The Rum

Over the next few weeks and through the holidays, the building is going to be rented out for private parties. Unfortunately, it is not open to the public. If you see the parking lot full and the lights on, as tempting as it may be, please refrain from crashing someone else's baby shower, thanksgiving gathering, or family reunion.

Looking for recommendations: we were told to stop all renovations until we hire an engineer/architect. Because the value of renovations is exceeding a certain dollar amount, we are required to update the handicap accessibility in the entire building which the inspector requires to be drawn up by an engineer/architect and submitted for review and approval before we can continue. This involves redoing the entire bar top, entrances, concrete and parking area, bathrooms, and coordinating with mechanical and plumbing to complete any necessary repairs and install new kitchen and bar equipment. Who do you know who has done this type of work before? As first-time bar owners, we are learning (sometimes the hard way) that little issues can be very costly and time consuming. All in all, we appreciate your patience. This excursion has been exhausting, disappointing, and emotionally and financially draining. We really want it open, so we are making efforts every time we can and paying for things as we go. With unexpected hurdles that come up, sometimes it means waiting until my next paycheck before we call the septic guy or the electrician to come back out and help. Thanks to Johnson Septic and Granite Ledge Electric for making quick work of our issues. Just know, we are still fighting. -Veronica

Burning some rotten neglected wooden garbage bins from the bar tonight. Spotted this little cutie!

MDH approved the plans today so now we can proceed.

It's been a lot of back and forth but ultimately it'll be better in the long run and everything will be up to code.

TIME FOR AN UPDATE:
There is no update. We are STILL waiting to hear back from the MN Dept of Health. They have had our proposed construction plan for almost 45 days now. They required that we get all new kitchen equipment (along with some other things), so if they approve the plan we can then purchase all of the equipment and work as fast as possible to get it installed.

I also heard John Wayne was at the bar???

As we continue to make progress (slowly but surely) many questions get asked about a grand opening. This was asked the other day:

"Are you going to have bear wrestling 🐻or a man on fire 🔥 like they used to have?"

Was this a thing?

The rickety black stools are gone and will be replaced with barstools that have a back rest. It makes for more ergonomic drinking. The definition says that it provides a comfortable work environment.

I can't wait for all the "business meetings" to take place at The Rum.

What's your favorite memory of The Rum?

You're not busy enough, go rip the old bar top off and make a new one. OK Be sure to ask me about the bar top epoxy pouring fiasco when you stop in for a drink.