Lisa Zarza, a lifelong Minnesotan and veteran of the bar and restaurant industry, has found herself in a unique situation amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Faced with what she perceives as restrictive policies enforced by Governor Tim Walz, Zarza made the difficult decision to relocate her business to Wisconsin in order to continue operating. This move has resulted in a daily two-hour commute across state lines, as she seeks what she calls “the right to work” as an American citizen.
The Challenges Faced by Zarza
Zarza’s journey began in Lakeville, Minnesota, where she owned and operated two establishments – Alibi Bar and Drinkery and Alibi at Froggy Bottoms. However, when Governor Walz issued orders for bars and restaurants to close in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, Zarza found herself at odds with the state. Refusing to comply with the shutdown order, she kept her businesses open in a bid to stay afloat.
The Consequences of Defying Orders
Despite Zarza’s efforts to keep her businesses running, the state of Minnesota took action against her. Her food service license was suspended, and she faced lawsuits from both the attorney general and the Minnesota Department of Health. This legal battle resulted in significant financial strain, with Zarza incurring hundreds of thousands of dollars in attorneys’ fees.
Forced to Make a Difficult Decision
With her businesses under threat in Minnesota, Zarza made the difficult decision to move her operations to Wisconsin. After two and a half years of working in the state, she found the process of obtaining licenses to be much smoother than in Minnesota. This move allowed her to continue operating her business without the same level of interference from state authorities.
The Daily Commute for “the Right to Work”
Despite the challenges she has faced, Zarza remains determined to pursue her passion for the bar and restaurant industry. Each day, she embarks on a two-hour round-trip commute to her business in Wisconsin, riding her Harley-Davidson motorcycle across state lines. For Zarza, this daily journey represents more than just a commute – it symbolizes her commitment to the right to work and the freedom to pursue her livelihood.
Zarza’s Criticism of Governor Walz
In speaking about her decision to relocate her business, Zarza has been vocal in her criticism of Governor Walz and his handling of the pandemic. She believes that the policies enforced by the state of Minnesota have been unfair and have had a detrimental impact on small business owners like herself. Zarza’s experience serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by entrepreneurs during these unprecedented times.
Looking Towards the Future
As Zarza continues to operate her business in Wisconsin, she remains hopeful for the future. Despite the obstacles she has encountered, she is determined to persevere and overcome the challenges that come her way. For Zarza, the right to work is not just a privilege – it is a fundamental right that she is willing to fight for.
In Conclusion
Lisa Zarza’s story is a testament to the resilience and determination of small business owners in the face of adversity. Faced with the loss of her businesses in Minnesota, she made the bold decision to seek opportunities across state lines. Despite the challenges she has encountered, Zarza remains steadfast in her commitment to the right to work and the pursuit of her passion. As she continues to navigate the complexities of operating a business during a pandemic, Zarza serves as an inspiration to others facing similar struggles.