I’m sure some deem the opinions in my first letter moot due to the fact I’m not a Shawnee resident, rather I live in Tecumseh. However, I was born in Shawnee, my father served the city for 23 years, and I buy most of my food, gas, and merchandize in Shawnee. Dale, McLoud, Earlsboro, Tecumseh, Bethel, Pink, Tribbey, Brooksville and other small communities depend on Shawnee for both employment and consumer needs. Shawnee’s history of shortsightedness hampers progress and economic growth, thereby damaging the success of the surrounding communities as well. The Oklahoma City Metro area has enjoyed tremendous success due to proximity and opportunity. With Shawnee being a beacon for surrounding communities, the citizens and the commissioners should go with caution when being so bold as to dissuade business opportunities.
For those attempting to cite drunk driver related fatalities as a reason to stop ROK, realize not even a second national prohibition would protect the innocent from the irresponsible. Another pub is located on Bell Street, right off Main. Just what do you people think is served there?
The Bible instructs to warn others of peril to their souls, not to live above them or tell them how to live. To date, I have yet to read a single such plea to Kevin Bentley. Thus far, only self-righteousness has been perpetuated. Still care to discuss morals?
In regards to Toppie Lincicome’s letter, I am awestruck of the utter bunk being passed as sound reason. Drawing comparison between allowing ROK on Main Street and the French Quarter’s Bourbon Street yields zero validity. Lincicome needs to remember that Shawnee is host to numerous restaurants and bars where alcohol is served, as well as several liquor stores and the annual wine festival. Furthermore, I have yet to smell vomit on the streets of Bricktown or see it hosed from the sidewalks. Nice try, Toppie.
I was enlightened to learn that apparently, Branson, Mo. is a dry, alcohol-free city without a single bar or liquor store. Surely this is true, or Toppie wouldn’t have specifically favored that city model over the French Quarter. Toppie Lincicome is right however, a family-oriented atmosphere would be a welcomed vision for Shawnee. Shouldn’t be too difficult, it’s not like the citizens would ever protest a bed and breakfast, a drag strip, or a teen center…oops.
James L. Watkins,
Tecumseh
