Consumption shouldn't determine community's quality of life

Dear Editor:

When I read the two articles in the Daily Egyptian about earlier liquor sales in Carbondale, I felt compelled to address the inference that "biting away at the establishment of religion" as stated by Councilwoman Sheila Simon is a good (preferred) change to make in any community.

It appears to me as though the majority of the members of the council take a view that lacks respect for their Christian constituents. Where has the moral standards our nation was founded on gone when city officials base a community's "quality of life" on whether its members can drink Sunday mornings?

If you truly want to look at "quality of life" issues, then consider options that are family oriented. Open your malls and theatres Sunday mornings so families can gather together, not by promoting the separation of families by opening the bars for adult entertainment.

After all, how many families will consider an improvement in the "quality of life" by bellying up to the bar Sunday mornings?

Reasoning for this proposal stated to be football fans enjoy going to the bar Sunday morning to watch the game and drink. Local business bar owners complain the 1 p.m. drinking order has a negative impact on their number of customers.

Well, I'm not sure how much football these bar owners actually watch but, for your information, the game doesn't start till noon, guys, or do you think your customers need an extra hour to pound down a few in order to get primed for the game?

It appears some city officials as well as bar owners are siding for this proposal based on monetary reasons that benefit only the few people who own the bars and liquor stores, not to mention the benefits for the individuals in your community who are addicted to alcohol and looking for that morning eye opener.

In closing, I have two questions for the citizens of Carbondale.

Do you really want the youth of your community believing the effective way of running a political office is to blaspheme God?

Is a community's "quality of life" truly judged on how early you can purchase alcohol Sunday mornings?

Missy Ledbetter

graduate student, rehabilitation program

Victor Metzger

Anna resident

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