Liquor Authority says it visited Masons on Alexander on September 4th and found several social distancing violations and bartenders not properly wearing their face coverings. Several customers standing at the bar were also not seen wearing face masks. The investigator also asked to order food and was told the bar only serves popcorn, which is another violation.
With many colleges back in session, Governor Cuomo has directed the State Liquor Authority to increase efforts to ensure bars and restaurants in areas where college students gather are abiding by all public health measures.
The statement from Governor Cuomo's office can be found below:
"Masons on Alexander" at 315 Alexander Street in Rochester, on September 9, 2020
On September 4th, an SLA investigator made an undisclosed visit, discovering a packed bar with numerous social distancing violations. After paying a $5 cover charge, the investigator purchased a beer without food at the upstairs main bar, noting all three bartenders present had facial coverings pulled down below their noses and mouths. The investigator documented fifty-five patrons near the bar area, at least ten standing and drinking without facial coverings, and numerous patrons coming and going from the area, completely ignoring social distancing requirements. The investigator also observed sixteen patrons in the basement bar area, including six standing and drinking, and two bartenders improperly wearing their facial coverings. The investigator asked to order food and was told by a bartender that the premises only serves popcorn, a fact the owner later confirmed. Directly outside the bar, the investigator observed eighteen patrons, most of whom were standing, drinking and ignoring social distancing.