These are unprecedented times

Dear Lawmakers, Government Officials, and Customers,

New statewide restrictions on indoor dining, while necessary to stop the spread of COVID-19, have added another burden on our already struggling industry. Being able to sell cocktails to go as other cities have done would alleviate some of that pressure.

We are the Minneapolis/St. Paul chapter of the United States Bartenders’ Guild (USBG MSP), a trade association representing our craft and profession with membership in the Twin Cities and Greater Minnesota.

Cocktails represent a significant source of revenue, offering far better margins than the wine and beer we are currently allowed to sell for takeout. In addition, offering cocktails to go would allow bars to bring back at least some of their furloughed staff for the holiday season.

The COVID-19 pandemic has placed significant strain on our industry and we have seen too many beloved establishments close as a result. Without help this trend will continue, especially amongst the small, independently owned bars and restaurants that give our communities life.

Our membership works hard every day to serve you, your friends, and your neighbors. Now we need your help so we can continue to be there for you when this is over.

Cheers,

USBG MSP Board of Directors:

  • President Kate Hoffman Mikkelson
  • Vice President Michael Lindgren – PS Steak
  • Treasurer Mimi Le
  • Secretary Patrick Orlopp
  • Robb Jones – Meteor
  • Jennifer Schellenberg

Co signed by USBG MSP members – place of work shown if signatory requested

  • Emory H. Blackstone – Johnson Brothers Wine and Spirits
  • Dillon Bode – Milestone Brands
  • Ian Chapman – Mason Jar Kitchen
  • Darrin Commerford – Angel’s Envy
  • Shelly Dailey – Studio Distilling
  • Katy Dimick – Hola Arepa
  • Alec Fotsch – Ganbei Baiju
  • Doug Franzen – Phillips Wine and Spirits
  • Patricia Gavin – Lat 14 & Lemongrass Thai
  • Melissa Ginzburg – ImpEx Beverages
  • Megan Hoffman – Mason Jar Kitchen
  • Tyler Kleinow – Meteor
  • Mike LaGuire – Mason Jar Kitchen
  • Jake Levine – Chianti Grill Roseville
  • Nathan Matusiewicz – Burger Dive
  • Teransc Phillip – OMNI Viking Lakes
  • Henry Polfuss – Borough/Parlour
  • Jessi Pollak – Spoon and Stable
  • Jon Robinson – Sunshine Consulting
  • Mark Sather – Colita
  • Eric Seed – Haus Alpenz
  • Nick Shaw – Hodges Bend
  • Kara Smith – PS Steak
  • Kathleen Stoehr – Catersource
  • Ben Jimmick – formerly Pimento Kitchen & Rum Bar
  • Alexander – Lake Street
  • Emily Abens
  • Kathryn Belknap
  • Lee Egbert
  • Mark Glad
  • Marie Gomez
  • Corryl Holm
  • Justin Joyce
  • Michael J. Koski
  • Stephen Larson
  • John Oberly III
  • Dennis Thielke
  • 1 Anonymous