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Paynesville Press - Nov. 13, 2002

Family purchases Manannah bar

By Bonnie Jo Hanson

Art and Diane Rhorbeck Art and Diane Rhorbeck took over the Manannah Hilltop Tavern in early October and turned the bar operation into a family affair.

The tavern is an unusual set-up bar. It sells 3.2 beer on tap and set-ups for mixed drinks, but customers must bring their own liquor.

The Rhorbeck family will run the Manannah Hilltop Tavern together. Front row from left: Jo, Diane, Susan Luden. Back row from left: Baby Alex, Jerry Valiant, Rebecca Valiant, and Art.

Established in 1938, the tavern was once one of the many bars and businesses in Manannah, but now it's the only business left in the community. In its early days, the tavern boasted a dance hall that has since been moved and is now part of the church.

The bar was remodeled recently, and the Rhorbecks have already made some of their own changes. Menu items have been added, and Diane would like to have regular entertainment. The Rhorbecks hope events will attract customers, including bar bingo on Wednesday nights and fish fries on Fridays.

Art and Diane will see to the operation of the tavern with their three daughters and son-in-law.

Before buying the tavern, Diane was self employed making patterns for wood crafts that she and Art designed. Art still makes his unique woodcrafts and works full time outside the bar.



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