‘Best Bar None’ initiative honours local businesses
Ten Lethbridge businesses have been recognized by Alberta’s safetyoriented “Best Bar None” initiative.
Local health, fire and police officials joined provincial liquor regulators this week to take part in the program’s first accreditation event in Lethbridge.
Six of the 10 honoured are members of the Lethbridge-based Pop’s Taphouse group — its north, south and west locations along with Mojo Craft Pub and Grill, the Kingsmen Ale House and the Coulee Brew Co.
Also recognized were Casino Lethbridge, Hudsons Canada’s Pub, Honkers Pub and Eatery and The Zoo in the Students’ Union Building at the University of Lethbridge.
Alain Maisonneuve, acting president of the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission, welcomed the Lethbridge locations to the “Best Bar None” program, already operating in Calgary, Edmonton and Grande Prairie.
Accreditation criteria include responsible liquor service, security and customer management, drugs and first aid, litter and waste management, and safe customer transportation. Businesses must requalify each year.
“We are delighted to see the commitment to a higher standard of service and safety, and look forward to seeing additional establishments achieve this accreditation,” Maisonneuve said.
Mayor Chris Spearman praised local companies taking part.
“This accreditation is a great way to celebrate local bar owners who have embraced the ‘Best Bar None’ program and demonstrated a commitment to addressing harmful behaviour,” he said.
They’re providing “more enjoyable places for people to enjoy a night out.”
The city’s fire and emergency services, police department and Alberta Health Services are partners with the gaming and liquor commission in promoting the program.