AUSTINTOWN — A supervisor at El Cowboy Tex Mex Grille in Austintown, which was cited Friday for improper conduct and disorderly activity under state COVID-19 restrictions, said the restaurant / bar is doing what it can to comply with state directives.

“We’re trying to keep everything in order and we’re trying to follow what we’re asked to do, like keeping everyone distanced and making everyone wear masks — some people just won’t understand sometimes, and that’s when we get in trouble,” said restaurant supervisor Manny Flores.

El Cowboy, 1739 S. Raccoon Road, was cited when Ohio Investigative Unit agents observed around 100 patrons dancing, congregating and moving freely while a live band was performing around 8:45 p.m. Friday, according to a release from the state agency. Seats at the bar were reportedly occupied with no social-distancing measure in place, and patrons were standing at the bar.

The band 1988, an ’80s tribute, was playing at the restaurant starting at 6 p.m. Friday, according to El Cowboy’s Facebook page. More live music acts are shown scheduled through the end of month.

Flores said El Cowboy hopes to continue having small bands, but if people do not follow COVID-19 precautions, live acts will have to be canceled.

“It’s really up to our customers, if they want to help us out,” Flores said.

The El Cowboy case will go before the Ohio Liquor Control Commission and may face penalties, including fines or suspension or revocation of liquor permits.

El Cowboy is just the latest local establishment cited by the Ohio Investigative Unit, a subdivision of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, for violations related to COVID-19.

Tommy Dogg’s on state Route 46 in Niles and The Rig on East Market Street in Howland were cited earlier this month for violations of Gov. Mike DeWine’s 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew, which this week was extended to Jan. 30.

Tommy Dogg’s was operating at 10:35 p.m. with around 25 people drinking in the bar. The Rig had around 50 people drinking at 10:55 p.m., according to a release from OUI that did not include dates. The Rig was also previously cited for the same activities.

Flores said other bars and restaurants face similar issues as El Cowboy.

“I know other places are the same way, and they’re struggling, too, just like we are. Hopefully people will understand and help us out,” Flores said.

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