Top Notch Diner owner says 'taking the stand for all of us' on mask mandate
21 News reported Thursday, Oct. 22 that the more than 40 complaints filed against Top Notch Diner in Cortland have now been handed over to the health department's legal counsel for review.
But despite the potential of fines and jail time, the restaurant's owner told us she is standing her ground for the time being.
"If we had the option, like we do here, I would not wear it," said customer Randy Brashen of Canfield.
Those we found eating at Top Notch Diner say they agree with the owner.
A sign at the entrance of the restaurant states they "will not force any mask/facial coverings."
"It's up to the individual whether you want to wear a mask, or not wear a mask, I chose not to and nothing has happened to me," said Customer Terry Wyant of Leavittsburg.
But, not everyone agrees. More than 40 complaints have been filed with the health department - the most in the county- and the complainants are not just about the sign outside the door, but also employees not wearing masks and a lack of social distancing inside the restaurant.
"I'm taking the stand for all of us, not just for myself or my business, for everybody," said Owner Shonna Bland.
Bland said her stance is based on her own research from the CDC and New England Journal of Medicine.
"The masks that we are being told to wear are not so much as helpful, as they once thought they were," said Bland.
The health department said a violation of the health order is a second degree misdemeanor.
These generally can carry up to 90 days in jail and/or a $750 fine.
The Trumbull County Health Department has handed over the case to legal counsel for review.
For now Top Notch's position has not changed and the sign remains in place.
"I'm not going to lose my business over this or have them take my business from me over...this is getting stupid, it's getting to the point where it's actually getting stupid," said Bland.
The health department says the restaurant has been not receptive to the issue and has refused to follow both the state's mask mandate and 'dine safe order.'
