El Fandango management seeks renewal after major operational changes for family dining

The Alcoholic Beverage Board of Marion County convened on May 5, 2025, to address several violations involving local liquor establishments, with discussions highlighting compliance issues and the importance of responsible alcohol sales.

One of the key discussions centered around Liquors Unlimited, where owner Janice Hahn addressed a recent violation involving the sale of alcohol to a minor. Hahn, who has held her license for over 50 years, expressed her commitment to compliance, stating that her employees are now required to card all customers, regardless of age. The board acknowledged this as the first compliance failure at this location and approved a motion to continue the license, emphasizing the need for vigilance in preventing future violations.

Another notable case involved Plumps Live Shot, where owner Jonathan Plump faced a smoking violation due to a lack of proper signage. Plump admitted to the oversight and confirmed that corrective measures had been implemented. The board approved his license renewal, recognizing his proactive approach to compliance.

The meeting also addressed issues at Speakeasy Bar, where owner Michael Whitaker was cited for allowing an open beer bottle to leave the premises. Whitaker acknowledged the mistake and assured the board that measures were in place to prevent future occurrences. The board approved his license renewal, reflecting confidence in his commitment to compliance.

In a more serious discussion, the board reviewed the case of Village Liquors, where owner Jay Singh faced a tobacco sale violation to a minor. Singh explained that the employee responsible had been suspended and that new policies were implemented to prevent future incidents. The board expressed concern over the repeated nature of violations and ultimately decided on a one-year renewal, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to regulations.

The board also revisited the case of El Fandango's, which had undergone significant changes to transform from a nightclub to a family-oriented restaurant. The owner assured the board that the establishment would no longer operate as a nightclub, and the board voted to grant a one-year renewal, contingent on continued compliance.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to ensuring responsible alcohol sales and the importance of compliance among local businesses. The discussions highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by establishments in maintaining adherence to regulations, with the board emphasizing the need for accountability and proactive measures to prevent future violations.