Editor,

I’m writing in response to the article “The Right to Choose Booze” by Patrick Rodgers, published Feb. 22. What a breath of fresh air it is to scroll through news and find an objective article on a much heated debate in the state of Georgia, the prohibition of alcohol package sales on Sunday.

It seems to always be a challenge in finding a comfortable mean between the separation of church and state. Even after two hundred plus years politicians and the people cannot reach a consensus.

In your article, it is stated that, “Based on estimates from other states who’ve passed local option Sunday sales, the change could have meant about four million dollars in state revenue from liquor alone, and even more with beer and wine included.”

I’d like to agree in support of the revenue and add that according to the 1st Amendment in the United States Constitution, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.”

In argument, I would agree with Ben Jenkins, Vice President of Distilled Spirits Council (DSC), in that “The government shouldn’t be in the business of mandating what day is the Sabbath. Religious conservatives may choose not to drink or buy alcohol on Sunday. There are other people out there that would like to.”

In theory my proposal is quite simple and may please both party sides. Meet at the core. I believe the sale of alcohol should be allowed on Sundays under certain guidelines, such as the state of Massachusetts. MA allows the sale of alcoholic beverages on Sundays after 11 a.m. for on–premise and after 12 p.m. for off–premise locations.

I believe this would satisfy religious conservatives because package stores and restaurants couldn’t serve until after most church goers have returned from seeking their faith.

I also believe this satisfies not only the pro–Sunday solicitors but gives the state benefits in a great alternative for a tax revenue increase, one much needed in the condition of our current economy.

Andrew Sturkie