A Gaylord restaurant, Iron Pig Smokehouse, has continued to defy orders by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer by remaining open.
Iron Pig was recently hit with a 90-day suspension of its liquor license because of its defiance. After the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) hit the restaurant with the suspension, which is the longest suspension thus far, it was also noted that the restaurant was allegedly flouting the rules, including its slogan: "Risk it for the brisket — BBQ with a side of freedom."
“The licensee’s slogan ... rhymes, but downplays the incredibly serious nature of the COVID-19 virus,” Judge Michael St. John said in his order, MLive reported. “Unfortunately, a more appropriate slogan might be, ‘Brisket to die for.’”
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Michigan Liquor Control Commission and Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration have issued dozens of citations to companies defying restriction orders in recent weeks.
Michigan allows residents to report bars or alcohol-selling restaurants that are defying the restricting order.
Banning of indoor dining has helped contain the virus in Michigan. As of November, there were 65 COVID-19 outbreaks tied to restaurants and bars and now they have gone down to 10.
Then ban is effective until Jan. 15 and attracts a $1,000 fine per violation, per day.
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