Sayville Bar Violated Coronavirus Guidelines: Liquor Authority

SAYVILLE, NY — State officials on Tuesday detailed accusations against a Sayville bar that lost its liquor license after officials claimed it violated coronavirus guidelines.

The Station Pub on Lakeland Avenue lost its license Nov. 22 after officials said agents found 32 people inside the bar ignoring social distancing protocols and walking around without masks. Officials claim there was no evidence of food being served, which is a requirement for bars under coronavirus protocols, and a bartender was not wearing a facial covering.

"The owner refused to wear a facemask and became belligerent with investigators, refusing to provide the establishment's liquor license or his ID," officials wrote in a news release from Gov. Andrew Cuomo's office Tuesday. "Photos taken by investigators following the visit showed the premises in full operation after the mandatory 10:00 PM statewide closing time implemented to combat COVID."

Officials claim the pub is also a repeat offender and is facing charges from the New York State Liquor Authority for violating coronavirus regulations.

On Nov. 25, two Sayville residents started a GoFundMe to raise money for the pub.

"During these times of uncertainty, the community needs to pull together to help one of our friends in need," the two women wrote on the page. "From the day Steve opened the pub three years ago, he not only provided a great place for everyone in the community to eat, have a drink and hear great live music; he opened his big heart to everyone.

Before the inspection, the business posted a letter to the community to Facebook on Nov. 14:

The last three years have been such an amazing experience for us. We are extremely grateful to have been able to open our doors in such a warm and welcoming community. We want to express our gratitude and appreciation to all of our new friends here in Sayville and the surrounding area. Unfortunately, the last few months have been rather tough on all of us. We want to assure you that we are following all safety protocols and regulations, not only for our loyal customers, but also for our dedicated staff. The health and safety of our community is our first and our main priority. We ask that you please be understanding while we continue to adjust our operations to the latest and ever changing guidelines. We also kindly ask that you bring any questions or concerns directly to use. This will allow any issues to be addressed and resolved immediately. The shore time that we have been here, we have made many friends that turned into family, for that we thank you. Hope to see you soon.