Selling to minors checks catch eight local businesses

During a span of five days, 46 alcohol compliance checks were conducted by the state Public Health and Human Services and Mental Disorders Division, with the help of Havre Police Department and Hill County Sheriff’s Office, which resulted with eight establishments failing the alcohol compliance checks for selling to minors, Havre Police Department Chief Gabe Matosich said.

The following businesses failed the alcohol compliance checks: Walleye Tavern, Havre Emporium, Bear Paw Meats, Liquor Stop Plus, Maui Nights Casino, Great Northern Inn, Palace Bar and Vic’s Place.

The failed establishments were issued a citation and those inside the city limits will be asked to appear in city court and any outside the city limits will appear before the Justice of the Peace. The courts will then decide whether to assess fines or other reprimands. The Liquor and Gambling Division has the authority to revoke licenses.

The failed establishments continue to have their liquor licenses and operate. Matosich said the failed establishments would probably claim they unknowingly sold to minors, but he didn’t sound wholly convinced that was the case.

Matosich said that the percentage of the failed compliance checks is “about normal.”

Another compliance check will be conducted in the future to ensure the all establishments have complied.

The checks were conducted from Feb. 15 to Feb. 20.

It is recommended those businesses that failed the checks Responsible Alcohol Sales and Services course, contact the Department of Revenue, Liquor Control Division at 406-444-4307.

The following businesses passed the compliance checks: Golden Spike Bar, Shamrocks Bar, PJ’s Restaurant and Casino, Eagles Club, Highland Park Zip Trip, Lucky Lil’s Casino, Magic Diamond Casino, Montana Lil’s Casino, Holiday Station Stores, Town Pump Food Stores, Stromberg’s Sinclair, 1st Street Zip Trip, Gary & Leo’s Fresh Foods, Crystal City Casino, Hi-Line Gold Casino, Pizza Hut, Hi-Line Lanes, Triple Dog Brewing Co., Bullhook Bottoms Casino, Red’s Auto Parts, Andy’s Supper Club, Murphy’s Pub, Havre Lodge 1201 BPE, Duck Inn tavern, McLean’s Grocery, Inverness Bar & Supper Club, Walmart, Gallery Lounge, Tip-It Bar, Spencer’s Hi-Way Bar and Grill, K-Lines, D& L Bar, Lone Tree Bar, Jitterbug’s, Oxford Bar, Shanty Bar, Box Cars and Uncle Joe’s.