Hearing for Lowell Asian Restaurant continued to Jan. 22; TIP certification required

The Lowell License Commission continued a public hearing Jan. 8 for Lowell Asian Restaurant LLC, deferring action until Jan. 22 so the proposed manager, Sally Ho, can present proof of TIP (training in responsible alcohol service) certification.

Ho told the commission she has restaurant experience and operates late into the evening, saying the business opens until about 1 a.m. She also said she has learned serving practices informally: "I didn't take any lesson... I learned online and everything," she said. Commissioners indicated that experiential knowledge alone is insufficient for an all-alcohol license.

Commissioner Krieger moved to continue the hearing and required that Ho and any employees who will serve alcohol complete TIP certification before the next hearing; Commissioner Underwood seconded the motion, which carried unanimously. Secretary Paez and licensing staff were instructed to note the requirement and record proof of certification at the Jan. 22 hearing.

Commission Chair Donahue offered to help direct the petitioner to licensing staff and said, "I will give that to you," when noting staff assistance. The board did not take a final vote on the license at the Jan. 8 meeting; the matter remains open pending receipt of the requested training documentation.