BELLAIRE, Mich. (WXYZ) — A popular Northern Michigan pub took to social media Thursday to call out customers who've mistreated their employees amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
"It's time to STOP. Enough is enough already," Short's Brewing Company wrote on Facebook. "To all of the customers who have swore at us, yelled, laughed in our faces, threatened negative reviews, name-called, belittled and brought us to tears, we are done."
During the pandemic, local businesses have reported witnessing customers refusing to wear masks and even lashing out at employees when asked to put on a face covering.
7 Action News followed the troubling trend across the state back in May when several violent acts took place at stores, stretching from metro Detroit to Flint.
A Macomb County woman was charged after she allegedly assaulted a Nino Salvaggio employee and spat at police officers when asked to wear a mask inside the grocery store.
In Holly, a 68-year-old man was charged with wiping his face in the shirt sleeve of a Dollar Tree employee.
And a Flint family was arrested in connection with the murder of a security guard at a Family Dollar. Calvin James Munerlyn, 43, was shot and killed on Friday, May 1 following a verbal altercation after he told a woman she needed to wear a mask inside the store.
Short's went on to emphasize the humanity of their workers, writing: "Our staff deserves better. We are mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, daughters and sons. We might not be yours, but we are somebody's and deserve the respect you would want for your own. We are your servers, hosts, bussers, and kitchen crew. We've had enough of the bullying that has come to light during the time of COVID. We will not be bullied."
In the heartfelt post, the company recognized the frustrations caused by COVID-19 such as long wait times and other delays but urged customers to be patient.
"We understand how frustrating waiting for food or dealing with lines can be, but we are also constantly working to streamline our business levels with this new system. Changes have happened overnight and day by day for all of us. We ask that you please be patient with us and remember that you aren't talking to just a server or manager, you are talking to another human being with feelings. Our management team is aware that issues arise and is willing to listen, think and make changes to ensure an awesome Short's experience for our guests."
Hours of operation have also been reduced at the Belleaire Pub due to staffing shortages. Customers (preferably on their best behavior) can visit on Monday through Thursday from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The pub also encouraged customers to just remember to be respectful and kind.
Read the full post below: