Sunday sale debate prompts mixed reactions

In Elkhart, Ind., the general sense is that grocery and chain stores would benefit from adding Sunday sales, but liquor stores wouldn't because of adding costs to open an extra day.
In Indiana, licensed stores can sell beer, wine and liquor, but not on Sundays due to what are known as blue laws.
Jerry Corliss, who owns six Chalet Party Shoppes around Elkhart County, said it would cost him $75,000 in labor to open on Sundays and sales would simply be spread over seven days rather than six. He claims that Indiana's liquor laws would be among the most lenient if it added Sunday sales.
"We are one of three states that don't totally open up the market on Sundays, but others states have some market restrictions," he said, adding that DUI arrests would rise if the laws changed.
A.J. Rodino, who's family has operated Rodino Liquors since 1956, said his father, Joe, was against Sunday sales and he is too. "If they can't get it in six days, that's pretty sad," he said of his customers. "You know the Bears are going to play on Sunday. It's not like it just happens."
Larry Blackport, a member of the Elkhart County Alcohol Beverage Commission, said he's heard some smaller retailers concerned about the potential change, but that it's likely to happen. He said he understands the concerns of small operators and has mixed feelings himself. "I can see pros and cons both ways," he said.
Cam Snyder, who operates two restaurant/bars on the north side of Elkhart, said he has customers who cross the Michigan line, which is less than a mile north of one of his establishments, to buy alcohol on Sundays. He could sell carry-out to lake residents on Sundays if the law would change.
He said he doesn't understand customers being able to drink at his places on Sunday but not being able to buy alcohol to drink at home.

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