Restaurant owner apologizes, reconciles w/disabled vet

PRIEST LAKE — Thursday, Ben Votava and Scott Yochum met in person for the first time since their now famous disagreement . Yochum, a combat veteran, says he relies heavily on his service dog “Lady” for balance as well as emotional support. Yochum says he was angry when Votava, the owner of Nordman’s restaurant, said he couldn’t have his dog at the establishment. He took to Facebook to express his displeasure, and his post went viral within days. “I’d like to apologize, it was rude and disrespectful,” Votava said after buying Yochum a beer. “It takes a big person with a lot of character to say they’re wrong. You doing this means the world to me,” Yochum replied/ Liz Burch , KHQ. More here.