One notable matter discussed was the hearing concerning Carnival Latino Restaurant, operated by Agueta and Pinete Piche Corp., located at 7B Everett Street. Allegations made against the establishment included serving alcohol past the 2 AM closing time and over-serving patrons. Julia Darte Arone manages the venue, and Joel Limos provided an account of the events leading to these allegations. According to Limos, the issues arose due to a malfunctioning credit card payment device, which delayed service. He stated that alcohol service ceased at 1:30 AM, countering allegations that patrons were served past closing hours.

Limos described the officer as being stationed outside the establishment during the shift, which he believed contributed to a misunderstanding about the events inside the bar. He recalled an incident involving a customer who refused to relinquish two beers when asked, despite the server’s attempts to remove the drinks. Limos emphasized that the establishment’s protocol for handling visibly intoxicated patrons involves offering non-alcoholic beverages and stopping alcohol service. He explained, “We stop serving them and we give them like soda with lime or something until he leaves.”

The discussion also touched on the restaurant’s security measures, which include two security personnel during busy nights. Limos described the business landscape, noting that the restaurant opens at 11 AM but sees most customers after 9:30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays, which are critical for revenue. Concerns were raised about allowing patrons entry just before closing time. Limos assured the Commission that they did not permit entry after 2 AM and managed the situation to ensure compliance with closing procedures.

The Commission took note of previous incidents involving intoxicated patrons and stressed the need for compliance with service and closing rules. A suggestion was made for a 60-day compliance review, with a request for the reporting officer to attend the next meeting to discuss their observations. The importance of maintaining a safe environment for establishments serving Latino and Hispanic communities was emphasized, acknowledging the broader economic challenges they face. The hearing concluded with plans for a compliance review in 60 days.

In addition to the hearing, the Commission reviewed several license applications. The American Legion Post Number 61 requested seven one-day malt, wine, and common victual licenses for their summer concert series on the lawn on Broadway. Representatives Iron Novaski and Jerry Amorei stated that similar events have been conducted in previous years without incident, with a fenced area planned to contain alcohol service. The Commission approved the request unanimously, with no opposition voiced.

The American Legion Post also applied for a change of officers and managers. Representatives assured the Commission that there would be no operational changes, only new appointments.

Another application came from Mlen Highway Development Corporation, which sought 12 one-day malt licenses for beer popups on Suffach Downs Boulevard. Rachel Otterly outlined plans for Thursday night activities featuring live music and food trucks, with an expected attendance of 200 per event. The Commission inquired about the events’ specifics and food service, which would be managed by the brewery Twisted Fate. The application was approved without opposition.

GA Restaurant 2 Inc., doing business as Santorini, requested an amendment to its entertainment license to include outdoor TV, radio, and vocal instrumental music. Strugula Ftopolis and Craig Helian explained plans to play quiet Greek café music during breakfast hours and schedule live music based on customer volume and weather. The Commission approved the amendment after confirming no opposition.

Lastly, Lyn and Ben, Inc., represented by Attorney Russell Chin, applied for a transfer of the malt wine restaurant license and a change to an all-alcohol category for Jade Asian Restaurant on Squire Road. The application included operating hours, seating capacity, and background music for entertainment. The Commission inquired about the experience of the proposed liquor license manager, Shu Lamb, who was certified in responsible alcohol service. With no opposition, the application was approved unanimously.