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DEL.ICIO.USSunday liquor sales clears committee, but don’t toast yet
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
A key Senate committee approved legislation Tuesday morning that would allow local voters to decide whether grocery and convenience stores stores can sell beer, wine and liquor on Sundays.
The measure was approved by a 4-3 vote of the Senate Regulated Industries and Regulated Committee. It now goes to the Senate Rules Committee, which will decide if it will go to the full Senate for a vote.
Senate Rules Chairman Don Balfour (R-Snellville), a supporter of the bill, predicted the Senate will vote on the measure in coming weeks.
“It will come out of my committee,” Balfour told reporters.
Some Republicans have been skittish about having GOP lawmakers vote on the bill, fearing electoral retribution from liquor opponents. Christian Coalition officials have let lawmakers know they will use any liquor votes in their election-year scorecards.
Two Senate Republican leaders on the committee, Senate President Pro-tem Eric Johnson (R-Savannah) and Senate Majority Leader Tommie Williams (R-Lyons), skipped the vote. Contacted this morning, Johnson said he was at his job in Savannah. He said he opposes the bill, but he hopes the full Senate gets a chance to vote on it.
The bill had stalled in the Regulated Indusries and Regulated Committee for nearly two months, despite the backing of the powerful grocery and convenience store lobby.
It is strongly opposed by Christian Right groups, who don’t think there should be liquor sales on the Sabbath. Also, some liquor store owners oppose it because they don’t want the expense of having to be open on Sundays.
Restaurants and bars that sell food already can sell liquor on Sundays if local voters approve.
Permalink | Comments (153) | Post your comment | Categories: Liquor Laws
Comments
By Watch Out!
March 13, 2007 10:12 AM | Link to this
My prediction for Republicans is a simple one. Don’t allow voters to vote on Sunday sales and suffer at the polls on a particular Tuesday coming up soon.
Republicans need to stop trying to legislate our morals. Let us decide what we want. Blue laws need to go away, and Christian groups need to ply their trade in churches, not legislatures.
Beware, Republicans, beware.
By D
March 13, 2007 10:17 AM | Link to this
I’m really tired of the religous fanatics in our state dictating our rights! We as Georgians should stand up and demand a vote on this issue as soon as possible. If Perdue can justify a statewide vote on Gay Marriage, surley he can allow the citizens of our state to vote on Sunday Liquior sells!
By Grant Parker
March 13, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
A really sensible bill would be one that declares alcohol can be sold statewide on Sundays. Lacking that, this local-option proposal is the second-best thing. I could rant a bit about how this is the 21st century, etc., but that has been done already. Lawmakers, approve the bill!
By Jim
March 13, 2007 10:25 AM | Link to this
This must be voted on by all Georgia voters. We will vote out anyone in office that tries to stop this legislation. Remember the Republican loss in the last big election. Give Georgia voters the choice.
By Joe
March 13, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this
Well at least we can still buy lottery tickets and cigarettes on our way to church.
By Kevin Jones
March 13, 2007 10:26 AM | Link to this
I can’t believe they haven’t passed it..look at the millions of $$$$ they would have to blow now for some super highway in the middle of BFE, etc!
I think the churches that are inluencing this should lose their tax exempt status.
GA “still backwards and stupid” should be on the license plates.
By ray rinkiewicz
March 13, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this
Are the people in this state so bored as to worry about alcohol being sold on Sunday ? Who cares if you are religious don’t by it, period plain and simple. If you are not a religious person, yes we are out there, we can purchase it. Being from NY I amuse to buying alcohol anytime and look that state still functions just fine. Infact the education scores are a heck of a lot higher.
Maybe instead of worrying about a grocery store selling some beer, you should focus on regional scores on SAT’s and getting a higher National Education ranking. If not education you can focus on the lack of enforcement towards traffic violations. On a given day I see at least ten drivers nearly cause accidents by not using a turn signal, hmmm are you that lazy ? Then again maybe they just happen to have the Sunday alcohol bill on their minds.
By Is It Really That Serious
March 13, 2007 10:27 AM | Link to this
I think that sales on Sunday is not that serious. Anyone who really wants to drink can just buy their alcohol on Saturday.
I do think that resteraunts and bars should be allowed to sell on Sunday, but I’d like to see it limited to that.
By Bruce Garner
March 13, 2007 10:28 AM | Link to this
I think it’s time that our elected representatives stopped being complicit in imposing some folks’ religious beliefs on all of us. I don’t really care what Sadie Fields and the Christian Coalition/Right think because it really is not their business to tell me what I as a legal adult can and cannot buy and when. I’m in church every Sunday, but that doesn’t mean the Christian Coalition represents my views just because we share the name of Christian. I would also remind those who seem unclear about it that Sunday is NOT the sabbath of the Bible. Saturday is still the sabbath. Sunday is the Christian remembrance of the resurrection. God didn’t provide a revised version of the 10 Commandments.
By Jean Kimble
March 13, 2007 10:29 AM | Link to this
Guaranteed that it’s not “religous fanantics” trying to govern morals, it’s a mother and father who have lost chilren, wives, husbands, etc. in drunk driving accidents who want the blue law to remain on the books. Six days a week are enough to buy all the liquor you want because you drink seven days a week. Concerned Citizen
By Jmacbruell
March 13, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
Its about time that we are allowed to vote on Sunday liquor sales! The people should have the right to decide the issue as opposed to the “bible belters” imposing their morals and blue laws.
By Donald Boyd
March 13, 2007 10:31 AM | Link to this
Senator Harp is my senator and I voted for him but I will not vote for him again. The law is fine just like it is.I am one of those religous fanatics, I am also a Georgian and we have rights to!
By paul
March 13, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
i’m republican and can’t believe my eyes that it’s the repubs that are standing in the way . c’mon boys and girls, this 2007! let a person have his drink! and for the religious sect., what did jesus turn water into!. (duh).
By Bill
March 13, 2007 10:32 AM | Link to this
I hope all the beer and liquor drinking, NASCAR watching, Bass fishing, pick-up driving, lottery playing so called Republican christian rednecks who voted all of these right-wing Republicans into office get what is coming to them.
By harold
March 13, 2007 10:33 AM | Link to this
THE LAWMAKERS ARE VOTING TO ALLOW DEMOCRACY TO OCCUR. THEY ARE NOT VOTING “FOR LIQUOR SALES.” THEY ARE VOTING FOR VOTING. WHY WOULD ANYBODY HAVE ANY PROBLEM WITH VOTING UNLESS THEY ARE THE TALIBAN OR FASCIST? VOTING IS AMERICAN. DO THE BAPTIST CHURCHES HATE VOTING? ANY PREACHER TYPE WHO PREACHES AGAINST VOTING IS GUILTY OF TREASON AND SEDITION AND SHOULD BE SHOT ON SIGHT BY THE MILITARY AND LOSE THEIR TAX EXEMPT STATUS AS WELL SINCE THEY ARE A POLITICAL LOBBYIST RATHER THAN A PREACHER
By Jane
March 13, 2007 10:34 AM | Link to this
Why don’t we make everything illegal and make everyone dress the same. Then all will be right. No way you backwood, nonthinking, just to go along bunch of nonworking people.
By Cristy
March 13, 2007 10:35 AM | Link to this
I agree with D, I’m fed up with the religious zealots who only care about what they feel is right and continue to force their beliefs in the legislature! What about those of us who would rather stay at home on Sunday and enjoy a glass of wine or any alcoholic beverage with a meal instead of having to drive to a restaurant that serves alcohol and risk getting a DUI? Please help me understand the logic behind making it okay for me to drive to drink, but not to stay home and drink?
It seems like there is overwhelming support on getting at least beer and wine to be sold in convenience stores on Sunday’s, so why not let the people of Georgia decide what we want????
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 10:36 AM | Link to this
Jean Kimble GO BACK TO YOUR STUPID CHURCH AND PRAY TO JESUS THAT YOU GET RELOCATED TO SAUDI ARABIA WHERE DRINKING IS ILLEGAL. IF YOU ARE AGAINST VOTING YOU ARE UNAMERICAN. YOU SHOULD JOIN THE TALIBAN. THEY DON’T DRINK EITHER.
GEORGE BUSH CLAIMED ‘THEY HATE US FOR OUR FREEDOMS’ WELL WHAT FREEDOMS IS THAT? THE FREEDOM TO HAVE JESUS FREAKS TELL ME I CANNOT COMPLETE MY GROCERY SHOPPING IN ONE TRIP ON SUNDAY AFTERNOON? NO WONDER THE ROMANS KILLED CHRISTIANS ON SIGHT. THEY DAMN DESERVED IT!
By Free Country, Remember
March 13, 2007 10:38 AM | Link to this
We as the people of this state and this country should have more say in many things the government seems to think they need to control. If someone wants to buy a beer on Sunday, so what, that is why we live here, to do just that, what we want without government or religous dicatation. Seems lately local governments are forgetting they are suppose to be OUR voice, not our dicatators! Stop your local government from making policies without your say. Don’t allow these elected officials to TELL you, you cannot have a drink, shoot a game of pool, while visiting with freinds while they throw darts. It is downright crazy!! This state, this country belongs to the people, not just the elected officials, remind them of that…..
By Alex
March 13, 2007 10:41 AM | Link to this
I think it is really silly that we can buy lottery, tickets, and go to the strip club on Sunday, and risk accidents and all kinds of stuff on Sunday, but I can’t go to the store legally to get a 12 pack or a bottle of wine for dinner and be in the comfort of my own home, that is schitzo. The next thing is and correct me if I am wrong, Jesus first miracle was turning water to wine…That is scripture, not some drunk with an opinion. I am not going to say I am tired of religious people cause I happen to be a Christian and try to live as good as possible.God has given us all free will, so let the people of Georgia exercise theirs. God Bless!!!!
By Getaclue
March 13, 2007 10:42 AM | Link to this
JK, you must live on your own planet. I’m more worried about a drunk driver Mon-Saturday then I am on a Sunday. We should be able to buy beer or liquor on any day of the week. The religous fanatics need to keep to their business and their beliefs to themselves. They don’t make the rules for everyone. In England pubs are open 7 days a week and kids 18 and up are allowed to drink. They have fewer drunk drivers for a country then Ga has as in a state. If you don’t drink don’t bother with this ruling, if you’re religious keep your beliefs to yourself. Pass the damn bill already!
By upstanding, law abiding, tax paying, imbibing citizen
March 13, 2007 10:43 AM | Link to this
if this bill dies in committee then we the people need to get out and vote these senators out of office. show them that collectively we are a bigger block vote than the religious fanatics. we can create a scorecard too. it is downright absurd that you can’t buy alcohol on sunday in georgia. what a joke. *&^%+$_)#
By Mark
March 13, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this
I happen to be a die-hard Republican, but I still believe that voters should choose whether alcohol sales should be allowed on Sundays, even though I am a church-going Christian. If politicians won’t listen to the people that elected them, it’s going to turn against them..
By NJ
March 13, 2007 10:44 AM | Link to this
I just can’t believe this is even an issue in 2007. You’d think we were living in the times of prohibition. Republicans want smaller government unless it is something they believe in; then, they want to impose their beliefs on everyone. Frankly, I could give three sheets to the wind “what Sonny would do.”
By ted
March 13, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
Jean Kimble — explain how banning alcohol sales on Sunday will prevent alcohol related deaths. Won’t the unscrupulous alcohol addict just drive to the local bar, get drunk and drive home? This all assumes they have run out of beer the previous night. If you think this has nothing to do with religion, you are nuts.
I would say that proponents, by and large, are regular responsible working people who have two days a week when they can get things done like do the grocery shopping, and they don’t like silly laws getting in the way. Plus it is just the principle of being subjected to someone else’s silly pseudo-religious rules. How about if we pass a law requiring you to wear a head scarf, or throwing people in jail if they mow the lawn on Sunday?
By THIRSTY
March 13, 2007 10:45 AM | Link to this
let’s make sunday drinking mandatory
By Brian Friel
March 13, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
The truth comes out 20 some years later that these riteous religious groups are trying to force their sabbath day on others. This should be presented to the Supreme Court and should be struck down. These groups are hypocritical of the christian faith itself.
By some guy
March 13, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
WE ARE NOT LIVING IN A THEOCRACY!!! Sometimes it seems like separation of church and state doesn’t exist down here. All you Republicans may argue that this country was founded on Christian principles, but maybe you don’t know that Jefferson, who wrote the Declaration, was an AGNOSTIC! If you religious zealots don’t want alcohol on Sunday, then DON’T BUY IT! Some of us, however, would like to enjoy a beer or glass of wine on Sunday evening. Please stop imposing your beliefs on others, because we REALLY don’t appreciate it!
By Stan
March 13, 2007 10:46 AM | Link to this
I agree with Kevin. I am a non-drinker and a Christian, but I firmly believe that these baptists and other legalistic fundamentalists have gone way too far, and it’s time the state took initial steps toward knocking the churches those folks represent off the tax-exempt list. We need to get the message across that you gotta pay to play.
I am sick and tired of these people meddling in political affairs on any level. You can read the Bible from cover to cover and not find a single verse pointing to the idea that Jesus has commanded us to petition our governments to legislate His teachings. Baptists don’t seem to get that though, and consequently they give ALL Christians a bad name.
Let the citizens vote!
By little ben
March 13, 2007 10:48 AM | Link to this
Other than the current law violating the Constitutional separation of Church and State, it’s a perfect law. In fact, while we’re in the practice of violating Civil Liberities, we ought to support the public flogging of all lefthanded people, since they are clearly inferior and in the minority and write funny.
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
THE STATE OF SUNNI PERDUE MUST BE ABOLISHED. THE PEOPLE MUST RECLAIM THIS STATE. THEY SENT THE NATIONAL GUARD OVERSEAS IN THIS RUSE OF A WAR IN IRAQ SO THEY COULD TAKE AWAY OUR FREEDOMS HERE AND NOBODY WOULD BE HERE TO DEFEND US. THEY SENT OUR GUARD TO IRAQ AND NOW THEY ATTACK OUR FREEDOMS AND ALLOW ILLEGAL MEXICANS TO INVADE US AND MAKE OUR LANDS WORTHLESS SO THEY CAN TAKE OUR LANDS AT A BARGAIN VALUE AND THEN BRING THE GUARD HOME AND GET RID OF ALL THE MEXICANS. THIS IS JUST ANOTHER LAND GRAB BY SUNNI PERDUE. THIS LAND IS YOUR LAND IF YOU ARE SUNNI, THIS LAND IS MY LAND IF I AM SUNNI, THIS LAND WAS MADE FOR YOU IF YOURE SUNNI PERDUE THE LEADER OF TALIBAN GEORGIA BRANCH SOUTHERN BAPTIST DIVISION
By zantac69
March 13, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
Its really sad to see that people actually use Christian Coalition scorecards as anything more than toilet paper. But then again…people vote one person over another for all sorts of reasons - why should judgment by a religious group whose faith says not to pass judgement on others not be one of those reasons? :roll:
Anyway…we’ll see
By RONALD DURST
March 13, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
COME ON GEORGIANS MORALLY THE LOTTERY BUT IS ALLOWED. THE STATE SAW HOW MUCH WAS WAGERED ILLEGALLY. I BET THAT YOU FIND AS MANY LOTTERY TICKETS IN POCKETS AND PURSES IN THE CHURCHES. LET NOT BE HYPROCITICAL!!!!
By Joey
March 13, 2007 10:49 AM | Link to this
Donald Boyd, you sound like white trash to me. Anyone who admits he is a “fanatic” is probably a low-bred loser from the hinterlands. Welcome to the big city, Cletus. Now clean my boots.
By Katherine
March 13, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this
All of this is so stupid - I have lived in many states and this is the only one that you cannot purchase on Sunday - I attend church every Sunday and Wendnesday - I’m a good ole Methodist - and almost every friend I have in my church drinks.So don’t let the church people give you the wrong idea - most of them drink. I don’t see why it’s such an issue - what makes me mad is when you plan a dinner party and you have forgotten to purchase that bottle of wine - and of course you can’t run out and buy one - back to being stupid!
By Susanne
March 13, 2007 10:50 AM | Link to this
I don’t understand why buying a bottle of wine on Sunday is a religious issue? Why is it considered an anti-Christian thing to purchase a libation? These so-called “religious” need to read-up on their bible facts.
By R Jones
March 13, 2007 10:51 AM | Link to this
Georgia law makers need to listen to the people of Georgia. As stated before most in Georgia would like to have to opportunity to vote on alcohol sales on Sunday. Those that don’t want alcohol sales in their local area can vote not to have it. But at least give those that do the opportunity to vote on it. No one is changing your right to the sabbath tradition by voting for alcohol sale on Sunday. You can still go to church. If you don’t want to buy alcohol, don’t buy it. Next election we will put people in office that will listen to the people.
By Pete Pollacksy
March 13, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this
Jeez why kent Jerrgia be loik Joisy, New Yoik, en Pennskyvania!?!
Gimme a break! Georgia’s much more progressive than you friggin transplants give it credit! We will I’m sure, have booze on Sundays sooner or later. It’s not THAT big a deal. Anything that’s been around this long (the blue laws) is bound to be somewhat controversial. Remember: this is the state that stands out amongst it’s Southern neighbors in more ways than one. For instance, know which state was the first to allow 18 year olds to vote…?
If you’re “not really from here,” go try Mississippi on for size. YA’LL will be right back!
By Toddman
March 13, 2007 10:53 AM | Link to this
Why do you Christian activists hate freedom so much?
By Dee
March 13, 2007 10:54 AM | Link to this
Why dont you just buy enough liquor on Saturday for Sunday; sounds logical..right? But, the point is what is the difference between selling liquor on Sunday than any other day of the week? No matter what day of the week you drink, the effects will be the same. As for the religious fanatics, the last I checked, church and state were two separate entities, which they seem to always remind us in a court of law when someone of their faith is being charged with a crime. Dont be hypocritical, allow the sales on Sunday.
By Larry
March 13, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
I drink everyday a beer a tooti something. The bootleeger in my neighborhood is cleaning up on Sundays because of those who can’t reserve the rest of there six or twelve pack until Sunday. I firmley believe that the moral condition of this state will not change because of one more sales day of alcohol and that is real talk. Worry about how we are going to get this 5 hour day rush hour down to about 2 to 3 hours. HOV everything especially 285
By dave
March 13, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
The politicians do not care one way or the other they just want to stay in the middle and get you to vote for them.alcohol has nothing to do with this issue,it is pleasing the majority. RE ELECT ME PLEASE.
By Tom
March 13, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
Jean,
Who’s more likely to be a hazard on the roads……someone who buys alcohol at a store and takes it home to consume or someone who sits in a bar on Sunday afternoon drinking and watching sports and then has to drive home?
Exactly.
By brad
March 13, 2007 10:56 AM | Link to this
what happened to the seperation between church and state. All you over the top christian nuts need to get a clue that normal people dont give a crap about your sunday liquor beliefs. Sunday is a good beach day, beer is good at the beach. go till your land in the middle of no where and mind your own damn business you grizzled a*.
By Robert
March 13, 2007 10:57 AM | Link to this
I think one of the main points that so many of the Christians are missing is that this is a vote to let the people decide if they want Sunday sales. It will still be about CHOICE. If you don’t want to buy alcohol on Sunday you do not have to. It is NOT a requirement. Why limit my rights because of YOUR moral code. It is yours, not mine. And besides, nothing is inherently good or bad, just your preception. Sadie Fields failed her test from God because she is a hater; estranged daughter, condemns homosexuals, opposed to the free choice that God gave every man, and she supports Ann Coulter (another hater). Will you fail your test too?
By Mike
March 13, 2007 10:59 AM | Link to this
Allow liquor sales on Sunday in exchange for a ban on liquor sales on Monday. Most people work Mondays and aren’t home relaxing. This makes more sense than any “blue law”.
By Stan
March 13, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this
Pete - if you call Georgia “progressive,” then you are a misinformed soul indeed. This place is so “bass-ackwards” it practically wreaks.
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 11:00 AM | Link to this
THE CHRISTIANITES HATE FREEDOM AND VOTING
WE MUST SEND ANTITERRORISM MISSILES TO THE CHRISTIAN TRAINING CAMPS
THEY ARE DANGEROUS AND TRYING TO DESTROY AMERICA
THEY HATE US FOR OUR FREEDOMS
THESE CHRISTIAN FREAKS WILL BE BOMBING LIQUOR STORES GIVING THE OPPORTUNITY LIKE THEY DO THE ABORTION CLINICS
IF THEY HAD THEIR WAY ALCOHOL COULD NOT BE SOLD ANY DAY OF THE WEEK
ASK THE FREAKS WHY IT SHOULDNT BE SOLD WEDNESDAY AND IT WILL BE THE SAME EXCUSE AS SUNDAY
THUS THEIR EXCUSE IF FELLACIOUS AND THEY ARE GUILTY OF SEDITION AND TRYING TO UNDERMINE DEMOCRACY
By Myrtice
March 13, 2007 11:01 AM | Link to this
I would like to know how many of thes people with the comments about pushing alcohol alllowed to be purchased on Sunday or Natives of GEORGIA. HOW MANY ARE HALF BACKS FROM FLORIDA BECAUSE THERE TAXES AND INSURANCE WAS TO HIGH !!!! THEY MOVED TO GA TO PUT IT TO THIS STATE.WHY DIDN’T THEY STAY UP NORTH !! WATCH OUT GEORGIA NATIVES I BET YOU IT WILL BE CAHNGED. MONEY RULES .
By blah
March 13, 2007 11:02 AM | Link to this
hey boyd, why should your rights (beliefs) be extended to others who dont share your beliefs. you have the right not to buy liquor on sundays, i have the right not to follow your dumb beliefs.
By harold
March 13, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this
JUST ASK ONE OF THESE STUPID BAPTISTS WHY THE PURCHASE OF DRINKING MATERIALS SHOULD BE ALLOWED ON THURSDAY
THEY WILL NOT HAVE AN ANSWER
THE TRUTH IS THEY WANT IT BANNED TOTALLY BUT FRAME THEIR DISCUSSION AROUND SUNDAY
ASK THEM ABOUT A DIFFERENT DAY OF THE WEEK AND THEIR REASONING AND “LOGIC” FALL APART INTO PIECES THAT ARE TINY LIKE THEIR BRAINS
By David
March 13, 2007 11:03 AM | Link to this
The Christian Right does not have to purchase liquor on Sunday if they don’t want too! End of story.
The state of Georgia and Atlanta will NEVER become a world class city as long as the right wing Christians rule.
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
SADIE FIELDS IS A DIVORCEE
IN THE EYES OF JESUS THAT MEANS SHE IS A W******* W******* W*******
DO NOT LISTEN TO THE W*******
By Real
March 13, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
If people choose to have a drink on sunday, or if they want to purchase liquor on sunday, so be it.And what does this have to do with the Christian’s of Georgia. Who tells the Christian’s of Georgia that they need to practice more of what they preach. I’m surrounded by Christians and as time goes by I see what a bunch of fakes they are and how judgemental they are, and how they gosip.And I’m sorry but I think georgia is way to into Black and White.And coming from up north I have realized that Don’t be fooled when they say there not races.”bull” Christians or not beware!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
By Go Jackets
March 13, 2007 11:04 AM | Link to this
The only people who are affected by this law are the moderate drinkers who just want a six pack to watch a football game. The alcoholics I’ve known will have their stash of Jack and Crown stocked at all times. They’ve got no problems finding alcohol on Sundays.
Drunk Driving is an even more ridiculous reason for the blue law. Bars are still open on Sunday and I’m guessing most of drunk driving happens when returning from bars and clubs. They could also be returning from a house party, but again, they would have alcohol anyways.
So, in the end, it serves as a symbolic law for Christians and other Moralists to stand behind only out of principle. In this respect, it reminds me of the far more pernicious “bus stop” sex offender bill. Politicians use both laws to seize on people’s hatred of a certain practice. However, both laws do not curtail the practice and only affect law-abiding citizens not greatly involved with said practice.
By the way, I am a conservative Christian in almost every sense of the word. But I can see no biblical mandate for a government to coerce people to uphold certain morals. Jesus and the Apostles asked people to act out of their own volition and not out of duty to a government.
By Amy
March 13, 2007 11:07 AM | Link to this
At least you folks in Atlanta can still buy a glass of wine with dinner on Sunday’s. Down here in backwoods Warner Robins there is NO ALCOHOL, PERIOD, on Sunday’s!!
By calhoundawg
March 13, 2007 11:09 AM | Link to this
We can’t pray or have the Bible in public schools, it is legal to murder unborn babies, men can marry men (or women/women), BUT we can’t buy beer on the Sabbath (which is really Saturday anyway)!!?? What a country!
By Stan
March 13, 2007 11:10 AM | Link to this
“Jesus and the Apostles asked people to act out of their own volition and not out of duty to a government.”
AMEN!!! Well said, ‘Go Jackets’.
Almost makes you wonder if these fundamentalist buffoons are just trying to save themselves from… themselves.
By Filster
March 13, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
I work Mon - Sat about 10-12 hours a day (not counting my 2 hour commute) and Sunday is the only day I have to buy groceries, etc. If I want to buy a bottle of wine, or a 6-pack, what business is it of anyone? Have those who spout religious dogma forgotten than our Lord drank wine with meals and even during the last supper? For those politicans who continue to pander to certain “bases”, I have news for you. There is a large segment of our society, both republican and democrat, who is getting sick and tired of all votes being oriented to appease the “base” while ignoring the majority. Perhaps the majority does not finance your campaigns, pay hafty speaking fees, etc., but last time I checked there are more of your votes than those of your base. perhaps you should do what you were elected to do, i.e., represent your full constituency to the best of your ability and nit just a few select positions. Hey, if it could happen to Cynthia McKinney (twice!), it can happen to you as well. End message, let the People vote as they will.
By FrankLeeDarling
March 13, 2007 11:12 AM | Link to this
Shure christians have rights too,you have the right not to buy alcholo anytime you dont want to.the real point here is we all should have the right to vote on issues. the reason i find this law annoying is sunday is my friday and i work long hours often in other states. so when i get home late saturday nite i cannot go get a beer and enjoy my upcoming weekend. not everyone keeps a regular 9to5 mon-fri week.please let me have MY weekend beer
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
Go Jackets IS THE ONLY CHRISTIAN IN THE ENTIRE STATE WITH A BRAIN
Go Jackets FLEE THIS AREA BEFORE THE BACKLASH AGAINST THE CHRISTIANS BEGINS IF THIS DEMOCRATIC VOTE IS PREVENTS BY SUNNI PERDUE THE LEADER OF THE TALIBAN GEORGIA SOUTHERN BAPTIST BRANCH
By native georgian
March 13, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
isn’t it interesting that 99% of the posts here are pro sunday liquor sales? while this is not an official poll doesn’t this say that pro sunday sales are in the majority? or at least the chance to vote for sunday sales? copy and paste this blog and email it to your state senator and representative. get up, stand up! stand up for your rights!!!
By native georgian
March 13, 2007 11:13 AM | Link to this
isn’t it interesting that 99% of the posts here are pro sunday liquor sales? while this is not an official poll doesn’t this say that pro sunday sales are in the majority? or at least the chance to vote for sunday sales? copy and paste this blog and email it to your state senator and representative. get up, stand up! stand up for your rights!!!
By Joey
March 13, 2007 11:14 AM | Link to this
Hey Myrtice, you look like you have a mild case of, um, retardation. People like you shouldn’t blog. I’m not kidding. Your writing was so dismally awful that whatever message you attempted to convey (if there even WAS a message) was marred by your inability to communicate and your dismal grasp of the English language. I am only looking out for your best interests, as blogs like yours do not garner any support; they merely make other people shake their heads and say “what a retard”. Maybe you should do something else with your time, like play with Legos or play-doh or something.
By Dr B
March 13, 2007 11:17 AM | Link to this
I’m all for alhocol sales on Sunday — otherwise, let’s be consistent stop selling cigarettes and any other indulgences (no candy bars on Sunday anyone?)
However, for the record, churches are free to lobby for and against legislation (as long as it is not a primary focus of what the church does). The issue of tax-exempt status comes into question when they start endorsing candidates (which is not allowed).
By LH
March 13, 2007 11:20 AM | Link to this
Just because a government official votes yes, doesn’t mean that they necessarily support alcohol sales on Sunday. It just means that they realize that adults in the state of Georgia are smart enough and have the right to decide on their own whether alcohol or not they want alcohol sold on Sundays. Let us have a say!
By harold
March 13, 2007 11:21 AM | Link to this
IF DRUNK DRIVING IS A SUCH A PROBLEM THEN THE TALLIBAN COALITION (SOTUHERN BAPTIST BRANCH) SHOULD VOTE FOR PUBLIC TRANSIT
HWOEVER THEY DO NOT VOTE FOR PUBLIC TRANSIT
THEIR ARGUMENTS ARE FELLACIOUS
AND YES HAROLD DOES MEAN FELLACIOUS
THEY SUCK D1CK
By Pete Pollacksky
March 13, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this
Stan,
No misinformed soul here. Do your homework. Besides, I think the proper word is, “reeks.” It is a free country: if Georgia’s so bad, move. If I felt that way about it, I would. It’s sort of dumb to remain where you think things are so bad. Sort of like talking about farmers with your mouth full.
Like I said: we’ll have liquor on Sunday soon enough. Watch and see if I’m not right.
By Chris
March 13, 2007 11:22 AM | Link to this
The arguments put forth for banning liquor sales on Sunday could easily be applied to all the other days of the week. So, that being the case, why haven’t I heard much from the Christian Coallition pushing for a constitutional amendment banning the sale and transport of alcohol?
Oh wait, that was the (now-defunct) 18th Amendment.
By Bill Kecskes
March 13, 2007 11:23 AM | Link to this
I just love watching hypocrites squirm. I would be very surprised to find a single legislator who did not readily accept liquor/beer industry campaign contributions. LtGov Cagle took in almost $41,000 last year - Gov. Perdue has taken in a bundle also, etc. etc. - and our Republican party says we are “not a nanny state” - “free market conditions prevail” - “let the will of the people be done”. If all of these good and lofty positions were kept, we’d have Sunday sales already.
By BERGY
March 13, 2007 11:26 AM | Link to this
STUPID SOUTHERNERS: YES, don’t allow people to go to the store and buy some beer to take home and watch their sports or do the yard work. INSTEAD, lets encourage them to go out to bars and restaurants, DRINK UP, and then drive home. REAL SMART….Also, what happened to freedom of choice. The legislators are voting on it and not the people, do they too think southerners are dumb????
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 11:29 AM | Link to this
IF THEY BLOCK VOTING, LET US DRIVE THE CHRISTIANS INTO THE SEA. THEY ARE A DANGER TO AMERICA. NOTHING IS MORE AMERICAN THAN VOTING. THE CHRISTIANS SHOULD WELCOME THIS VOTE SO THE PEOPLE CAN SAY ONCE AND FOR ALL THEY DO NOT WANT SUNDAY SALES IF THAT IS THE CASE AS THE CHRISTIANS PRETEND.
CHRISTIANS YOU WILL BE DRIVEN INTO THE SEA RATHER THAN US LET YOU DESTROY AMERICA
By JJ
March 13, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
Harold you need more than a drink. Get some help, all of this built up anger is not healthy.
What you transplant ITP people need to realize is that many of us from rural Georgia don’t care if our laws are “modern” or not. We like things the way that they used to be. We aren’t driven by money and greed. We still believe that homosexuality is a sin and that it is still OK to spank our kids.
I have just as much right to express my beliefs to my legislator as you do. This does not mean that I am pushing my beliefs off on you. I am simply exercising my right to freedom of expression. If it comes to a vote fine, if not then that is fine too.
You can call me a bass fishing, NASCAR watchin redneck if you want because I it is all true. In fact, I take it as a compliment coming from liberal freaks like some of you.
By harold
March 13, 2007 11:32 AM | Link to this
It seems like the ultra conservative moral brigade would pick their battles more wisely.
Fighting Sunday Sales just makes them look, well, stupid.
When they come along to fight abortion next legislative session, people are going to remember them as the idiots who prevented Sunday Sales.
Pick your battles, Christian Coalition types! Fighting this one makes you come across very poorly and gives people a very bad opinion of you.
By Bergy
March 13, 2007 11:35 AM | Link to this
I have to agree, Myrtice, YOU ARE A RETARD! AND we should seek and destroy christian training camps. At least we will save our children from being molested. STUPID SOUTHERNERS, thank GOD for the more sensible northerners, and westerners for saving this poor state and turning it into the city it is today and even better one tomorrow!! If only we could get the a*******backwards southern politicians out of office!!
By FrankLeeDarling
March 13, 2007 11:36 AM | Link to this
Anyone know where i can find out who and how elected officals are voting on this
By D
March 13, 2007 11:37 AM | Link to this
We came to this country for RELIGIOUS FREEDOM why should we even consider what Christians say about what rights we can and cannot have? I’m sure on Saturday night all the church folks are stocking up on their alcohol anyway. Isn’t that why these hypocrites go to church, so they can ask for forgiveness for what they did during the week? Than they feel good about themselves for that moment and go back to the same sins the following week. This counrty was founded on RELIGIOUS FREEDOM not Christian fathers….Jefferson, Madison and others were not Christians
By AtlantaGatorLee
March 13, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
Jean Kimble - Do you think that alcholics take sunday off because they can’t buy booze? Since one is not allowed to go buy beer and bring it home to drink, One needs to drink it at a resturant and DRIVE home. Make perfect sense to me!
By GAS
March 13, 2007 11:38 AM | Link to this
Email a seate rules committee official here
By Jim
March 13, 2007 11:43 AM | Link to this
It’s funny how the Republicans don’t mind allowing voters to vote on ‘moral’ issues when they know that the voters will definitively swing their way (gay-marriage), but when the voters are likely to vote against them, then the measure will likely never make it before us to make that choice.
By AtlantaGatorLee
March 13, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this
Pete Pollacksy- If Georgia’s best argument is “it is better than Mississippi” we are in trouble.
Myrtice- If it were not for us Florida educated Georgia residents, this state would fall apart.
By KR
March 13, 2007 11:53 AM | Link to this
Everyone, please try to focus on the real issue here. It is NOT the right to buy alcohol on Sundays. It IS the right to VOTE on an issue that affects all Georgians.
Focusing on the alcohol aspect only stirs up emotions and muddies the waters.
By Proud Dawg
March 13, 2007 11:55 AM | Link to this
If this is not allowed to be decided by the citizens of Georgia then I will vote against every single politician who opposes it AND that includes you Brother Perdue!!! signed your Kappa Sigma Fraternity Brother AEKDB!!!!!!!
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
JJ YOU SHOULD DEMAND YOUR LEGISLATOR APPROVE THAT THE CITIZENS OF THE GREAT STATE OF GEORGIA THEMSELVES VOTE YAY OR NAY ON SUNDAY LIQUOR SALES
IN AREAS WHERE SUNDAY LIQUOR SALES ARE NOT WANTED, GOERGIANS WILL VOTE IT DOWN
WHERE SUNDAY LIQUOR SALES ARE WANTED, GEORGIANS WILL VOTE FOR THEM
TO PREVENT THE VOTE TOTALLY IS ANTIAMERICAN AND IF AMERICA IS A CHRISTIAN NATION AS THE CHRISTIANS ALWAYS CLAIM IT TO BE THEN PREVENTING THE VOTE IS ANTICHRISTIAN TOO
YOU ARE NOT ANTI-CHRISTIAN ARE YOU?
THEN TELL YOUR LEGISTLATORS TO SUPPORT DEMOCRACY VOTING AND CHRISTIANITY BECAUSE THEY ALL GO HAND IN HAND LIKE JESUS WALKING ON THE BEACH WITH YOU BUT THERE IS ONLY ONE SET OF FOOTPRINTS SOMETIMES BECAUSE YOU STEPPED ON A JELLYFISH AND YOUR FOOT HURT
By native georgian
March 13, 2007 11:58 AM | Link to this
to jj, i am a native georgian living ITP and people like you are a total embarrassment to the state of georgia. open up your tiny little fearful mind. proven fact: the more educated, the more liberal. think about that.
By R
March 13, 2007 11:59 AM | Link to this
I personally think we should abolish liquor stores altogether. I mean- why shouldn’t I be able to buy a bottle of vodka at Kroger? Georgia needs to catch up with the rest of the country.
By DW
March 13, 2007 12:02 PM | Link to this
Go ahead and buy anything you want. I do not particularly care what you buy or when. But these individuals talking freedom, hypocrisy, and then spouting hatred toward people who have differing opinions/ideas need to remember that rights for them also need to be afforded to others in equal measure. Even if they do not agree with their thoughts.
By harold
March 13, 2007 12:08 PM | Link to this
THE FREAKY CHRISTIANS DID NOT WANT THE “HIGH OCTANE” BEER SOLD IN GOERIGA EITHER BUT SUNNI’S PERDUE BROTHER IS AN EVIL SPIRITS DISTRIBUTOR SO SURPRISE SURPRISE IN A SPRIRITS LAND GRAB THE SUNNI PERDUE FAMILY ALLOWED HIGH OCTANE BEERS. SINCE SUNDAY SALES DO NOT HELP THE DISTRUBUTOR, THOUGH, SUNNI WILL NOT ALLOW DEMOCORACY TO OCCUR ON THAT. HOWEVER, THE WACKOS WARNED US THAT DUIS WOULD BE THROUGH THE ROOF AND ALCOHOLISM WOULD BE RAMPANT IN THE STREETS BECAUSE OF HIGH OCTANE BEER REMEMBER? WELL NOTHING BAD HAPPENED. EVERYBODY IS JUST FINE. DOOMDAY PREIDCTIONS ALWAYS SCARE THE CHRISTIANS. WELL NO DOOMSDAY HAPPENED YOU FOOLS. FOOLS FOOLS FOOLS!
By Tim Tatem
March 13, 2007 12:13 PM | Link to this
Logically, we should be passing even tougher laws to restrict the sale of alchohol - not eliminating them. This is because alcohol is much like nicotene - it is a legal yet highly addictive and harmful drug. Approx 20% of everyone who drinks alcohol becomes an alcoholic. The State of Georgia suffers greatly from alcohol - DUI-triggered deaths, babies born with fetal alchohol syyndrome, car wrecks with severe injuries, drunken spouses who waste money, and physically & verbally abuse their wives and children, lost work days, etc. So, just as Georgia passes laws to minimize nicotene’s use and its consequences - Georgia has an obligation to restrict the use of alcohol. Six days is more than enough.
By JB
March 13, 2007 12:16 PM | Link to this
The same religious voters that oppose sunday sales will likely be the ones at Kroger & Publix buying a 12 pack or bottle of wine to go with the bbq they will be cooking on sunday afternoon this summer. If you don’t want to drink alcohol on Sunday, don’t buy it!
Get with the program Georgia. You can buy lotto & cigarettes on Sunday. Why not alcohol for those who want to. You’re losing millions of dollars to all the border states. That’s money that could be used for many improvements needed in Georgia period.
By Gary G
March 13, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this
Buy your alcohol on the way out of Florida on Sundays. We need YOUR tax dollars so we won’t have to have a state income tax.
By Austin
March 13, 2007 12:18 PM | Link to this
What difference will it make, whats all these hue and cry over nothing …you could still buy your drink (alcohol)on Saturday before midnight and get drunk on Sunday morning on your way to church. Who cares. Its not even a moral issue. So get drunk and if caught driving …you go to jail. PERIOD
By Jay
March 13, 2007 12:19 PM | Link to this
I feel we should be able to vote on this. I am a Christian and a drinker.
Now, to those blasting the religious zealots with namecalling - you are no better than them. Why can’t anyone in America have a discussion without mudslinging? Some of us are just as bad as the politicians.
Calling all religious people zealots is the same as calling all liberals treehuggers, all Muslims terrorists, all lesbians butch, etc. Get over your stereotypes, oh open minded ones.
I hope that one day we as Americans will be able to vote on all laws. Think about it. You go to the polls once a month. All issues, bills, laws, etc. are laid out in front of you in a language that the average person can understand. You vote. This way, your vote actually counts. Politicians are there to educate the masses and push for what they want, but in the end the people decide. Wait, that would be a true democracy, nevermind.
By Donald Boyd
March 13, 2007 12:21 PM | Link to this
Hey Joey,
Just because you don’t agree with my opinion does not mean you are right.I have always felt if someone could not debate an issue without calling names, they had nothing of importance to say.If you could make an intelligent argument I would be happy to clean your boots (if you could keep them out of your mouth). Hey blah, I have rights (not beliefs) just like you do.I did not ask you to follow my beliefs.(and they are not dumb)Just because you do not agree with the law as it is, does not have anything to do with my beliefs.Get a life!
By harold
March 13, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this
IF 20% of everyone who drinks alcohol becomes an alcoholic THEN ALCOHOL IS NOT ADDICTIVE BECAUSE 80% OF EVERYONE WHO DRINKS ALCOHOL DOES NOT BECOME ADDICTED
PEOPLE WHO CLAIM ALCOHOL IS AN ADDICTION THEY CANNOT CONTROL ARE JUST STUPID LOSERS. THEY ARE PROBABLY CHRISTIANS AND TRAINED TO THINK EVERYTHING IS OUT OF THEIR CONTROL AND NOT THEIR FAULT. WELL NEWSFLASH DUMMIES.. ALL YOUR PROBLEMS IS YOUR FAULT AND YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE WHO CAN FIX THEM!
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 12:30 PM | Link to this
Jay YOU MAY BE A CHRISTIAN BUT HAROLD BETS YOU ARE NOT A NATIVE GEORGIAN! THE CHRISTIANS WE CALL IDIOTS ARE THE ONES WHO GREW UP HERE BRAINWASHED WHICH IS REMARKABLE CONSIDERING HOW LITTLE BRAIN THEY ACTUALLY HAVE
By HAROLD
March 13, 2007 12:32 PM | Link to this
Austin WHAT DIFFERENCE IT WILL MAKE IS THAT NEEDLESS TRIPS TO GET BEER AND WINE MADE BY SUNDAY GROCERS SHOPPERS WILL BE ELIMINATED FROM OUR TRAFFIC AND THEN MAYBE OUR ROADS WOULD NOT BE SO F-ED UP AND THEN MAYBE THE BASBBALL PLAYERS WOULD NOT BE DEAD. YOU DONT HATE BASEBALL DO YOU? THAT WOUDL BE UNAMERICAN. IF YOU LOVE BASEBALL THEN YOU WANT TO REDUCE TRAFFIC BY ALLOWING PEOPLE TO VOTE FOR SUNDAY SALES SO THEY NEED NOT DRIVE EXTRA POINTLESS MILES AS IF WE DID NOT HAVE ENOUGH TRAFFIC ALREADY.
By h_charles
March 13, 2007 12:34 PM | Link to this
JJ- You are making a big error in your logic here. Yes, you too have the freedom of expression and choice. That means you can scream from the hilltops all day that Sunday sales are “wrong” and nobody should buy alcohol on Sunday.
It also means you can choose not to purchase alcohol on Sundays if you think it is wrong.
What is inappropriate here is you forcing your own beliefs on others, thus prohibiting them to exercise their rights. To put this in perspective, the flip-side of this issue would be a law on the books forcing you to buy alcohol on Sunday or face a fine.
That would make you pretty upset, just as it makes other Americans upset at being prohibited from an otherwise lawful activity.
By JJ
March 13, 2007 12:58 PM | Link to this
H_CHARLES, did you even read what I wrote? I stated that if the legislature puts it to a vote then I am fine with that. I am not screaming for there not to be a vote. I am just stating that because I have contacted my legislators and told them that I am against it doesn’t mean I am forcing my beliefs on others.
By the way, where were you people when they passed a mandatory seatbelt law? Should I note be able to choose whether I wear it or not. According to your arguments then it should be left up to me. If I want to wear it fine, if not fine. Isn’t that the same as if you want to drink on Sunday fine if you don’t fine?
By Joe
March 13, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
As a native Atlantan, I’m appalled that in 2007 the legislature is still a slave to the red-neck, knee jerk, bigoted, Southern Baptist coalitions. If all the legislators Republican and otherwise would get the nerve to vote for Sunday sales, then WHO I ask you WHO else would these pea-brained Christians vote for?
It’s time to join the rest of the country and not continue to be the 49th state when it comes to advancement, education, and a member of the 21st century.
By Cuz
March 13, 2007 1:03 PM | Link to this
As a Druid, I am offended that we allow alcohol sales on Samhain and Beltane. When are we going to ban alcohol sales on these two holy days to appease my religon.
And after that, we install Sharia law and ban alcohol and tobacco altogether. I don’t know how Muslims stand on the lottery. I do know that pork skins will be outlawed.
By ONLY CATHOLICS ARE CHRISTIANS
March 13, 2007 1:08 PM | Link to this
Satan uses his evil minions, the “Baptists” to do his dirty work.
These so-called “Baptists” fight against non-sins like drinking alcohol in order to keep people from realizing REAL sins, like murdering people via abortion and war.
As long as the Satanic Baptists rule Georgia, the people of Georgia will not have the freedom that Jesus Christ promises us.
Fight Satanists, fight BAPTISTS!!!!
By Jesus
March 13, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this
Stop giving me a bad name by pushing your beliefs on everyone else. I’m adding a new commandment - Commandment #11 Thou shalt not legislate morality.
By GA citizen
March 13, 2007 1:10 PM | Link to this
Heads up to Governor Perdue and any legislator planning on blocking this Sunday liquor sales bill from going to a public vote—we carry scorecards too, not just the Christian Coalition. Whoever does not give me my right to vote for Sunday Sales for my area by blocking this legislation is going to pay come next election. I am getting sick of the Christian Coalition telling us what to do! Mind your own business!!!
By Joe
March 13, 2007 1:12 PM | Link to this
As a a believer in Jesus Christ, I’m ashamed to call myself a Christian when something like this comes up.
These “Christians” really don’t care all that much about the issue. In all likelihood ol’ Bubba and his wife (his sister) who doesn’t want others to drink on Sunday is an old redneck moonshiner. He likes his women barefoot and pregnant, being able to illegally sell moonshine on Sundays, wearing his KKK outfit on any day and smiling his toothless grin with that vacant look on his face while he plays with snakes down at his local Christian church.
That’s what others think of the people who would prevent others from being able to vote for something.
By jon
March 13, 2007 1:19 PM | Link to this
I know the lord is coming soon, but I dont know why everyone is blaming christians. Who saved all of you from sin. Who took their life on the cross for you. Who gives and provides for you. Yea, you guessed it. Jesus would be ashamed of all you liberals in atlanta. This is the lord’s sabbath day….READ THE BIBLE. Move to San Francisco. This is a red state. It bleeds red, its christian, and it’s southern. If you dont like it, get out.
By James Dunn
March 13, 2007 1:20 PM | Link to th