Brickbat: Axing for Permission

Utah's alcohol commission has denied beer licenses to a karaoke venue and a business that features axe-throwing based on a law that hasn't taken effect yet. The two businesses applied for licenses available to establishments that offer permitted "recreational amenities." The law currently defines a recreational amenity as a billiard parlor, bowling alley, golf course, miniature golf, golf driving range, tennis club, sports arena, concert venue or "substantially similar" activity. The Legislature earlier this year removed the "substantially similar" language, but the change doesn't take effect until May 14. "Though the law is not effective, the Legislature clearly has told us how they feel," said Commissioner Thomas Jacobson.