Leonardtown, MD – In spite of pending legislation that would allow art establishments the ability to serve alcohol, an application for a Class D liquor license was reviewed and denied by St. Mary’s County Alcohol Beverage Board Thursday, Dec. 8.
Small business owner Ellen Lewis came well-prepared to answer questions about the Class D-BWL application for Crazy for Ewe located in the Arts and Entertainment District of Leonardtown.
Lewis said, “Leonardtown is changing and now has ‘Main Street’ recognition.” She explained that giving these types of licenses to art establishments would take the community to the “next level in economic development.”
“Crazy for Ewe is not just about selling yarn,” said Lewis. She explained that her business is “a way for women to connect with other women through the classes and social events offered in Leonardtown.”
Lewis wants to promote and advertise the upcoming sewing classes at her shop, and include that they will be offering wine.
Del. Deborah Rey [R-29B] has drafted alcohol-related legislation that will be heard during the next legislative session in Annapolis. If the legislation passes, it will give art-related businesses the ability to serve up to two alcoholic beverages that must be consumed before 10 p.m.
Lewis was asked why didn’t she just wait to see the outcome of the legislative session. She responded, “I want to be in compliance with the current laws and to start promoting my classes soon.”
Before a motion was made, comments were solicited from the audience on this topic.
A member of the St. Mary’s License Beverage Association spoke out against the approval of Class D-BWL licenses to any business or enterprise in St. Mary’s County that is not identified as a bar, tavern, restaurant or packaged retailer, stating that too many part-time liquor license holders might open the door to problems.
When the vote was called on the motion to approve the application, the motion failed. Lewis left the proceedings very disappointed. She told TheBayNet.com that “a lot of hard work has gone into doing things properly for the board’s approval and many people are supportive.” During the hearing, it was noted that she had a letter from the town council in support of her application.
Lewis is also the Vice President of the Leonardtown Business Association. She said, “Proactive steps need to be taken to help promote and support hospitality and tourism in St. Mary’s County and draw more visitor’s.”
Lewis told TheBayNet.com that she would follow-up with the delegation about the pending legislation. “I know it is not totally over, but I am not happy with how this turned out,” she said.
Contact Shertina Mack at s.mack@TheBayNet.com