Letter: Thompson needs to know the facts

Will, you are wrong about the DWIs rising if Clarendon becomes wet [Letter: October 10, 2013]. If you do some research, you’ll see that “wet” counties have less DWIs than “dry” counties. You will also see, there are less alcohol related fatalities in a “wet” county than a “dry” county and less alcohol related accidents in a “wet” county than a “dry” county.

As for the alcohol being made available to minors, that part is true. You said you don’t want to hear “they’ll get it anyway,” but obviously you don’t want to hear the truth. They will receive alcohol even if the town isn’t “wet.” I’ve known parents who gave their kids alcohol which they purchased five miles away, sometimes 60 miles away.

Claude became wet; and then shortly after, a beautiful new convenience store was constructed. Why are we keeping that from Clarendon? The appearance of a town is huge for travelers! I don’t know about anyone else, but I don’t personally enjoy stopping in an old run down store.

Also, the money that could be made from alcohol sales is a huge amount! Events for Clarendon could be bigger and better! Sponsorships would be easier to receive. Plus, the tax revenue is greatly needed for Clarendon.

Let’s take advantage of it! Or at least give it a try? Citizens of Clarendon, don’t be afraid of change! Change can be a good thing. If you support the alcohol sales, then go vote for it! If you don’t support it, then go vote “no.” Just remember, it’s an opportunity for Clarendon. Are we going to pass it up?

Trevor Leeper, Clarendon