MLCC On The Road

As the old saying goes, nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.  In this episode we unpack how estates, probate, and taxes intersect with liquor licensing and what steps keep a business compliant when an owner dies or owes back taxes. MLCC Licensing Deputy Director Jackie Anthony joins us to explain documents, approvals, levies, seizures, and the practical paths forward.• Difference between active operation and escrow authority• Documents MLCC needs after a death• Approvals, denials, escrow-only decisions and appeals• Trusts, transfer-on-death and ownership transfers• Letters of authority timing and follow ups• License holds, renewals and enforcement checks• How a personal representative transfers interest to self• Spouse ownership structures and survivorship• What a Treasury levy triggers and how to resolve it• Seizures, tax warrants, auctions and license valueFor more information on the Michigan Liquor Control Commission, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lccThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

Paperwork doesn’t sell your first drink, but it absolutely decides when you can. We take you behind the scenes of Michigan’s liquor licensing process with Sherry Ashton, a supervisor who’s guided thousands of files from first submission to final issuance. Together we unpack the checkpoints that matter most—what “complete application” truly means, why fingerprinting now triggers later by staff request, and how one missing lease clause can stall an entire timeline.From there, we map the enforcement investigation: the records investigators request, what they look for on site, and how your communication sets the tempo. We get candid about violations—often sitting with the seller—that can freeze a buyer’s file until fines or escrow terms resolve. Then we shift to administration review and show how analysts move files to consent agendas or build detailed syllabi for commissioner decisions. We highlight the small details that protect your timeline: reading commission orders line by line, responding to deficiency notices, understanding added fees when permits change, and notifying staff immediately when financing shifts.Finally, we demystify denials and appeals. Most denials that reach appeal are remanded for more information or reversed when applicants show clear funding, a practical operating plan, and strong compliance steps. Hearings happen over WebEx, making it easy to present your case. If your goal is a smooth opening, this guide offers the steps to get there: complete documentation, honest disclosures, tight coordination with investigators, and disciplined follow‑through on orders and fees. If this helped you plan your path to a Michigan liquor license, subscribe, share with a colleague, and leave a quick review to help others find the show.The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

In this episode, we break down how to renew your Michigan liquor license in the upcoming liquor license renewal period that starts on March 1, 2026.  We discuss club certifications and brewer barrel counts, MILogin pitfalls, payment timing, escrow rules, triennial renewals for Salesperson licenses, and the new tools that make printing licenses faster.Links Discussed In This Episode:MLCC Renewal Portal Link: https://www.michigan.gov/lara/bureau-list/lcc/renewalFor more information on or to register for the Michigan Craft Beverage Summit, please visit the Craft Beverage Council's website at MichiganCraftBeverage.comCommission Approved Salesperson Accreditation Programs:Michigan Salesperson License Accreditation Program - mbwwasaleslicense.orgProgram managed by Michigan Beer & Wine Wholesalers Association - Phone: 517-482-5555 ext. 215Michigan Brewers Guild’s Michigan Salesperson License Accreditation Program - https://www.mibeer.com/Training/HomeProgram managed by Michigan Brewers Guild - Phone: 517-327-5004The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

We trace Michigan’s liquor laws from 1774 merchant rules to modern regulation, showing how taverns, quotas, Sunday bans, and “forever” prohibition shaped today’s safeguards. The throughline is simple: protect public welfare while supporting responsible commerce.• 1770s Detroit merchant rules and self-imposed fines• Early territorial licenses, fees, and local enforcement• 1838 reforms on credit, intoxication, Sunday sales• Location-specific premises and the meaning of “tavern”• Restrictions near churches and the short-lived on-premises ban• Township welfare protections and spendthrift limits• Local option, dry counties, and failed early prohibition• Oddities: cemetery buffers, crackers and pretzels, ad bans with ex-presidents• Quotas tied to population and standard hours• 1916 “forever” prohibition and 1932 repeal• Birth of the Liquor Control Commission and control-state modelThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

Step into the enchanting world of agritourism at Lewis Adventure Farm and Zoo, where four generations of farming heritage have blossomed into one of Michigan's most beloved family destinations. Nestled just six miles from Lake Michigan between Muskegon and Ludington, this 500-acre haven welcomes 160,000 visitors annually to experience the perfect blend of agriculture, exotic animals, and family entertainment.  What began as a simple market has evolved into a destination employing over 160 people during peak season, demonstrating the significant economic impact of agritourism on rural communities.Owner Scott Lewis guides us through his family's remarkable journey, from traditional fruit farming to creating an immersive destination where children squeal with delight in corn boxes while parents enjoy craft cocktails and homemade pizza. The farm's menagerie of exotic residents—including kangaroos, sloths, capybaras, lemurs, and camels—creates unforgettable hands-on encounters for visitors of all ages. As Scott explains, "We want you to see stuff that you've never seen before, touch things that you've never touched before, and create memories with your family."This conversation captures the essence of modern agricultural tourism—where traditional farming practices meet innovative entertainment experiences, creating spaces where multiple generations can connect through shared wonder and discovery. Whether you're planning your next family outing or dreaming of starting your own agritourism venture, this episode offers a heartwarming glimpse into how one Michigan farm family's vision created an extraordinary place where memories are made and cherished for years to come.The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

Join hosts Sara Weber and David Marvin at 100 Proof, Detroit City Distillery's new event space, as they sit down with Sales Manager Jamie Wright and Brand Development Manager Dante Desaro to uncork the fascinating journey behind this Michigan success story. The conversation flows from amusing beginnings—a bachelor party where the wedding never happened but a distillery was born—to the thoughtful business strategy that guided their expansion from Eastern Market to the historic Stroh's Ice Cream factory.At the heart of Detroit City Distillery's philosophy is an unwavering commitment to Michigan-grown ingredients. The team reveals how they source 97% of their products from local grain, including a special strain of Michigan rye grown exclusively for them. This dedication to local sourcing doesn't just support Michigan agriculture—it creates spirits with distinctive flavor profiles that have earned loyal fans across the state.The podcast delves into the creative process behind innovative products like their viral Paczki Vodka (distilled from actual Polish pastries) and their artful label designs that tell stories of Detroit's rich history. Each bottle serves as a canvas for storytelling, from the image of founder JP Jerome's bootlegger grandfather on their flagship Butcher's Cut Bourbon to the Michigan Central Station depicted on Railroad Gin.Perhaps most compelling is how Detroit City Distillery demonstrated resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic, pivoting within hours to produce hand sanitizer and creating their special release "Shutdown Bourbon" as a symbol of Detroit's ability to rise from adversity. The team shares valuable insights for aspiring distillers: stay flexible, chase quality over trends, and above all, remain authentic to your vision.Whether you're a spirits enthusiast, an entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates a great Michigan success story, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the craft, creativity, and community behind every bottle of Detroit City Distillery spirits.The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA) President Neal Insley joins MLCC Chair Kristin Beltzer for an insightful conversation about how control states balance commerce with public health through data-driven regulation and education.• NABCA is a non-advocacy organization providing unbiased, factual data to its 17 member control states and other alcoholic beverage industry stakeholders• Control states reflect diverse community needs while maintaining consistent regulation and public health protections• Education and outreach to licensees creates transparency and compliance rather than simply "licensing and walking away"• NABCA partners with over 30 universities on research projects related to alcohol policy and public healthThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

Ever wondered about the difference between "alcohol" and "alcoholic liquor"? What does "ABV" or "ADA" mean?  This first episode of the MLCC On The Road Podcast's new series called Alphabet Soup will explore words and phrases in Michigan's liquor laws that start with the letter "A".Whether you're a licensee navigating regulations, an applicant preparing to enter the industry, or simply curious about how Michigan's liquor control system operates, this engaging episode demystifies key terminology while laying the groundwork for future alphabetical explorations.The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

With the summer event season right around the corner, we explore how nonprofit organizations can apply for Special Licenses to sell and serve alcohol at their fundraising events and how on-premises licensees (bars, restaurants, hotels) can add a Temporary Permit for outdoor service for their special events.  We discuss who can apply, what are common mistakes to avoid when submitting an application for a Special License or Temporary Permit, and the timeframe for applying (hint: earlier is always better).For questions about Special Licenses and Temporary Permits, please email the MLCC's Licensing Division: [email protected] to information on the MLCC website related to this episode:Special License Information and Checklist Special License ApplicationTemporary Permit ApplicationApplication For Prizes in Access of $250Additional Bar Permit Application (Class C / B-Hotel Licensees Only)The MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

People are often surprised to learn that there are areas in Michigan that are still dry for on-premises sales and service of spirits.  In this episode we discuss the history of local on-premises spirits legalization that goes all the way back to the end of Prohibition in 1933.  We'll also dive into the topic of local governmental unit quotas to explore the limits on retailer liquor licenses in cities, villages, and townships.As mentioned in this episode, the MLCC's website has a dedicated Local Governmental Resources page.  Also, the please visit the MLCC's 90th Anniversary page for more information on the early years of the MLCC after Prohibition ended in 1933.Hosts: Sara Weber and David MarvinThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

What is mixed spirit drink?  What is it not?  In this episode we explore which kinds of products are considered mixed spirit drink under Michigan law and which ones are not.  We also delve into which types of licenses are necessary to manufacture, import, distribute, and sell mixed spirit drink in Michigan.As referenced in this episode, mixed spirit drink containers must meet the federal standards of fill sizes listed in 27 CFR 5.203.  Please check out the two-page mixed spirit drink informational sheet on the MLCC website for examples of products that are mixed spirit drink and those that are not.Hosts: Sara Weber and David MarvinThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

In this episode we discuss 8 helpful tips (and maybe a few more) for submitting a complete application to help you avoid common mistakes or oversights when applying for a liquor license.  A version of this tip sheet was originally developed by MLCC staff for the Institute of Continuing Legal Education (ICLE) at the University of Michigan.As mentioned in the episode, the 8 tips are listed below.  Listen in to hear the conversation about why each are important to your application.Tip 1 – Check Out The ChecklistTip 2 – Correct Names Keep The Process On TrackTip 3 – Confirm Whether Individual Or TrustTip 4 – Convictions Omitted Cause ConcernTip 5 – Cover It In Your Cover LetterTip 6 – Consult With The LocalsTip 7 – Communicate With Churches Or SchoolsTip 8 – Compile Financial Documents In AdvanceHosts: Sara Weber and David MarvinThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

In this episode we discuss the annual liquor license renewal process and how all renewal applications will be processed fully online license in 2025.As noted in this episode, if you are a licensee that needs the Master BID and Master PIN for your business in order to set up your online renewal portal account, you may request the Master BID and Master PIN by emailing [email protected].  Make sure you include the licensee name and the Business ID (BID) number that appear on your license (the BID number on your license and the Master BID are different numbers).  Also, only a member of a licensed LLC, stockholder of a licensed corporation, or an individual licensee may request the Master BID and Master PIN.The Licensing Division's email address for questions about licenses and permits is [email protected]: Sara Weber and David MarvinThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

In this episode we discuss the term 'control state' and learn why the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) is a control state.  Spoiler alert: it's not because we have the word 'control' in our name!Hosts: Sara Weber and David MarvinThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.

Welcome to the MLCC On The Road podcast.  In our inaugural episode, we'll introduce our hosts - Sara Weber, Licensing Division Director and David Marvin, Executive Services Division Director - and we'll learn about the MLCC On The Road program.We thank the National Alcohol Beverage Control Association (NABCA) for providing financial assistance for the MLCC On The Road program through an education grant.Hosts: Sara Weber and David MarvinThe MLCC On The Road podcast is brought to you by the Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC).  For more information on the MLCC, please visit our website at www.michigan.gov/lcc.  To submit a question or idea for a podcast topic, please email [email protected] mission of the Michigan Liquor Control Commission is to make alcoholic beverages available for consumption while protecting the consumer and the general public through regulation of those involved in the sale and distribution of these alcohol beverage products.