The Virginian-Pilot
© September 15, 2010

RE 'PRIVATE liquor stores and public roads,' op-ed column by Gov. Bob McDonnell, Sept. 10:

I'm from one of the 32 states with private liquor stores, not ABC-run outlets as in Virginia. By all means, Virginia should end its active role in the distribution of distilled spirits. But after reading McDonnell's column, it seems the political pendulum has swung too far to the right. 'A large amount of the 1,000 licenses will likely be purchased by stores that already sell beer and wine,' the governor wrote.

Does that mean I'm going to walk into Walmart and see Jim Beam sold on the shelf next to the soda? If so, we are going from 322 ABC stores that effectively made the purchase of hard liquor an adult endeavor to the desensitization of our young people who prowl the aisles of Walmart. Let's get the state out of the business of booze, but please don't make it so mainstream that it is being sold at the local supermarket.

David Beemer
Virginia Beach