WINONA, Minn. – Two liquor establishments were caught serving alcohol to an underage decoy in a new police crackdown. Gigged were:
> Myia Japanese Bistro, 62 East Third Street.
> MGM Liquor, 850 Menards Road.
The proprietors were advised that a criminal investigator weuld review the cases. Also there could be a fine. In addition, the City Council, which has authority to yank a liquor license, would be advised. In compliance checks, an underage member of the Winona Alliance Against Substance Abuse Prevention tries to buy a drink. The decoy then alerts an officer if there is no identification check for age and alcohol is served. A notice of noncompliance is issued. Fourteen establishments were awarded compliance certificates:
> American Legion, 302 East Sarnia Street.
> Blooming Grounds, 50 East Third Street.
> BP convenience shop, 922Mankato Avenue.
> Brewski’s Pub & Grill, 900 Bruski Drive.
> Fifth Street Liquor, 501 West Fifth Street.
> Holiday convenience shop, Mankato Avenue.
> Kate’s Place, 1000 East King Street.
> Kwik Trip, 1058 Homer Road.
> Kwik Trip, 773 East Broadway.
> Mankato Bar, 477 Mankato Avenue.
> Muddled Thyme, 75 West Third Street.
> River City Grill, 1025 U.S. Highway 61 East.
> Winona Athletic Club, 773 East Fifth Stret.
> Walmart, 955 Frontenac Drive.
Earlier: School call for all Winona bartenders, bouncers
Compliance status
The new compliance checks were the first of Winona liquor establishments in 19 months. In April 2013, six places were found in noncompliance. Eleven passed.
The checks were suspended while police focused their resources on the Maddi Kingsbury disappearance and murder.
Further checks s are exp ected in a new round in coming weeks.