Oct. 11, 2020 10:40p
(WGTD/WPR)---A Kenosha tavern appears to be trying to skirt Gov. Evers’ capacity limits on indoor gatherings by holding ‘political rallies’ to ostensibly protest proposed changes in the city’s cabaret license.
From Thursday through Saturday on its Facebook page, Duke’s Country Saloon invited patrons each night to a “political rally” to be held from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.
In response to a surge in COVID-19 cases, Gov. Evers’ last week ordered that indoor gatherings be limited to 25% of capacity. Among the numerous exceptions are political rallies and demonstrations that are protected by the First Amendment.
The Duke’s Facebook post claims its multi-night protest falls under that exemption. Saturday night’s invitation said an “open discussion” would occur between 9:15 and 10:15 with a “speaker” scheduled for 2 a.m.
A drive-by check of Duke’s parking lot Saturday night at about 10:30 showed a packed parking lot.
State health officials Sunday reported 2,676 new cases of the disease, bringing the average for the past seven days to 2,510 daily cases. One week ago, the average was 2,400 daily cases.
7 new deaths were reported, including one in Racine County, bringing the death toll there to an even 100. 68 people have died from the coronavirus in Kenosha County, with 36 deaths in Walworth County.
The proposed changes to Kenosha’s cabaret ordinance deal with operational and security issues that bars and other venues that feature live music would have to address. Opposition from musicians and tavern owners led to the city council deferring action. The changes will be taken up by the council’s License and Permit Committee Monday afternoon at 4.
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