Portland, Tennessee Blog

MDL......you're exactly right....I still can't believe that 5 voters could have made the difference ! When I first heard that it failed by 5 votes....I thought surely that had to be a mistake. Maybe this will show people that EVERY VOTE COUNTS !

FIVE VOTES! Can you believe it? If only a handful of people (literally, lol!) had taken the time and responsibility to vote, LBTD would have passed!!! Oh well, maybe next time around....
Chalk it up as a lesson learned, ONE MUST GET OUT AND VOTE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE!!!!! That goes to show, no one can sit back and say, 'oh well, my vote won't matter, others will take care of things!' See what happens? Everyone can make a difference!!!!

OOPS....typo is my last post......I mean to say...."that he has won his council seat again"....anyway....congratulations, Jody !

Well, it looks like a really close vote on the Liquor by the Drink issue....see how important it is that you VOTE ???? Needless to say, I am very happy tonight to see that Jody has easily won his council again....Congratulations, Jody !!

I voted today! Let's hope everyone else did as well!!!!!

Deeanna you're ALLLL Right ;o)

We can vote for 4 council people this time...I wish there were 4 Jody's on the ballot !

It's my thought that if you don't vote you have no right to complain.
But that's my thought. I vote here in Texas in every election that comes around. We're registered when we get our Drivers Lic.

im with you mark. i am so sick of people complaining about restaurants and retail and then you ask them if they voted, they say naw i wasnt registered in time."hey dimbulb!, you,ve had almost 2 years to get registered" is what i feel screaming in their ears.
the majority of people in this town want lbtd, they are just too lazy to take 20 minutes away from watching american idol to go vote.

It won't matter to me if LBTD passes, I will still go to Franklin or Bowling Green to shop, buy gas, etc. Why would I pay the higher tax price in TN, when I can go right over the border in KY and pay no tax on food and only 6% sales tax on other items. The gas is usually .10 cents cheaper than anywhere around.
I really don't see an O'Charley's or Logan's coming here, I don't think there would be enough business to keep them afloat. Just my opinion.

Great post Mark!!!

It always seems to become a moral issue for anything here in Portland. If you want liquor by the drink passed, get out and vote!!! I am tired of hearing people whine that we have no decent restaurants, and they have to run to other towns for a decent steak and baked potato, but yet they are not registered to vote, or they just don't get their butts out the door to vote. Wake up residents, or Portland will turn into a THEOCRACY!!!!! Do you really want your town run by the churches and their moral views. You will all end up paying taxes through your noses by time the moral politicians get through. You need business in this area to alleviate taxes and bring in revenue. This is the first place I ever lived where teens have to beg for money to play football by going door to door. Other towns have businesses that support these types of activities as sponsors. Dump the idea of a civic center, maybe we do need a new school, but we also need a new water treatment plant. We need new young blood in Portland politics, not people hung up on morals.

FYI:
LBTD certified Monday (3-12-07).It will be on the ballot in May.

Hey JW, and anyone else interested, my email is jodymcdowell@cityofportlandtn.gov email me, and I'll let ya know what we're looking for

Rodney,
This is not the past. Granted we can learn much from the past but we need to realize this is the future. Our grandparents had it good but do you not recall that prohibition period? Yeah that did not work so well. Even they knew then what we should all know now. Its not the Alcohal that causes the problems its the way it is mishandled by certain individuals. Lets not let the whole town suffer for what a few people can not control.
I remember being able to just ride my bike everywhere when i was younger as well but saddly that is no longer the case these days. I do believe that we can have that once again. But it will take all the people to come forward out of thier shells and change things. Thing can not change if people just look the other way. So let the people come out and use the system we have in place to make the right choices and the the changes that will benefit the majority. For those of you not in the majority and you know who you are, we will pervail.

Rodney, Rodney, Rodney.....

You are to off the mark it is humerous.

You say LBTD won;t work, yet there are xamples of how is has worked all around us!!!!!

WAKE UP........!

J.J.,

You want to the majority? The people of the city voted in the last election. Liquior by the drink lost. The dark ages you say. Was it so bad 10 years ago? Or maybe 20? How many people say, 'those were the days'. Would you let your children take off on their bikes to play and not have a real fear of if they will make it home that evening? As smart as we are getting in the world, we can all learn alot from or grand parents and their way of thinking.

You know it has become clear that this town is stuck in the dark ages. Perhaps it is time for some new blood in the office of the people. Perhaps it is time that someone(s) with a touch on the year we live in to actually take up for the majority of people in this town and show them that change is a constant. That change is an inevitable force that can not be stopped. That sometimes change is needed to promote a good strong town. Maybe I will run for
MAYOR. Hmmmm? MAYOR JJ? Yeah I like the sound of that. Lol.

Do we really want to sell out our safty and security of our family for tax money. Has it really gotten to this point. Yes, I do drink on occation, but never when I am out to eat. I think about the safty of the people in my car and who else is on the road. It would be crazy to think that every one tought like this. I also see the amount of poeple with DUI's and know that is only a percentage of people that are cought, and how many times did they drive drunk before they got cought. If anyone thinks that having liquor by the drink will bring in a large food chain, you are wrong. These people think of money. For that you need population. If Portland could not keep a Ponderosa or Burger King, they don't want to come. We all know why these places didn't stay in buisness, but they don't. What is the average income of a family in Portland? Think of it. Would you invest in a food buisness with or without liquor? Not in Portland. It is to risky to them. There are places out there that have a large family income per population. That is what they are after, because those places are the ones that can and will eat out more.

Way to go Judy! I thought maybe I was the only one that read that article. The city leaders in G'Ville have recognized a possible source of revenue and are taking the steps to procure it. The difference btween us and them is that the impact may be immediate for them.

Anyone get today's (Wed) News examiner, on page "4" there is an interesting article about goodlettsville and Liquor by the Drink, their situation is somewhat different than ours because the city is split between 2 counties, half of the town has LBTD and the other doesn't, however I believe some of the views of their "City Leaders" are quite impressive and might very well differ from many of ours.

For instance QUOTES by their City Manager

"I sense that residents throughout the city would like additional restaurant choices and I think there are some people seeing that we have a problem developing restaurants in the newer parts of the city because they can't serve liquor by the drink"

"Liquor by the drink sales represent a significant source of revenue for our city"

I guess what it all boils down to is the Goodlettsville "CITY LEADERS" began with a citywide referendum on liquor by the drink last year after a regional restaurant chain decided not to locate on the Sumner County side of Goodlettsville based on the fact it would not be permitted to serve liquor by the drink.

Sorry for a Duplicate Post, I think I put the other one in the wrong area. ;)

My bad,thanks for clearing that up Jody.

I said I would check and I did.

Legal said the city "could not" place LBTD on the ballot, that it had to be done through the public sector.

Hey Terry, no sir, the deadline on is march 15, there still aren't enough names to get it on the ballot

Hasn't the deadline for getting the question on the ballot already passed?

I posted this topic to see what a lot of the concerns were. I knew we’d hear lots of debate back and forth about morals and economics. The truth is, it’s really about both. It’s moral to some, and economical to others. Sometimes I find it easy to get upset when someone doesn’t have the same belief that I do. I’ve learned in 34 years that the tongue is the sharpest weapon there is. Alderman Callis has strong convictions against alcohol. He has every right to be. He’s an American! I respect that he feels so strongly about his position on it. To him and others like him, it’s honestly a moral issue. To me, and many like me, it’s strictly economical. I just want to try and stop this negativity about what some of us are trying to do. This is NOT a means of finding a way to drink. Alderman Callis made a comment in an earlier post that made me stop and think. He stated in a round about way that if it were economical, no one had provided any numbers for statistics to back up the “pro-side”. Hopefully this might add some background and answer a few more questions. And someone also sent me an email asking if any restaurants had been interested in Portland. Here is my response. To my knowledge, no restaurant has shown interest. It is my belief however, that IF, (and that’s a big IF) we pass LBTD, it will motivate the city council to place resources at the interstate exchange. I believe restaurants would BEG for a piece of property there. I don’t think we’ll ever see Logan’s, Chili’s, O’charleys, etc. locate in downtown Portland. And as far as that goes, it wouldn’t bother me if they didn’t. I think a lot of us would like to see our downtown remain local and preserved. Besides, we don’t have the population or traffic flow to support huge chains like that. But, it’s 30 minutes to Rivergate, and 30 minutes to Bowling Green. So someone on I-65 leaving Bowling Green would drive 1 hour till they came to the next exchange that has “Chain Restaurants”. Portland is in the dead center of the two of them. I think we are in a prime location for this to take place. That would give us the retail we need to generate huge amounts of revenue for this city, while leaving downtown alone. The other thing is this; IT IS LAW, in order to maintain a LBTD license, a business must make more than 50% of revenue from the sale of food. Plus, a business that has a LBTD license can NOT have an “Off-Premise” beer permit. Our state-line bars make the most of their profits from their drive-thru windows. (Off-premise) I’m not trying to make excuses, just trying to answer some concerns. What I’m trying to express is the fact that this is intended ONLY for licensed dining establishments. Some argue that restaurants won’t locate here, well, if they don’t then we have nothing to lose by passing it, but like some other blogger stated, “if we don’t pass it, we know darn sure they won’t” So, can I give monetary figures? No I can’t. I just believe what I believe. Now on to Sunday beer sales; the beer board mentioned that they would love to be able to take monetary figures to the council to plead their case. I know of no way to generate figures of what “might” be able to be made. Besides, it was pretty much common knowledge that the votes were not there to get it passed. So therefore it seemed pointless. I think Alderman Callis will tell you that it’s based completely on morals and principal to him, and if we had showed that this would have brought in 10 million dollars a year, he would still have not been for it. I say all this to sum it up. Some are for it, and some are not. We can argue and fight about it all day. What we need is support. If you are truly for it, then help spread the word. We need signatures on the petition. Signing the petition doesn’t even mean that you support it, it just means that you don’t mind seeing it on the ballot to give folks the chance to vote one way or the other. But pleeeeease VOTE. Everyone is always eager to see it, but they don’t go vote. Please do your part. And above all, if you have questions, Ask! I'll do my best to find the answer.

hey David, sorry sir, but I misunderstand your post, are you asking for a moral arguement of why it's wrong for LBTD or right? Or did you mean non-economical? I just didn't understand the question. :o)

Mike,
If this is not a moral issue, I'd like to hear a single non-moral argument from you, or anyone for that matter.

It's ok...I'll wait...

ART Wrote:

"I guess next thing you're going to say is that the Portland Youth football cheerleaders are being taught sexuality because they where small outfits and suggestive dances."

Hey ART,

My daughter is a Cheerleader for PYFL, What you have stated above has already happened.

You say it in Jest, but this past season this actually happened. BUT this is a whole new issue.

Simply put, just give LBTD the support it needs to get on the ballot. Publicize to do so, publicize it when it gets on the ballot and let everyone interested vote. Let your opinion resonate in that forum. But remember, if you don't vote, don't complain!

But without the option of a choice, what's the point? Everyone should always has a choice in everything. As stated before, if LBTD and package retail stores pass, more revenue (actually I think many would be surprised by how much and at this point ANY more revenue would be good!), if it doesn't we'll just keep pushing for a change.

Change is necessary. If one wants to view it as a necessary evil, so be it. But allow it to happen, give a choice now (sooner the better) and see how PROGRESSIVE Progressive Portland can be!!!

All anyone is asking is for is to put it on the ballot and let us be given a choice!!!!

Voice for a Choice!!!

Art my good man, you are right.

"some of this stupid rhetoric makes no sense"

The mirror of wisdom brings such clarity.

And by the way... yes, having sex and demoralizing a young girl IS criminal. I don't need a lecture on that.

My point is that some of this stupid rhetoric makes no sense. It is absurd and has no basis except ignorance and fear.

You're welcomed, Councilman. Yes, your wife thanked me for that last post. She laughed so hard!!!!

Now, on to more serious matters.... PROVE to us with REAL WORLD EXAMPLES that the majority of patrons to establishments like O'Charleys leave drunk, or that those who drink leave drunk so much so that they must be incarcerated to protect honest citizens like yourself. I want to see what data you are relying on.

At this time, I'll bet Gallatin makes more money on those stupid red light cameras than they ever have on drunk driver citations.

You want a CIVIC CENTER. Are you going to allow alcohol to be served there if someone wants to sponsor a formal dinner (wine, for instance, with the meal)?

STRIP CLUBS... who posed that? If you are concerned about young Portland girls dancing naked, maybe you should visit the Sonic parking lot on a Saturday and you would go nuts! If demoralizing a young lass is a crime, maybe we should start in schools and teach these kids not to have sex early... oh, I'm sorry, we would just interfere with the Tennessee waltz going on in many schools with teachers and students.

I guess next thing you're going to say is that the Portland Youth football cheerleaders are being taught sexuality because they where small outfits and suggestive dances.

Where does this stop?

Art,
apologies accepted.
you and my wife are now in agreement.

Boy this is funny.

Too bad I don't live in Portland,and I had a nice post too.

Fight the Good fight Mr. Callis

My apologies... I never meant to imply that you have a mind. I am sorry to mislead anyone.

I am glad you know whats on my mind.
Most people question if I have anthing on my mind at all.

I think Mayor Wilber is doing a good job, there is no need for me to run.

Now that should make everbody scream for joy...;)

Hmmmm.... a choice....

LBTD OR Elect Callis for Mayor (C'mon, we all know that is what is on his mind)...

I'll take my chances with LBTD...!

Look, here is the bottom line of why I feel the way I do about this issue, again let me repeat my father is a Southern Baptist Minister and has been all of my life, I do feel it important to point out that I am NOT Southern Baptist and haven't been since I was teenager.

I think this whole debate if you will read through this post, points to one obvious thing, that I believe does cause people to get "out of sorts" with religion and some (Not all) denominations choose to oppose LBTD.

Every since I was a small boy attending church every time the doors were open, I remember having one thing instilled in to me almost every time I went to church and that was FEAR! I think we are seing that pattern continue here in some of these post's.

I had FEAR preached at me all of my life. I was told a variety of things such as:

If you drink you will go to hell!
If you cuss you will go to hell!
Get saved so you won't burn in hell!
If you allow LBTD, we will get naked people and sin....it will be sodom and gomorrah all over again.

Does any else see an irrational pattern here.

Now let me clarify this a little bit, I am saved and proudly proclaim to be a christian. But I did not get saved because I was trying to avoid Hell. And I believe God created us to make our own choices....just like his son did. Yes Jesus drank wine....He even said at one point that he saved the best "WINE" for last. But we don't want to talk about this, instead we get rationalizations of some sort of denominational programming that is designed to bring us in to line with thier particular belief system.

It is unfortunate that many denominations try to scare people in to conformation. And that is much of what is happening here.

I realize this may be a bit off subject, but lets not let some rediculous FEAR get preached as us again, lets step out and get this thing passed so this community can grow.

Jody,

If there is anything I can do to help just say the word, I will get you my e-mail address and lets work together and lets get people involved here and lets get Portland growing and stop being AFRAID of change.

I would like to thank Jody McDowell for trying so hard to get this issue on the ballot.Also the group of people helping to get the word out to the citizens of Portland.Alot of people don't understand that the state will over see and enforce the laws on this.I am not sure but if this passes the city can only enforce the DUI and selling to underage laws.The state also enforces a law where the place has to keep track to how many drinks are sold to each person. Because if something happens to that person.That place could be charged just as that person can.BUT who goes to places like this to get drunk or to buy a underage person a drank. NO ONE!!!.They go there to eat and spend time with family and friends.We as a town need to pass this think of the money this can make.Also think of the jobs this will bring to our town.I think some are afraid of their past.But we all have a past.

I WANT THE CHOICE TO HAVE A DRINK WITH MY MEAL!!!!

I'm putting this as a choice because if it passes we will not see O'Charley's or Logan’s the week after the vote. It passed in Franklin, Ky and there are two or three locations after two years.

There are not many venues open to move a large chain restaurant in Portland at this time. When a vendor decides to put a location like this in will have to develop an area that will meet the local ordnances, be profitable and add to the appeal of the city. This is not only a choice of liquor by the drink. Most of your finer eating establishments serve LBTD to be profitable.

I go to Gallatin, Hendersonville, Rivergate, Franklin or Bowling Green at least once a week to eat. If there were a place to eat here I would visit it frequently and so would most of the people from Portland that I see at the other establishments.

just a resident with one vote

AMANDA

Thank You, Thank You, Thank You.
I think that was the most mature & common sense post I've read in days. Job well done!

I have read this blog until my head hurts. It's amazing how one subject can cause this much trouble in only a matter of days.

Anyway, I myself do not drink. I can't on account of the medicine I take, but I do not have any problem with people making the CHOICE to drink (as long as they do so responsibly). I know this isn't always the case, but it is the individuals choice, not mine. I think we should allow LBTD. I want good restaurants in town, and I too believe that the only way we will be able to persuade them to come to Portland is by allowing LBTD to pass.

I am a Christian. I believe in God. And I don't think I'm immoral or unclean just bcause I voted for LBTD. The Bible doesn't even say you cannot drink at all. It says don't be a drunk (paraphrasing, of course). I believe everyone has a choice to make, just as they do with their lives. The reason we have city government is for them to run things the way we want them to. They serve the people. So if those who are for LBTD keep pushing for it to be on the ballot, it will probably pass eventually. Just keep fighting for it!

Ace said:
"I don't see that citizens for LBTD would approach you as an ELECTED offical for worry that Pastor Mike would respond to them rather than Councilman Callis. It is easier to shut off the computer than than listen to a sermon. The School system has seperation of church and state, why not city government?"

Agreed. I now know that if I ever have a problem with my city government, that I cannot take it to Councilman Callis. He has made it known where he stands, and I must now choose another line for my input on my city government. He has made it clear that as an elected official, he only represents those who agree with him. At least that is the conclusion in which I have come to.

Ace also said,

"BTW, has the town gone down the toliet since El Moro and Pizza Hut (and possibly others) started their selling of alcohol?. I don't believe it has."

Another good point. In fact one can see even the most vocal anti-alcohol citizens, eat at these exact same places, even though they oppose establishments such as this!!!

All,
This is my first post so please be gentle.
It seems to me that we must decide whether or not to be a bonafide city or a retirement community.
Just because an O'Charleys; which God- forbid, sells liquor by the drink; might locate to Portland, does not mean that this city is immoral.
This seems like such a moot point. If this city wants to grow, then we must be progressive. If that means LBTD, then so be it.
No one has a gun to their to head forcing them to go to said establishment. The problem is, as I see it, is that this city wants to grow within it's own rules.
This is not acceptable. Either we make concessions or accept the fact that this is not a growing city, rather a stagnant community.
We can buy beer 6 days a week. So what? People do not frequent LBTD establishments because of the alcohol. We can get that already.
The point is that these restaurants offer so much more than we currently have, it's not really debatable. "If" we keep this about economics and not "morals".
If I want a nice steak and potato, where do I go? Certainly not here in Portland. Just this past weekend, I took my 8 year old daughter to Gallatin to have a nice dinner, rather than a "Kids Meal".
Did I order an alcholic beverage? No. I can get that here already. It's about the "experience", not the alcohol.
That being said, I do appreciate the fact that Councilmens Callis and McDowell post on this blog.
Kudos to both of you gentlemen. That takes, pardon my expression, major "cajones".
I'm sure this will not mean nill to the argument at hand, though I wanted to share my thoughts on this subject.
Thank you all and take care.

JR

Fine, Strip clubs for all in Portland. Girls, Girls, Girls. All live REVENUE. Brothels for the lonely. Happy?

Does our almighty barometer Gallatin have strip clubs? How about Hendersonville? Last I looked, NO.

6 days, 7 days. What's the difference. another 12 hours?

"I would love to see O’Charley’s, Chilis, etc.. in Portland, but I would prefer they did not sell alcohol."

There is nothing that says that having LBTD will get Chili's, TGIFriday's etc.. to look at Portland. BUT, the lack of LBTD Guarantees they won't look here. Prefering they not sell alcohol is not realistic.

I don't see that citizens for LBTD would approach you as an ELECTED offical for worry that Pastor Mike would respond to them rather than Councilman Callis. It is easier to shut off the computer than than listen to a sermon. The School system has seperation of church and state, why not city government?

ace,

Then like I said, push for it all.
Strip clubs etc...

Remember, it’s all about revenue!

Many like myself (last 2 elections proved such) are tired of it being pushed on us.

Sell beer 6 days, now got to have 7.
First wanted LBTD, now package sales.

"My" side has not been bringing this up.
But, for some reason we must be silent.

I have not said anything about clean and unclean from a biblical commandment as referred to.(Leviticus)
The remark was in reference to the fact that Baptist preachers were basically ruining the world, not that you were unclean for drinking.
The air of what seems like hatred for God, church, and religion is very rampant on this blog.

I can condemn no one.

Jody,
Nothing I have said here, I have not said to you.
Correct?
You yourself said you would not want your children to see a strip club in Portland.
And I told you that was your moral line and you agreed.

I just want you (and others) to see that some draw their line closer than others, but we all draw them somewhere. All of us!

I would love to see O’Charley’s, Chilis, etc.. in Portland, but I would prefer they did not sell alcohol.

I never claimed I had all the answers, but I do believe what I believe; and whether or not that pleases anyone or not has no bearing on my moral compass.
I will not cave in because some think it is “progressive”.

Re-read your own post Mr. Callis
"Quit blaming those who urge you to live a clean life."

By doing a quick Google search on LBTD I found another petion on the same site as above has their own take on the moral/economic issue.

The Indian Trail Town Council has rejected by a 3-2 vote the planning board's request for an exploration of allowing voters to decide on liquor by the drink, eventhough some non-drink religious groups supported the request.

Town Council members voting against the request cite that the request is a moral issue not an economic issue.

If this were a moral issue then Walmart, Food lion, Harris Teeter, or convenience stores would not be allowed to serve beer or wine in our town. Our town consist of alot of residents that have relocated here from various parts of the country and there are amenities that they would like to see added to our town as we continue to grow.

This is a pure economic issue, which the Town Council has a great opportunity to generate additional revenue and create jobs for the residents of Indian Trail. This additional revenue would help offset property tax increases, which the Town Council just recently passed to increase the property tax rate. The original proposal called for a property tax rate increase from 8 cents to 12 cents, but was cut in half and will increase from 8 cents to 10 cents. By allowing businesses to operate liquor by the drink establishments the town would generate an additional revenue base to help with building a viable infrastructure for the residents of Indian Trail as well. This will also limit the amount of dollars that are spent in towns like Charlotte, Matthews, and Monroe which could be used in our own town.

BTW, has the town gone down the toliet since El Moro and Pizza Hut (and possibly others) started their selling of alcohol?. I don't believe it has.

Re-read the post.

I have not said anything about clean or unclean.

People want to always call myself and other Christians hypocrits, and I am merely trying to point out the hypocrisy of these statements and arguments being put forth.

Are you not pushing "YOUR WAY" when you state your thoughts?

If I was for LBTD and was fighting for it claiming that this town needed, then nothing would be said.

But because my views are different and I fight for them, then you loose your mind over it.

You tell me who is fair and who is not.

Mike? You know I think of you as a brother, but sometimes I wonder where your responses come from.

Are you really serious about this economical/moral stuff? Why does the revenue argument not fly? It’s kind of an insult. Some of us have vision to see that by passing such revenue generating changes that the city would have the incentives to attract businesses that we so badly need. I don’t know what it means to you, but I know what it means to me! I want a place to go eat! Not a place to go drink! I’m sorry that it takes alcohol to lure these type restaurants, but it does. It’s probably only 10% of their income, but 10% of the kind of money they generate is LOTS of money!

Why do you believe that it’s all about morals? It may be moral to you, but it’s economical to me! The pro-side put up signs that had a little martini glass on it, that just said “Vote Yes”. But the con-side had a sign that said “be ye holy”. What was that trying to say? Was it trying to convey that if someone voted “YES” they would have not been holy? So who is this REALLY a moral issue to?

I know your position, and believe it or not, I respect it. But I do wish you would be more open-minded and listen reasonably to the pro-side! You have commented, that to you, this change makes things REGRESSIVE and not PROGRESSIVE, because of the negative attitude related to alcohol. The deal is, people who want to drink, will go to our neighboring communities and LEGALLY consume alcohol. Why shouldn’t they be able to LEGALLY consume it here also? This is where we feel like we should use it to our benefit and stop letting neighboring towns take our money!

In business, you learn that if you and the guy next door are in the same business, yet he has 100 times the business you do because he has a product you don’t have, you’re probably going to invest in the same product to lure them into YOUR door. Good ole’ supply and demand! THAT my friend is ECONOMICS!

And P.S. I still don’t understand this b.s. about allowing strip bars, x-rated movie houses, and drugs! If you really want to get technical, we have LICENSED pharmacists who dispense drugs LEGALLY! And our markets and video stores sell and rent xxx-rated material. No one is asking you to support something ILEGAL! We are simply asking for a change in the law in Portland to allow mixed drinks be sold in LICENSED DINING ESTABLISHMENTS!

I can not believe what I am reading!!

Mr. Callis, you are a preacher and councilman of this fine town and I thought a fair man but I was wrong. You want to push your way of life and condemn anyone that does not agree with you. Tell me where in the Bible that it is unclean to drink liquor of any kind. All I can find is the Bible says to NOT be a drunkard.(One who habitually drinks alcoholic beverages to excess)
Correct me if I am wrong....Do you think having a beer with you pizza or a drink with friends is a SIN????? That sure is the way you are coming across here.
Also do you think if LBTD is passed that everyone in Portland is magically going to turn into drunkards?? Geezzz Give me a break!!

Some of your comments on here have been just plain stupid and I have really taken offense to them.

Get off your high horse and do what is best for this town!!

Councilman Callis writes
"If you want alcohol because you want to be "an adult" and drink sometimes; then say that."

OKAY Here it is

As an adult I want the CHOICE to have an alcoholic drink sometimes!!!!!!!!!

AND

When my Alcoholic beverage TAX dollars get filtered into YOUR Civic Center, you best not go there because it is partially funded by Sin money in your eyes!

Geeshhhhhhhhhhhh where will it all end!

Once again the statements of others confirm my point.

Mr. Callis,
First of all, it is inconceivable to me that a leader in any group, whether a church or a school, or small-town government, would constantly harp on the idea that whatever he believes is the only way that is right. Most religions think they have a hot-line to God; Baptists are not alone in that, however you do have a reputation for taking it to extremes.

Secondly, the Baptist church is not the only church that encourages people to "live a clean life". Actually, most churches do that. The problem comes when the definition of "a clean life" varies.

Thirdly, Jesus wasn't a Baptist. Neither was He a Catholic, or a Presbyterian, or a Methodist. He was, however, a Jew; and He turned the Jewish faith upside down with His radical ideas. He also frequently drank wine; and don't give me that "No, He drank grape juice" routine. You live in 100 degree weather with no refrigeration and see how long it takes for your grape juice to turn to wine. Let me know how it turns out.

Fourth, Mr. Callis, having a beer with a pizza is a LONG ways from going to strip joints and adult bookstores. Actually, they aren't even close. And nobody except you is even talking about the adult entertainment industry. Most people on this blog are simply saying, like MDL and Tim, that people would like to have a choice. And by demanding that choice, nobody is trying to "demonize" those who don't want to drink. Why are you afraid to allow people to make their own choices?

If you re-read the posts on this thread, you'll notice that there doesn't seem to be much support for your way of thinking, Mr. Callis. We really don't need the City Councilmen to preach to us like we were children. Grow up and allow us to do the same.

Councilman,

You just don't seem to be very in touch with people.

This has nothing to do with a Baptist or Non Baptist thing...I was simply referring to my background and letting people know what my background is and that is is actually alright to not hold the line just because you are told to. Think for yourselves.

I mean after all in your post which reads:

"And if you have a problem with baptist ministers then find another denomination.
Quit blaming those who urge you to live a clean life."

Does this not make it look like if I choose to drink, I am not clean?

So, I ask myself, is this the type of leadership I want to have? Someone who thinks because I may choose to drink, I am unclean like some sort of Leper.

As for everything else you say, it is pretty much what I expected. Whether or not or when I choose to drink is my business, and I happen to believe it is also a choice others should have.

Post Scriptum......

I have no control when it comes to censorship.
The way I read it feelings toward me are being expressed.
If you need to tell me something, then email me directly.
mikecallis@cityofportlandtn.gov

Guilt trips:
I cannot make you feel anything, your conscience does that for you.
Remember.....
A guilt trip is only a guilt trip if you feel guilty.

There were 2 set of signs.

The ones with a martini glass were pro LBTD

The yellow ones that said be ye holy were against it.

The pro side said it is about REVENUE only!

All I am saying is be honest.
Just say you want to be able to drink.

I am not trying to keep it off the ballot.
As far as I know, no councilman has presented the idea of the city sponsoring LBTD.
So maybe you should ask the rest.
Will I sponsor it? NO.

And if you have a problem with baptist ministers then find another denomination.
Quit blaming those who urge you to live a clean life.

Now having said that,

If you want alcohol because you want to be "an adult" and drink sometimes; then say that.

The revenue argument does not fly.

Okay, this is an issue I will jump in on. I have been trying to stay out of some of the issues that arise on this Blog because it appears that if you try to hold some of these city officials accountable for their words, your posts get deleted.

Councilman Callis,

First off, why would my grandchildren ask how I voted....that is a very silly "Guilt" card to try to play...typical, when you have no arguement, you pull the "lets do it for the children" card out of the hat. How many times have we heard "let's do it for the children". Maybe while I am having this alledged conversation with my grandchild and feeling so "guilty" for having to explain why I voted for Liquior by the drink, I can also explain how there was a city councilman who didn't have enough foresight to see how it would benifit our city and as a result we have little to no viable retail in Portland, and why Portland is light years behind everyone else around us. BUT, we do have a beautiful civic center, that you my grandchild, are having pay more taxes for. Even though your city crumbles around you.

I ask everyone reading this forum right now, turn around and ask your children about these issues. Seems silly doesn't it.

We also get the "if we pass this next it will be Strip clubs, legalized drugs, etc." Yet another silly and tired arguement. Common, is this the best arguement you have? Look around, Have you seen any of these types of places in Gallatin or Hendersonville? get real.

I still believe that for now a civic center is way ahead of its time for Portland.

But then again, Councilman Callis, as you have said yourself.....you only represent those who agree with you.

So I guess the only power I have is with my vote.

Councilman Callis also stated in refrence to Liquior by the drink:

"Many people want it because their “moral values” allow it, and want to use this issue to demonize those who are against it."

Okay folks, now keep this in mind when you remember the last time this was on the ballot....do you remember the little yellow signs that we saw in various yards around town.....You know the ones I am talking about...the Little yellow signs with the martini glass that had a circle and line through it....remember those, and right below this circle and line through the martini glass read as follows: "be ye holy, for I am holy"....now who is demonizing who here?

I am sorry if I seem rather intense about this issue, but as the son of a Southern Baptist Minister, I get so sick of people using thier Programmed religious beliefs to try to legislate morality, it has done more harm that good, and continues to do so.

MDL - Hit the nail right on the head in saying "Are some so afraid of it that they feel they need to keep it off the ballot, because it might actually pass???"

Councilman Callis - I had read the fine print, and yes I saw your name as noted that you proposed to abolish all alcohol sales in portland at a council meeting, this was no new news as the council meetings are publicly aired. Besides that I believe you as a Councilman are subject to such quotations when it comes to the position you hold regardless of topic. I didn't see anyone targeting your moral issues with this.

MDL,
You make the best argument of all so far. Its about giving people a choice. 9 times out of ten when I go to an establishment that serves LBTD, I order tea. Sweet, with lemon thank you. I dont chose where to dine based on the availability of alcohol. But if I'm in the mood and have a DD, I'll have a few beers or mixed drinks. Big deal. I'm an adult and know the consequences of my choices.
As far as the revenue being minuscule as Mr. Callis states, he is right to a certain extent. But the availability of these services,LBTD and package liquor sales, opens the door for future developement and possible job creation in the future. At that point, the revenue issue may be more in play. He also staes that the "if they want it they'll get it" argument is plain silly. I have to respectfully disagree with that. I have personally made the trip to the Shell station on more than one Sunday afternoon to purchase beer. Or to BG and Gallatin to purchase liquor. Did I need it? No. But I wanted it.The thought that it wasn't available in my home town never deterred me one bit. As far as making drugs available, guess what, they already are. Unfortunately they cant be legislated and voted on by the public. Strip clubs, adult book stores and X rated movies? It may happen here one day, who knows.But there again, the people that frequent these places are going to do it anyway,so lets make it available to them and get some of that minuscule revenue too.
Both issues, the civic center and LBTD/package sales, are worthy to discuss and probaly stand to benefit our town in the long run. As does Sunday beer sales. But unfortunatly, I will not get to vote on either issue. I live outside the city limits. But if we had any of these services available, I would definetly spend more of my time and money in Portland instead of Gallatin, BG, Franklin or Lafayette. I would be willing to bet(oops, thats not moral) that there are alot of other people out there like me.

Why do people feel their moral values are compromised if LBTD is allowed into this town?

If you don't agree with it, don't be a patron there. There's no reason why to keep progress out when there is a good chance to bring more revenue to the town.

And don't start the speech with why don't we just get a tattoo parlor; strip club; casino either! There is nothing wrong with good restaurants who happen to serve alcohol.

If you don't like it or don't drink (even with a meal), then don't order it! It's that simple!!
Many people (including God fearing, child rearing families *gasp!*) go to O'charley's, Logan's, Longhorn, TGIFriday's and NEVER set foot in the bar or even order anything alcoholic!

Give it a chance people!!! Are some so afraid of it that they feel they need to keep it off the ballot, because it might actually pass???

I vote for liquor by the drink AND a civic center. I also vote for strip clubs. Why not a tattoo parlor too? And making drugs legal...you might as well do that too. There is an abundance in this area anyway that is easy to get.

Judy,
You are correct, that is what I have said; and I have been questioned all the way.

Should there not be some questioning the other way?

Though I have never ran from it, I never did start it.
Pro LBTD has targeted me everystep of the way; so yes, if you invoke my name (go read the fine print on the petition)thenI will make my points and raise opposition.

There is another group out there:
Concerned Citizens Against Alcohol

So, if it is revenue based only,
Then go for it all!

Councilman Callis writes
"Many people want it because their “moral values” allow it, and want to use this issue to demonize those who are against it."

The first part of your sentence may be somewhat correct, however, I believe you are totally wrong on the second half, if you are against it, JUST Vote NO! Plain and simple. Isn't that what you have told many others who oppose your civic center tax hike proposal!

I'll tell my Grandchildren that I voted for BOTH while we dine out at O'Charley's on Kids eat free night, that is if I can get a word in between the balloons, creative coloring, and yummy chicken strips all the kids love. Oh wait.... a family atmosphere restaurant that serves LBTD!! What is this world coming to, maybe someday that conversation can take place in PORTLAND and not Gallatin or Rivergate.

Since my name was used on the petition, I will definitely respond.

This petition says that “Liquor By The Drink & Retail Package Stores” is purely an “economical issue “ .
Of course this is false.

Many people want it because their “moral values” allow it, and want to use this issue to demonize those who are against it.
Remember this “pro” side is the one always bringing it up.

If this was purely an economic issue, then why is strip joints, adult book stores, and rated X movie houses not being presented?

Oh wait, someone drawed a moral line.
How horrible!
The city could really use the revenue that a strip club produces.

It is funny how everyone wants numbers on an issue so they know how to vote, but no one is presenting any here.
And, is anyone asking?

The “pro” side was asked to bring Sunday beer sale revenue numbers to the alcohol committee but did not, and chose to introduce the ordinance at the last minute.
Why?
The revenue in minuscule.

As far as the argument “if they want it they will get it”. Is simply silly.
The more available it is the more that will be bought. Period.
People want drugs, why not make that available?

Oh wait, there is that nasty moral line again.

But remember, its about revenue.

Now you decide.

You can tell your grandchild you voted for a civic center.

Or…

You can tell your grandchild you voted for Liquor.