High-volume night was one reason for underage beer sale

TO THE EDITOR:

This letter is in reference to the story published Aug. 3 entitled, ‘Smed’s Place in trouble for underage beer sales.’

I was one of the two implicated in the case and I’d like to tell my side of the story. While I realize the ultimate responsibility for the sale lies with me, there are mitigating circumstances.

Just like most bars and clubs in the area, Smed’s Place has a doorman who checks IDs at the door on high-volume nights. The doorman is supposed to place an X in permanent marker on the hands of anyone under 21 so the bartender knows not to serve them alcohol.

There was no X on the person I served. I realize now I should have thought to check his ID, but I had no reason to think that had not already been done at the door when he entered the establishment. Since I was not a holder of an ABC bartender’s certification, and was not formally trained, I was unaware of the specific laws pertaining to serving alcohol.

On a high-volume night such as when this occurred, I was usually the only bartender serving up to 125 patrons. This is why we used the doorman in the first place, because it’s often not feasible to recheck ever ID throughout the evening.

I personally ended my employment at Smed’s Place the weekend this occurred, and though I have been asked to fill in several times since then, this situation has prevented me from ever wanting to work behind a bar again. I would like to apologize specifically to the Warren County community for allowing myself to make such a terrible mistake.

It was never my intention to allow the sale of alcohol to a minor. In fact, there are numerous patrons at Smed’s Place who can verify I was a stickler for preventing underage alcohol consumption.

On nights that no doorman was used, I was very particular on who I served alcohol to in an effort to prevent underage drinking. I do hope that, without attempting to excuse my actions, this letter has explained the circumstances surrounding the situation. Thank you for your time and attention.

Sincerely,

Lorrie Beth Scott
Beacon Drive
McMinnville