SOUTHWICK – The Board of Selectmen approved several changes for Louie B’s and Nora’s this week and reprimanded Lucky Stop owner Sam Patel following a sale to a minor.
Patel said he would improve training to ensure there are no future sales to a minor.
Sgt. Robert Landis attended the hearing Monday and told the board he spoke with Patel about the incident. Patel was not on the premises at the time and his son sold the alcohol.
“Have you spoken to your son?” Landis asked. “What measures will be taken to make sure your son and other employees are asking for IDs?”
Patel said he had spoken to his son but he indicated his son said he checked.
“One of the ways is to ask everyone for an ID,” said Landis, who also suggested a TIPS course refresher for employees.
The board agreed his son in particular should get re-certified and stipulated that proof of certification be given to the board in the next six months.
“You are the one who is going to suffer the loss,” said Chairman Russell Fox.
“No ifs, ands or buts,” said Selectman Joseph Deedy, referring to the suspension of Patel’s license if there is a second incident.
Louie’s and Nora’s Restaurant owner Jennifer Nolasco and attorney Frank Caruso attended a hearing to change the ownership and management to reflect the investment of Ernest Roy, a former Connecticut state trooper.
“He has invested to improve the properties and upgrade the inside and outside,” said Caruso, adding the improvements were “significant.”
At Louie B’s, an additional expansion of the kitchen is planned.
Nolasco’s former partner, William Rivera, is no longer part of the business. Roy bought out his shares and invested an additional $175,000 so far.
The change was approved by the board pending all paperwork is properly submitted.
