A faded sign above the front door of Green Mountain Falls’ Blue Moose Tavern reflects the unknowns facing this locals’ hot spot which announced its abrupt closure on April 16.

Though several requests from the Courier to speak with the Tavern’s ownership went unanswered, its Facebook page cited tensions between the property owner and business owner arising from a fire that occurred last summer as the impetus for the unexpected lease termination.

The Blue Moose has been the social epicenter of the cozy community of Green Mountain Falls, drawing visitors and locals in equal measure. Its allure has been live music and special events like the annual Chili Cookoff.

Serving casual food, cold beer and cocktails, The Moose’s laissez faire, come-as-you-are attitude made it a unique spot where pool players, families with children, seasoned drinkers, tea totalers and social butterflies with their pets in tow could come together in a relaxed environment.

Since February 2013, the Blue Moose has been emblematic of GMF, and for this reason, patrons and staff are optimistic that it will soon reopen with a new business owner.

While pouring drinks for a standing room only bar, James, the bartender said, “There are a lot of unknowns right now. But I started here working for the last owner, and I expect I’ll be working for the next one.”

Koda, a one hundred-and-thirty-pound Leonberger has been a regular patron at the Blue Moose Tavern along with his owners William and Tanesha since he was a puppy.

“When he was little, the bartenders would carry him around with them,” Tanesha said. “He was socialized at the Blue Moose. It’s such a popular place, someone is going to come in and open it again—hopefully soon.”

The Moose held its closeout bash on April 25 with a late-night party that featured the Midnight Hippies. For now, the location is shuttered, but staff and patrons remain confident another community-minded entrepreneur will have the doors opening again soon.