Half of businesses pass alcohol compliance checks

The Daily Inter Lake

Half of the businesses tested to see if they sell alcohol to underage drinkers passed on Friday.

Seven of 14 businesses failed.

The Flathead County Sheriff's Office conducted the test, using a person with identification that showed that he or she was under age 21.

Businesses that refused to sell alcohol were the Deerlick Saloon, South Fork Saloon, Glacier Center, Packers Roost, Stoner's Inn, Blue Moon Nite Club Casino and Grill, and Lane's.

Those that failed were Long's Main Stop, Evergreen Cenex, Evergreen Gas and Deli, Town Pump in Columbia Falls, Midway Mini Mart, Big Mountain Resort, and Stillwater Bar, according to patrol commander Mike Meehan.

The sheriff's office put out a warning that the department will be checking bars, businesses, and restaurants.

Clerks, servers, and bartenders can be personally fined if they sell alcohol to underage customers.

Businesses are flagged for violations and, after three can lose their liquor licenses.