Waite Park Bar Gets New Owner

WAITE PARK -- A Waite Park bar has a new owner, but same name, atmosphere and staff. Justin Rovnak has bought Friends Bar & Restaurant at 236 2nd Avenue.

Rovnak says he started as a dishwasher when he was 14 and hasn't left the hospitality industry since.

Rovnak has wanted to own a bar for some time and says this was the right deal at the right time.

The new owner says he'll tinker with the menu and happy hour specials but otherwise won't make too many changes.

The bar opened as Friends back in 1984. It may be best known for its Memorial Day Bash. Rovnak says they plan to continue the tradition by holding the outdoor concert as usual.